Calabogie might just be one of Ontario’s best-kept summer secrets. Tucked away in the Ottawa Valley and surrounded by forest, lakes, and winding trails, it’s a place where your pace naturally slows down—and where adventure, great food, and genuine relaxation are always just around the corner. Whether you’re looking for a rejuvenating weekend or a full week of lakeside living, here are 12 unforgettable ways to spend summer days in Calabogie.
1. Hike to the Eagle’s Nest Lookout
This is the trail to check off your Calabogie bucket list. Just a short drive from town, the 3 km out-and-back Eagle’s Nest Lookout trail rewards you with panoramic views of the Ottawa Valley from a dramatic cliffside. The hike is beginner-friendly with a few moderate inclines and lots of flat forest trail in between. Expect to spend 1.5–2 hours taking it all in—especially if you linger at the top. Go early for morning mist or pack snacks and catch golden hour as the sun sets behind the pines. It’s the kind of view that stays with you long after your trip ends.
2. Coffee Hop: Neat Café, Oh-El-La Café, and Café Tilda
Whether you’re a flat white fan or just love discovering charming local spots, a café crawl is a must. Take a scenic 25-minute drive to Arnprior, where three standout cafés await. Neat Café is a rustic-modern gem offering great espresso, wood-fired pizza, and intimate live music shows—yes, even in the summer. Oh-El-La Café feels like a cozy European escape with its curated shop and inviting patio. And Café Tilda brings minimalist vibes and thoughtfully crafted drinks, plus a menu of rotating pastries that locals rave about. Stop at one—or all three—for a little caffeine-fueled wandering.
3. Paddleboard on Calabogie Lake
There’s something magical about being on the water early in the day, when Calabogie Lake is still and quiet. Somewhere Inn Calabogie offers stand-up paddleboard rentals for both guests and day visitors, making it easy to launch directly from nearby Barnet Park. Whether you’re brand new to SUP or have been paddling for years, this calm freshwater lake is perfect for all skill levels. Expect stunning views of the tree-lined shoreline, loons calling in the distance, and that blissful full-body tiredness that only comes after a great paddle. It’s equal parts workout and meditation.
4. Hit the Trails—on Foot or Two Wheels
Calabogie isn’t just about lakes—it’s a trail lover’s paradise. For hikers, trails like Sugar Mountain, Wabun Lake, and the Manitou Mountain loop offer varied terrain, quiet forest paths, and the occasional hidden lake or lookout point. If you’re bringing your bike, the K&P Trail is a highlight—this former rail line turned multi-use trail stretches over 15 km from Calabogie to Renfrew and is mostly flat, making it great for gravel bikes, hybrids, or even a casual jog. With forest shade, lakeside views, and wildlife sightings along the way, it’s a must for nature seekers.
5. Go Off-Roading with Tom Irwin Adventure Tours
Craving something more rugged? Tom Irwin Adventure Tours offers fully guided ATV experiences that take you deep into the Madawaska Highlands. You’ll ride through forest trails, rocky outcrops, and mud-filled routes, with stops at hidden lookout points and local landmarks. Safety gear and instruction are included, so even if you’ve never ridden before, you’re in good hands. Tours range from a couple of hours to full-day adventures—and some packages even include lunch in the woods. It’s a great way to experience a wilder side of the region without needing to bring your own equipment.
6. Taco Tuesdays at Somewhere Inn
Every Tuesday evening, the wine bar at Somewhere Inn Calabogie transforms into a taco lover’s dream. Fresh tacos are served up alongside small-batch wines, craft beer, and good tunes in a casual, come-as-you-are setting. Grab a picnic blanket and head to the grassy, fully licensed grounds, or cozy up at one of the outdoor tables surrounded by wildflowers and string lights. It’s relaxed, delicious, and the perfect excuse to turn your Tuesday into a mini vacation. And if you’re staying the night, it’s just steps from your room—no Uber required.
