
Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Ottawa, Canada
1. Gatineau Park
A vast nature reserve offering hiking trails, cycling paths, and wildlife spotting opportunities, with a focus on conservation and sustainability.
- Nature Conservation: Preserves a significant part of the Gatineau hills and the Greenbelt.
- Recreational Activities: Offers over 200 km of hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing trails.
- Sustainable Tourism: Encourages visitors to enjoy the park responsibly and minimize their impact on the environment.
2. Museum of Nature
A natural history museum showcasing Canadian wildlife and ecosystems, with a strong emphasis on sustainable practices.
- Canadian Biodiversity: Features exhibits focusing on the diverse flora and fauna found in Canada.
- Sustainable Design: The building is LEED Gold certified, demonstrating commitment to energy efficiency.
- Education and Research: Conducts research on various aspects of Canadian wildlife and ecosystems.
3. ByWard Market
A vibrant downtown market offering local food, artisanal products, and sustainable shopping experiences.
- Local Produce: Supports local farmers by selling fresh produce.
- Artisan Goods: Offers handcrafted items from local artists and artisans.
- Sustainable Dining: Features restaurants committed to using locally-sourced, sustainable ingredients.
4. Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for boating, with a focus on preserving the waterway's ecosystem.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 19th century as a military waterway.
- Biodiversity: Supports a variety of plant and animal species along its length.
- Sustainable Transportation: Offers a clean, eco-friendly way to explore Ottawa by boat.
5. Farmers' Market at Lansdowne Park
A seasonal market offering fresh, locally-grown produce, artisanal goods, and live entertainment.
- Local Produce: Supports local farmers by selling fresh produce directly to consumers.
- Artisan Goods: Offers handcrafted items from local artists and artisans.
- Community Engagement: Provides a platform for local musicians, performers, and artisans to showcase their talents.
6. Ottawa River Outfitters
An eco-tourism company offering kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, with a focus on responsible river exploration.
- Sustainable Adventure: Promotes exploration of the Ottawa River in a way that minimizes environmental impact.
- Local Guides: Provides knowledgeable guides who can share insights about local wildlife and history.
- Adventure Activities: Offers a variety of aquatic activities suitable for different skill levels.
7. Greenbelt Trails
A network of hiking and cycling trails within Ottawa's Greenbelt, promoting outdoor recreation while preserving the natural landscape.
- Nature Conservation: Protects a significant part of Ottawa's green spaces.
- Recreational Activities: Offers over 120 km of hiking and cycling trails for visitors to explore.
- Sustainable Tourism: Encourages responsible use of the Greenbelt by visitors.
8. Ottawa Parks
A collection of parks throughout Ottawa offering various recreational activities while promoting environmental sustainability.
- Nature Conservation: Helps preserve the natural beauty of Ottawa's parks and green spaces.
- Recreational Activities: Offers a variety of activities, such as sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Sustainable Tourism: Promotes responsible use of parks to minimize environmental impact.
9. Pinhey's Point
A historic mansion and estate located on the shores of the Gatineau River, offering tours and sustainable experiences.
- Historical Preservation: Restores and preserves a significant piece of Canadian architectural history.
- Sustainable Practices: Uses eco-friendly practices in daily operations, such as energy conservation and waste reduction.
- Education and Awareness: Offers educational programs focusing on the history of the estate and sustainable living.
10. Almonte Old Town Mill
A historic gristmill converted into a craft brewery and event space, celebrating local culture and sustainability.
- Historic Restoration: Restores and preserves a piece of local milling history.
- Local Craft Beer: Offers handcrafted beers using locally-sourced ingredients.
- Community Engagement: Serves as a venue for local events, fostering community connections.
11. Ottawa Bike Tours
A bike tour company offering eco-friendly exploration of Ottawa's sights and landmarks.
- Sustainable Transportation: Promotes eco-friendly transportation by using bicycles.
- Local Guides: Provides knowledgeable guides who can share insights about local history and culture.
- Customizable Tours: Offers customizable tours to meet the needs and interests of visitors.
12. Ottawa Innercity Arts
An arts organization that empowers disadvantaged youth through arts education and sustainable initiatives.
- Youth Empowerment: Provides opportunities for at-risk youth to express themselves creatively.
- Community Engagement: Brings together artists, youth, and the community to create art and promote social change.
- Sustainable Practices: Uses eco-friendly practices in its artistic projects and daily operations.
13. Ottawa Riverkeeper
A non-profit organization working to protect the Ottawa River through education, conservation, and advocacy.
- River Conservation: Works to preserve the health and ecological integrity of the Ottawa River.
- Education and Awareness: Provides educational resources about the Ottawa River and its ecosystem.
- Advocacy and Action: Works with government, industry, and communities to promote sustainable practices around the river.
14. Ottawa Food Tour Company
A food tour company promoting local, sustainable dining experiences in Ottawa.
- Local Produce: Highlights restaurants that use locally-sourced ingredients.
- Sustainable Practices: Promotes eco-friendly dining experiences by featuring sustainable restaurants.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers a glimpse into Ottawa's diverse food culture and history.
15. Ottawa Carleton Wildlife Centre
A wildlife rehabilitation center dedicated to the care of injured and orphaned wild animals, with a focus on education and conservation.
- Wildlife Rescue: Provides care for injured and orphaned wildlife in the Ottawa area.
- Education and Awareness: Offers educational programs about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
- Habitat Conservation: Works to protect and restore habitats for injured and orphaned wild animals.