Ontario- Tell Tale Harbour Starring Alan Doyle in Toronto
Photo Credit: Adam Hefferman
January 22 – 23, 2027
Join Travac for this fabulous musical and a stay at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto!
**Must be booked no later than September 20th, 2026 to ensure your spot on this tour**
Join Travac this January for a magnificent escape to Toronto to see the acclaimed Canadian musical Tell Tale Harbour at the Royal Alexandra Theatre! Co-written by, and starring Great Big Sea’s music icon, Alan Doyle, Tell Tale Harbour is packed with all the songs and laughs we expect from the best East Coast kitchen party. Celebrating the people, trials, and triumphs of living in a small town on the edge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean, the production features a lively mix of East Coast folk music and toe-tapping Celtic-inspired melodies.
Your journey includes private round-trip transportation from Ottawa by deluxe motor coach; perfectly-situated downtown accommodations at the Fairmont Royal York, one of Canada’s most celebrated landmark hotels; Centre Orchestra Seating for Tell Tale Harbour at the Royal Alexandra Theatre; entrance to the Royal Ontario Museum; and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart Carlingwood Mall at approximately 9:30am for Toronto via private coach. We will make washroom and lunch stops enroute. Our check-in time at the Fairmont Royal York is at 4:00pm.
6:45pm – Coach departs Hotel to the Theatre. “Tell Tale Harbour” – Center Orchestra Seating. This musical is packed with all the songs and laughs we expect from the best East Coast kitchen party. It is as relatable as it is ridiculous, as hilarious as it is heartfelt, and celebrates the people, the trials, and the triumphs of living in a small town on the edge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Based on the screenplay The Grand Seduction by Ken Scott, Tell Tale Harbour is co-created by Adam Brazier, Alan Doyle, Bob Foster and Edward Riche.
**The show is 2 hours long (7:30-9:30pm) including intermission.**
Our coach will bring us back to the hotel right after the show.
Photo Credit: Wade Muir
Day 2
This morning is free to enjoy downtown Toronto at your leisure. Have a relaxed morning in the hotel at its 50-foot skylit indoor pool (heated to 82-84°F), a 104°F whirlpool, saunas, or steam room – or maybe you want to shop and browse downtown Toronto, or visit the CN Tower. Mid-morning, we will depart the hotel and head for a visit to the ROM (Royal Ontario Museum).
After our museum visit, we will head home to Ottawa, making an early dinner stop enroute.
Itinerary subject to change.
Hotel Information
Fairmont Royal York Toronto
Hotel Address
100 Front St WToronto, ON
M5J 1E3
(416) 368-2511
Ontario- Christmas Season in Niagara and St. Jacobs (November 24 departure)
November 24-28, 2026
5 days, 4 nights
For our November 13-17 tour, please click here.
A magical and enchanting experience for the Christmas season!
Join Travac as we embark on an unforgettable adventure to southern Ontario to celebrate the holiday season! Our trip will begin in Niagara Falls where you will experience the magic of Niagara’s winter while taking a coach tour through the Festival of Lights at night. Enjoy a free afternoon in Niagara-on-the-Lake to explore and shop on your own. While in Niagara-on-the-Lake you will also see a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Festival Theatre. Then travel to St. Jacobs where you will be immersed in a village enveloped in holiday spirit. You will have the opportunity to visit the St Jacobs Market and experience all the holiday cheer St Jacobs has to offer amongst its twinkling lights and historic village charm.
This fabulous holiday includes round trip transportation by deluxe chartered coach, 2 nights accommodation at the Hilton Niagara Falls, 2 nights’ accommodation at the Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs, a Shaw Festival performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, breakfast daily, evening sightseeing of the Festival of Lights, a visit to the St Jacob’s Market, and the services of a Travac Tours Director.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we’ll depart from Ottawa and begin our journey to Niagara Falls. Along the way, we’ll make stops for lunch and rest breaks before arriving in the late afternoon. After checking into the hotel, the evening is yours to shop, enjoy dinner, and relax.
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Sheraton Fallsview or similar
Day 2
Start your day with an included breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a full day at leisure in Niagara Falls or visit the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its boutique shops, restaurants, and historic streets, with shuttle service available between Niagara Falls and Niagara-on-the-Lake. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to offer suggested activities.
This afternoon, you’ll attend a matinee performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella at the Shaw Festival.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
1:00pm – Performance of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella.
