6 Ruins To Visit Around Ottawa Where You’ll Feel Like You’ve Travelled Back In Time
One of them is next to a waterfall.😍
Europe isn't the only place to see impressive old buildings. These remarkable ruins near Ottawa will make you feel like you travelled back in time.
One of the best spots to go is Gatineau Park, as here you can hike to both Carbide Willson Ruins and Mackenzie King Estate. But for secret gems where you can escape the crowds, you'll want to visit St. Raphael's Ruins just outside of the city.
Here are six sites you'll want to see for yourself:
Carbide Willson Ruins
Price: $13 per vehicle (half price after 3 p.m.)
Address: Chelsea, QC
Why You Need To Go: The 3.25-kilometre trail will take you to a cascading waterfall next to the ruins of a fertilizer plant.
St. Raphael’s Ruins
Price: Free (donations accepted)
Address: 19998 County Rd. 18, Williamstown, ON
Why You Need To Go: The Church Of St. Raphael was destroyed by fire, but you can still see the towering stone exterior walls. The National Historic Site is a popular site for weddings and makes a beautiful spot to take photos.
Rockcliffe Rockeries
Price: Free
Address: 600 Acacia Ave., Rockcliffe Park, ON
Why You Need To Go: Here, you can go for a walk to see the fountain and ornate columns that many locals don't know about.
Mackenzie King Estate
Price: Free admission (paid parking)
Address: MacKenzie King Rd, Chelsea, QC
Why You Need To Go: The estate is only a short drive from Ottawa. Here you can visit the blooming gardens, eye-catching historic ruins and hiking trails.
Merrickville Ruins
Price: Free
Address: 306 Roadway St., Merrickville, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can go for a relaxing stroll along the Rideau Canal and see the remains of the mill.
Lime Kiln Trail
Price: Free
Address: 4897 Old Richmond Rd., Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: You can follow the easy 4.6-kilometre trail that will take you to a 19th-century lime kiln.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.