Ottawa to Marmora Drive
Your Eastern Ontario Weekend Awaits
The best getaways strike a balance, far enough to shake off the city, close enough that you’re not drained when you arrive. The drive from Ottawa to Marmora fits that perfectly: just under three hours of winding through some of Eastern Ontario’s most peaceful countryside. By the time you pass Perth, the city noise has faded. By Marmora, you’re already exhaling differently.
Marmora Retreat sits on 24 acres of that peace, a place built for Ottawa professionals who need a reset, families looking to reconnect, and anyone ready to trade urgency for quiet. Stay in our restored farmhouse for groups up to 25, or slip away to one of our geodesic glamping domes where the forest and stars keep you company. And yes, your dog’s welcome too.
The Route: Highway 7's Scenic Alternative
Forget the 401. The Ottawa–Marmora route follows historic Highway 7, stretching about 212 kilometres through rolling farmland, lakes, and small towns that still wave to passing cars. It’s roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes of countryside that reminds you why people love this part of Ontario.
The drive’s simple: take Highway 417 west from Ottawa, connect with Highway 7 near Carleton Place, and follow it straight through to Marmora. It’s an easy rhythm — coffee in Perth, doughnuts at Cardinal Café in Sharbot Lake, maybe a quick stop to stretch by the water.
Unlike the 401, Highway 7 rewards looking out the window instead of at the clock. It’s the kind of drive where you might pause your playlist and just notice where you are.
Why Ottawa Residents Choose Marmora Retreat
You don’t need a flight to feel far away — just a few hours and the right destination. Marmora Retreat gives you enough distance to reset without losing half your weekend to travel.
Families love that kids and pets are part of the plan here. Your border collie can explore the trails while the kids meet our alpacas. Couples find their own corner of quiet in our glamping domes, complete with private hot tubs and forest views. And the farmhouse? Perfect for family reunions and friend getaways, this property features a full kitchen and open spaces that invite long, late-night talks around the fire.
This isn’t about luxury; it’s about breathing room — a place where everyone finds their own version of calm.
Planning Your Ottawa Weekend Getaway
Most guests from Ottawa make it a Friday-to-Sunday escape — just enough time to unwind without needing extra vacation days.
Friday: Arrive around sunset and let the week fall away.
Saturday: Explore the trails, visit the alpacas, or take a short drive to the Marmora Mine.
Sunday: Sleep in, enjoy a slow breakfast, and take one last soak in the hot tub before heading home.
Pack layers — Eastern Ontario weather likes surprises — and let us handle the rest. Every kitchen, firepit, and cozy corner is ready for weekends that linger longer than planned.
Seasonal Drive Considerations
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Spring–Summer
Highway 7 bursts with life — farmers’ markets, roadside stands, and small-town festivals all along the route. Summer weekends fill fast, so book early.
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Fall
This is when the drive truly shines. The maples along Highway 7 light up in reds and golds that justify every autumn cliché. Peak colours hit from mid-September to mid-October — bring a camera and extra time for pull-offs.
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Winter
Roads stay clear, and Marmora turns quietly magical. Think: hot tub under a starlit sky, alpacas in winter coats, a fire crackling nearby. Just pack for a true Canadian winter.
Beyond Marmora: Your Base Camp
Marmora Retreat makes a great base for exploring more of the region. Drive 20 minutes to Stirling for craft beer, or 45 minutes to Peterborough to see the historic Lift Lock.
We also host corporate retreats for smaller Ottawa teams (up to 15 guests), complete with private meeting areas, a projector setup, and acres of space for genuine connection.
Book Your Eastern Ontario Escape
Life doesn’t slow down on its own. The Ottawa to Marmora drive gives you a reason to pause, breathe, and reset.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a family gathering, or a midweek team retreat, Marmora Retreat offers the kind of stillness that changes how you feel — and maybe how you live when you go back.
We’re not a luxury resort — just a countryside sanctuary built for real rest.
Ready to trade Ottawa routine for open air and quiet stars? Check availability at marmoraretreat.ca or call (416) 565-6859.
The drive from Ottawa to Marmora isn’t just about covering distance. It’s about crossing the space between who you are under pressure and who you become when you finally slow down.
Your Eastern Ontario weekend awaits.