Manotick ~ Ojibway for "Island in the River"

Manotick is well known as a charming village on the Rideau River where old-fashioned, small-town service still exists, and is in fact, thriving. Located just 15 kilometres south of Ottawa, you'll experience the perfect combination of rural and urban living.  It has been part of the City of Ottawa since amalgamation in 2001and has a population of around 4600. With urban sprawl heading decidedly South of the City, Manotick maintains its charm and character by carefully managing growth, fostering community spirit, and embracing family values.  

Founded in 1859, Manotick is a quaint, picturesque community abounding with rural friendliness, yet providing all the amenities expected in larger urban areas.  Most amenities are located in the village and include a medical centre, walk-in clinic and local doctors and dentists which negate the need to leave town for your family’s clinical needs.    Numerous hair salons, spas, massage and physiotherapy clinics, fitness centres, churches and a local library are all within walking distance.
With the completion of Highway 417, the commute to downtown Ottawa is quick and easy.  If you prefer, you can simply hop aboard your boat and cruise down the Rideau Waterway Lock System to Dow’s Lake or the NAC, or travel all the way to the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Greenspace and community living are an intregal part of the village. The area is adorned with parks, and playgrounds as well as soccer fields, baseball diamonds, outdoor skating rinks, an arena, curling rink, tennis club, public pool, golf courses and marinas, meaning outdoor activities are at your doorstep.

Schools located in the community include Manotick Public School, and St. Leonard’s Catholic School, conveniently located on the island, and both offering French immersion programs.  St. Mark’s High School and South Carleton High School are close by, however, most students travel by school bus.  OC Transpo services are also available throughout the area.

A walking tour of Manotick is not complete without a visit to Watson's Mill, a World Heritage Site, with its own tragic history and resident ghost. Watson’s Mill thrives with a mandate to continue operating as a flour and feed mill, as well as a social, cultural and educational focal point for its many visitors. As one of the few remaining gristmills in Ontario it provides a unique glimpse into the past.  As Manotick’s most notable landmark, its image is used as a symbol for the village.  The mill remained in operation until 1972 when it was sold to the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority. They restored the mill to its 1860 condition and turned it into a museum and gift shop. Treat yourself to a bag of fresh, stone-ground flour or simply feed the ducks in the adjacent Rideau River!

The people of Manotick congregate for many special activities throughout the year, highlighted by the celebration of its founder Moss Kent Dickinson in the summer, and their Olde Fashioned Christmas, which kicks off with the Santa Clause Parade. Throughout the weekend you can enjoy a horse drawn sleigh-ride, sip coffee or mulled cider in the shops and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Manotick provides an ideal setting to raise a family, work and play, just beyond the fringe of the city.