When planning your next vacation, why not stay in Renfrew? Located only an hour from Ottawa and 45 minutes from Pembroke, Renfrew is the perfect destination. Renfrew and the surrounding towns all have many exciting activities that anyone can enjoy! Continue reading to find out more about Renfrew’s accommodations and things to do. 

 

Things to Do-

 

Bonnechere Caves

Address: 1247 Fourth Chute Rd, Eganville, ON

Website: http://www.bonnecherecaves.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 30 minutes

The Bonnechere Caves are located in Eganville, Ontario. The Bonnecher Caves would make a perfect day trip if you were staying in Renfrew. The Bonnechere Caves offer many activities that allow you to explore the natural world. The caves are located beside the fourth chute, which creates a picturesque waterfall. There are guided tours through the caves that leave every twenty minutes. These tours ensure that you do not miss out on learning about the history of the area. The caves are filled with fossils and the sediment dates back to the Ordovician period which is roughly 400 to 500 million years ago. After exploring the caves you can visit the souvenir shop or enjoy some ice cream. The Bonnechere caves hold many special events such as underground dining, fossil hunts and underground concerts throughout the year. 

 

 

Eagle’s Nest Lookout

Address: Highway 508, Calabogie, ON

Website: https://www.calabogie.com/activities/summer-activities/hiking-trail-descriptions/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 30 minutes 

Eagle’s Nest is a must-see location when visiting Renfrew. It is truly one of the most beautiful hidden gems in Ontario’s Highlands. Eagles Nest is an in-and-out trail that offers a breathtaking lookout that overlooks the valley. The trail is an easy 1.5-kilometre hike and posted signs give directions to the lookout. If you are travelling with a furry friend, dogs are allowed to use this trail! Make sure to bring your camera as you will never want to forget this view.

 

 

O’Brien Movie Theatre 

Address: 334 Raglan St S, Renfrew, ON 

Website: http://www.obrientheatre.com/site/index.cfm?TID=2&page=Home 

The O’Brien Movie Theatre is located in downtown Renfrew. After a day of shopping and enjoying a meal downtown, you could plan to walk to the theatre and watch a movie. The O’Brien Movie Theatre has been a part of our community since 1930. Its beautiful historic architecture inside the theatre makes it a must-see for people visiting Renfrew. 

 

 

Logos Land 

Address: 15906 Ontario Hwy 17, Cobden, ON 

Website: https://www.logosland.com/

Distance from Renfrew: 20 minutes 

Logos Land Resort offers many attractions for people visiting Renfrew. Logos Land is only twenty minutes from Renfrew, accessible on Highway 17. Logos Land has our only water park in Renfrew County, featuring many different water slides and a splash pad. There is also a beach where you can swim, rent paddle boats and jump on the water trampolines. Additionally, there is a zip line that goes over Astrolabe Lake. On the property, you can visit their small animal farm. Logos Land offers many overnight accommodations. You can rent a campsite, trailer site, motel room, villa or cabin depending on how you want to spend the night. 

 

 

McDougall Mill Museum 

Address: 65 Arthur Avenue, Renfrew, ON 

Website: https://renfrewmuseum.ca/ 

The McDougall Mill Museum is one of Renfrew’s historic treasures. Located in an old Grist Mill from 1855, the museum focuses on the history of Renfrew. There are three floors packed with ancient artifacts and exhibits for you to explore. McDougall Mill Museum is conveniently located in O’Brien Park, next to Renfrew’s famous swinging bridge. You could spend the day exploring the museum, walking across one of only three swinging bridges in Canada and having a picnic in the park. 

 

 

Renfrew Golf Club

Address: 1108 Golf Course Rd, Renfrew ON

Website: https://www.renfrewgolf.com/ 

The Renfrew Golf Club offers up to 18 holes of golf on a scenic course. The golf course has been serving friends and families since 1929. Renfrew Golf Club has a progressive and futuristic outlook while at the same time honouring its proud history. Golf carts are available to rent if you wish to. Not only can visitors experience the beautiful course, but they can also enjoy an outdoor patio, driving range and Pro Shop. Additionally, Renfrew Golf Club offers two Stay and Play Packages. These Stay and Play Packages consist of two games of golf and one night’s accommodations at either Rocky Mountain House Lodge or the Days Inn Renfrew with breakfast included. 

 

 

Dragonfly Golf Links

Address: 955 Opeongo Rd, Renfrew, ON 

Website: https://dragonflygolf.com/ 

The Dragonfly Golf Links has a stunning championship 18 hole golf course. Known for its pristine conditions, country charm, and friendly staff, Dragonfly is a must-visit. With six possible tee combinations, Dragonfly is suited to the beginner, the expert, and everyone in between. Golf cart rentals are available as well. Additionally, guests can enjoy their driving range and delicious restaurant. One of the many perks of Dragonfly Golf Links is that visitors can enjoy a game of golf while taking in the natural environment of the Ottawa Valley. Dragonfly Golf Links has been providing golfers of the Ottawa Valley unparalleled value for close to 20 years.

