Rideau Tours: Unforgettable and Unique UNESCO-Style Adventures
The sun’s rays peek through the trees as I gaze at the horizon, reflecting on my epic day along the Rideau Canal—Ontario’s legendary waterway. From the corner of my eye, I notice Anne-Marie Forcier walking in my direction with a picnic basket, tablecloth and smile. I’m awe-struck as she unpacks a charcuterie board of delicious goodies and bevies, further amplifying my excitement. Talk about a memorable day that just got tastier!
Anne-Marie Forcier has spent the past four decades in tourism, 10 of which as Executive Director of the Rideau Heritage Route Tourism Association, overseeing initiatives promoting the experiences along Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tireless and passionate, it’s during the summer months when Forcier takes a bit of a breather—kind of. Comfortably at home at Chaffey’s Lock, northeast of Kingston, Ontario, she operates Rideau Tours, a company specializing in several unique ‘signature experiences’ along the fabled Canadian Heritage River and National Historic Site.
As a water baby, I can’t wait to get on the lake. Fitted for a kayak, Forcier gives me the lay of the land (and water) with a handy navigation chart for reference. “Paddling here is special,” she explains, adding, “it’s not every day you get to paddle through a UNESCO Biosphere.” Peak zen comes quickly as I paddle under the Cataraqui Trail bridge and feel the warm summer sun reflect off the calm waters, creating what appear to be diamonds in the lake. It’s not a race, and I’m not in a hurry. I look around and appreciate the beauty and serenity of this picturesque corner of Ontario. In the distance, I can see Turtle Island and decide to extend my stay and take a refreshing dip. Upon return, I can see Forcier waiting eagerly at the dock. “This experience is a bit like paddling through time,” she says, “all while experiencing a unique blend of authentic heritage and natural landscapes of granite outcrops and stately pines.”
Rideau Tours offers independent half or full-day—even weekly—kayak, canoe and stand up paddling (SUP) rentals throughout the summer. Guided half-day, one-day and two-day paddle tours are also available for beginners and intermediate paddlers. “We also have certified interpretive guides who lead the way, showcasing stunning Canadian Shield backdrops within the Frontenac Arch UNESCO Biosphere,” says Forcier, “this is a significant and unique treasure with one of Canada’s largest diversity of plant and animal communities.” Pro tip: Sign up for the two-day Luxury Paddle Tour, which includes two “Flavours of the Rideau” gourmet picnic meals, three dining vouchers and one-night accommodation.
On land, Rideau Tours offers guided one-hour walking tours of Chaffey’s Lock, including the nearby Lockmaster’s Museum, Chaffey’s Mill (now an art gallery) and heritage fishing lodges. Themed, customizable and immersive private tours are also available and cover topics such as the building of the Rideau Canal. If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-fueled experience, rent a bike, hit the trails and tackle any of the suggested routes, including the eight-kilometre Chaffey’s Lock-Cataraqui Trail Loop, 40-kilometre “3 Lock Loop,” and for the more ambitious, the 204-kilometre Cataraqui Trail Loop.
Rideau Tours’ land, water and even air packages are truly the pièce de résistance when experiencing this lovely corner of the country. The UNESCO Discovery Tour combines all three and includes a 25-minute round trip helicopter ride from Gananoque to Chaffey’s Lock, a three-hour bike ride on the Cataraqui Trail, a three-hour kayak or canoe and a local “Flavours of the Rideau” gourmet picnic. Meanwhile, Lodge to Lodge is a two-day, self-guided package that includes two gourmet picnics and two nights’ accommodation at two of the Rideau’s historic properties. Under the Stars is a package that includes an overnight camping experience at the Rideau locks.
Before visiting, I told Forcier my travel philosophy: burning calories and packing them back on. She suggested two options: Charcuterie in a Canoe for 2, which is exactly what it sounds like, and the Pedal-Paddle-Picnic Package. I went with the latter because it screams summer vibes to me. What better way to spend a perfect day outside than combining adventure with food on the Rideau? I enjoyed a relaxing morning bike ride along the TransCanada Trail and a leisurely afternoon paddle on the canal. In between, I was served a gourmet picnic lunch with sandwiches, local artisanal cheese and smoked sausage, in-season heirloom veggies, apple cider and desserts. When travelling, I often try to squeeze in as many sights as possible in one day. But this experience gracefully forced me to slow down, absorb the moments and enjoy every minute. That’s thanks to Forcier’s friendly professionalism and acute attention to detail, ensuring Rideau Tours exceeds expectations with every tour and tasting.
How to get there:
- 1671 Chaffeys Lock Rd (Rideau Canal) Elgin, Ontario, Canada.
- From Toronto: Take 401 east, then Highway 10 north from Kingston. Make a right at Opinicon Road at Raymonds Corners and follow it to Chaffey’s Lock.
- From Ottawa: Take 417 west, then Highway 7 west to Carleton Place. Turn left at Highway 15 towards Smiths Falls. Turn left at Highway 43 and a quick right on Highway 15 south to Crosby. Turn left on Highway 9 to Chaffey’s Lock.
When to go: Late May to mid-October.
Disclaimer:The author was hosted as travel media by Rideau Tours.
Niagara Falls is ALSO a UNESCO World Heritage Site!