Historic and picturesque... Eastern Ontario is not to be missed
Eastern Ontario Canada is a region rich in history and natural beauty with a number of destinations worthy of a visit depending on your preferences. Ottawa is by far the most visited area of this region.
The nations capital is one of the Big Three most visited Ontario places along with Toronto and Niagara Falls.
Ottawa, its attractions, events and information can be found on my Ottawa Ontario page that fully outlines everything you need to know about traveling to Ottawa Ontario Canada.
The eastern Ontario region does however contain much more to see in addition to the nations capital…
As you travel away from the city of Ottawa you are quickly among the Canadian heartland of rolling hills, valleys, waterways, forests and highlands that beckon visitors. Enjoy a stop at one of the numerous quaint small towns and villages along the way.
If you head west or northwest from Ottawa you will undoubtedly head into the Central Ontario Region and Algonquin Park, a true Canadian natural gem. If you head south in any direction you will eventually reach the shores of the lake that gives the Province its name and all the wonderful sights that go with it.
As especially breathtaking part is along the stretch where Lake Ontario spills into the St. Lawrence River, the aptly named Thousand Islands area. This is a great area to spend the day sightseeing, boating or fishing. Activities are too numerous to list here so make sure you visit my Thousand Islands page for more information.
The other main city in the region is Kingston, Ontario. Once the capital of the country it is now a beautiful small city with many historic buildings in a picturesque setting at the headwaters of the St. Lawrence River.
Most international visitors to Canada usually have a trip to Toronto (with a side trip to Niagara Falls), and then a trip to Montreal on their itineraries. While I do agree that both cities are “must see” destinations visitors do have to pass through the region on their way from one to the other (unless flying) and I definitely recommend a stop in the region as it is simply beautiful. Spectacular landscapes and attractions abound.
In addition to the beautiful city of Ottawa (which I would say is also a must see), there is enough to see and do that you should plan to spend at least 2 or 3 days. To get an idea of just what the region has to offer check out my eastern Ontario pages below.
Eastern Ontario Highlights
Rideau Heritage Route
Centred on the UNESCO World Heritage site Rideau Canal this region is a very historic part of the country that especially comes alive during the summer months as it becomes a boaters paradise. It does however offer much much more, for more information visit my Rideau Heritage Route page.
The Ottawa Valley
Just north of the National Capital Region this is rugged Canadian Shield country dominated by the Ottawa River. Offering more than the city of Ottawa itself, the region is the whitewater capital of Ontario. For more information visit my Ottawa Valley page.
Quinte’s Isle
The gateway to Eastern Ontario from the west the Quinte’s Isle region is an angler’s paradise centred on the magnificent Bay of Quinte. The region does however offer much more than fishing, for more information visit my Quinte’s Isle page.
St Lawrence Seaway
Stretching from the city of Kingston to the Ontario-Quebec border this region follows the coast of the mighty St Lawrence River and is one of the most beautiful areas of the province. It includes the world famous 1000 islands area and some of the best fishing spots in the country. For more information visit my St Lawrence Seaway page