 

 

Wilderness Tours 

Address: 1260 Grants Settlement Rd, Foresters Falls, ON 

Website: https://wildernesstours.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 30 minutes 

Wilderness Tours is the perfect place to experience a variety of outdoor activities and adventures. Their main attraction is whitewater rafting, however, they also offer whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking, mountain biking. For a more unstructured day for the whole family, there is a resort day in which you choose to rent out kayaks and go on hikes at your own pace. There are guided tours that take you through the beautiful scenery of the Ottawa Valley while out on the water. At the end of a long day, your group could enjoy a tasty dinner at their on-site restaurant and rent out the timber sauna to finish your day in relaxation. There are also many overnight accommodations such as camping and RV sites or staying on-site in the park village or off-site at the cottage resort. 

 

 

Owl Rafting 

Address: 40 OWL Lane, Forester Falls, ON 

Website: https://owlrafting.com/

Distance from Renfrew: 25 minutes 

Owl Rafting is a great place to visit if you love being on the water. They offer rafting for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. There are also many other activities for the whole family or your group of friends to enjoy. These activities include beach volleyball, a frisbee golf course, a soccer field, horseshoes and life-sized Jenga. Additionally, there are paddleboard, paddleboat and kayak rentals available. There is overnight accommodation on-site as well. You can choose from camping in a tent, a cabin or a cabana. There are many different packages to choose from that include overnight stays and rafting, making your stay the ultimate experience. 

 

 

Burnstown Beach 

Address: 1537 Calabogie Rd, Renfrew, ON

Distance from Renfrew: 15 minutes 

Burnstown Beach is an unsupervised beach where you can swim in the gorgeous Madawaska River, lounge in the warm sand and play on the large play structures. If you have a boat, there is an access point to launch it into the river to enjoy tubing, fishing and boating. Visitors may also kayak, SUP and canoe off of the beach shore. There are public washrooms available as well. For even more excitement, head to the back of the nearby church to jump off the famous piers!

 

 

Opeongo Bowldrome 

Address: 233 Raglan Street South, Renfrew, ON 

Website: https://www.facebook.com/OpeongoBowlodrome/ 

The Opeongo Bowldrome is a fun attraction for all ages You can call to reserve a lane for bowling for you and your friends. At the Bowldrome, they also offer a golf simulator. This allows you to practice your swing and try to compete for the highest score. You can grab a bite to eat while bowling as well. They offer hotdogs, nachos, snow cones, cotton candy and much more. 

 

 

Skylight Drive-In

Address: 199 Forest Lea Rd, Pembroke, ON

Website: http://www.skylightdrivein.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 45 minutes

For a heightened movie experience, head over to Pembroke to visit the Skylight Drive-In movie theatre. The Skylight Drive-In plays two movies back-to-back every Thursday to Sunday, with new movies showing each week! You can enjoy the movie from the comfort of your vehicle, which means you can talk during the movie as much as you want! A snack and popcorn cart visits each car to fulfill your movie cravings. Additionally, there is a concession stand where viewers can purchase from a larger variety of food and drinks. 

 

 

Ma-te-Way Activity Centre 

Address: 1 Ma-te-Way Park Drive, Renfrew, ON  

Website: https://www.renfrew.ca/facilities.cfm?facilityid=9 

Ma-te-Way Activity Centre is the place to be if you are looking to do an activity outside. Ma-te-Way has soccer fields, a football field, three ball diamonds and four tennis courts. You can ride your bike on the BMX trails or bring a skateboard and enjoy the all wheels park. There is 2.5km of walking trails that are dog friendly and an off-leash dog park.  It would be a great idea to bring your children to enjoy the splash pad on a hot summer’s day. There is a children’s play structure and a natural playground. In the winter, you can skate on their outdoor rink.

 

 

Festivals-

 

Renfrew Fair

Address: 117 Veterans Memorial Blvd, Renfrew, ON

Dates: September 8-12, 2021

Website: http://www.renfrewfair.com/ 

Known as “The greatest fair in the Ottawa Valley since 1853”, a trip to the Renfrew Fair should be on everyone’s Ottawa Valley bucket list. The Renfrew Fair is an exciting five-day event, with an ample amount of activities. These activities include livestock events such as Beef Shows, Horse Shows, 4-H & Interclub Shows, Swine & Lambs and more! Additionally, there are many exhibits, including art, domestic science, floriculture, fruit, vegetables, needlework and so much more! There is even an animal exhibit where visitors can pet and view many different farm animals. Of course, there are many exciting rides and games for people of all ages at the midway! The Renfrew Fair also has a variety of Canadian Entertainment on the main stages every night, along with the popular smash-up derby. Lastly, we could not forget about the delicious food that the Renfrew Fair offers. Perhaps you may enjoy our famous bacon on a bun or maybe mouth-watering candy apples, popcorn, fresh fudge, cinnamon buns, or even full-service meals. The Renfrew Fair is truly a must-visit event and will fill your weekend with loads of fun and excitement.

