2023 Hot List of Attractions & Destinations - Travel Guide - Daytripping

HOT LIST OF ATTRACTIONS & DESTINATIONS

TRAVEL GUIDE

Daytripping

Summer is here Cottage Country – and what better way to celebrate than getting outdoors and getting to know this great region!

There are many small towns in Cottage Country filled with hidden gems and spectacular settings, and brimming with vibrant arts and business communities. Small businesses are open after a few years of uncertain times, and they are ready to welcome back tourists with open arms. Enjoy the character of the villages and communities as you travel through our region and get to know the heart of Cottage Country.

You’ll find lots of ideas in this guide which will take you to some of the greatest attractions, events, and businesses in Cottage Country.

This Hot List digest guide aims to lead you to your next unforgettable stop on one of the many beautiful roads meandering through quaint towns and villages along the way; throw this handy little book in the glovebox and use it to plot your route on your next day trip.

We love to hear from our readers – connect with us anytime to share your stories, photos and comments at cottagecountrylifestyle@gmail.com

PETERBOROUGH & THE KAWARTHAS

Welcome to Peterborough and the Kawarthas, a region rich with cultural and historical landmarks as well as thriving musical and artistic communities.

Comprised of 8 Townships Peterborough County is a rural area distributed over an area of 4,000 square KM’s. Peterborough is located in east Central Ontario and is about an hour and a half north-east of Toronto.

“We respectfully acknowledge that Peterborough County is located on the Treaty 20 Michi Saagiig territory and in the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Nations, collectively known as the Williams Treaties First Nation, which include: Alderville, Beausoleil, Curve Lake, Georgina Island, Hiawatha, Rama and Scugog Island First Nations.

Peterborough County respectfully acknowledges that the Williams Treaty First Nations are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters in perpetuity, and that they continue to maintain this responsibility to ensure their health and integrity for generations to come.”

When visiting Peterborough you will find many local attractions right in the city – such as the Peterborough Lift Lock. This boat lift located on the Trent Canal in the city of Peterborough is Lock 21 on the Trent-Severn Waterway. This amazing structure was built in 1904 and for years it’s dual lifts were the highest hydraulic

boat lifts in the world! The lifts which work using gravity and the counterweight principal are 65 feet tall. Summer is a great time to take a boat through the locks in Peterborough, and in Winter the canal below the lift is cleared for skating and hockey!

Inside the city of Peterborough you will also find the Riverview Park and Zoo, a zoo with a mighty showcase of animals and interesting programming which is free to visit. There is also a splash pad on site, and our favourite – the train! In outlying areas of Peterborough and the Kawarthas you will find attractions like Lang Pioneer Village in Keene, Kawartha Downs and their Jam-packed summer events lineup is definitely something to mark on the calendar. The Petroglyphs Provincial Park invites visitors to take in Canada’s largest concentration of Indigenous rock carvings. This remarkable location is considered to be a sacred site known as ‘The Teaching Rocks’ There is a visitor centre on location where guests are invited to explore into the traditions and Culture of the Ojibway (Nishnaabe) people.

If live music and theatre are on your must-see list, Peterborough hosts a talented array of artists performing in lots of local venues, be sure to check out many of the local bars and restaurants for local music any night of the week. Peterborough Musicfest is also in downtown Peterborough and offers free concerts to the public all summer long beginning in July – bring your lawn chair!

explore PETERBOROUGH

Plan to spend more than one day in the largest community in the Kawarthas. It has so many sights that you will miss if you rush through it.

If you come in via the Trent-Severn Waterway, it’s easy to dock downtown and discover relaxing parks and great eateries within walking distance. Around Little Lake, in the heart of the city, you will find an art gallery in Del Crary Park, a splash pad in Roger’s Cove and a playground at Beavermead Park.

The 65-foot ride up the world’s highest hydraulic Lift Lock of its kind is an unforgettable adventure. Nearby, you will find the Peterborough Centennial Museum and Archives with a lookout that gives a breathtaking view of the city.

Millennium Trail takes you along the west side of the lake, right to a boathouse with ice cream and a café with a patio overlooking the water. Further inland, you will find the

Canadian Canoe Museum and its fascinating history of boating and First Nations culture.

Jackson Park offers serenity along its many trails, with the pagoda as a lovely surprise on your walk or ride. This gift to the city from a pioneer philanthropist follows Jackson Creek and leads to the TransCanada Trail.

For a separate exploration, the Rotary Trail goes north to the town of Lakefield. This trip goes along the stunning campus of Trent University and is worth a drive just to see its grounds along the river and the diverse architecture.

When you need to refuel, Peterborough has more than 100 restaurants in its downtown core alone, with every type of cuisine available. With a vibrant café district and some eateries right on the water, you can enjoy a beautiful summer evening watching the sunset or the birds while you dine.

