Pop the question in Ottawa

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Wednesday, 08 August 2012 17:56

Feeling a little romantic? Canada's capital is an ideal place for couples to retreat throughout the year, whether they want to go ice skating along the Rideau Canal or leisurely stroll hand-in-hand in Gatineau Park. Pairs who want to travel to Ontario for a romantic getaway will find more than enough to do in the beautiful city of Ottawa. Who knows - maybe a few days of touring the area will lead to a wedding ring!

Skating along the Rideau Canal

This 200 kilometre-long waterway may host the Rideau Canal Festival in the summer, but once the winter arrives, the water freezes over and thousands of revelers throw on their skates and test their skills. Couples can glide together for a truly romantic afternoon.

After enjoying a thrilling adventure along the frozen-over waterway, visitors can retreat to Patterson Creek, a much more secluded tributary branching off the canal, and steal a kiss in privacy before ordering a fresh BeaverTail pastry from a nearby kiosk. A staple comfort food among Ottawans, this doughy treat is deep fried and covered with cinnamon and sugar.

Couples' massages at Ottawa spas

Romantic travellers have numerous spas to choose from, whether they want to enjoy a full-body massage treatment or simply lounge in a sauna for half an hour. The Holtz Spa, located right across the street from the luxurious Chateau Laurier, is the largest treatment centre in the city and has a long line of bridal and romantic packages. Couples can lay right next to each other during a Swedish or hot stone massage, and Holtz also offers side-by-side manicures and pedicures for couples who want to freshen up before going on a date.

Take a walk in Gatineau Park

Autumn is simply stunning in Ottawa, and perhaps the best place to catch all of the fiery fall colours is at Gatineau Park. With their fingers entwined, couples can take as long as they want to walk around some of the hiking trails. Adventurous pairs should rent a tandem bike and cruise along the paved and unpaved trails that weave throughout the park.

Thinking about proposing? Rent a canoe and take it out to the middle of Leamy Lake, which perfectly mirrors sunsets throughout the year, and take a knee to pop the question - no one will be able to say anything but yes.