This storybook village near Montreal has dreamy river views and quaint streets to explore

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the pages of a storybook, this small town in Ontario might just be your real-life fairytale come true.

Tucked along a winding river is a postcard-worthy town that feels almost too charming to be real.

Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River in Ontario near Ottawa, Almonte is a charming small town with beautiful sights that's a road trip from Montreal.

A former mill town, Almonte was settled around 1820, and by 1870 was an incorporated village with stores, businesses and textile mills that earned it the nickname of "The Manchester of North America."

Today, the town is a quieter place that makes for a charming escape from the city, offering peace and comfort, shopping, excellent food and drink, fine artists, and beautiful 19th-century buildings.

The town is located about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Montreal, making it possible to visit for a day trip or weekend getaway.

If the town feels like stepping into the setting of a Hallmark movie, that's because it literally is the setting of a Hallmark movie — multiple, in fact. Almonte has served as the filming location for many Hallmark movies, posing as Vermont, Alaska and even Milwaukee.

The town is home to so many films that it's even earned the title of "Mini Hollywood North."

You can stroll the town's quaint streets and pretend you're in your own Hallmark movie. Mill Street, Almonte's historic downtown area, is filled with colourful storefronts and picturesque spots that make it easy to do so.

You'll find cute clothing boutiques, antique stores, handmade gifts, art galleries and more here to explore.

Almonte has no shortage of places to grab a bite, with bakeries, cafes and restaurants serving up casual eats, fine dining and even the world's best chocolate.

On Saturday mornings, you can also visit the Almonte Farmer's Market, a tradition in town since the late 1800s. Here, you can get fresh produce, treats and baked goods, coffee, flowers and more — all the makings of a perfect day.

The market runs every Saturday until October along Almonte's Alameda, a maple-lined alley along the rail trail in downtown Almonte near Old Town Hall.

Other events include the Almonte Fair, which takes place in the summer and fall, and has been an institution in town since 1858.

If you want to spend some time in nature, head to the Riverwalk, a scenic walk along the Mississippi River starting at Almonte's Old Town Hall that delivers scenic views of the river and multiple waterfalls.

Almonte even has its own little beach area just a short walk from Mill Street, offering golden sand and shallow water that makes it a great spot for all ages.

With its heritage stone buildings, boutique-lined streets, and scenic riverside walkways, Almonte blends small-town coziness with a surprisingly vibrant arts and food scene.

Whether you're strolling through its historic downtown, watching the waterfalls from the old mill, or popping into a cozy cafe, this dreamy Ontario gem offers the perfect weekend escape — no fantasy required.

Almonte website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.