This Canada Day, go beyond the ordinary and discover a different side to Ontario, Canada’s diverse and captivating province. While popular destinations may steal the limelight, there are hidden gems and lesser-known experiences waiting to be explored. Step off the beaten path and embark on a journey that unveils the authentic charm and unique cultural tapestry of Ontario.
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Prince Edward County
Technically an island in the northern half of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County is a charming rural region in southern Ontario that is synonymous with scenic drives, boutique wineries and quaint villages. The county was traditionally inhabited by a farming community and is surrounded by Lake Ontario, which gives the area extra charm. Go for the picturesque vineyards and now-famous wine tastings. Huff Estates Winery is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. A mere fifteen-minute drive from this particular winery, and many other beautiful vineyards, is The Royal Hotel, a stunning, modern and luxurious hotel and the perfect place to embed yourself in the county’s charm.
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Thousand Islands
Set in the eastern section of Lake Ontario, the Thousand Islands is an archipelago of 1,864 islands that sit in the St. Lawrence River on the Canada-US border. This astounding collection of islands provide an impressive backdrop for a wide array of scenic tours – from helicopter tours, island cruises and paddling tours. The Thousand Islands National Park is a smaller, protected section of the Thousand Islands that opens up a range of activities to visitors, from kayaking to paddle boarding. The national park also includes a visitor centre, camping and picnic areas where visitors can immerse themselves in their surroundings.
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Ottawa
From an array of live performances to impressive firework shows, each year the largest and most elaborate Canada Day celebrations take place in the nation’s capital. However, travellers can avoid the crowds and gain a unique perspective through LeBoat, which recently opened a new satellite base at Ottawa’s Dows Lake. LeBoat allows visitors to explore the scenic and historic Rideau Canal from the comfort of a self-drive luxury houseboat. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the historic Rideau Canal, links Ottawa and Kingston and was originally built as a strategic military transportation line. With no prior experience needed, even novice boaters can voyage along the route, stopping to admire the local communities and beaches along the canal, as well as experience a variety of activity options and moorings along the way.
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Algonquin Provincial Park
Travellers can experience outdoor paradise with a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park, home to a vast interior (7,635 square kilometres) of forests, maple hills, rocky ridges, and hundreds of lakes and rivers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the wilderness with a remote getaway at one of Bartlett Lodge’s rustic cabins and cottages, or perhaps take to the picture-perfect lakeside resort of Arowhon Pines. For a true immersion in this enchanting landscape, set off on a guided canoe trip with Algonquin Outfitters, and be on the lookout for the majestic moose grazing along the shores, the curious beavers busily building their dams, and a myriad of other lively creatures that call this park home.
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Manitoulin Island
An enriching journey to Manitoulin Island offers the chance to delve into the vibrant culture and history of the Indigenous populations that inhabit the island. At Ojibwe Cultural Foundation guests can engage in workshops that showcase the Anishinaabe culture, including Anishinaabe style pottery classes and snowshoe making classes. Additionally, Wiikwemkoong Tourism offers visitors unique opportunities to learn the rich Indigenous history and traditions of Manitoulin Island’s largest First Nation community through nature based and cultural tours. The tours take travellers on a journey through time learning the legends of their people while exploring the vast lands and waters of Wikwemikong. Don’t miss the opportunity to sail on the Chi-Cheemaun ferry, which transports you from Tobermory to Manitoulin Island and whose name stems from the Ojibwe word for “Big Canoe”.
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Algoma Country
With the region bordering two of the Great Lakes: Superior and Huron, Algoma Country in Ontario has a landscape that is rich in old-growth forests and countless rivers, lakes and streams, providing a spectacle of Canada’s landscapes. Guests can settle into their seats on a one-day scenic rail adventure on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train. With large picture windows to admire the surroundings, the journey also involves regular stops, such as at Agawa Canyon Park, where Group of Seven artist J.E.H. MacDonald went so far as to describe it as “the original site of the Garden of Eden.”
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Niagara Falls
Despite being one of Canada’s most well-known spots, travellers can experience a unique and captivating adventure at all-new attraction The Tunnel, located within The Niagara Parks Power Station. Having opened in 2022, this recently added attraction takes visitors on a journey through a historic tunnel that was once the exit thoroughfare for water from the Niagara River used in hydropower generation. Travellers can step into the past by following the same path as the rushing water, leading to a mesmerising viewing platform where the tunnel emptied into the majestic Niagara River. From this vantage point there are breathtaking views of the iconic Horseshoe and American Falls, providing an unparalleled perspective of these natural wonders.
