Hello hello, friends and happy spring! Those freeze-thaw temperatures can only mean one thing - it is maple season! In this blog post, I am profiling several maple producers in the Ottawa Valley.
The Maple Process
Before we get into profiling some of our talented producers, I feel it is important to first discuss the process of making the maple syrup. The process starts by identifying trees that are to be tapped. Sugar maples are ideal because of their high sugar content. Next is the actual tapping of the desired trees. Depending on the weather, each tree can produce several litres of sap in one day and as such regular collection of the sap is integral. Once enough sap has been collected, it is time to actually make the maple syrup. This is done by boiling the sap down until it is that dark maple goodness that we all know and love.'
After the syrup has been created, producers will either bottle it right then and there or will store it in large drums to be bottled at a later date. While this is definitely a condensed version of the process, it gives us a better understanding of the work that is involved in creating maple syrup. Oh! Did I mention that it takes about 40 litres of sap to create one litre of maple syrup?
Now, let’s get this show on the road with the profiles of some top-notch producers.
Mapleside Sugar Bush
Located in Rankin, this maple producer has a special place in my heart. I had the pleasure of attending Mapleside Sugar Bush’s tapping of the first tree ceremony back in 2019, which feels like a lifetime ago. It was a fun and informative time where Ray Bonenberg took everyone through the process of making maple syrup. Mr. Bonenberg also introduced some themes of conservation into the tour. He explained how he has tree plans so as to maintain the natural forest and not infringe on wildlife.
It is clear that the environment and environmental stewardship is important aspect of Mapleside Sugar Bush. It is also certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. I should also add that Mr. Bonenberg is extremely knowledgeable and super easy to have a conversation with. He treats everyone like family, so it is no surprise to me why Mapleside Sugar Bush is seen as one of the premiere maple destinations in the Ottawa Valley. For more information about Mapleside Sugar Bush, check out their website here or their Facebook page here.
Grants Settlement Farms
Located in Foresters Falls, Grants Settlement Farm is a year-round working farm. They produce and sell horse hay, custom sawmill service, lumber product and of course…maple syrup producers. Grant Settlement Farms hosts sugar shack tours from March 5th until Easter weekend on Saturdays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Their historic sugarbush trail is open for self-guided adventures. Grant Settlement Farm also offers private tours during maple season, these are required to be booked beforehand.
Grants Settlement Farms is truly a family-friendly experience and the creation of new memories is basically guaranteed. The farm is so rich in history, it has a 19th-century log building that serves as their maple store and sugar shack. They sell everything from all things maple to local artisan creations. I am obsessed with locations in the Ottawa Valley that have this deep history, like Grants Settlement Farms. They are 6th generation sugar makers, which is pretty darn impressive. I should also add that Grants Settlement Farms was established in 1845, which yes, makes this farm literally older than the confederation of Canada. For more information on Grant Settlement Farm and their maple season, check out their website here.
Otterburn Maple Farm
Located in Calabogie on a 100-acre farm, Otterburn Maple Farm was established in 2018. It is a large-scale operation - they have over 4,000 taps, which I cannot even conceptualize what goes into running an operation of that scale. I imagine there is a significant amount of walk to check the sap lines, maintain the lines, process a huge amount of maple sap and everything else in between and after. My mind is literally blown.
At Otterburn Maple Farm, they barrel a large quantity of their syrup so as to ensure they have syrup available to purchase regardless of the time of year. They produce and sell maple syrup, maple cream and maple sugar. I love Otterburn Maple Farm’s mission statement “we are passionate about raising and growing good quality food for our family. We feel it’s important to use the land we have to provide for our family and teach our kids the concept of hard work, working for yourself and sharing the benefits.” (Source: Otterburn Maple Farm Facebook page). To me, this mission statement speaks to the quality of the product and that this family pours their heart and soul into their products. One of the things that also stands out to me about Otterburn Maple Farm is how involved they are in the community.
Otterburn Maple Farm recently participated in a maple fest event at Calabogie Brewing Company (and it is no secret my love for Calabogie Brewing Company), they participated in various holiday markets and were there to celebrate Bee Savvy Fine Foods’ birthday. There is something magical that happens when businesses chose collaboration over competition. I can’t wait to see how the Zeyl family expand their farm in the future. You can catch Otterburn Maple Farm on Facebook here or on Instagram here. Their Instagram account is a fun mix of baked goods, maple syrup, animals and farm life.
