Manotick Homes For Sale:
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Manotick, Ontario is a charming riverside village located just south of downtown Ottawa. Known for its historic Mill, scenic waterfront, and welcoming small-town atmosphere, Manotick offers a perfect blend of rural charm and modern amenities. With local boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and beautiful parks, it’s an ideal community for families and professionals seeking peaceful living close to the city of Ottawa.

Overview & Location

  • Population & Size: Approx. 5,315 residents (2021), covering ~6.7 km².

  • Origins & Name: Founded around 1860–64 by Moss Kent Dickinson, named from the Algonquin word for “island”.

  • Proximity: ~25 km (30 min) south of downtown Ottawa, hugging the Rideau River, adjacent to Barrhaven and Riverside South.

Character & Communities

  • Village Core: Historic stone buildings (e.g., Watson’s Mill, Dickinson House) line the main drag—bridge, shops, boutiques, eateries, art galleries, and pubs.

  • Subdivisions & Neighbourhoods: Areas include Manotick Village, Mahogany, Rideau Forest, Long Island, Nicholls Island, Colony Heights, Watterson Corners.

  • Heritage & Growth: The village maintains its 19th-century charm even as newer homes spring up on serviced sewer/water in Mahogany and Rideau Forest.

Schools & Education

  • Manotick Public School: K–5, dual English/French and 235 students; strong community feel and inclusion.

  • St. Leonard Catholic School: K–6, English/French bilingual programming.

  • St. Mark Catholic High School: Grades 7–12 (~1,100 students); noted for its academic & extracurricular programs.

  • South Carleton High School: Main public high school nearby in Richmond.

Amenities & Lifestyle

  • Walkable Village: Compact main street on Dickinson Square – ideal for errands without a drive.

  • Shopping & Dining: Boutique stores, coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, galleries, rustic pubs—all within strolling distance.

  • Heritage Attractions:

    • Watson’s Mill: A functioning 1860s gristmill and museum with Sunday milling demos; local legend tells of the ghost Ann Currier.

    • Dickinson Days: Annual June festival with parade, crafts, pancake breakfasts, wagon rides, and more.

Recreation & Outdoors

  • Riverside Living: Enjoy easy access to the Rideau River for kayaking, fishing, scenic walks. The historic bridge and riverbank trails are local favorites—fully walkable.

  • Community Spirit: Tight-knit, family-oriented neighbourhood with events celebrated at village square and mill.

Transportation & Commute

  • By Car: Quick 30-minute drive to central Ottawa via Hwy 416/Veterans Memorial or Limebank Road; traffic is manageable outside peak times.

  • By Bus: Limited OC Transpo routes; public transit use is low (~2 %).

  • Cycling & Walking: High walkability score (~72), good bike score.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Historic charm with scenic riverside ambiance

  • Genuine village feel with boutique shops & eateries

  • Excellent schools and family-friendly spirit

  • Strong community events (e.g. Dickinson Days)

  • Easy access to Ottawa and river trails

Cons

  • Limited public transit—car essential

  • Higher cost of living and home prices

  • Smaller population—fewer nightlife options

Tips for Newcomers

  • Visit during Dickinson Days in early June to dive into local culture.

  • Explore Watson’s Mill for its historic mill demonstrations and riverside walks.

  • If working in Ottawa, consider park-and-ride near Hwy 416 to avoid downtown driving.

  • Join the Manotick Village & Community Association to connect with events and local updates.