On November 3rd, the Ottawa Valley Tourist Association (OVTA) brought the region’s tourism community together for the annual Ottawa Valley Tourism Conference, themed Valley Voices – Shaping Tourism Together. Hosted at the River Barn in Foresters Falls, the gathering united tourism operators, community leaders, municipal and destination partners and experts for a day rich in collaboration, learning and forward-thinking dialogue. Above: Conference attendees deep in discussion. (Photo submitted)
The conference agenda featured:
- Provincial and regional tourism updates delivered by representatives from Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) and Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO)
- An overview of the OVTA’s 2026 collaborative marketing opportunities
- An interactive breakout session designed for attendees to share ideas and forge new partnerships
- A live graphic recording by Swoop Media capturing the key insights and themes of the day—serving as both a visual recap and a prompt for future action
Passion and collaboration were the sentiments echoed throughout the day, as participants engaged in meaningful conversations about how to elevate the Ottawa Valley’s profile as a four-season destination for outdoor activities and unique local experiences and flavours.
OVTA Board Chair, Stefi Van Wijk, shared: “When we bring together tourism operators, municipal representatives and community advocates, the possibilities for collaboration and growth expand dramatically. Our goal today was to spark fresh perspectives and strengthen our region’s position as one of Ontario’s most welcoming destinations.”
OVTA wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the event’s sponsors — including Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization (OHTO), the Township of Whitewater Region, Bonnechere Caves, Renfrew County ATV Club, Whitewater O’Brien Winery, the Township of Greater Madawaska, Wilderness Tours and the River Barn — whose support helped make this day possible.
Next year’s Ottawa Valley Tourism Conference will move to a new community in the spring of 2026, continuing the tradition of showcasing destinations across the region.
About the OVTA: The Ottawa Valley Tourist Association is the destination marketing organization for the Upper Ottawa Valley and proudly represents more than 300 tourism businesses, comprised of attractions and outfitters, accommodation, food, beverage and retail establishments, artists and galleries, municipalities and community organizations, as well as media and industry suppliers. The OVTA is supported by the County of Renfrew, Renfrew County municipalities and the City of Pembroke.
Norris,E.,OVTA(2025,Nov.5) Ottawa Valley Tourism Conference: Successful Day of Inspiration and Connection [media release]