Want in on the secret to a perfect paddling escape for two? Make sure you’re both on the same page about the goals of your getaway well before embarking on your float. Agreeing about your key trip takeaways in advance will help ensure that you both have a wonderful time.
Once you’ve determined what the two of you are in the mood for, use the suggestions below to narrow down your options and find a trip that intrigues you both.
The On-The-Water Mood:
Cool, Calm, and Collected
If you’re looking for a relaxing paddling escape, opt for a float that’s on the calm, cool and collected side of the equation. This summer, there is a wide range of chilled-out paddling pursuits in Hamilton Halton Brant:
- Ontario Staycations Adventure has cool, calm and collected experiences that will help you enjoy being on the water in new ways! Take an introductory lesson on how to use a Standing Up Paddle (SUP) then enjoy a guided paddle down the river or even have a yoga session on a board. All of their experiences are beginner friendly and a certified instructor will keep you safe and supported the entire time.
- Grand Experiences’ self-guided Grand River Paddling adventure from Paris to Brant Park is another great option.
- If you’re looking to learn of Haudenosaunee culture while on your leisurely paddle, get On the Water with Six Nations Tourism and have a guided experience that’s both educational and easygoing. You’ll learn about Indigenous stories that have shaped this waterway for generations while drifting beneath the rare Carolinian Forest canopy.
The On-The-Water Mood:
Social and Fun
If you’re both social butterflies who enjoy spending leisure time with others, consider joining in the fun of paddling as a pack. After your paddle, you can take some time for just the two of you with a nice meal out. Consider these best-bet group paddling experiences:
- Or join one of Grand Experiences’ Grand Voyageur experiences that provide big adventures to big groups. These guided tours also take you down the Grand, while teaching everyone about our region’s rich natural and cultural history. Gear and shuttle are provided.
- Grand River Rafting’s “The Beast” is a supersized paddle board that can accommodate up to eight people. Available at Brantford’s Brant Park, your rental includes the board, paddles, lifejackets, and a safety kit.
The On-The-Water Mood:
Amazing Adrenalin Rush
If you’re both looking for a paddling pursuit that gets your hearts pounding, consider timing your trip after a heavy summer rainfall, which turns the Nith River into a wild white-water playground. Grand River Rafting’s Nith River White Water trip is a three- to four-hour guided trip showcasing some of the best white water splash in Southern Ontario.
Make Some Post-Paddle Plans
Once you’ve determined the paddling activity that floats your boat, choose a place to stay and some restaurants you’d like to try while you’re in the area.
If your paddling activity takes you to Burlington, excellent hotel options close to the lakeshore include The Pearle Hotel and Spa and Waterfront Hotel Burlington. Burlington’s outstanding collection of waterfront restaurants offers plenty of choice for a post-paddle meal. Try Spencer’s At The Waterfront, Beaver and Bulldog, or The Express Restaurant.
If you land on the Grand for your paddling escape, great local hotels include Arlington Hotel in Paris and Hampton Inn and Suites in Brantford. In Paris, pair your paddle with a meal at Stillwaters, 2 Rivers, or Cobblestone Public House. Tasty Brantford restaurant options include Sociable Kitchen + Tavern and Zander’s Fire Grill and Brew Lounge.