Riverview Park & Zoo

Musicfest

SCOTTISH TEA

Check for Dates & Times

Hutchison House Museum

270 Brock Street 705-743-9710

HERITAGE LUNCHEON Runs Monthly

Check for Dates & Times

Hutchison House Museum

270 Brock Street 705-743-9710

TO HONOUR AND RESPECT: GIFTS FROM THE MICHI SAAGIIG WOMEN TO THE PRINCE OF WALES, 1860

April 22 to November 19

The Peterborough Museum & Archives 00 Hunter St E, Peterborough

BEAVERMEAD BEACH

Beavermead Park, 2011

Ashburnham Dr. Access mat that provides a walkway across the sand into the water, improving accessibility

ROGERS COVE BEACH

Rogers Cove, 131 Maria St.

PETERBOROUGH POUTINE FEAST

Thu, May 4, 3pm.–

Sun, May 7, 10pm

Morrow St, Peterborough

GEORGE THOROGOOD & THE DESTROYERS

May 13

Peterborough Memorial Centre

151 Lansdowne St, Peterborough

LIGHTHOUSE

June 10

Showplace Performance Centre

MONSTER SPECTACULAR

June 18

Peterborough Memorial Centre

151 Lansdowne St, Peterborough

DWAYNE GRETZKY

July 5

Peterborough Musicfest Del Crary Park

100 George St. N., Peterborough

TINA SIMPLY THE BEST

July 18

Showplace Performance Centre

PEPPA PIG

July 25

Peterborough Memorial Centre

151 Lansdowne St, Peterborough

LITTLE RIVER BAND

July 26

Peterborough Musicfest Del Crary Park

100 George St. N., Peterborough

PETERBOROUGH FOLK FESTIVAL

Sat. Aug 19 – Sun. Aug 20

725 Armour Rd, Peterborough

ABBAMANIA/NIGHT FEVER (BEEGEES)

September 30

Showplace Performance Centre

THINGS TO DO

 Musicfest Del Crary Park

 Marks

 Hutchison House Museum

 Peterborough Museum & Archives

 UK Shoppe

 The Neighbourhood Vintage

 Riverview Park & Zoo

 Jackson Park

 Lock 21 - Peterborough Lift Lock

 Canadian Canoe Museum

 Art Gallery of Peterborough

 Greenup Ecology Park

WHERE TO STAY

 Holiday Inn

 Best Western Plus Otonabee

 Peterborough Inn & Suites

 Hampton Inn

 Comfort Hotel & Suites

 Quality Inn Peterborough

TREATS & EATS

 Jack’s Family Restaurant

 La Mesita Restaurant

 The Brickhouse

 The Night Kitchen

 Jasmine Thai Cuisine

 Tastely Box

 Ariyana

 Papa John’s Pizza

 Boston Pizza

 Ashburnham Ale House

 One Fine Food

 La Hacienda Mexican

 Apollo Grill

 Dr. J’s BBQ & Brews

 Berc’s Steakhouse

 Docker’s Fish & Chips

 Southside Pizzeria & Co.

 Couture Candy

 Firehouse Subs

 Olde Stone Brewing Company

TREATS & EATS

 Great Outdoors Landing

 Jesse’s Tap & Grill

 Sippin Dip Restaurant-Bakery

 Pizza Villa & Pasta House

 Honky Tonk Restaurant

 Chemong Lodge

 The Bridgenorth Deli

 Bridgenorth Delicatessen

THINGS TO DO

 Floor Coverings International

 Selwyn Family Dental

 Quarry Golf Club

 Tamarac Golf & Country Club

 Miller Creek Wildlife Area

 Ennismore Waterfront Park

WHERE TO STAY

 Birch Point Bay B&B

 Cadigan’s Camp & Cottages

 Country Blessings B&B Retreat

 Skyline | A Parkbridge Cottage & RV Resort

explore BRIDGENORTH & ENNISMORE

These sister communities are divided by a narrow section of Chemong Lake, but linked by the James A. Gifford Causeway. Most of the businesses are found on the south shore in Bridgenorth, but the village of Ennismore has its share of places to eat and stock up as well.

The large lake is the main attraction for this area. It hosts several fishing derbies during the warmer months as anglers cast for smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, walleye, yellow perch, carp, muskellunge and panfish. It also serves as pathway between Pigeon and Buckhorn lakes on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Due to the large population of seasonal and year-round dwellers, the towns have a great range of restaurants, including dining at Chemong Lodge. This landmark business offers a great view of the lake as you enjoy your meal.

Also in Bridgenorth is The Great Outdoors Landing, the perfect place to dock your boat or drive in for what locals know is a huge ice cream cone!

Ennismore has a proud Irish heritage so you will see many signs and street names that remind you of that fact. Check out the mortarfree stone arch along Robinson Road, erected as a tribute to Irish ancestors.

