American poet Joyce Kilmer famously wrote, “I think that I shall never see, a poem lovely as a tree.”  If ever there was a time of year to truly embrace the beauty of a tree, it is during the season of Fall. 

Fall – the season of sweaters, scarves, hiking boots and long walks. Fall – the season of raking leaves, taking out the knits and woollens, donning the stored blazer and riding boots. Fall – the time to immerse oneself into the beauty of nature. 

Ottawans are blessed to be surrounded by a plethora of places to soak in the glorious colours. Gatineau Park, Wakefield, Chelsea, Hogs Back, Rockcliffe Park and the Rockeries, the Experimental Farm, just to name a few. Even in one’s own neighbourhood, backyard, or balcony – Fall’s splendour can be savoured up close or from a distance. 

Fall’s simple pleasures such as the childhood joy of jumping into piles of crunchy just raked leaves, and visits to apple orchards and pumpkin patches. Fall – the season of Thanksgiving, pie baking, families gathering, and celebrating the fun of Halloween. 

Fall’s glorious leaves painted in warm, rich colours of oranges, golds, browns, and reds, weaved together like a beautiful tapestry. The days may be growing shorter, but no less exciting. How does a winery tour sound? Ottawa has three local vineyards to choose from: Domaine Perrault Winery in Navan, Jabulani Vineyard and Winery in Richmond, and KIN Vineyards in Carp. What better way to get a real taste of the season than with a wine tasting afternoon with friends? 

For those seeking a Fall weekend wine-tasting winery tour get-away, Prince Edward County is your destination. With over 35 winemakers, fall artist studio tours, farmers markets, quaint shops and restaurants, it is well worth the 2.5-hour car ride from Ottawa.

Cooler temperatures make time spent outdoors far more enjoyable and tolerable than the humidity and heat of this summer. Fall picnics can be as simple as a woolly blanket, a thermos of hot tea, or a flask of wine and a basket packed with charcuterie.

Fall – nature’s gorgeous pause following Summer and preceding Winter. Fall – what’s not to love?

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