Private tour in Ottawa John I

Two Perfect Small Towns in the Ottawa Valley

4.5

(2) reviews

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Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
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-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

John I.

4.9

Guide rating

28

Reviews

Tours delivered

112 hrs

Avg. response time

Have a fun day touring in Ottawa and environs. I am a lifelong resident, and I love the city and the region. My background includes being a former History teacher, community activist, ardent skier, sailor, and traveler. I promise not to give the conventional "stay on the bus and look at the scenery" kind of tour. Learn about my city and its people, from the time of First Nations to the present. Find out what we do for fun, what we like to eat, the things we've learned, and how we became a significant part of the Canadian landscape. See the places most people miss, enjoy the fun like the locals do. Visit nearby towns and attractions that make Ottawa and the Valley attractive and interesting. We are on unceded and unsurrendered land of the Algonquin Nation of Kitigan zibi''. Three people (or two adults with younger children) are comfortable in my Subaru Outback equipped with air, sunroof, handicapped parking pass . Our daily activities will be tailored to your group's interests and activity level. A holiday is not a marathon! Don't see a tour you like? I can design a custom tour for whatever interests you and your group. just ask! Ottawa-Gatineau is a bilingual region and I am comfortable in both languages. My knowledge of local history, architecture, events and politics should let me answer all your questions. If not, I know where to find out! Please join me in Canada's beautiful capital. Bonjour! - History specialist - Certified ski instructor - Certified Boating instructor - Experienced tour guide -Widely travelled - open to client suggestions No smoking during the tour, please.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message John I.

Overview of your Ottawa tour

From your hotel we will be en route to Merrickville by the "back way"which takes us through hamlets along the Rideau canal. Get a feel for the country and see the beautiful stone homes built by the Scottish masons who were the original builders of the canal. Stop at Merrickville. Visit craftsmen - the foundry, a glass blower, a leather maker. Do some antiquing if you wish or visit unique boutiques. Choose from a variety of restaurants for lunch, but leave room for some homemade ice cream. Embark for Perth, about 40 minutes away. This was the county seat for Lanark county, more developed than Merrickville. Visit the site of Canada's last duel. Museum, local artisan shops, fascinating streetscape. Brief driving tour emphasising architectural variety. Chocolate factory open in Code's Mill. Let's visit the Tea Room before returning to Ottawa, again by the "back way".

Your Ottawa tour itinerary

Pick up at your hotel. Drive secondary roads for the most part in order to see older homes, the Rideau Canal, scenic and historic locations. Morning in Merickville with time for lunch. Drive to Perth via Smith's Falls. Afternoon in Perth, the Lanark County seat. Perth Museum, Last Duel Park, spectacular Victorian homes. A visit to the tea room for a break before returning to Ottawa, again mostly by secondary roads. Return to your hotel. Duration up to 8 hours.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Suv

Subaru Outback Wagon, air conditioned, handicapped parking pass.

What's included
Other: Driving, guide services, interpretation. John knows these towns quite well. He can direct you to many different attractions depending on your interests. Architectural commentary en route.
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: Souvenirs, personal items, snacks. Meals as you choose.
Meeting location

1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 8S7, Canada

I can meet wherever it is convenient for you

  • You can request a different meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout process.
Other details
Tour categories
History
City Highlights
Food And Drink
Art And Culture
Tour reference number
326333
Languages
English
French
Activity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Kid Friendly
Wheelchair Accessible
4.5

Traveller reviews for this private tour in Ottawa

2 reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who is this private tour in Ottawa best suited for?

This private tour is perfect for travellers who want to explore the charming small towns of Merrickville and Perth in the Ottawa Valley with a knowledgeable local guide. It's ideal for those interested in history, architecture, and local crafts, as well as anyone looking to enjoy a leisurely day trip with minimal physical activity. The tour is also suitable for families, seniors, and travellers with mobility concerns, as it is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Ottawa be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
Start time
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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