Explore
Make It Personal
Escape to Westport and you’ll discover a tranquil rural village where you can kick back and recenter your soul spending quiet moments at the water’s edge, browsing local boutiques, or treating your tastebuds.
But if your idea of a vacation is exploring everything an area has to offer, we’ve got you covered. Westport is your gateway to a world of experiences in the Rideau Lakes area. Enjoy some of the great experiences available below, or make Westport your base from which to Explore the Riverlands by visiting the many historic villages and towns a short drive away.
Outdoor Experiences
Westport Harbour
Located on the western shores of Upper Rideau Lake with majestic views of the foliage on Foley Mountain and within walking distance of Westport’s shops and restaurants, Westport Harbour is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Foley Mountain
High atop a granite ridge overlooking Upper Rideau Lake and the Village of Westport, Foley Mountain offers 10 km of trails through an expansive rugged wilderness, the famous Spy Rock lookout, a natural swimming area, picnic areas, and outdoor education facilities.
Hiking
Westport is your gateway to 10 km of trails through an expansive rugged wilderness on Foley Mountain, and approximately 800 km of unparalleled hiking along the Rideau Trail, the Cataraqui Trail, and the A2A Trail.
Cycling
With its rolling terrain and access to quiet roads, it’s no wonder Westport attracts cyclists. Whether you’re a road cyclist, a gravel rider, or a triathlete, Westport is your gateway to cycling on the Rideau Trail, the Cataraqui Trail, and the quiet rural roads surrounding the village.
Lakes
Westport sits at the west end of Upper Rideau Lake, one of 31 lakes offering more than 500 km of shoreline and a network of connecting streams in the Rideau waterway. Whether you just want to sit at the shoreline, or paddle along the shore, there’s a lot to see.
Parks and Beaches
Along with the Westport Harbour, Westport offers a tranquil beach for picnics and swimming on the shores of Sand Lake. Venture beyond Westport and you can enjoy the beach and a swim in crisp lake water at Foley Mountain or explore the many beaches in the Rideau Lakes and Frontenac area.
Rideau Canal
Westport is part of The Rideau Canal National Historic Site, a 202 km water route that connects Canada’s national capital in Ottawa, with Kingston and Lake Ontario to the south. From Westport, you can travel the canal by boat, canoe or kayak and experience the historic lock system operated by Parks Canada. You can also drive or cycle to many of the great destinations along the Rideau Canal.
Golf
If your idea of a getaway includes hitting the links, Westport has two golf courses where you can tee off, and 17 public courses within a half hour drive. Choose from nine and 18 hole greens surrounded by picturesque landscapes and water views.
History and Heritage
Historic Westport
Steeped in heritage and nestled in the heart of the Rideau, Westport is a welcoming small village that’s big on community.
Take a self-guided walking tour of the village and learn about the history of some of our older homes, and the community spirit that shaped our village into what it is today.
Museum
Step back in time and explore the history of Westport and life on the Rideau at the Westport Museum. You’ll find many unique and interesting artifacts, including an original wooden dump cart used in the construction of the Rideau Canal between 1826-32. With so much to see, one visit won’t be enough.
Churches
Explore the history and culture of Westport by visiting one of the six churches in the area. These historical buildings are rich in architecture, art and history, offering a glimpse the Village’s cultural heritage and the communities that came together to celebrate life in the area.
Cemeteries
Take a guided tour through Westport burial grounds that provide historical context, genealogical insights, and cultural understanding based on the people buried there and the stories they lived and left behind.
Arts & Entertainment
Take a walk on the artsy side. Explore the work of local artists and artisans featured in many of the Village boutiques, enjoy the annual arts festival, take home an original artwork from the annual art show, enjoy a live music performance, or hone your artistic gifts with art classes. Whatever your creative soul desires, Westport is your gateway to unique arts and entertainment experiences in the Rideau Lakes area.
See What's OnShopping
Experience retail therapy at a whole different level. Westport offers a shopping experience that’s as unique as the scenic lakeside views from the harbour. Whether you’re browsing artisan treasures, cozy clothing, or gourmet goodies, you’ll find what you need in many of the boutiques and specialty shops in the Village.
Go beyond the Village and discover many shopping gems worth exploring in many of the surrounding towns and villages. All you have to do is enjoy the therapy.
Explore ProfilesGo beyond the Village and discover many shopping gems worth exploring in many of the surrounding towns and villages. All you have to do is enjoy the therapy.
See What's On
Whether you plan to visit for a day, a weekend, or longer, explore the events the Village and the surrounding area have to offer when you get here.
Go to What's on WestportWhat’s on Westport is your online guide to the events that make Westport and the surrounding area an unforgettable experience.
Create Your Own Experience
Don’t just get away from it all, create unforgettable memories in the heart of the Rideau Lakes area. And if you don’t know where to start, send us a message and we’ll do our best to point you in the right direction.
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