For a step back in time, drop into Sullivan’s General Store at Ennis and Tara Roads. Run by the same family for 110 years, there you can grab a pint, some old-fashioned candy or memorabilia festooned with shamrocks.

Both towns are great places to stock up for essentials and treats if you don’t want to go all the way into the city.

Great Outdoor Landing

ENNISMORE SHAMROCK FESTIVAL

July 22 & 23

Robert E. Young

Recreation Complex, 553 Ennis Road, Ennismore

ENNISMORE WATERFRONT

PARK & BEACH

1053 Ennis Road, Ennismore

JONES BEACH

908 Jones Beach Road, Bridgenorth

CHEMONG LAKE

Selwyn Dental

explore LAKEFIELD

One of the prettiest towns in the area also has a great downtown for shopping and exploring for treats and many basics.

Famous for its international private school once attended by Prince Andrew, Lakefield is a favourite retreat for retirees who begin their cottage days here then come back for more. The town has an artist’s heart, serving as home for its annual literary festival in July, plus one of Canada’s first authors Catharine Parr Traill, renowned late Canadian author Margaret Laurence and the fiddling and dancing sensation Leahy.

In Lakefield, you find a beautiful boardwalk along the Otonabee River, taking you into natural areas with birdsong and stunning plumage. You can also hike and bike for miles along Millennium Trail, thanks to its connections to the Trans Canada Trail via the Peterborough County Rotary Trail.

If you arrive by boat via Lock 26 of the TrentSevern Waterway, enjoy a lovely 10-minute

walk to the heart of the town. There, you will find art, eclectic gifts and clothing, in addition to books and delicious meals. Take some time to admire the 1800s architecture of its numerous charming homes and churches.

Cenotaph Park is an ideal place to rest in the shade while admiring Memorial Hall’s flower beds and enjoying ice cream from across the street. For more fabulous vistas, you will also want to visit Isobel Morris Park’s two acres next to the arena. Its pavilion, playground and skate park all offer stunning views of the Otonabee River.

Lakefield Beach is also a popular destination to cool off, sitting on Hague Point. It is also close to the arena complex, which also sports a tennis court.

June 3rd - Stop by the Lakefield Arena for the Cottage Country Lifestyle Home & Cottage Show!

Lockside Trading

Lakefield Marina

COTTAGE COUNTRY HOME & COTTAGE SHOW

Saturday, June 3 10am - 4pm

Lakefield Arena

LAKEFIELD FARMERS’ MARKET

Thursdays 9am - 1pm Downtown Lakefield, next to the Village Inn

JAZZ, ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL

Saturday, July 8

Isabel Morris Park, Lakefield

Tickets $10

LAKEFIELD BEACH

64 Hague Boulevard, Lakefield

TREATS & EATS

 The Chocolate Rabbit

 The Market

 Hobart’s Lighthouse

 Jack’s Family Restaurant

 Lakefield Restaurant

 The Nutty Bean Cafe

 Food Haven Restaurant

 Canoe & Paddle

 Free Topping Pizza

 The Loon

WHERE TO STAY

 Village Inn

 Lake Edge Cottages

 Forest Hill Lodge

 Birch Bend Cottage Resort

 Katchawanooka Resort

 Redwing Cottages

 Islandview Cottages

 Pine Vista Resort

THINGS TO DO

 Lockside Trading Company

 Griffins Greenhouse

 Happenstance Books & Yarn

 Polish Perfection

 Overstock Liquidation

 Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 26 - Lakefield

 Lakefield Farmers’ Market

 Imagine the Marsh Conservation Area

 McLean Berry Farm

TREATS & EATS

 Kawartha Buttertart Factory

THINGS TO DO

 Warsaw Caves - Otonabee

Conservtion

 Douro Park

 Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 24 - Douro

 Warsaw Caves Falls

 Mark S. Burnham Provincial Park

 Robert Johnston Ecoforest Trails

7TH ANNUAL TEBEY GOLF

CLASSIC

Thursday, June 1

Wildfire Golf Club, 2349 Armstrong Lane

DOURO PARK & BEACH

205 Douro 2nd Line, Douro

Big open space with a small playground & lots of picnic benches

DOURO

Warsaw Caves

explore DOURO & WARSAW

The villages of Douro and Warsaw reside within Douro-Dummer Township, which spans a large diverse area between Stoney Lake and Highway 7. Both small settlements have a lot of heart and are lovely to visit on a road trip, especially when you get hungry.

In between, you will find Warsaw Caves, a great spot to explore and work up an appetite. Its series of interconnected caves gives you a range of adventures, whether you like the small tight spaces or the larger caverns underground.

The caves can be found inside the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area, which offers places to hike, play or lunch above ground as well. This is also a popular destination for cycling groups due to the rolling hills.