Hollow Point Ranch and Sugarbush
Located in Renfrew, Hollow Point Ranch and Sugarbush is open daily during maple season. Also, if you are wanting to get into production and make your own maple syrup, they now sell maple sugaring equipment. One of the things I love about our maple syrup producers in the Ottawa Valley is that they are family-owned and operated. Hollow Point Ranch and Sugarbush is no exception. I should also add that we received a whole basket of Hollow Point Ranch and Sugarbush maple products when we bought our truck last year. I was absolutely blown away by their maple BBQ sauce. I used some of their maple bbq sauce when I made pulled pork and it was absolutely scrumptious. It is not in the least bit spicy, just has a solid flavour profile that I cannot recommend enough. You can find their products on their website, Ottawa Valley Coffee (Renfrew), Chris & Tanya’s No Frills (Renfrew), Sandy’s Deli (Renfrew), Rusty Lantern Barn Boutique (Eganville), Manotick Natural Market (Manotick) and Belhana Food Delivery (Ottawa). For more information, check out their website here.
Madawaska Maple Products
Located in Madawaska Valley, Madawaska Maple Products is another one of the maple producers in the Ottawa Valley. Madawaska Maple Products is a newer farmer who is relatively younger. They have moved from Toronto to Madawaska, Ontario to dive deep into maple syrup production and beekeeping. Their Instagram page is a fun little insight into their journey, which the link can be found here. For more information, check out their Facebook page here.
Maple Weekend
It should also be noted that both Mapleside Sugar Bush is participating in Maple Weekend, which is set to take place April 2nd and 3rd, 2022. During maple weekend, you will be able to tour the sugar bust and watch the evaporator boil. This is an excellent weekend to really see what the heck maple production is all about and see the producer in action. For more information on Maple Weekend, check out the link here.
Accommodations
While we’re at it, I should probably include some accommodation options as I recognize that not everyone who reads my blog is from the Ottawa Valley. There are so many options for places to stay from hip motels to traditional hotels and everything in between.
Township of Bonnechere Valley
The Egan Inn - Bonnechere Suite - This is a gorgeously restored hotel room that tastefully gives a nod to the past. Think Chateau Laurier or the Royal York Hotel-style decor - classic and elegant. It is right in the heart of Eganville with views of the Bonnechere River. The Egan Inn has a variety of rooms, all of which are super charming and meticulously maintained. The Egan Inn is within walking distance to The Axe & Paddle, Fifth Chute, The Rusty Lantern Barn Boutique and The Granary Schnitzel Haus Restaurant.
Town of Renfrew
Maple Ridge Inn B&B - located in a tranquil part of the Ottawa Valley, you are guaranteed relaxation if you stay at this inn. The slogan of this inn is “where luxury and nature come together for an adventure. The inn has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an elegant dining room. For more information about this accommodation option, or to book, check out the link here.
Township of Greater Madawaska
Calabogie Lodge - Located in the village of Calabogie, the Calabogie Lodge can accommodate a range of group sizes. The Calabogie Lodge is situated on Calabogie Lake and has some of the best views of the lake. The new restaurant “On the Rocks” is also located at the Calabogie Lodge, but we will be talking more about On the Rocks in the where to eat section. The Calabogie Lodge is an absolute gem and is central to all attractions within the Township of Greater Madawaska. The Calabogie Lodge even offers contactless check-in to those that request it.
Somewhere Inn Calabogie - This newly opened motel is beyond gorgeous. It is thoughtfully decorated with calming neutral colours in the rooms and touches of wood accents. They have a bottle shop that includes a selection of Ontario craft beer and organic wines. This inn encourages its guests to unplug and reconnect with nature. I especially love that Somewhere Inn has pledged to “commit a portion of its revenue to organizations working towards environmental solutions.” Also, it should be mentioned that they are dog friendly. There has been thought given to every single aspect of this inn from the mattresses (which are Endy) to the space utilization of the guest rooms. To say I am impressed would be putting it mildly. This is also just down the road from Burnstown and White Lake, which is why it is also an excellent option for this itinerary.
Township of Madawaska Valley
here.