Top Places to See When Driving From (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
Do you love road trips? Do you dream of traversing beautiful scenery, seeing picture-perfect vistas, and experiencing the culture of new places? If so, Canada is the ultimate destination for you. And, one of the best places to start your Canadian road trip is Old Ottawa, Ontario. This historic town is surrounded by stunning national parks, mesmerizing lakes, historic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery. But, when it comes to planning a road trip from Old Ottawa to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, it's essential to know the top places to see. Here are the best of the best!
Rideau Canal National Historic Site
The Rideau Canal National Historic Site is a 202-kilometer engineering marvel which was built between 1826 and 1832 to provide a safe transport route from Old Ottawa to Kingston. This historic site is also Ontario's only UNESCO World Heritage site, and it features historic locks, heritage buildings, and picturesque waterways. While in Old Ottawa, consider taking a boat tour of the canal to get a more in-depth understanding of its history, marvel at the scenic beauty, and snap amazing photos.
Thousand Islands National Park
Your next stop after Old Ottawa should be the Thousand Islands National Park. This park comprises 26 islands located on the St. Lawrence River, and it's a perfect place to experience the scenic beauty of Canada's coast. Here, you can explore the islands, swim, hike, see the picturesque lighthouses, and enjoy other outdoor activities. It's a perfect place to stop and catch your breath before proceeding on your journey.
Acadia National Park
No road trip to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, can be complete without stopping at the Acadia National Park. This national park is located in Maine and covers an area of 47,000 acres. Acadia is home to high mountains, deep forests, stunning coastline, and beautiful lakes, which offers a picturesque view. Be sure to visit the iconic Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside - especially at sunrise. While there, hike, bike, or take a stroll along some of the hiking trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery on offer.
Hopewell Rocks
The Hopewell Rocks is an excellent stopover point on your journey to Dartmouth. This attraction is a unique rock formation that stands at the edge of the Bay of Fundy, which has the highest tides on earth. The tides erode the soft rocks over time, leading to astonishing formations. Be sure to arrive at low tide to walk on the ocean floor and marvel at these unique rock formations. There are also guided tours available that focus on the area’s ecosystem and geology.
Peggy’s Cove
Your final stop before arriving in Dartmouth is Peggy’s Cove. This historic landmark is home to one of Canada's most iconic lighthouses and has been guiding sailors to shore since 1868. The historic lighthouse has now been replaced by a more modern version but is still a famous tourist attraction. Peggy's Cove is also home to a quaint little fishing village - it's worth it to spend some time wandering around and exploring the village before hitting the road again.
Conclusion
There you have it! These are the top places to see when driving from Old Ottawa, Ontario to Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Each of these destinations offers awe-inspiring views of Canada's natural beauty, cultural history, and unique landmarks. Be sure to take it slow, enjoy the fresh air, take lots of pictures, and make amazing memories. Happy road tripping!