The Indian River, which flows through the

township, disappears beneath the ground as it falls into underground channels caused by the collapsed limestone layers around the caves. Glacial melting carved the caves out of the soft stone 12,000 years ago, leaving a treasure for the whole family to enjoy. Be sure to bring a flashlight for each spelunker (cave explorer).

Once you’ve had your fill of fresh air, you can refuel at restaurants in Warsaw, Young’s Point or McCracken’s Landing, depending on which direction you take. If you go due west of the village of Douro, you’ll find the Kawartha Butter Tart Factory at the crossroads of County Roads 4 and 28. The bakery has a selection of sweets for which this area is known: traditional and decadent tarts, plus tea biscuits, pies, breads, cookies, muffins, squares and fritters. Go ahead and treat yourself.

Warsaw Caves

TREATS & EATS

 Burleigh Falls Inn

 Pizza Alloro

 Cody Inn

 Mainstreet

 Kawartha Country Wines

 Frederick’s at Beachwood

 The Olde Ice House

 Country Mart Bakery

THINGS TO DO

 Buckhorn Community Centre

 Adam & Eve Rocks

 Style Your Nest

 McClean Berry Farm

 Buckhorn Berry Farm

 Six Foot Bay Golf Course

 Whetung Ojibwa Centre

 Sink or Swim Tattoo Studio

WHERE TO STAY

 Burleigh Falls Inn

 Westwind Inn on the Lake

 Beachwood Resort

 Shambhala Bed & Breakfast

explore BUCKHORN

This bustling town sits at Lock 31 of the TrentSevern Waterway, between Upper Buckhorn Lake and Lower Buckhorn Lake. This is a favourite spot for boaters and other visitors all summer due to the clear water; they also appreciate the variety of services available when they dock or park for groceries, lunch or other supplies.

Within minutes of town, you can admire the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield and the countless gorgeous rocky islands. Yet you can get a fabulous meal, cold beer or fishing bait from local retailers within minutes of being on the water.

You will need that bait, since you can dip a rod in either lake and find many species of fish. The mix of rock and weed beds create the perfect habitat for largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie, perch, carp, crappy, bluegill and more.

Make sure to ask for directions to Adam and Eve rocks. This pair of large rocks, left behind

by a glacier, comes with a romantic legend. Apparently if a couple hold hands and touches them, their lives will be eternally blessed.

You will also want to admire the town’s namesake statue of a bounding deer as you drive in via County Road 28.

Make plans to walk along the waterfront and to visit some of the great restaurants in town. You can get really good pizza, Chinese food, pub fare, homefries and ice cream. Most places also serve rave-worthy breakfasts.

Experience a weekend of art, music, food and great company at the 2023 Buckhorn Festival of The Arts.

East of Buckhorn, where County Road 36 meets Highway 28, you’ll find the small Burleigh Island community - the gateway between Lovesick and Stoney Lakes. Enjoy great dining, and accommodations at The Burleigh Falls Inn with a beautiful view of the falls.

Adam & Eve Rocks

Buckhorn Buck

SPRING CRAFT SHOW

Sat. May 20-21

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

CRUISE NIGHT TUESDAYS

May 30 - Sept 12

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

BARGAIN BARNS

(TUES, THURS & SAT)

Starting June 27 - July 15

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

CANADA DAY

CELEBRATIONS July 1st

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

GUNSLINGERS DANCE

July 15 (Age of Majority)

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

VENDOR MARKET 10am - 2pm

May 21, June 18, July 2, Aug 06,

Sept 3 & Oct 8th

Burleigh Falls Inn, 4791 Hwy 28, North Kawartha (Burleigh Falls)

YUK YUKS COMEDY

July 20 & Aug 17

Burleigh Falls Inn, 4791 Hwy 28, North Kawartha (Burleigh Falls)

BUCKHORN FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

August 19 - 20

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

QUILTING AT THE LAKES

Sept 8 & 9

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

HARVEST CRAFT SHOW

Oct 7-9

Buckhorn Community Centre

1782 Lakehurst Rd, Buckhorn

JOHN STREET BEACH

12 John Street, Buckhorn

SANDY BEACH

1221 Lakehurst Road, Buckhorn

LOWER BUCKHORN LAKE

Buckhorn Community Centre

Royal LePage

UPPER BUCKHORN LAKE

BUCKHORN

Hwy 36

Hwy 37

Burleigh FallsInn

explore APSLEY

This sweet town has charmed many cottagers and enticed them back summer after summer. Its stores always carry more than you would expect, surprising shoppers with a vast selection of gifts, treasures for children and creativity pieces that you never expect in a small town.

This has become an even more popular stop over the years, thanks to the opening of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. Its dramatic stone cliffs, array of hiking trails and breath-taking paddling routes have earned this area thousands of new fans.

