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3-star hotel Check-in 15:00 · Check-out 11:00

Hotel Kenney Rideau

Discover the beauty of Hotel Kenney Rideau, nestled by the Rideau Canal. Enjoy stunning views, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere in a historic setting. Perfect for hiking, paddling, or simply relaxing!

59 Kenneys Rd, Elgin, ON K0G 1E0, Canada View on map
7.8/10
Good Based on 168 recent guest reviews
Free Wi-Fi Paid breakfast Free parking Accessible Air-conditioned
What recent guests emphasize

Balanced comfort with scenic charm

Guests appreciate the lovely waterfront location and welcoming atmosphere, though some note the rooms show their age and limited service hours. A quiet retreat with a strong local character, ideal for visitors seeking relaxation and nature activities.

Guests often praise

  • Scenic views of the Rideau Canal and Jones Falls locks.
  • Friendly and attentive staff creating a warm, inviting vibe.
  • Delicious food offerings, especially breakfast, cookies, and ice cream.
  • Peaceful atmosphere well suited for relaxation and nature lovers.
  • Historic charm and engaging local stories shared by hosts.

Worth knowing

  • Rooms are clean but somewhat dated and can have a musty scent.
  • Operating hours for dining and services may be limited and somewhat confusing.
  • No pool, fitness center, or airport shuttle available on site.
  • Renovations and improvements are ongoing, reflecting a "diamond in the rough."
  • Facilities spread across multiple waterside buildings rather than a single structure.

Best for

  • Visitors seeking a peaceful getaway near nature preserves and hiking trails.
  • Those interested in historic settings with local heritage charm.
  • Travelers who enjoy waterfront views and outdoor photo opportunities.
  • Guests looking for a pet- and kid-friendly environment with casual dining options.
  • Visitors planning to explore Charleston Lake Provincial Park and nearby reserves.
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About this property

Welcome to Hotel Kenney Rideau

Discover the Charm of Hotel Kenney Rideau

Hotel Kenney Rideau, nestled at 59 Kenneys Rd, Elgin, Ontario, is a delightful escape that beckons nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. With a respectable rating of 3.9, this quaint hotel promises an enchanting experience set against the stunning backdrop of the Rideau Canal.

According to guests, the attraction of Hotel Kenney Rideau lies not just in its picturesque views, but also in the warm atmosphere cultivated by the owners and staff. Emily Brown praises the hotel’s beauty and the exceptional service, noting that they have worked diligently to create a lovely ambiance. The newly unveiled patio is a perfect spot for guests to enjoy ice cream or drinks while soaking in the sweeping views.

For those interested in local history, Lorraine Marshall highlights the hotel’s historical significance and the friendliness of the staff. Although she noted that limited operating hours could be confusing, her enthusiasm for the hotel's potential is evident. It’s clear that the owners are deeply committed to transforming this historic gem into something truly remarkable.

However, it is essential to acknowledge both the strengths and areas for improvement noted by guests. Stephanee Walker-Jolly describes the rooms as clean yet dated, with a hint of mustiness. Yet, she emphasizes the exceptional hospitality provided by the owners, who are eager to share the hotel's storied past. The scenic location and breathtaking views more than compensate for some of the room's shortcomings.

Laurie Weir encapsulates the essence of relaxation at Hotel Kenney. She describes it as a peaceful oasis, perfect for unwinding amidst nature’s beauty. With activities ranging from hiking and paddling to simply enjoying a good drink, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility that the area offers. And let's not forget the tempting snacks and delicious meals that should not be missed!

Hotel Kenney Rideau stands as a charming retreat that balances historic allure with the comforts of modern hospitality. With free Wi-Fi, ample parking, and a pet-friendly environment, it caters to diverse travelers. Whether you seek adventure in the great outdoors or a cozy haven to unwind, Hotel Kenney Rideau is sure to enchant you.

For an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature, visitors should certainly consider the hotel’s proximity to Charleston Lake Provincial Park and the stunning vistas that await. The future looks bright for Hotel Kenney Rideau, promising guests not only a stay but a memorable journey into the richness of Elgin, Ontario.

Summary compiled by GoHotelly editors from verified guest reviews, partner descriptions and editorial notes.
Facilities & essentials

What's on-site and what you should know before you arrive

The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.

Most popular facilities

Free Wi-Fi
Paid breakfast
Free parking
Accessible
Air-conditioned
Pet-friendly
Kid-friendly
Restaurant
Bar
Smoke-free

Not available at this property

Pool
Airport shuttle
Fitness center
Verified guest reviews

What recent guests are actually saying

Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.

EB
Emily Brown May 31, 2025
10

This place is beautiful - the views and the people! They are working hard to make it amazing, and it shows. New patio is beautiful! The servers are so lovely, attentive and kind. Highly recommend coming here for an ice cream or for drinks (we did both).

LM
Lorraine Marshall May 25, 2025
8.0

The location is lovely and interesting historically. The cookies at the ice cream shop are delicious. The owners are friendly. They have a huge project that they've undertaken and that's wonderful. I really hope they make it great. I would have liked to give 5 stars but I agree with other reviews that the hours are limited and confusing. We stayed on our boat at the dock an extra night because of some blustery and cold weather. Sunday brunch was supposed to be until 2 but they were shutting it down at 1. We just wanted a drink in the pub or to enjoy the fireplace in the lobby but that was a no-go. Also saw a couple who did want food turned away at 1. The wifi is also not great, especially at the dock, and some boards were sorely in need of replacement.

SW
Stephanee Walker-Jolly May 19, 2025
8.0

While the room was clean, it was quite dated and a little musty smelling. That said, the lovely owners practically fell over themselves to make our stay absolutely amazing. The food was plentiful and top notch. We were welcomed with big smiles and the history of the hotel was shared with us. The location and views can't be beat! This historic hotel is a diamond in the rough and I can not wait to return when renovations are complete!

LW
Laurie Weir Apr 12, 2025
10

Hotel Kenney is one of the best spots to kick back and soak up the beauty of the Rideau Canal. It’s peaceful. It’s comfy. It’s absolutely gorgeous. Whether you’re up for hiking, paddling, snapping photos, or just lounging with a good drink in your hand, this place delivers. You’ll find yourself slowing down in all the best ways. Make sure you stop in for dinner or grab a snack to go. Don’t skip the ice cream. Or the cookies. Or the history lesson waiting to unfold. Bring your camera, because it’s seriously postcard material. This is the kind of place where you come for the views and stay for the vibe. Hotel Kenney has heart, heritage, and enough charm to make you start planning your next visit before you’ve even left.

Location & neighborhood

Where you'll find Hotel Kenney Rideau

Elgin, Ontario, Canada

Overlooking the Jones Falls locks and Whitefish Lake, this casual lodging in several 19th-century buildings is 22.5 km from Charleston Lake Provincial Park.

  • Ottawa International Airport 1 hr 38 Car
  • Kingston Airport 49 min Car
Things to do nearby

Worth the walk or a quick ride

Curated spots travelers usually pair with a stay in Ontario. Distances are rough real-world times, not straight-line.

Rock Dunder Nature Reserve 215 reviews

Rock Dunder Nature Reserve

72 Stanley Lash Ln, Lyndhurst, ON K0G 1E0, Canada

4.9 · Hiking Area
Charleston Lake Provincial Park 1,481 reviews

Charleston Lake Provincial Park

148 Woodvale Rd, Lansdowne, ON K0E 1L0, Canada

4.7 · Park
Charleston Lake 77 reviews

Charleston Lake

Leeds and Grenville United Counties, ON, Canada

4.8 · Lake
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