Travel: Ottawa
Enjoy the small-town feel of this exciting and interesting capital city
WALK THE SIGHTS
Ottawa straddles two Canadian provinces, the French-speaking Quebec, and Ontario. Divided by the River Ottawa, which acts as a border, it’s easy to explore the two cities on foot. The central districts of Ottawa – including the popular ByWard market with its shops and eateries – can be found on the Ontario side of the river. But a stroll over the city’s Alexandra Bridge and you’re in Quebec, home to the pretty Gatineau Park.
For the most breathtaking 360° views of Ottawa, take a climb up Parliament Hill, home to the Parliament of Canada and the Peace Tower.
SLEEP IN STYLE
Opened in 1912, the luxurious Fairmont Château Laurier’s turrets tower above the city and look like something out of a fairy tale. Over the years, celebrities including the Beatles and Serena Williams have spent the night, no doubt to enjoy the plush rooms and tuck into Canadian fare such as maple-cured salmon or lobster salad in Wilfrid’s restaurant, with its views over Parliament Hill. Double rooms start at £152 per night and include breakfast; fairmont.com/laurier-ottawa.
WINE AND DINE
Whether you’re after a snack or splashing out, there are so many quirky places to eat in Ottawa. For a cosy dinner, we love the Social Restaurant & Lounge (social.ca), which offers everything from lamb with mushy peas to beefburgers.
For a touch of sophistication, head to one of Ottawa’s swankiest addresses – 700 Sussex Drive – the home of Métropolitain Brasserie (metropolitainbrasserie. com). Indulge in wild boar, swordfish or cheeseburgers.
PAMPER YOURSELF
To take your rest and relaxation to the next level, visit the Nordik Spa-Nature (lenordik. com) just 15 minutes outside the city centre. It’s the biggest spa in Canada (and North America). If you’re in an adventurous mood and can bring yourself to leave the many scented steam rooms, invigorating cold pools and relaxation rooms, book in for a Källa treatment. The only other spa in the world that offers this calming and reflective experience inspired by the cleansing waters of the Dead Sea is in Switzerland, so you’re in for a treat.
INDULGE IN A BEAVERTAIL
Don’t worry – this uniquely Canadian pastry snack is not actually made from the river-dwelling rodents! A bit like a small pizza, the dough is stretched in the shape of a beaver’s tail. You can choose from lots of toppings, which will please anyone with a sweet tooth, including cinnamon and sugar, and chocolate and hazelnut spread.
HIT THE GREAT OUTDOORS
The river winds through the capital, and is one of the main attractions for visitors. In summer, take to the water for a boat tour to explore the city, or hop on a bike to pedal the winding cycleways alongside the Rideau Canal. Book a bicycle tour (escapebicycletours.ca) to maximise your time spent on two wheels.