Prescott and Russell
Often referred to as “Ottawa’s Backyard,” The United Counties of Prescott and Russell offer small-town experiences, a bilingual culture and serene landscapes, just past the big city limits.
Visitors looking for outdoor activities can spend time exploring the wide open spaces of Voyageur Provincial Park, cross-country skiing in the Larose Forest or splashing in Canada’s largest wave pool.
Owing to the area’s rural roots, foodies and wine lovers will also find many options for shopping and tastings at markets like the Vankleek Hill Farmers’ Market or Vankleek Hill Vineyard.
Vankleek Hill
Where is Prescott and Russell?
The United Counties of Prescott and Russell are located in eastern Ontario, roughly halfway between Montreal and Ottawa. The counties run alongside the Quebec border, across the Ottawa River.
The area is most easily explored by car or motorcycle, although limited bus service is provided by Leduc Bus Lines. Visitors from the U.S. can cross the border via the Three Nations Bridge between Cornwall and NY State.
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Things to do in Prescott and Russell
Spend the day at a water park
Located in the town of Limoges, Calypso Water Park is Canada’s largest theme water park. Splash the day away with over 35 slides, 100 water games and the county’s largest wave pool.
Sample local wines
Visit Vankleek Hill Vineyard, a family-run vineyard offering tastings, tours and glamping experiences.
Tour a cheese factory
Cheese lovers won’t want to miss a stop at the St-Albert Cheese Co-Op. Take a tour and see how cheese is made in their state-of-the-art factory, then stock up in the on-site shop.
Explore a provincial park
Explore over 1,450 hectares of natural beauty at Voyageur Provincial Park. Situated on the banks of the Ottawa River, the park offers seasonal campsites, some with RV hookups.
Visit a museum
The Casselman Museum features various artifacts and photographs of the town’s history and is housed in an old train station.
Sample craft beer
Canada’s first craft brewery on a golf course, Clarence-Rockland’s Broken Stick Brewing Company serves stouts, IPAs and more, all brewed on-site. The perfect stop after a round of golf.
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Last updated: May 23, 2025