Novices can begin on the Serpentine Loop in the northeast corner of the park. It opens your eyes to great fishing, nice swimming spots and a chance to see water birds and beavers close up. There are 25 back-country campsites along this route alone. You start at Anstruther Lake and carry on through Rathburn, North Rathburn and Serpentine Lakes. Alternative

routes will take you to Copper Lake, Anderson Lake or scenic Rock Lake. Book your campsite in advance if you are going overnight.

The Southern Ponds, Long Loop and Sucker Lake routes are also worth a try. Find out details on the list of 10 Signature Paddling Routes published by Peterborough Kawarthas Tourism.

Another worthwhile outdoor adventure is time spent at The Gut Conservation Area. Watch for signs off Hwy. 504, although they can be tricky to find.

This 400-acre site is worth the search. Pack good walking shoes or boots for the trails and a stairway down to the gorge, plus the lookout. The namesake Gut is a large breathtaking gorge carved out by the Crowe River. The fissure is 30 metres high and five to 10 metres wide.

Anstruther Lake

TREATS & EATS

 Swiss Bear Restaurant & Bakery

THINGS TO DO

 Apsley Autumn Studio Tour

 Anstruther Marina

 Apsley Home Hardware

 Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park

 The Gut Conservation Area

 Marvel Rapids Golf Course

 Owenbrook Golf Course

 The Land Canadian Adventures

WHERE TO STAY

 Apsley Inn & Restaurant

 OYO Hotel Apsley

 Long Lake Cottages & Trailer Park

 Harbour Ridge Cottages

explore CAVAN & MILLBROOK

You may recognize King Street’s facades from movies like The Music Man or TV series such as Anne With An E and Murdoch Mysteries. The lovely main street is just part of the magic of this quaint town.

King Street has a rich range of retailers, from a bakery, chocolate shop and merchantile selling local goods and products.

Coming on from any direction, you will see signs proclaiming the hometown pride for Juno-award winning singer Serena Ryder. Her career began at age eight at the Millbrook Legion, which is along on the main street. The signs were created by her mother, artisan Barbara Ryder.

Just behind the downtown, Baxter Creek runs past the park at Dam Mill Pond and Needler’s Mill, a heritage landmark restored by the community in 2015.

Further south, the Millbrook Valley Trails offer five routes along the shores and valley of the creek bed. The scenery varies from forest to wetland, meadow and several lookouts, including one from a railway bridge built around 1865. Enter the trails at the end of Distillery Street in the village or from the parking lot at the provincial fish and nature area on Zion Line.

The trails are for pedestrians, cyclists, dogs and horses only.

If you prefer to fish, Baxter Creek’s cold waters are home to many species, including trout. While angling, you can watch herons and kingfishers nearby as well.

The village is also known as the home of 4th Line Theatre, a professional outdoor performance space that offers two shows each summer.

CAVAN & MILLBROOK

Kawartha Downs

Kawartha Downs

OPENING DAY & CLASSIC CAR SHOW

May 20

Kawartha Downs

Hwy #28, Fraserville

KAWARTHA DOWNS

Sat, May 27 - Starting Night

Hwy #28, Fraserville

www.kawarthadowns.com

MONSTER MADNESS TOUR

June 3-4

Kawartha Downs

Hwy #28, Fraserville

THE TILCO STRIKE

June 27 - July 22

4th Line Theatre, 779 Zion Line, Millbrook

TRUCK & TRACTOR PULL

July 22-23

Kawartha Downs

Hwy #28, Fraserville

THE CAVAN BLAZERS

August 1 - 26

4th Line Theatre, 779 Zion Line, Millbrook

THE KAWARTHA COUNTY FAIR

Aug 4-6

Kawartha Downs

Hwy #28, Fraserville

TRUCK & TRACTOR PULL DAY

Sept 2-3

Kawartha Downs

Hwy #28, Fraserville

TREATS & EATS

 Staples Maple Syrup

 Bewdley Pizza

 Valley Chocolates

 Pastry Peddler

THINGS TO DO

 Kawartha Downs

 4th Line Theatre

 Millbrook Mercantile

 Cavan Monaghan

Libraries - Millbrook Branch

 Millbrook Valley Trails

 Millbrook Farmers’ Market

4th Line Theatre

THINGS TO DO

 Norwood Fall Fair

 Norwood Country Jamboree

 Indian River Reptile & Dinosaur Park

 Lynn’s Flowers & Gifts

TREATS & EATS

 Jack’s Family Restaurant

 Main Street Burger & Poutine

 Slice on #7

 Wrap it up and go

 Donna’s Pizza

NORWOOD COUNTRY JAMBOREE

Thu, Jul 20 – Mon, Jul 23

48 Alma St, Norwood

NORWOOD FALL FAIR

Sat, Oct 7 – Mon, Oct 9

48 Alma St, Norwood

NORWOOD & HAVELOCK

Norwood – ‘The Friendly Town’ sign greets visitors as they arrive to this tight-knit town that is growing fast.

