Almonte falls and the Riverwalk
The Mississippi River drops through the centre of town. The Riverwalk follows it past the old mills, and the best viewpoints are behind the Victoria Woollen Mill and the old post office. In spring the falls run hardest.
Mississippi Valley Textile Museum
Housed in the Rosamond Woollen Mill buildings, a National Historic Site and once the largest 19th-century textile mill in Canada. It tells the story of the "Manchester of North America" and hosts fibre-arts exhibitions.
Mill of Kintail
A conservation area about 10 minutes from town, with walking trails through field and forest. Its 1830 stone grist mill holds the R. Tait McKenzie collection and a small museum about James Naismith, the Almonte-born inventor of basketball. His statue stands on Mill Street.
Eat and shop
Mill Street is lined with cafés, bookshops, antiques and galleries. The Barley Mow, in a stone mill by the falls, is a local favourite for a pint with a view.
Almonte in the fall
October is peak: the river valley turns red and gold, and the Mill of Kintail trails are at their best. Combine with a drive through Pakenham, with its five-span stone bridge, for a loop.
Drive times are from downtown Ottawa with normal traffic. Hours and seasons change, so check the venue's own site before you go.
FAQ
How far is Almonte from Ottawa?
About 45 minutes' drive west of downtown Ottawa.
What is Almonte known for?
Its waterfalls on the Mississippi River, its 19th-century textile mills and being the hometown of James Naismith, the inventor of basketball.
Where can you see the Almonte falls?
Along the Riverwalk downtown. Good viewpoints are behind the Victoria Woollen Mill and the old post office.
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