Following the performance, enjoy leisure time before rejoining the group for a scenic evening drive to experience the spectacular Niagara Festival of Lights.
(B)
Day 3
After an included breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and travel St. Jacobs. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to discover St. Jacob’s Market browsing its many vendors and local specialties at your own pace, within walking distance from the hotel, prior to check-in.
After checking in, the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Your Tour Director will be happy to offer suggested restaurants.
(B)
Hotel for the next 2 nights – Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar.
Day 4
Following breakfast, enjoy a free day to explore at your own pace. Your Travac Tours Director will be available with suggestions.
(B)
Day 5
After breakfast, we’ll check out of the hotel and begin our journey home to Ottawa. We’ll make comfort and lunch stops along the way before arriving back in the evening.
(B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Sheraton Fallsview or similar
Hotel Address
5875 Falls AveNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3K7
(905) 374-4445
Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St Jacobs or similar
Hotel Address
55 Benjamin RdWaterloo, ON
N2V 0C6
(519) 514-0090
Ontario- Agawa Fall Colours
October 14-17, 2026
The fall is the most spectacular time to visit the Agawa Canyon, when its brilliant autumn colours are in full effect! Join us in October as we visit Agawa during its peak- we’ll board the legendary Algoma Central Railway for a breathtaking 114-mile journey into the wild heart of the Canadian Shield, visit the Art Gallery of Algoma to enjoy Canadian art, and visit Sudbury before our return to Ottawa.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Sault Ste. Marie
This morning, we depart Ottawa and begin our scenic drive north to Sault Ste. Marie. Along the way, we’ll make a restful stop, giving you a chance to stretch your legs or grab a coffee. We will also stop en route for a meal and washroom break. Arrival is expected in the evening, where you can enjoy a relaxing night. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to recommend local dining spots for dinner.
Hotel for 2 nights: The Water Tower Inn, Sault Ste. Marie or similar
Day 2
Agawa Canyon
Today promises to be a highlight of the tour! After breakfast, board the legendary Algoma Central Railway for a breathtaking 114-mile journey into the wild heart of the Canadian Shield. As you travel north, marvel at the dramatic scenery—towering trees, rugged hills, and glistening lakes—all while enjoying your included boxed lunch onboard. At the Agawa Canyon, step off the train and take in the stunning lookout views perfect for photos or a quiet moment in nature. Return to Sault Ste. Marie by evening, just in time for dinner.
Day 3
Art Gallery of Algoma and Sudbury
Start your morning with a visit to the Art Gallery of Algoma, where a guided tour and an included lunch await. The AGA is a cultural gem located in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, right on the banks of the St. Mary’s River. It’s a small but vibrant gallery that showcases Canadian and Indigenous art, with a special emphasis on artists from Northern Ontario.
Then we’re off to Sudbury—but not without a photo op at the iconic Big Nickel, a monument celebrating Canada’s mining heritage. Wrap up your evening at your leisure—plenty of dining options are nearby.
Overnight: Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury or similar
Day 4
Science North Museum and Return to Ottawa
Before we head home, we will visit the renowned Science North Museum, housed in its distinctive snowflake-shaped buildings. Interactive exhibits and fascinating stories bring the science and spirit of Northern Ontario to life. Whether you’re curious about local wildlife, northern lights, or geology, there’s something to spark everyone’s imagination. After our visit, we begin our journey back to Ottawa, arriving in the evening with memories of art, nature, and discovery fresh in your mind.
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
The Water Tower Inn or similar
Hotel Address
360 Great Northern RdSault Ste. Marie, ON
P6B 4Z7
1 800-461-0800
Hilton Garden Inn Sudbury or similar
Hotel Address
475 Barry Downe RdSudbury, ON
P3A 3T4
705-586-3001
Maritimes- Cape Breton Celtic Colours- 7 days
Cabot Trail, Cape Breton
October 11-17, 2026
For our 5 day tour, please click here.
Join Travac for a fantastic fall getaway to Cape Breton for the Celtic Colours International Festival! Set against a backdrop of brilliant autumn colours, this festival welcomes musicians from Celtic regions around the world including Scotland, Ireland, Wales, and Brittany, as well as artists from Cape Breton’s vibrant communities.
