--- title: "Stay Put: Discover the Rideau from Westport" date: 2026-09-10T12:05:00-04:00 author: Laurie Weir canonical_url: "https://www.southeasternontario.ca/itineraries/stay-put-discover-the-rideau-from-westport/" section: Itineraries --- ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth2400px/189186/DJI_20241017093316_0107_D.jpg) # Stay Put: Discover the Rideau from Westport Laurie Weir There's no rush in Westport. Mornings unfold over coffee and fresh baking, while evenings often end beside the water. In between, you can explore nearby communities, discover local flavours, and reconnect with nature at your own pace. If you’re looking to experience this corner of southeastern Ontario without constantly packing and unpacking, this lakeside village makes an ideal home base. Situated on the shores of Upper Rideau Lake, Westport offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and easy access to memorable experiences. If you're planning a weekend escape or a midweek retreat, the village rewards those who like to relax and leave room for a little spontaneity. ## **Day 1: Savour Westport** Ease into your getaway by exploring Westport's welcoming downtown, where independent shops and galleries encourage you to linger. Browse for locally made products, discover a new favourite boutique or enjoy the easy pace of village life. A short drive from the village centre, [Forno Sourdough Pizza + Bread](https://fornosourdough.ca/) has become a destination in its own right. Known for its sourdough breads, pastries and wood-fired pizzas, it's worth building into your itinerary. Stop in for coffee and a fresh-baked treat to start the day, or return later to enjoy a leisurely meal. In the afternoon, head to [Foley Mountain Conservation Area](https://www.rvca.ca/conservation-areas/foley-mountain), located just minutes from Westport. The hike to [Spy Rock](https://visitamazingplaces.ca/amazing/listings/spy-rock/) rewards you with sweeping views of Upper Rideau Lake, while the network of trails offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching and photography. ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth1600px/DSC02904-1.jpg?transformId=4765&site=default)History buffs may also wish to stop by the [Rideau District Museum](https://villageofwestport.ca/rideau-district-museum/), housed in a former lockmaster's house overlooking the harbour. Exhibits explore the area’s rich heritage, from the early days of settlement to life along the Rideau Waterway. As the day winds down, return to the village for dinner and a stroll along the waterfront as the sun sets over Upper Rideau Lake. ## **Day 2: Explore the** [**Rideau**](https://www.visitrideaucanal.com/) **region, your way** One of the advantages of staying in Westport is that some of the region's most charming communities are just a short drive away. Better still, there isn't one right way to explore them. If you're drawn to the quieter side of the Rideau Canal, begin your day with a visit to[ Chaffey's Lock](https://www.rideaulakes.ca/experience/about/our-villages/chaffey-s-lock) or [Davis Lock](https://www.rideaulakes.ca/experience/things-to-do-continued/museums-heritage-sites/historic-settlements/fosterville), where historic lockstations continue to operate much as they have for generations. Watch the lockmasters at work, chat with boaters making their way along the waterway or simply enjoy the peaceful setting. From there, continue to Elgin, where local businesses and country charm invite you to explore at your own pace. Be sure to stop at [The Tipped Ship](https://thetippedship.ca/), a one-of-a-kind emporium housed in a historic building on Main Street. Part boutique, part artisan marketplace and part treasure hunt, the shop features local art and photography, gourmet foods, vintage finds, jewellery and thoughtfully curated fashions. Your route then leads to Delta, a village rich in history and small-town charm. Start with a visit to [Bastard Coffee House,](https://www.facebook.com/p/BastardCoffeeHouse-100083817610801/) a cozy gathering place known for its specialty coffee, locally sourced menu and warm atmosphere. Tucked into the heart of the village, it's the perfect spot to recharge with breakfast, lunch or a freshly baked treat before continuing your exploration. While in Delta, take time to visit the [Old Stone Mill National Historic Site](https://www.deltamill.org/), one of Ontario's oldest surviving stone gristmills. (open until Labour Day weekend) Learn about the region's milling heritage, explore the historic site and discover how this landmark has helped shape the community for more than two centuries. When it's time for lunch, Portland offers some inviting lunch options. Enjoy a meal overlooking the water at [The Galley Restaurant](https://www.lenscove.com/the-galley-restaurant/) on Big Rideau Lake, or opt for the casual atmosphere of [Portside Pub & Eatery](https://www.portsidepubportland.ca/), a popular local gathering place. Travelling between Portland and Newboro? Consider a detour through Forfar to visit [Forfar Restaurant and Cheeseshop](https://www.sunflowerbakeshop.com/), where fresh breads, homemade baked goods and local flavours are all part of the experience. Housed in the former Forfar Dairy, the destination blends culinary delights with a tangible link to the region’s agricultural past. Before heading back to Westport, consider making a stop in Newboro, where the Rideau Canal lockstation remains a focal point of village life. Browse[ Kilborn’s on the Rideau](https://kilborns.ca), where you can grab an ice cream, or head down to the waterfront and watch the boats navigate through Newboro Lock. Take in the relaxed pace that defines this waterfront community. ## **Day 3: Slow down and enjoy the moment** Not every day needs a packed agenda. Sleep in. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the [Tangled Garden](https://tangledgardencafe.ca/). Revisit a favourite shop or settle into a quiet spot overlooking the water with a good book. One of the joys of staying in Westport is having the freedom to set your own pace. For a more indulgent experience, make your way to [Scheuermann Vineyard & Winery](https://www.scheuermannwinery.com/), where locally crafted wines and wood-fired pizzas create the perfect pairing for a leisurely afternoon in the countryside. There's something undeniably appealing about sharing a pizza and a glass of local wine while taking in the vineyard views. ## **Where to stay** Westport offers [accommodations](https://www.bedroomvillas.com/property/the-victorian-luxury-suites/BC-4385592?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22695359189&gclid=CjwKCAjwxb7RBhA5EiwAQ-AAdG6D3t0jgHj1CQaD_FD9N1kDEDldrsCSetsTh6QEHtlbiKK4B8j7_RoCBjYQAvD_BwE) to suit a variety of styles. Choose from boutique suites, charming bed and breakfasts or waterfront inns located close to the village's restaurants and attractions. [The Cove Country Inn](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/articles/room-with-a-tune-westports-cove-inn-hits-all-the-right-notes/) offers lakeside accommodations in the heart of the village. Overlooking Westport Pond and Upper Rideau Lake, the historic inn has become known not only for its hospitality but also for its year-round live music programming and welcoming atmosphere. You can enjoy dinner on the patio, then settle in for an evening performance. The Cove captures the relaxed spirit that defines a Westport escape. If you’re looking for [inclusive accommodations](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/articles/welcoming-2slgbtqi-accommodations-in-rideau-lakes-and-westport/), you will also find welcoming options throughout Westport and the surrounding area. **The beauty of staying put** Westport has long been a destination for those seeking a slower pace and a connection to the natural beauty of the Rideau region. There's no need to rush from one attraction to the next. Instead, you are encouraged to settle in, explore at your own pace, and leave room for the unexpected moments that often become the most memorable. A morning hike. A lingering lunch. An evening spent watching the sunset on Upper Rideau Lake. ![](https://www.southeasternontario.ca/images/transforms/_maxWidth1600px/189195/23-RIDEAU-LAKES-WESTPORT14.jpg?transformId=4770&site=default)Sometimes the best getaways aren't about how much ground you cover. They’re about finding a place that makes you want to stay just a little longer. Westport has a way of doing exactly that. 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