Merrickville, known as the Jewel of the Rideau, is a thriving community and a very popular destination spot for visitors coming by either land or water. The many stone buildings in town have been restored to their former glory and are now populated by a variety of shops. Those interested in arts, crafts, antiques or collectibles will find Merrickville to be a treasure trove of opportunity. The village itself is a wonderful place to tour. It recntly won the Communities in Bloom award for the Most Beautiful Village in Canada. A major feature in the village is the set of three locks on the Rideau Canal as it passes through town. You will find these adjacent to the blockhouse, built in 1832 to guard the locks. The blockhouse features a moat and drawbridge and it is open to the public. The locks operate today just as they did in 1832. Just across the bridge over the locks you will find the Industrial Heritage Complex Museum, the site of some of the original mills. In addition to in town shopping and sight seeing, there are several golf courses located in the area. Stop by at The Depot (located adjacent to the Blockhouse) and take a boat tour to the Rideau River Bird Sanctuary. Merrickville also hosts the headquarters for the Canadian Recreational Canoeing Association. Visit them in the beautiful Ron Johnston building. There are a variety of accommodations available in or near Merrickville.