A unique celebration of Cape Breton living traditional culture, you’ll have the opportunity to take in a variety of world-class concerts and community cultural events across Cape Breton Island while also visiting Halifax and the South Shore.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Halifax
This morning, depart from Ottawa on a direct flight to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel in Baddeck, the start and end point of the famous Cabot Trail—a favorite destination for travelers. Scheduled washroom and lunch stops will be made en route. Expected arrival is early evening. A welcome dinner is included tonight. (D)
Hotel stay for the next 4 nights – Inverary Resort or similar
Day 2
Baddeck
Begin the day with a relaxing breakfast before enjoying a day at leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will offer suggestions for the day. Return to the hotel for dinner. Later, enjoy a Celtic Colours International Festival performance. (B, D)
Optional – Fortress of Louisbourg ($): A visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, the largest reconstructed 18th century fortified town in North America.
Day 3
Cabot Trail
After an early breakfast, depart for a full-day tour of the Cabot Trail, accompanied by a local guide. Widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world, the route winds through the Cape Breton Highlands, offering views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, forested landscapes, and coastal cliffs. Several stops will be made at scenic lookouts and in small fishing communities. Lunch is included during the tour. This evening, dine at the hotel. Tonight, attend another Celtic Colours International Festival performance. (B, L, D)
Day 4
Baddeck
Start the day with a leisurely morning before departing for a visit to the Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site. Explore full-scale replicas, exhibits, and artifacts that showcase Bell’s groundbreaking inventions and wide-ranging interests. A shuttle bus is available, allowing you to explore at your own pace. On your last evening in Baddeck, dinner will be served at the hotel. To conclude the day, attend your final Celtic Colours International Festival performance. (B, D)
Day 5
Baddeck to Halifax
After breakfast, we will check out and transfer to Halifax, Nova Scotia. Along the way there will be rest stops enroute with lunch ($) on your own prior to arriving into downtown Halifax. We will check in to our hotel in the late afternoon. Evening is free to explore the Harbour front shops and restaurants. (B)
Hotel stay for the next 2 nights: Westin Nova Scotian or similar
Day 6
Halifax and the South Shore
Following breakfast, depart your hotel for a full-day tour of Halifax and Nova Scotia’s South Shore. Begin with Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the resting place of many Titanic passengers. Travel along the scenic route to Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful streets and the home of the Bluenose II, where you’ll also have time for lunch ($) on your own. Continue to the charming town of Mahone Bay, famous for its waterfront and iconic churches, before arriving at Peggy’s Cove to see its legendary lighthouse. Return to Halifax in the evening, where the remainder of the evening is at your leisure. (B)
Day 7
Return to Ottawa
Enjoy your breakfast before checking out and transferring to Halifax Airport for your early afternoon flight back to Ottawa. Arrival is expected later that afternoon. (B)
Performance details for the Celtic Colours International Festival, including artist lineup, time, and venue, are subject to change.
Itinerary and flight schedules are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Inverary Resort or similar
Hotel Address
368 Shore Rd.Baddeck, NS
B0E 1B0
1-800-565-5660
Westin Nova Scotian or similar
Hotel Address
1181 Hollis StHalifax, NS
B3H 2P6
(902) 421-1000
Ontario- Pelee Island, Windsor, and Niagara Getaway- September departure
September 21-25, 2026
A passage to Pelee Island and Windsor, combined with a stop in Niagara Falls, is an excellent getaway. The climate of the Lake Erie Islands Archipelago boasts the highest heat units in the country and the longest frost-free season in Ontario. This helps make the flora and fauna of Pelee Island rather unique.
There are many facets to Travac’s marvellous getaway. You’ll enjoy a Rum Runners tour that lets you understand the nefarious lifestyle of Windsor during the 1920s. During your adventure, you’ll experience Pelee Island through the eyes of a local professional guide, visit a local winery with a tasting. You’ll also make a special visit to Amherstburg Freedom Museum. Amherstburg was once the Canadian destination for many Freedom Seekers escaping slavery in the United States. Here you will learn local stories about the Underground Railroad and the contributions of African-Canadians to the region.
Your holiday includes roundtrip transportation on a deluxe chartered coach, 4 nights’ accommodation, 2 lunches, a full sightseeing program, and the services of a Travac Tours Director. Early booking is your best guarantee of obtaining space on this fabulous getaway!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to Leamington
Early this morning, you will depart Carlingwood Mall for Leamington by private motor coach. Along the way, we’ll pause for a restful break, giving you a chance to stretch and grab some food. Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel. The remainder of the evening is free to explore your surroundings.