The outstanding Norwood Fair on Thanksgivingweekend is the hallmark of the community, with something to attract every member of the family. Also hosted at the Fair Grounds is the Norwood Country Jamboree, this camping weekend filled with Canadian performers is hosted in July.

Walking along the main streets of Norwood, you will find a broad range of eclectic businesses and restaurants. Lions Park, just south of Highway 7, has beautiful gardens and a gazebo by the river, where you can enjoy a nice picnic.

There is a large park with a variety of climbing structures and swings in the east end of the town which also includes a skate park and splash pad.

Three trails start at the main entrance of Mill Pond via the entrance off County Road 40. They range from 200 to 975 metres and include picnic areas and benches for resting.

10 minutes east of Norwood you will enter Havelock, which has their grand former train station along Highway 7, with a restaurant inside. Next door, Lions Millennium Park has a yellow caboose that is hard to miss.

Alongside it, a farmers’ market operates on Fridays, allowing you to stock up for the weekend with local produce and crafts.

The Trent River flows just south of the town but the closest boat launch for a day’s paddle is north, off County Road 46, at Round Lake.

For additional outdoor activities, Mathison Conservation Area sits just north of the town and has 250 acres, scenic forests and wetlands, which can be explored via a multi-use trail and a walking trail.

If you’re looking to entertain children, George Street Park has the largest playground facility around, next to the arena and ballpark. The large shaded area makes it a great location for a picnic.

Norwood Fair

TREATS & EATS

 Three Roads Farm

 Mama Melissa’s Kitchen

 Muddy’s Pit BBQ

THINGS TO DO

 Lang Pioneer Village Museum

 Hope Mill Conservation Area

 The Keene Centre for the Arts

 Bellmere Winds Golf Course

25TH ANNUAL FATHER’S DAY SMOKE & STEAM SHOW

Sunday, June 19 10 - 4 pm

Lang Pioneer Village Museum

25TH ANNUAL TRANSPORTATION DAY CAR & MOTORCYCLE SHOW

Sunday, July 10 10 am to 4 pm

Lang Pioneer Village Museum

“TYING THE KNOT” EARLY WEDDING TRADITIONS

Sunday, August 14 10 - 4 pm

Lang Pioneer Village Museum

explore KEENE

This small town is surrounded by resorts and campsites, many of which face Rice Lake. It is a hub for local commerce and recreation, thanks to its general store, restaurants and arena complex. There are some cute shops and good golf courses nearby as well.

Rice Lake is ringed by resorts and homes, serving as a great spot to launch your boat and explore various towns. Shallow and rich in nutrients, it offers great fishing for bass, pickerel, perch, crappy and carp.

Northeast of Keene, Lang Pioneer Village Museum operates as a living history museum in the hamlet of Lang. Owned and run by the County of Peterborough, it is home to a collection of pioneer buildings in a park-like setting and the Agricultural Hall of Fame for the region. It typically hosts heritage-based activities throughout the summer and autumn.

A similar, but smaller destination, is the recently restored Hope Mill. The upper floor of the original sawmill runs as a woodworking museum and archival records from the early wool and carding era.

Nearby, you can visit Hiawatha First Nation, an Ojibwa community with a rich culture.

Keene’s biggest event of the year is typically its Pumpkinfest in October. The celebration includes a parade and several familyoriented activities to highlight the rich farm heritage of the region.

Even without an event on the calendar, a day trip to Keene is a lovely escape as it sits among the rolling hills of Otonabee Township. You can get great views of the surrounding area while driving along the ridges.

Hope Mill

KAWARTHA LAKES

Welcome to the Kawartha Lakes! This amazing County hosts more than 250 lakes and rivers which are all connected by the well-known Trent Severn Waterway.

Located 90 minutes north east of Toronto, Kawartha Lakes is a wonderful collection of smaller communities that are a goldmine for your summer road trip! Whether you are looking to stop and stock up on essentials for your trip to the cottage, or you are looking for a day perusing local businesses and accommodations that have so much unique charm – you can fill a full day (or make it a weekend!) in Kawartha Lakes.

“The City of Kawartha Lakes respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Mississauga lands and the traditional territory covered by the Williams Treaties.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work here and we thank all the generations of people who have taken care of this land - for thousands of years. We recognize and deeply appreciate their historic connection to this place. We also recognize the contributions of Métis, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples, both in shaping and strengthening this community and country as a whole. This recognition is connected to our collective commitment to make the promise and the challenge of Truth and Reconciliation real in our community.”

Kawartha Lakes is also rich in history and culture. We encourage you to check out one of their many

historically designated locations like Kawartha Settlers Village located in Bobcaygeon, where you are able to take a step back in time to the early 1900’s in Kawartha Lakes, or the Austin Sawmill located in Kinmount; also in Kinmount is the Kinmount Model Railway & Museum.