 

 

The Bluegrass Festival

Address: 1 Ma-Te-Way Park Dr, Renfrew, ON

Dates: July 7 -9, 2022 

Website: https://www.facebook.com/Renfrews-Annual-Bluegrass-Festival-378944575949330/ 

The Bluegrass Festival is one of Renfrew’s most popular events, attracting visitors from all over Canada! At the Bluegrass Festival, enjoy a weekend of music, fun and even more fun! You can meet up with old friends and make some new ones, enjoy the spacious festival grounds and try some delicious food from the various vendors. Hosted at Ma-Te-Way Park, guests can camp in their trailers or RVs on the property. If you do not have an RV, you can check into a nearby hotel for the duration of the event! Additionally, all of your shopping needs are just a hop away in Downtown Renfrew. The Bluegrass Festival is truly every bluegrass music lover’s dream, featuring some of the most popular bluegrass musicians. New lineups are posted every year, so keep an eye out!

 

 

Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival

Address: 127 Raglan St S, Renfrew, ON

Dates: October 1, 2022

Website: https://www.facebook.com/RenfrewCraftBeerandFoodTruckFestival/?ref=page_internal 

The Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival is every food and beer lover’s dream. The festival features a HUGE variety of local food trucks and craft beer companies. From barbeque to Mexican food to churros, all food trucks serve a diverse range of mouthwatering dishes. If you are not a big fan of beer, the festival features local wineries and spirits as well. To add even more excitement, local musicians will be performing throughout the event. Conveniently located in Low Square, guests can easily venture off through Downtown Renfrew to experience even more local food spots and shops. Come check out the Craft Beer and Food Truck Festival for a weekend full of fun, laughter and celebration. 

 

 

Places to Stay-

 

Bide-A-While Bed & Breakfast

Address: 43 Bank Street, Renfrew, ON

Website: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Hotel_Review-g182180-d3659710-Reviews-Bide_A_While_Bed_Breakfast-Renfrew_Ontario.html 

This quaint, 5-star bed and breakfast is the perfect little getaway. Located in Renfrew, just a short walk away from our historic downtown. This is the perfect location to enjoy everything that Renfrew has to offer. You can grab a meal, visit a park or shop downtown all within 10 minutes of your residence. Bide-A-While’s amenities include free internet, a dining area, free private parking, and a relaxing sun terrace.

 

 

Days Inn Hotel

Address: 760 Gibbons Rd, Renfrew, ON

Website: https://www.wyndhamhotels.com/en-ca/days-inn/renfrew-ontario/days-inn-and-conference-centre-renfrew/overview?CID=LC:DI:20160927:Rio:Local&iata=00093796 

If you are looking for a more traditional hotel experience, the Days Inn is a great option. At the Days Inn, you can find a gorgeous inground pool and outdoor space and a delicious bar and restaurant. If you are travelling with a pet, do not worry as the Days Inn is pet friendly! The hotel is located along Highway 17, providing a simple route to many tourism locations in Renfrew County. In between activities, enjoy complimentary wifi, parking and breakfast at the Days Inn!

 

 

Gulley Farm Bed & Breakfast

Address: 140 Tinswood Rd, Horton, ON

Website: https://www.booking.com/hotel/ca/gulley-farm.html 

Distance from Renfrew: 10 minutes

Gulley Farm Bed & Breakfast is located in a beautiful farmhouse. If you are looking for an escape from the city, Gulley Farm is the perfect getaway, located just outside of Renfrew. During your stay, you will be surrounded by breathtaking outdoor scenery, country roads and farmland. Depending on which season you decide to visit, you can either be indulged in a winter wonderland, a floral utopia or a cozy and colourful autumn paradise. Gulley Farm offers many exceptional amenities, including free wifi, a dining area, flat-screen TVs, a barbeque and free private parking. You can also enjoy their outdoor pool, garden or sun terrace after a long day of skiing, kayaking, golfing, hiking, or whatever you decide to get up to!