Overnight – Quality Inn Leamington (or similar)
Day 2
Pelee Island Adventure
After your breakfast at the hotel, we will make our way to Pelee Island by ferry. As your journey begins to Pelee Island, the ferry slowly leaves the mainland and drifts into the horizon on the warm waters of Lake Erie. During this 90-minute crossing, take this time to relax and chat with your travelling companions on the ferry’s open air upper deck.
Pelee Island’s magical charm has been coined the Canadian Caribbean. With summer temperatures that mimic the famed Bordeaux region of France, Pelee Island is a winemaker’s paradise, though you needn’t love wine to love your time on the island. Sand beaches dot the shoreline, and trails criss-cross the island, while rare species of birds soar over it all.
Our local guide will meet us on arrival at Pelee Island Winery. We will have time to see the island and then enjoy both a tasting and a tour of the facility. Lunch is also included at the facility. Your day visit will be spent exploring the island under the guidance of a local tour professional. Once we have arrived back on the mainland, we will make our way to Windsor. Your evening will be free. (B, L)
Overnight – Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Day 3
The Rum Runners Tour and Amherstburg Freedom Museum
This morning after your included breakfast you will be met by “The Rum Runners Tour” acting troupe. The group will take you on a journey through prohibition of the 1920s and 30s in Windsor. This tour includes visits to MacKenzie Hall and Bedford United Church.
After the show and your included lunch, you’ll visit the Amherstburg Freedom Museum (previously known as the North American Black Historical Museum). The location of the museum is key; Amherstburg meant freedom, as the Canadian destination for many Freedom Seekers escaping slavery in the United States via the Underground Railroad. You will have the opportunity to learn local stories about the Underground Railroad and the rich Black heritage of the region.
Your evening will at your leisure. Your Travac Tours Director will be happy to show you the plentiful dining options nearby. (B, L)
Overnight – Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront (or similar)
Day 4
Niagara Falls
This morning after breakfast, you will depart Windsor for your drive to Niagara Falls. Upon arrival, you will have a free day in Niagara to do some exploring and shopping. Your Travac Tour Director will offer optional tours to offer ($)- TBA. (B)
Overnight – Niagara Falls at the Hilton Fallsview (or similar)
Day 5
Niagara Falls to Ottawa
After breakfast and a free morning in Niagara, you will begin your journey back to Ottawa. You can expect to arrive back at Carlingwood Mall in the evening. (B)
Itinerary and hotels are subject to change.
Hotel Information
Quality Inn Leamington or similar
Hotel Address
279 Erie St SLeamington, ON
N8H 3C4
(519) 326-9071
Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront or similar
Hotel Address
33 Riverside Dr EWindsor, ON
N9A 2S4
(519) 258-7774
Niagara Falls at the Hilton Fallsview or similar
Hotel Address
6361 Fallsview BlvdNiagara Falls, ON
L2G 3V9
(905) 354-7887
Québec- Québec City 4 Days
July 21 – 24, 2026
Québec City, built on the banks of the St. Lawrence River at Cap Diamant, is one of the most historic and beautiful cities in North America. It is the continent’s only walled city, a fact that aided UNESCO’s 1985 decision to classify it as a prestigious World Heritage Site. Let Travac Tours transport you on a four-day, three-night tour of the breathtaking French-Canadian heartland that you won’t want to miss.
Travac’s Québec trip provides you with a fully narrated glimpse of the city. With the help of a knowledgeable tour guide, we’ll take you on a half day excursion where you’ll see the Plains of Abraham, Artists’ Alley, and much more. You will spend three nights at the historic Hotel Clarendon, located in the heart of Old Quebec and just steps away from the city’s attractions and activities.
Your Québec City holiday includes round-trip transportation on a comfortable chartered coach, three nights’ accommodation as well as a guided tour of Québec.
For information on our 3-day Quebec City tour, please click here.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we will depart for the charming city of Quebec City. Upon arrival, we will begin our exploration with a brief guided tour with our local tour guide, providing you with an overview of the city’s rich history and picturesque architecture. The evening is free, allowing you to explore at your own pace or relax and enjoy the ambiance of this beautiful city.
