Portland

Portland is a small village with a big heart located on the shores of the Big Rideau Lake, the largest lake in the Rideau Waterway. It is a boating centre with boat tours and boat rentals available to visitors. First settled in the early 1800's and originally known as the "The Landing", many of the fine homes built by these early settlers can still be admired today. With the completion of the Rideau Canal, Portland became a thriving village of trade with Kingston, Montreal and Ottawa.

Interestingly, the village takes its name from William Cavendish-Bentinck, 3rd Duke of Portland. Tourism takes a lead role in Portland's economy. An international speed skating tournament is held each winter on the Big Rideau Lake at Portland.

Nearby Colonel-By Island, operated by Parks Canada, offers a hiking trail and picnic facilities. Whether you enjoy browsing for antiques, golfing, or the lake experience, Portland is a most welcoming community.


Portland hosts the sixth International Big Rideau Lake Speed Skating Marathon on Saturday January 31, 2009. For more information about that event visit www.portlandoutdoors.com


REST YOUR WEARY HEAD
There’s great hospitality in Westport and Rideau Lakes. Our accommodation partners take personal pride in assuring your comfort. After all, a good night’s rest in cottage country leaves you refreshed for hiking, swimming, boating, maybe a horseback ride, you name it!

YUMMY FOR THE TUMMY

This region is blessed with good, natural food – and great cooks, too. If you plan a visit to the Westport and Rideau Lakes District relax and let someone else take care in the kitchen. Whether looking for a 220 seats for the ultimate party, or a country styled inn – maybe just a simple coffee bar or a full service grocery store, these Chamber members are ready to serve.

DID WE MENTION SHOPPING?

There’s a ton of reasons to visit this area. Fresh air, nature and hiking trails. It’s a great place for a bike or boat ride. But clearly, people love the unique shopping and retail stores found here. Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber members know the value of a dollar; they excel at service and offer a wide selection of goods and services. We really do boast great shopping. Browse our member’s directory.

WATER, WATER, EVERYWHERE:

From May until mid-October boaters use the municipal dock located on Upper Rideau Lake in Westport. Village amenities are easily accessible via a footbridge. Within easy driving of Westport are dozens of lakes; canoeing, boating and fishing are favourite pastimes in the area. Boat and canoe rentals are available in town.
~ WESTPORT & RIDEAU LAKES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ~
BOX 157, WESTPORT ONTARIO, K0G 1X0 PHONE/FAX (613) 273-2929


WEB SITE CREDITS: Photos by Martha Kudrinko, Julia Vamos, Rideau Heritage Route, The Cove, Township of Rideau Lakes, Village of Westport, Rideau Valley Conservation Authority, Paul Legacey, Gord Herington, Forfar Cheese Factory, Parks Canada; Photo of Lt. Col. John By provided by Royal Engineers Royal Engineers Museum of Military Engineering Gillingham, U.K. Parks Canada; Content by B. Judge, Westport Rideau Lakes Chamber of Commerce; Web Team, Jaeson Tanner and Associates