ABOVE: Bring your skates to take advantage of the beautiful rink at the base of Mont Tremblant. (Photo: OLM Staff)

By Kathleen Barr

As great as our nation’s capital is, it is always good to get away. Even if it is just for a day. If you are looking to get out of the city, this article is for you. Here are 3-day trips you can make from Ottawa this winter.

1. Almonte

Almonte is a quaint town located about 40 minutes west of Ottawa. It’s a scenic mill town on the Mississippi River. Almonte is beautiful all year round, but it is especially so in the winter.

Photo: My Favorite Things 613

Shop On Mill Street

Mill Street has a wide selection of unique stores and boutiques. From bookstores to vintage thrift shops to boutiques, there truly is something for everyone.

Grab Coffee at a Cafe

Almonte is home to some incredible little coffee shops. Ottawa Valley Coffee is a popular spot, along with Tea and Cake and Equator Coffee Roasters. You cannot go wrong with any of these locations, so pick whichever speaks to you and happy sipping.
Photo: Ottawa Valley Coffee 

Almonte River Walk

The Mississippi River is a beautiful body of water, and you will want to check it out while you are here. Just hop on the river trail at Almonte Old Town Hall located at 14 Bridge St and start exploring.
Photo: Nina Out And About

Grand Falls on Mississippi

The Grand Falls on Mississippi cand be found in the heart of Almonte. The river falls beside the old mill, which is now a series of shops and boutiques. The water cascades down a series of rocks and flows into the river which is partially frozen over this time of year. It makes for a beautiful winter scene.
Photo: Road Trip Ontario

Dairy Distillery

Almonte’s Dairy Distillery is rapidly growing in popularity. Their “Vodkow” cream liquor is made from scratch and is delicious. It is also lactose-free for those with sensitivities. You will want to take a bottle of this home as a souvenir from your trip to Almonte.
Photo: Dairy Distillery

Check Out Mont Tremblant Pedestrian Village

This European-style village is perfect for anyone looking to shop, eat or drink. The village is so charming and very picturesque. The streets are brightly lit at night and there are always fun activites and events going on.
Photo: OLM Staff

Hike at Mont Tremblant national park

Mont Tremblant has some great hiking trails to choose from. You cannot go wrong with any of them, so do your research here and find out which trail is right for you.
Photo By Sepaq

Go Snowshoeing

There are multiple spots to go snowshoeing in Mount Tremblant. Some popular locations include The Roche, Coulée and Corniche loop and Grand Brûlé to Pic White.
Photo: OLM Staff

Visit the Mont Tremblant Scandinave Spa

After a busy day in Mount Tremblant, visit this Scandinave Spa. Their website describes the spa as a “winter wonderland” which is absolutely true. Here you can relax and unwind while taking in some incredible winter views.
Photo: OLM Staff

3. Pakenham

Pakenham is a charming village located 40 minutes outside of Ottawa. Like Almonte, you can find this village among the Mississippi River.

Ski or Snowboard on Mount Pakenham

Pakenham has an excellent ski hill, especially for beginners. If you are not sure Mount Tremblant is right for you, start with Mount Pakenham.
Photo By Trip Advisor

Walk Along the Historic Five-Span Stone Bridge

When visiting Pakenham, you must walk along this historic bridge which was built in the early 1900’s. This bridge is one of a kind as there are no others like it in North America. The bridge is located at 4916 Kinburn Side Rd, Pakenham, ON K0A 2X0.
Photo By CBC News

Walk Up Main Street

Main Street Pakenham is full of unique restaurants, shops, boutiques, and cafes. You can easily spend the afternoon here checking out what these local businesses have to offer.
Photo: Rob Huntley

Snowshoe Or Cross Country Ski On The Winter WOW Trail

Mount Pakenham has an incredible deal in place for those who want to snowshoe. You can purchase a package which includes your snowshoe rental and map of the trails. You then have the freedom to trek for as long as you’d like. With trails up to 10km, you will be in for quite a fun workout. Check out there website for more details and information.
Photo By Ontario Trails

There are so many great towns and villages located on the outskirts of Ottawa and you cannot go wrong with any of them. Each town has something unique to offer and they are just waiting to be explored.