Day 2
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. We recommend taking time to wander through the quaint streets of Old Quebec, where you can experience the European charm of the city. The local shopping scene is unique, offering everything from artisan boutiques to local craft stores. Indulge in exceptional French cuisine at one of the many renowned restaurants, where you can savor the flavors that make Quebec City a culinary delight. Should you need assistance with planning your day, your Travac Tours Director will be happy to provide recommendations and help organize any activities.
Day 3
You will have another leisurely day to explore Old Quebec at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit historic landmarks such as the iconic Château Frontenac or simply enjoy a quiet stroll along the cobbled streets, there is no shortage of attractions. Your Tour Director will be available to offer suggestions for those looking to make the most of their time in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 4
You will have the morning to again amble through the streets of Old Quebec. Your Tour Director will advise of the departure time for Ottawa.
Itinerary and hotel are subject to change.
Ontario- Stratford Festival
Stratford Festival Theatre. Photo: Richard Bain
September 16 – 18, 2026
The Stratford Festival is one of Canada’s most celebrated cultural events, and one of the leading theatre festivals in the world. Join Travac this fall on a delightful escape to experience the very best of the festival this year, alongside a visit to St Jacobs! Our tour includes private round-trip transportation aboard deluxe motor coach from Ottawa, 2 nights accommodation in St Jacobs, an evening performance of Guys and Dolls at the Festival Theatre, and free time to explore the charming village of St Jacobs and its famous farmer’s market. An optional matinee of The Tempest ($) at the Festival Theatre is also available. Call us at 613-728-1934 to learn more about this fabulous getaway!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Ottawa to St. Jacobs
This morning you will depart the Carlingwood Shopping Centre for St. Jacobs. Scheduled washroom and lunch stops will be made enroute. Expect to arrive in St. Jacobs in early evening.
Hotel for the next 2 nights: Hampton Inn & Suites Waterloo St. Jacobs
Day 2
Stratford
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll have free time to shop and explore the St. Jacobs Farmers Market or visit some of the charming shops in the area. Your Stratford Festival performance of Guys & Dolls is in the evening tonight, with the option of also taking in a matinee of The Tempest this afternoon. Your Travac Tours Director will advise you of the shuttle schedule for the day between St Jacobs and Stratford.
Optional ($): 2:00pm – Performance of The Tempest.
8:00pm – Performance of Guys & Dolls.
A listening device is offered at no additional cost; please request should you require one.
(B)
From left: Mark Uhre as Nathan Detroit, Jennifer Rider-Shaw as Miss Adelaide, Dan Chameroy as Sky Masterson and Olivia Sinclair-Brisbane as Sarah Brown, Guys and Dolls. Stratford Festival 2026. Photo: Dariane Sanche.
Official trailer for The Tempest
Official trailer for Guys and Dolls
Day 3
St. Jacobs to Ottawa
Following breakfast, you will have some more free time explore and shop in St. Jacobs. Afterward, we begin our journey back to Ottawa, with scheduled washroom and lunch stops en route.
(B)
Hotel Information
Hampton Inn & Suites Waterloo St. Jacobs or similar
Hotel Address
55 Benjamin RdWaterloo, ON
N2V 0C6
(519) 514-0090
Quebec- Louise Penny: The Last Mandarin Book Event
May 12-13, 2026
Award-winning Canadian author Louise Penny and award-winning CBC journalist Mellissa Fung are holding a special book launch in Stanstead, Québec to celebrate the release of their new thriller The Last Mandarin, and Travac has secured tickets to this highly coveted event! As one of the mystery genre’s all-time greats, tickets to Penny’s in-person events are notoriously difficult to obtain. Travac has secured limited seating to this special evening which includes one signed copy of the exclusive indie edition of The Last Mandarin per person. Also included are some of the attractions from our exceptionally popular “On the Trail of Louise Penny” tour: a visit and tasting to an elderberry farm; a visit to the Louise Penny corner at Brome Lake Books; and a visit to the Brome County Historical Society Museum.
Demand for spaces on this tour will be very high- early booking is your only guarantee. Once sold out, Travac is unable to obtain more seats for this event.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning, we depart Ottawa and travel toward Quebec’s picturesque Eastern Townships. Our first stop is Vitality Elderberry Farm in Lac-Brome, where we will enjoy a tasting of their locally grown elderberry products. After the visit, we will head to the hotel for time to freshen up before the book event this evening.
