Chaffeys Lock

This charming lock station on the Rideau Canal between Indian Lake and Opinicon Lake is a stunning piece of history completed in 1832. Check out the architecture, watch the water pouring through the weir, browse the memory wall, or be delighted by the swans that splash and paddle in the open water below the lock. This spot is picturesque during the evening, too, as the lamps light up along the docks. Add a gentle snowfall – and you have some serious ambiance to work with.

Foley Mountain Conservation Area

Spend an afternoon strolling the trail, discovering special places, watching beavers, eagles and overlooking Rideau Lakes stretching far below from Spy Rock. Find a quiet spot (perhaps the bench overlooking the pond on the Beaver Pond Trail!) and pop the question surrounded by nature.

Hanna Park in Portland

Pick a warmer day and head over to Hanna Park in Portland to spend some time under the gazebo, gazing out at the lake. What was once a bustling wharf of commercial trade is now a serene shoreline – appreciate the calm and tell your significant other how you feel.

Precious Moments Carriages

Horse-drawn carriage, sleigh rides and wagon rides are ready to make your day memorable at Lombard Dale Farm. Available for private bookings, Precious Moments can help you create a Valentine’s Day proposal to remember. Rumour has it that these gorgeous Percherons also love to pose for photos – so engagement pictures are a must!

Moon Valley Farms and Apple Orchard

Imagine asking to spend forever with the apple of your eye - among rows of bright red apples and green trees in a sunny local orchard! That’s as unique as they come. Moon Valley Farms is open each fall with everything apple from pies to jellies, cider, even locally produced maple syrup and more. Pick some apples, propose and go celebrate with a sip of fresh cider! Apple Trees typically blossom between mid-April and Mid-May, for an especially stunning photo opportunity.

Narrows Lock

This is a sparkling scene for some romance! This is the place where two lakes meet – just like two hearts. With Upper Rideau Lake on one side of the road, and Big Rideau Lake on the other, Narrows Lock is surrounded by water views. It’s also surrounded by history. Originally only one lake, this lock station was built at a point where the lake narrowed to only 45 metres. In fact, Upper Rideau Lake was created by the construction of an on-site earth embankment dam; now, the lake is the summit of the canal. Today, The Narrows is home to one of only four Blockhouses built along the Rideau Canal, which dates back to 1832. What’s more, the swing bridge dates back to 1898. There are also sometimes swans swimming on patches of open water near the lock in winter! Go for a stroll, read about the history on the interpretive sign board, and get down on one knee.

No. 9 Gardens

This gorgeous space is the perfect spot for asking your green thumb and eco-minded sweetie for marriage. No. 9 Gardens is a sustainable education centre, with a permanent art exhibition, organic gardens, golden fields, workshops and even glamping.

On the Oval with Portland Outdoors

If winter cooperates, Portland Outdoors gets to work! A 1km oval on the Big Rideau Lake is cleared and maintained for the annual Skate the Lake event, just steps from the Portland shoreline at Hanna Park. Lace up and skate hand in hand with your loved one, wait until you’re in the middle of the lake on the oval and glide down on one knee! Be sure to check the Portland Outdoors website and socials to make sure the lake is safe before heading out.

Poplars Resort

This five-star rated fishing resort in Newboro provides a cozy lakeside retreat with everything taken care of right down to homemade meals. Sit with a morning coffee overlooking the lake or enjoy a sunset chat about your future - the Poplars has been a favourite spot for visitors for more than 90 years. Start your journey as a couple here!

Rock Dunder

Possibly the most iconic view in Rideau Lakes! Rock Dunder looks over lush forest and the crisp blue waters of the Rideau Canal stretching as far as the eye can see - a perfect vantage point for a moment to remember. Open for hiking from sunrise to sunset from May until November, there are a number of trails at Rock Dunder to try depending on your skill level. The Summit Loop is what takes you to the very top! A pass is required to enter; look on the Rideau Waterway Land Trust for more info on when the season opens and on purchasing passes.

The Old Stone Mill

This is a picture-perfect setting in the village of Delta. Built in 1810, the Old Stone Mill National Historic Site is rich in history and provides a beautiful backdrop for your big question. It’s lovely on a crisp, winter day or with the windows lit up under the stars at night!

Trail Riding at Deltawood Farm

Find your courage in the sunshine of an open field or along a wooded trail, atop a trusty steed - and grab the moment while horseback riding at Deltawood Farm! Trail riding is available to explore this 135 acre farm; 65 acres of pasture and 70 acres of mixed forest - where the fall colours shine. Make it memorable!