The Township of North Glengarry (population of a little over 10,000) is a unique and vibrant community situated in a strategic location and possessing an enviable quality of life, which is reflected its rural and small town character and is enhanced by a commitment to preserving its agricultural and natural resources, its historical and cultural heritage, and its quality municipal services.
North Glengarry is roughly one hour east of Ottawa via Highway 417 or one hour west of Montreal on Highway 401 or 417 and 25 minutes north of the City of Cornwall using county roads 20, 34 or Highway 138.
Community Quick Facts
A Community Profile Summary contains several interesting facts on the Township of North Glengarry. Open a new window to download North Glengarry's Community Profile Summary.
Shopping and Entertainment Options for a Busy Family
Alexandria is the commercial retail destination of North Glengarry. It boasts a 40,000 sq.ft. Independent Grocers next to the LCBO and other major national chains. Our traditional downtown core is also alive with unique restaurants like La Belle Sorel and the North Glengarry, coffee shops, antique dealers and other locally-owned specialty shops and professional services established along Main Street.
Rural Lifestyle and Small Town Appeal
North Glengarry offers the best lifestyle mix for former city or suburban dwellers: Easy access to the fast paced cities of Montreal, Ottawa and Cornwall in a relaxed, bucolic community teeming with beautiful parks, nature trails and open space and, most importantly, no traffic congestion. A truly tranquil family-friendly quality of life.
Recreation Facilities
North Glengarry is the envy of many rural communities with two full-service arenas located in Alexandria and in Maxville, as well as the new Tim Horton's Indoor Soccer Dome. Centrally located in Alexandria "The Dome", as it is locally-known, boasts an indoor walking / running track, a tennis court and numerous sports programs such as soccer, football and seasonal childrens' day camps. Rain or shine, polar vortex or mild winters, the Dome keeps North Glengarrians active year-round.
The Friends of the Glengarry Trails maintain a series of hiking and snowshoeing trails that link Loch Garry (the only lake in Ontario, east of Ottawa) and the Town of Alexandria.
Kayakers and anglers enjoy the easy access to Mill Pond located right in the heart of Alexandria. In winter, the pond becomes a giant outdoor skating rink which also offers ice fishing. Island Park, located on the fringe of Mill Pond is an extraordinary public space equipped with picnic facilities, a boat launch, a playground, an incredible splash pad and ample free parking. It is a perfect destination for families on a warm summer day or in the snowy cold of winter.
North Glengarry also offers two curling rinks, numerous outdoor soccer fields, a skate park and an 18-hole golf course.
Affordable, fun-filled recreation opportunities for people of all ages can be found throughout the Township.
Proximity to Urban Centres
Whether commuting for work, or simply to soak up the big city amenities, both Ottawa and Montreal are within a 1-hour drive. Taking the train from the Alexandria VIA Rail Station is also an easy way of getting to our neighbouring urban centres. A lovely 30-minute drive south along quiet and scenic County Roads will take you to the City of Cornwall, as well as to the US border at New York State.
Cultural Traditions
While English and French are both prominent in the area, there is also a strong Scottish presence in Maxville and across much of North Glengarry. Many of the names of smaller hamlets, including Glen Roberston, Dalkeith and Dunvegan, are inspired by towns in Scotland, a centuries-old legacy stemming from the early Scottish settlers to the area.
Maxville is renown for hosting the annual Glengarry Highland Games, the largest in North America; however, the Scottish and Franco-Ontarian culture is evident in the numerous events, concerts and special programs hosted by the variety of local community groups. The harmonious blend of both French and Anglo-Scottish culture makes living in North Glengarry a unique and enriching experience.