 

 

Lochiel Street Bed & Breakfast

Address: 270 Lochiel St, Renfrew, ON

Website: https://www.bbcanada.com/8563.html 

Lochiel Street Bed & Breakfast is located in the centre of Renfrew, just behind our vibrant downtown. This beautiful, English-style building has an abundance of character, reflected in its stunning architecture. If you are travelling with kids, this bed and breakfast welcome children of all ages. Take a short walk through Renfrew to visit our lovely local shops, parks and restaurants, or visit the surrounding area to enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, swimming, or golfing. The options are endless! At Lochiel Street Bed & Breakfast, guests enjoy free parking, free wifi and a private bathroom.

 

 

Rocky Mountain House Lodge

Address: 409 Stewart St, Renfrew, ON

Website: https://staycanada.ca/46960-rocky-mountain-house-restaurant-and-lodge-renfrew.html 

Experience the north end of Renfrew at the Rocky Mountain House Lodge. At the Rocky Mountain House Lodge, you will feel as though you are staying in a rustic, cozy cabin. Attached to the lodge is Renfrew’s popular Rocky Mountain House Restaurant where you can enjoy their famous schnitzels. Rocky Mountain House Lodge is located 5 minutes from Highway 17 and Highway 60, both routes will allow you to explore Renfrew County and experience all of the activities that we have to offer. Additionally, Renfrew’s renowned swinging bridge and historic McDougall Mill Museum are within walking distance of the lodge.

 

 

Calabogie Lodge

Address: 729 Mill St, Calabogie, ON

Website: https://calabogielodge.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 25 minutes

Calabogie Lodge Resort is a four-season resort situated on the shore of Calabogie Lake. Calabogie Lodge is considered a gem in the heart of the Ottawa Valley! The resort’s rural setting is a natural playground for any season. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, games room, and fitness room at the resort. If you are visiting in the summer, Calabogie Lodge has a private tennis court, a beach and a play structure. For winter trips, enjoy ice fishing, skating and snowmobiling. Additionally, Calabogie Lodge is in proximity to many other exciting activities in our area, such as golfing, rafting, hiking, and skiing.

 

 

Calabogie Peaks

Address: 30 Barrett Chute Rd, Calabogie, ON

Website: https://www.calabogie.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 25 minutes

Escape into the mountains, lake and land at Calabogie Peaks Resort. Calabogie Peaks welcomes guests to a truly authentic country paradise in the heart of Ontario’s Highlands. Whether you enjoy water sports, golf, tennis, a day on the beach, hiking the many Madawaska Highlands trails and more, the long days of summer are magical at Calabogie Peaks. In fact, there is a golf course, beach and tennis court onsite that guests may access. In the winter, guests can enjoy skiing on the large onsite ski hill, skating on the outdoor pond and snowshoeing and cross country skiing on the nearby trails. In fact, Calabogie Peaks features Ontario’s tallest ski mountain resort! After a long day of fun, enjoy a tasty meal at one of the resort’s onsite restaurants. If you are seeking more adventure, Calabogie Peaks is located just outside of Renfrew County, where there are more restaurants, shops and activities to discover.

 

 

Elements Luxury Tented Camping 

Address: 793 Storyland Rd, Renfrew Ontario 

Website: https://www.outdoorhotel.ca/ 

Are you interested in camping but do not want the stress of setting up a tent and all of your gear? Glamping may be your answer, and you can do that here in Renfrew at Elements Luxury Tented Camping. Elements has eight fully furnished prospector tents and a tiny home filled with everything you may need. Meals are included with your stay. On the property, there is 7km of groomed hiking and mountain biking trails. Additionally, Elements offers yoga and art classes in their studio. There are unlimited wifi areas so you can stay connected. Every day they offer different day glamping activities and at the end of the day, you can enjoy a glass of wine by the waterfall. As of right now, Elements is not opening for the summer. However, they have plans to reopen come fall! 

 

 

Jocko’s Beach Resort

Address: 5253 Calabogie Rd

Website: https://www.jockosbeach.com/ 

Distance from Renfrew: 25 minutes

Jocko’s Beach is an all-seasons family resort and offers one of the Ottawa Valley’s best little beaches. Come and experience four seasons of fun and excitement on Calabogie Lake, an area popular for its untouched wilderness, breathtaking scenery and endless recreational adventures. Whether your idea of the perfect vacation is lounging on a beach chair or indulging in a more exhilarating experience, you can experience it all at Jocko’s Beach. Guests at Jocko’s Beach Resort have full access to their beautiful sandy beach, horseshoe and campfire pits, along with complimentary use of kayaks, canoes, and SUPs. Jocko’s Beach is in proximity to many golf courses, fishing areas, hiking trails and rafting adventures. Additionally, Renfrew is only a short drive away, providing guests access to our local businesses and even more fun activities. 

 

 

We hope that you consider Renfrew when planning your next trip! We would love to have you!

 

Written by

Makenna Moran & Jo’lyn Dagenais, Tourism Ambassadors for the Corporation of the Town of Renfrew