The Ottawa Valley Après-Ski Tour

There is a specific kind of magic that happens around 4:00 PM in the Ottawa Valley. Your legs are heavy, your cheeks are rosy, and that "post-shred glow" is in full effect. But as every local knows, a great ski day isn't just about the vertical drop—it’s about what happens after the last chairlift stops.

Whether you’re heading back from the steeps of Calabogie or the family laps at Pakenham, we’ve rounded up the best spots to refuel, warm up, and relive the highlights of the day.

The Calabogie Circuit: From First Tracks to Thermal Cycles

Calabogie Peaks offers some of the best terrain and the highest vertical drop in Ontario, and the surrounding village has the "mountain town" vibe to match.

The Morning Fuel-Up

• Oh-el-la Cafe: The essential first stop. Grab a gourmet coffee and a fresh treat to power those first tracks.

Oh-el-la Cafe, Calabogie

Closest to the Lift

• Black Donald Pub: Keep the boots on! This is your classic mountain pub vibe.

• Canthooks Restaurant: For a cozy, sit-down meal right at the base of the Peaks.

Canthooks Restaurant, Calabogie Peaks

The Local Legends

• Redneck Bistro: You can’t claim you’ve skied 'Bogie without a stop here. Legendary hospitality and serious comfort food.

Calabogie Brewing Co.: A valley staple. Nothing beats a local craft pint by the water (even when it’s frozen!).

Calabogie Brewing Co., Calabogie

The "Reset" & Staycation

• On the Rocks (Calabogie Lodge): Head across the lake for a more refined dining experience with stunning winter views.

• Somewhere Inn: Looking to truly recover? Try their Thermal Cycle. Nothing heals tired ski legs like a sauna and cold plunge.

Somewhere Inn, Calabogie

⛷️ The Mount Pakenham Loop: Small Town Charm & Craft Pints

Mount Pakenham is the heart of family skiing in the Valley. Once you’re done on the hill, you are perfectly positioned to hit some of the best spots in Almonte, Arnprior, or Carleton Place.

Almonte (15–20 mins away)

• The Barley Mow: Classic pub vibes overlooking the Mississippi River. Reliable, cozy, and hearty.

• Joe’s Italian Kitchen: Nestled in a historic Woolen Mill, this is the ultimate cozy-up spot. They are famous for their Pinsa Romana (a light, airy, and incredibly crispy version of pizza) and their "rustic-chic" atmosphere. It’s hearty Italian comfort food that tastes even better after a day in the cold.

• The Sterling: For an "elevated" après-ski. Stylish, warm, and focused on locally sourced dishes.

The Sterling, Almonte

Arnprior (The Home Base)

• Chuck’s Roadhouse: The new kid in town. Great for big groups, sports on the TVs, and those famous AAA steaks.

• Krave Bistro: A cozy neighbourhood gem. From savoury crepes to gourmet burgers, it’s the perfect fuel for tired legs.

• Lumbertown Ale House: Our personal favourite for a reason! A scratch-kitchen gastropub with 24 taps. The beer-battered fish and chips is the ultimate post-ski reward.

Lumbertown Ale House, Arnprior

Carleton Place (20–25 mins away)

• St. James Gate: A classic Irish pub with dark wood and a Guinness pour that feels made for winter nights.

• Stalwart Brewing Co.: The ultimate relaxed hang. Casual, community-focused, and always rotating interesting brews.

• The Waterfront Gastropub: Great energy, 22 taps, and frequent live music.

The Waterfront Gastropub, Carleton Place

PRO TIP: If you aren't ready to leave the hill, the Mount Pakenham Cafeteria & Lounge has live music every Sunday at 2:30 PM and Friday at 5:30 PM!

Make Your Boots Feel as Good as the Après

Nothing ruins a great ski day (or the meal afterward) like aching feet or cold toes. Before you head out for your next session, stop by SNOVAP at Ottawa Valley Air Paddle.

Our custom boot fitting program ensures that your gear works with you, not against you. Because when your boots fit perfectly, you can stay on the hills longer—and enjoy the après-ski even more!