After an early dinner, we will head to Stanstead for the special The Last Mandarin Book Event with Louise Penny and Mellissa Fung. During this event you will have the opportunity to hear from Louise Penny herself and receive one signed copy of the exclusive indie edition of The Last Mandarin. (D)
Hotel for 1 night: OTL Gouverneur
Day 2
Our day begins with a journey to Knowlton, a charming village known for its pastoral beauty and for inspiring Louise Penny’s fictional town of Three Pines. While in Knowlton, we will visit Brome Lake Books, followed by a short walk to the Brome County Historical Society Museum.
Then continue to Sutton where you will have free time to explore and pick up lunch (at your own expense). La Rumeur Affamée, on which Sarah’s Boulangerie was based, is a wonderful option to grab a bite to eat. (B)
Itinerary and hotel subject to change.
Hotel Information
OTL Gouverneur
Hotel Address
3131 Rue King OuestSherbrooke, QC
J1L 1C8
1 888-910-1111
Ontario- Lanark County: Christmas in the Valley
November 27-28, 2025
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Pakenham, Almonte, and Perth
This morning, we will depart Carlingwood Mall for our journey to Lanark County. Our first stop will be in the charming town of Pakenham. We will visit the historic Pakenham Bridge, a stone bridge with five arches that crosses the rapids on the Mississippi River and is the only one of its kind in North America. Built by Scottish stone masons at the beginning of the 20th century for horse and carriage use, the bridge was fully restored to its original state in 1984 and is now a treasured local landmark. We will then make our way to St Peter Celestine Roman Catholic Church, one of the most architecturally impressive churches in rural Canada. Built in 1892, the exterior takes inspiration from the 17th century stone churches of southern France and rural Quebec. Its incredibly preserved interior decoration is considered one of only three churches in Canada built in Classic Italianate style. After learning about the history and architecture of the church, we will make a stop at 1840s General Store & Bakery, a bakery dedicated to preserving local recipes passed down over generations. Its gift shop offers an eclectic mix of locally handcrafted items, antiques, and keepsakes that pay homage to the 1800s era. We will also visit local favourite Keeper’s Coffee Bar, a coffee and gift shop selling artisan products produced in Lanark County, before making our way to Cedar Hill Christmas Tree Farm. Voted one of Ottawa’s best winter attractions and often featured in Hallmark Christmas movies, the farm boasts rolling hills and stunning vistas, offers tractor-pulled wagon rides, and is home to a beautiful timber frame shop selling a variety of Christmas and winter products.
After our time at the farm, we will make our way to the lovely town of Almonte. We will explore Mill Street’s unique boutiques and historic architecture as well as the town’s Hallmark Christmas movie shooting locations before breaking for free time for lunch ($) and Christmas shopping. We will then visit Almonte’s Old Town Hall before a tour to the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum, where we will learn about the textile history of the region, visit the exhibitions, and receive a spinning and weaving demonstration.
After an enjoyable day, we will make our way to Perth and check in to The Best Western Perth Parkside Inn overlooking Stewart Park. Enjoy your included dinner before relaxing in the peace and quiet of your hotel room. (D)
Day 2
Perth, Smith’s Falls, and Carleton Place
After breakfast and check out at the hotel, we will begin our day with a walking tour of Perth. Voted the prettiest town in Ontario, we will explore many local attractions that make Perth special such as Perth Pies Co, Crystal Palace, Mammoth Cheese and the Perth Library. After free time for Christmas shopping, we will continue on to the Perth Brewery, where you can sample one of their many renowned craft beers.
From Perth we will head to Smith’s Falls, where we will visit Gemmell’s Garden Centre, a destination garden centre and greenhouse, to explore their seasonal botanical offerings. We will then make a stop at Hendry’s Christmas Tree Farm where you will have the opportunity to explore the farm and their indulge in their baked goods, homemade jellies, and Christmas products.
Our next stop will be Carleton Place, where we will break for free time for lunch ($) and shopping in the historic town centre. We will then visit the Carleton Place Gallery, a fine art exhibition space featuring work by local and Ottawa-area artists, before heading to the Wool Administration Warehouse– a renowned wool processing facility. Constructed in 1890 of local limestone, this building contained the roundhouse and engine repair shops for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) until 1939. In 1940, the building was purchased by the Canadian Co-operative Wool Growers. Wool arrives here from across the country and is graded before being shipped out in compact bales. It also houses a lovely shop with a variety of wool, alpaca, bamboo, and cotton products.
