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Prescott and Russell is located at the east point of Ontario. The Ottawa River runs on the north side of the region and is the natural border with the province of Québec, also our east-side neighbour. The city of Ottawa is just west of Prescott and Russell and the United Counties of Glengarry, Stormont and Dundas are located to the south. A true country experience awaits you, less than one hour away from the urban areas of Ottawa or Montréal.
Cycling through Prescott and Russell
Prescott and Russell is a heaven for cycling enthusiasts. Enjoy a 72 km recreational trail, municipal bike paths and thousands of kilometres of peaceful country roads. Cycle through charming country landscapes, cities and villages. Stroll along the Ottawa River, take a break at a riverfront park or leisurely go to the in-land, stop for a drink at a café or shop in a country boutique, where you’ll find a good selection of local and regional products.
For treasure hunters and outdoors lovers, the Prescott and Russell Bike Rally is a not to be missed event. Have fun while learning about the region’s history and natural environment. Consult our Cycling Guide to plan your next ride or weekend escape in Prescott and Russell.
Discovering the region through arts
The visual arts scene is vibrant in Prescott and Russell as the region is home to more than one hundred professional artists. You’ll find here several studios, art galleries and events that celebrate visual arts. The May Art Show Festival in Vankleek Hill has been attracting thousands of visitors since 1982. Open Studios in Embrun-Russell, held in May and ARTour Prescott-Russell in September are annual doors open art tours. Coloris sur la Baie is collective art show held every October in Rockland.
Let’s celebrate in Prescott and Russell
Prescott and Russell people know how to throw a party! Come and have fun at one of our many festivals. Every July, and for over 25 years, the towns of Wendover and Alfred welcome tens of thousands of Country and Western Music fans at their festivals. In August, St-Albert puts on a big show to celebrate the Curds Festival. The Casselman Super Pull is the biggest event of its kind in Eastern Ontario and a crowd pleaser with its roaring machines and excitement. For traditional music and dance lovers, the Vankleek Hill Fiddling, Step Dancing and Square Dance Competition and the Ste-Anne Gala Folklorique are must attend events. The Clarence-Rockland Rhythm N Blues Fest is a sure way to warm up a cold November evening. Big and small events are held throughout the year in every community. Let’s celebrate!
Agriculture, agrotourism and regional food products
A large portion of our territory is dedicated to agriculture. The region boasts many dairy farms, cash crop farms, breeding farms and fruits and vegetables. Our motto “Sic Dat Diligentia Terra” means “He who works hard reaps a good harvest”, which demonstrates the importance of agriculture for our region.
An abundance of regional food products can be found at local farmers’ markets and directly through farm gates sales. Vankleek Hill, Russell and Riceville have been organizing agricultural fairs for over 100 years. These events are lively tributes to agricultural and rural life. Events such as Agri-tour and Délices of Prescott and Russell Festival are wonderful opportunities to tour farms, meet food producers and taste culinary creations.
Nature’s wonders and outdoor activities
There are numerous attractions in the region, such as the Ottawa River and the South Nation River, the Alfred Bog and the Larose Forest that will reconnect you with nature. These gems have influenced or contributed to the region’s development. Prescott and Russell is a paradise for outdoors enthusiasts. Top rated golf courses, great fishing, boating, cycling, camping or horseback riding will keep you busy all summer long. Groomed cross-country ski, snowmobile and ATV trails will let you enjoy the outdoors in the winter.
The municipalities
The Corporation of the United Counties of Prescott and Russell is a regional government that includes eight municipalities, each distinct by its attractions and population.
Town of Hawkesbury
Township of East Hawkesbury
The Nation Municipality
Township of Russell