See Canada from the water on a tranquil houseboat tour along the waterways of the Rideau Canal.

What could be more stunning than a houseboat trip along the canals of scenic Canada? With its rivers, lakes and waterways trailing 202km from Kingston, on Lake Ontario, to Ottawa, Canada's capital city, the Rideau Canal Waterway is considered a masterpiece of creative genius.

A vision of beauty and serenity, this waterway built more than 170 years ago has just been made a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's something I'd always dreamt of seeing and the trip proved to be the best of my life.

Kingston
I started my journey in Kingston, Canada's first capital city. This town has the magic of the past blended with modern sophistication. The amazing 19th century limestone architecture oozes history. The town's quaint B&Bs also share the stunning local architecture.

The people in Kingston are incredibly friendly, and if there's anything else you want to know, pop into the information centre where official town crier Chris Whyman (who's even in costume) will be sure to point you in the right direction.

Before you set off on your trip, be sure to download the historical walking tour podcast to your iPod from www.kingstonaudiotours.com. Then explore the town's streets and take in all the historic wonders, including old horse and carriageways, and go on a haunted walking tour.

July to August is the best time to jump on board a houseboat for a deep dose of relaxation. A houseboat provides the perfect stage to view the show of wildlife. I spied beavers and even loons, the provincial bird of Ontario. Be alert as loons disappear underwater before popping out unexpectedly. I also saw white-tail deer, herons, cranes and osprey.

The next few days were spent lazily cruising the calm waters, with the odd stop-off for a refreshing swim or to fish and take snaps.

Jones Falls
At Jones Falls we feasted at the Shangri-La Lodge before visiting a working blacksmith's shop from the 1840s. The houseboat meandered along the lakes, with a stopover in Westport. The beautiful Foley House Historic Inn & Pub was revamped last year with every effort made to ensure the historic integrity of the 140-year-old structure. There's even the original 1800s-era French wallpaper and furniture that once belonged to Canada's first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. It has six bedrooms to choose from, some with clawfoot tubs and magnificent water views.

Along the canal you'll find maple farms to indulge in the most famous of Canadian traditions - maple syrup. One of the best is Wheelers Maple Products. Feast from the maple menu at the Pancake House, then learn of the wonders of maple at the museum.

Ottawa
At the end of your Rideau Canal travels, it's time to embrace Canada's capital, Ottawa. This beautiful city is so welcoming. Visit Parliament Hill or take in the Byward markets for fruit, vegies, breads, cheeses and meats.

Explore the stunning National Gallery of Canada where a massive statue of a spider awaits your entry. There's also a fantastic selection from Canadian artists.

For comfort, style and luxury, stay at the Archotel, Ottawa's first boutique hotel. Then walk over to Big Daddy's Crab Shack & Oyster Bar for its casual dining and sounds of New Orleans jazz. A perfect ending to a fabulous way to see Canada.

Experience a winter wonderland
At nearly eight kilometres long, part of the Rideau Canal doubles as the world's longest ice skating rink during winter. The surface is smooth, especially early in the morning after a fresh dump of snow. Be warned, it can get crowded, especially during the annual Winterlude Festival in February when it boasts spectacular ice carvings and a playground made of snow. You can rent ice skates and sleighs. Be sure to try the local speciality, a Beaver Tail - a cross between a pancake and a flat doughnut.

By Emma Henderson