Craft Breweries, local cafés and bakeries plus one-of-a-kind restaurants await your taste buds in Kawartha Lakes. Bountiful in local farms that grow fresh foods, Farmers Markets pop up in many of the towns throughout Kawartha Lakes; and fan-favourite Kawartha Dairy still has its headquarters in Bobcaygeon, a trip to Kawartha Lakes isn’t complete without a scoop of creamy Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream.

Whether you plan on hiking, snowshoeing, biking ATVing, horseback riding, snowmobiling or crosscountry skiing, Kawartha Lakes has the perfect forested trail for your adventure. With more than 600KM of trails across the region there are access points in many of the areas around Kawartha Lakes. Some of the well-known trails are The Ganaraska Trail, Kawartha Trans Canada Trail, and the Victoria Rail Trail. If parks are more your setting, Regional and Provincial Parks are scattered throughout the Kawartha Lakes communities as well. Ken Reid Conservation area is located in Lindsay, as well as Gamiing Nature Trails. Balsam Lake Provincial Park is located in Kirkfield, while John Eakins Walkway is located in Bobcaygeon, and Emily Park in Omemee. These parks all offer beautiful trails through conservation areas that can be great grounds for wildlife sightings and birding.

explore LINDSAY

Getting out of your boat at Lock 33 will take you right into the quaint downtown of this friendly town.

A quick stroll up the hill and you will find yourself facing the main street dotted with great shopping and tasty lunch spots. You’ll find excellent dining for Italian, Greek, Chinese and pub food along your route.

Kent Street begins at the legendary Academy Theatre and invites you along a stretch of unique boutiques, offering clothing, décor, toys and even chocolate. The architecture and slanted parking make for a picturesque view as you explore. Drop into the art gallery above the library or other art shops to admire the work displayed there.

Skip one block south to visit the drive-through Kawartha Dairy ice cream stand and another string of attractions along Russell Street.

A stop into the former jail – now the Olde Gaol Museum – will provide historical information about the town. Simply go north from Victoria Park along Victoria Avenue.

Further down Kent Street, you’ll find another stretch of businesses from bakers to fast food to a mall full of major retailers.

The parks along the waterway offer quiet greenspaces as you stretch your legs. For a longer hike or a bike ride, head to the north end of town to the Ken Reid Conservation Area. Its trails wind their way through grasslands and marshes with a wide range of wildlife to see.

You can also get here via Highways 7 and 35, just a quick drive up from Hwy. 115. It is definitely worth the drive, even on the way to another town within the City of Kawartha Lakes.

Downtown Lindsay

TREATS & EATS

 Euro Delight

 Hobart’s

 Symposium Cafe Restaurant & Lounge

 The Cat & The Fiddle Lindsay

 Kountry Kitchen

 Smitty’s

 The Grand Experience

 Captain George

 Kelseys Original Roadhouse

 QQ Sushi

 Mary Brown’s Chicken & Taters

 Boston Pizza

 Pie Eyed Monk Brewery

 Jacked Up Pizza

 St Dave’s Diner

 Terry’s Fish & Chips Seafood

 Milk & Honey Eatery

 One-Eyed Jack’s

 Texas Burger

 Kawartha Wholesale Bakery

THINGS TO DO

 Lindsay Memorial Park

 Ken Reid Conservation Area

 Olde Gaol Museum

 Gamiing Nature Centre

 Lindsay Square Mall

 Lindsay Golf & Country Club

 Lindsay Twin Drive-In Theatre

 Lindsay Farmers’ Market

WHERE TO STAY

 Days Inn & Suites

 Kent Inn

 Melton’s Lighthouse Bed & Breakfast

 Lunge Haven Cottages

 Howard Johnson

 The Admiral Inn & Conference

 Knights Inn Lindsay

 Victoria Motel

AUTOMOTIVE

FLEA MARKET & CAR SHOW

May 27

Lindsay Exhibition Grounds, 354 Angeline St. S, Lindsay

LINDSAY MILK RUN

July 16

8am

Lindsay Exhibition Grounds, 354 Angeline St. S, Lindsay

PYRO FEST

Saturday, August 5

5pm - 10:30pm

Lindsay Exhibition Grounds, 354 Angeline St. S, Lindsay

DIRT SQUIRREL

JAMBOREE

Aug 19

Lindsay Exhibition

354 Angeline St S, Lindsay

CANADA’S FRESH WATER SUMMIT FESTIVAL

June 17

Coboconk Wharf and Lion’s Park

explore ROSEDALE & COBOCONK

For fans of lakes and parks, a trip up Hwy. 35 north from the town of Lindsay will treat you to the best of both worlds.

As boats travel from Cameron Lake to Balsam, they cut through Lock 35 at the pretty hamlet of Rosedale, which is a lovely place for a pit stop.