7. Motorsports at Calabogie Motorsports Park
For a totally different kind of thrill, book a session at Calabogie Motorsports Park, home to the longest race track in Canada. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just want to feel the rush of high speeds, the park offers driver experiences for all levels. Ride shotgun with a pro, take a few laps in a race car, or attend a full-day track school. Even if you’re not behind the wheel, it’s a blast to watch the action (like Nascar Canada) from the stands or grab a bite at the track-side restaurant. The roar of the engines and the smell of fresh tires? That’s summer in Calabogie.
8. Dinner at On the Rocks
When it comes to dinner with a view, On the Rocks delivers one of the most elevated dining experiences in the entire Ottawa Valley—literally and figuratively. Perched above Calabogie Lake, this beloved local restaurant offers a menu of upscale comfort food with seasonal ingredients, expertly crafted cocktails, and a wine list worth exploring. But the real showstopper? The patio, which offers unmatched sunset views over the lake and surrounding hills. It’s the kind of golden-hour glow that turns dinner into a memory. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just capping off a great day, this is the spot for a truly memorable evening in Calabogie.
9. Swim and Lounge at Barnet Park Beach
Tucked just steps from Somewhere Inn, Barnet Park Beach is a local gem and one of the best spots to cool off in the summer. This quiet, tree-lined beach overlooks Calabogie Lake and offers clean freshwater swimming, soft sand, shady picnic tables, and stunning views of the surrounding hills. The vibe is laid-back and family-friendly, with free parking and plenty of space to stretch out for a day in the sun. It’s also a great spot to launch your paddleboard or kayak if you’re in the mood for a little on-the-water exploration.
10. Sip Craft Beer at Calabogie Brewing Co.
No summer trip is complete without a great beer on a patio. Calabogie Brewing Co. offers just that, with a rotating lineup of small-batch brews, a dog-friendly outdoor area, and plenty of local charm. Their award-winning Front Porch Kolsch is a go-to for hot days, while seasonal releases and IPAs keep the beer nerds happy. Pair your pint with a fresh pretzel or a pizza, and you’ve got a perfect late afternoon hang. It’s also a great way to connect with locals and get a feel for the easygoing Calabogie vibe.
11. Sauna & Cold Plunge at Somewhere Inn
A full-body refresh, courtesy of heat and cold. The sauna and cold plunge circuit at Somewhere Inn Calabogie is designed to restore, reset, and reconnect you to what matters. Start with a deep sweat in the outdoor cedar sauna, then take the plunge into the cold water basin for an invigorating jolt that boosts circulation and clears your head. Repeat as many times as you like. This experience is free for overnight guests, and only $25 for public drop-ins—making it one of the best wellness offerings in the region. It’s not just relaxing. It’s transformative.
12. Make it a Full-Day Adventure
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to pack a lot into a day, Calabogie’s compact layout makes it easy. Start with a sunrise hike at Eagle’s Nest, grab breakfast and coffee at a local café, paddle across the lake by noon, and still have time for tacos and a sauna session before bed. Whether you’re leaning into adventure or total relaxation, you’ll find that everything you need is nearby—and that the day somehow feels both full and restful.
Where to Stay: Somewhere Inn Calabogie
Tucked into nature and right across from Calabogie Lake, Somewhere Inn is a boutique hotel designed with your time off in mind. Every room features a king bed you won’t want to get out of, an in-room fireplace for cozy nights, and spa-like bathrooms with soaker tubs or walk-in tile showers. But the real experience happens outside your door: firepits, hammocks, paddleboard rentals, and unlimited access to the hotel’s sauna and cold plunge—available whenever you feel like pressing reset. There’s also an on-site wine bar pouring natural wines, local beer, and espresso, plus a team that’s genuinely excited to help you make the most of your stay.
This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to feel.
Ready to unplug and recharge in Calabogie?
Start planning your escape at somewhereinn.ca