After our time in Carleton Place, we will head back to Ottawa. Expect to arrive back at Carlingwood Mall in the early evening. (B)
Itinerary and hotel subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hotel Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn & Spa or similar
Hotel Address
82 Peter StPerth, Ontario
K7H 1S2
(613) 326-0082
Ontario- Lanark County: Discovering Your Backyard- An Historical Tour
October 27-28, 2026
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
Almonte, Perth
This morning, we will depart the Carlingwood Shopping Centre on our journey to Lanark County. Our adventure begins with a visit to the charming town of Almonte in Mississippi Mills. Your Travac Tours Director will bring you to Equator Coffee, the award-winning Hummingbird Chocolate, and the Vodkow Dairy Distillery, where delicious spirits are created from milk sugar. We will then embark on a guided tour of the North Lanark Regional Museum, learning about the Almonte train wreck, the region’s once-thriving textile industry and the workers who helped shape it, as well as the history of Mississippi Mills. We will also explore a variety of regional cultural artifacts from the pioneer era until the present day.
We continue on to Almonte’s picturesque downtown core where you will have a chance to explore Mill Street’s lovely boutiques and historic architecture, as well as view the town’s Hallmark Christmas movie shooting locations. After free time for lunch ($) and to enjoy Almonte’s Riverwalk, we will walk by the Old Town Hall and several monuments integral to Almonte’s history dedicated to the Almonte Train Wreck of 1942; Dr James Naismith, the inventor of basketball; and Dr Robert Tait McKenzie, distinguished sculptor and physician.
After our time in Almonte, will visit Gemmell’s Garden Centre, a destination greenhouse, to explore their seasonal botanical offerings. After an enjoyable day, we will head to our hotel in Perth, The Best Western Perth Parkside Inn overlooking Stewart Park, to check in. Enjoy your included dinner before relaxing in the peace and quiet of your hotel room. (D)
Overnight at the Hotel Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn & Spa or similar.
Day 2
Perth, Carleton Place, Smiths Falls
After breakfast and check out at the hotel, we will begin our day with a walking tour of Perth. We first explore Stewart Park, learning about Big Ben’s and Ian Miller’s remarkable achievements and important connection to the town. We will then make our way to Codes Mill on the Park, one of Perth’s most significant landmarks and a designated historic site, to see evidence of the skilled craftsmanship of the early stonemasons of Perth. Afterwards we will continue to the Perth Town Hall, constructed in 1863. We will visit its historic Council Chambers, old courtroom, and original jail cell, learning about the evolution of Perth’s local government and how the town hall has shaped Perth’s civic life for over 160 years. Finally, we will visit Perth Pies Co., Crystal Palace, Mammoth Cheese and the Perth Library. We will also pass The Old Perth Shoe Factory and other historical factories, and learn about Last Duel Park where the last fatal duel in Canada was played out in 1833.
Departing Perth, we will make our way to Carleton Place. Upon arrival in Carleton Place, you will have free time for lunch ($) before we embark on a guided tour of the Carleton Place Town Hall, built in the Richardson Romanesque style of architecture popular in North America in the latter quarter of the nineteenth century. We will continue our walking tour past Moore House, a log cabin formerly owned by one of the first settlers in the area and one of the oldest remaining buildings in Carleton Place. You will then have free time to browse Carleton Place’s local shops and galleries before heading to the Wool Administration Store– a renowned wool processing facility. Constructed in 1890 of local limestone, this building contained the roundhouse and engine repair shops for the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) until 1939. In 1940, the building was purchased by the Canadian Co-operative Wool Growers. Wool arrives here from across the country and is graded before being shipped out in compact bales. It also houses a lovely shop with a variety of wool, alpaca, bamboo, and cotton products which we will visit.
Our final stop of the day will be at the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario in Smiths Falls, where we will have a guided tour of this National Historic Site dedicated to preserving the history of the Canadian railway.
We will then pass by the lock system of the Rideau Canal as we make our way back to Ottawa for 6:30 pm. (B)
Itinerary and hotel subject to change.
Hotel Information
Hotel Best Western Plus Perth Parkside Inn & Spa or similar
Hotel Address
82 Peter StPerth, ON
K7H 1S2
(613) 326-0082