After visiting the Old Montreal then we started our journey after Ottawa. We drove 180 km of the Trans-Kanada-Highways, which is really taking a long time. The only thing missing was a lane departure warning system and we could have used the almost straight stretch to sleep. However, we noticed the following interesting team.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa
Arriving in Ottawa, we immediately noticed that it is much smaller than Montréal and therefore much clearer. A parking lot was quite easy and quick, behind the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Ottawa (there is also a Notre Dam here), found. This is Ottawa's oldest church and, unlike Montréal's Notre Dam, is free to enter. Absolutely beautiful inside and recommended.
National Gallery in Ottawa
From the cathedral we walked across the street to the National Gallery. We're not inside, but the somewhat different art outside was worth seeing. For example, there is a huge spider right in front of the main entrance... creepy. But also behind the building, on the river side, there are still various sculptures.
Rideau Canal through Ottawa
The way to our next goal, the Rideau Canal, was not far. Named after the Rideau River, the 202 km long canal opened in 1832 and is the oldest continuously used man-made waterway in North America. Today the Rideau Canal is only used for tourism. Canal cruises are available in Ottawa. But the historic barrages are absolutely great. However, we believe that these are no longer used today.
House of Parliament
Up the steps we walked to the House of Parliament. The neo-gothic building looks very awesome and bears some resemblance to the ones in London. From there we strolled a bit through the city to the ByWard Market and the bar district. There are some really alternative people around here, a little bit crazy. ;-)
In general, this city is so "small" and uncluttered that you wouldn't think it's the capital of Canada. So we drove a bit along the St. Lorenz river and stopped at a few viewpoints.
That was our current home Chimo Hotel, quite old and with lousy wifi. But absolutely OK for one night.
-
overall rating