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 Staycation Adventure’s Mindful Paddle and Floating Meditation experience on Lake Ontario is a perfect class for those who are feeling unsure about climbing on a stand-up paddleboard for the first time.
- Grand Experiences’ self-guided Grand River Rafting and Tubing adventure from Paris to Brant Park is another great option.
- Tasty Road Trips’ self-guided Paddle & Taste Adventure in Paris includes a two-hour Grand River paddle, a local lunch and a self-guided walking experience exploring downtown Paris with tasty food and drink samples to enjoy along the way.
- Grand Experiences’ four-hour guided Grand River Experience is an excellent choice for those who would like the assistance of an expert guide.
- For those preferring a camping adventure, Grand Experiences’ self-guided overnight Grand River canoe or kayak trip includes your canoe or kayak, a campsite at Brant Park Conservation Area, and optional camping gear like a tent, stove, cookware, and lantern.
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:
- Grand Experiences’ Grand Voyageur experience is a four-hour guided trip down the Grand River in a 12-passenger Voyager canoe. The minimum size for the group is six people. Your expert guide will share stories and legends as you float down the river, and you’ll make a mid-trip stop to explore the shoreline that is home to a rare Carolinian forest.
- 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.
