Kingston Visitors Guide 2008 - (Page 15) Our Rideau Heritage Route adventure begins in Kingston and takes us to Westport, nestled in the heartlands of the Rideau Lakes, about 45 minutes north. Westport is a core for hiking and cycling enthusiasts with the 300-km Rideau Trail linking Kingston and Ottawa. The streets are lined with shops, restaurants and quaint B&Bs. An interesting side trip leads to the historic town of Perth, known for its mammoth 22,000-pound cheddar displayed at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Be sure to take some time at Code’s Mill, a lovely historic waterfront complex with shops and restaurants. In Smiths Falls, at the heart of the Rideau, is one of the three lockstations on the system operated by hydraulics. A pleasant saunter from the Combined Lock is the Rideau Canal Museum. A trip to the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory and a visit to Heritage House Museum are a short walk from Old Sly’s Lock. Then it’s on to Merrickville, voted Canada’s prettiest village by Communities in Bloom. Merrickville prides itself in its artistic community, boasting more than 30 local artists. Browse through the many shops and artisan studios as you stroll down the main street lined with restored heritage buildings. As we continue to North Grenville (Kemptville) we can admire the pine forests, marshland and beech stands, which boast beautiful hiking trails. Kemptville is home to the internationally renowned Ontario Agriculture College at the University of Guelph and the Ferguson Forest Centre. PHOTOS: COURTESY RIDEAU HERITAGE ROUTE TOURISM ASSOCIATION A visit to Manotick, our last stop before the nation’s capital in Ottawa, is really not complete without a trip to Watson's Mill, built in 1859 by the founder of Manotick. It is a fine example of a 19th-century gristmill still producing flour. After visiting the Bytown Museum next to the majestic staircase of eight locks and strolling through the Byward Market in Ottawa, we are reminded why Ottawa is considered one of the world's most beautiful capitals. www.kingstoncanada.com | visitor guide 2008 15 http://www.kingstoncanada.com
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