• people skating on the rideau canal

Discover Winter in Ottawa

Ottawa provides the picture-perfect Canadian winter experience: snowy hills, outdoor ice skating, and lots of hockey! Experience all the fun this unique and exciting season has to offer by making Fairmont Château Laurier your warm and welcoming homebase in the heart of downtown Ottawa.

A Family on the Rideau Canal Skateway with a Sledge

Skating

Every January, Ottawa becomes home to the world’s longest outdoor skating rink when 7.8 kilometres of the Rideau Canal freeze and become a hub for winter fun. Lucky for you, the start of the canal is right outside our front door! Take time to enjoy the unique and exciting experience of skating through a capital city.

Winter
people cross-country skiing near the parliament building

Skiing

There are a few ski hills just north of the capital to thrill down-hill ski enthusiasts.
Winter
woman snowshoeing

Snowshoeing

Explore acres of breathtaking vistas and unspoiled wilderness, with just the calming sound of snow crunching beneath your feet.
Festivals & Tours
Rideau Canal skateway at night with lights

Winterlude

Every February, Canada's Capital Region is host to Winterlude, North America's greatest winter festival.