Just a few kilometres north of Rosedale, the village of Coboconk is located on the pristine waters of Balsam Lake. It is home to Canada’s Fresh Water Summit, which is the highest elevation of navigable water in Canada and third highest in the world.

In town, check out the smallest jail in Canada, now known as Ye Olde Jail. Its creator originally left a few blocks without mortar for easy escapes!

Take a stroll through this pretty village - the

name is derived from the First Nation’s phrase “Quash-qua-be-conk” which roughly translates to mean “nesting place of the gulls”. An eclectic collection of shops, eating establishments, even an art gallery, are ready to welcome you offering great food and other delights.

The Coboconk area boasts not one but two provincial parks! Balsam Park Provincial Park fills up a day on its own with a fabulous beach, boat rentals or access to launch your own. After fishing and a swim in the clear water, go for a walk on its trails or set up camp for the night. Meanwhile, Indian Head Provincial Park offers no amenities, but welcomes you to explore the undeveloped shoreline and its limestone alvar.

Instead of just passing through, make Rosedale and Coboconk destination stops on your travels.

Gull River

FENELON FALLS

This ‘Jewel of the Kawarthas’ comes to life in the summer months; Lock 34, the charming business sector and local attractions make Fenelon Falls a visitor destination.

The village situated along the Fenelon River between Cameron and Sturgeon Lakes, making it a hub for daytrippers and year-round residents. Arrive via Lock 34 of the Trent-Severn Waterway and walk right into the heart of the community.

If you want to view the famous falls, take a walk down the path along the lower end of the canal to witness the power and beauty of this famous landmark. These waters also run a small hydroelectric dam.

Heading west along the canal you will come to the beautiful Maryboro Lodge – more than just a museum, it is home to artifacts, interactive programming, community gardens, outdoor art installations and much more.

The kids will love the Splash Pad, which is

The Grove Theatre

located at the south end of Garnet Graham Beach Park, and the new playground equipment at the north end.

Behind the east side of the downtown core is Lloyd Kelly Parkette, which is home to a unique Seniors’ Exercise space, complete with equipment designed to provide gentle, lowimpact exercise in a pretty outdoor setting with a perfect view of the falls.

The village features two art galleries, wonderful waterside restaurants and great shopping. Take the time to explore the downtown - Colborne, Water, May and Francis Streets offer boutiques, clothing stores, multi-vendor shops, restaurants and a craft brewery. Be sure to stroll south across the bridge, where you will find even more dining and shopping.

Plan more time than you think you will need so you do not rush through this quaint community. Stop to enjoy a coffee and a butter tart to make your experience complete.

TREATS & EATS

 Fenelon Falls Brewing Co.

 Lotus Indian Bistro

 White Cottage Cafe

 The Locker at the Falls

 The Cow & Sow Eatery

 Country Cupboard

 Texas Burger & Pizza

THINGS TO DO

 Kawartha Arts Festival

 Fenelon Falls Farmers’ Market

 Grove Theatre

 Grr8 Finds Markets

 Treasures by the Locks

 Fenelon Station Gallery

 The Barn and Bunkie

WHERE TO STAY

 Eganridge Resort

 Road 121 Motel

 The Fenelon Inn

POKER RUN - KATVA

Sat, Jun 3

Log Chateau Park, 1691 Kawartha Lakes County Rd 121, Fenelon Falls

KAWARTHA YARN & FIBRE FESTIVAL

Jun 10

Fenelon Falls Community Centre

27 Veterans Way, Fenelon Falls, ON

FENELON FAIR

Jul 14 - 16

Fenelon Fairgrounds

27 Veterans Way, Fenelon Falls

KAWARTHA ARTS FESTIVAL

Sept 2-3

Fenelon Fairgrounds

27 Veterans Way, Fenelon Falls

CAMERON LAKE

Hwy 8 Hwy121

Kawartha Arts Festival

Fenelon Falls Real Estate

FF Chamber of Commerce

The Grove Theatre

FF Farmers’ Market

FENELON FALLS

explore BOBCAYGEON

This gorgeous town is often known as the Hub of the Kawarthas, for its location on Lock 32 and its magnetic appeal for visitors year round. It sits across three islands and the mainland, at the nexus where Sturgeon Lake and Pigeon Lake meet.

Its unique name is believed to come from the Ojibwa sayings for shallow rocky narrows. It was immortalized in the haunting song by legendary Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip, about the stars that shine above it at night.

Bobcaygeon comes alive in the summer with boaters and cottagers bringing their energy to this warm and welcoming community. Any time of the year, it’s worth a trip for tasty treats from Kawartha Dairy – made right here! – and extensive shopping at the Bigley’s family of shoe and clothing stores, plus a variety of whimsical and wonderful wares at neighbouring retailers.

The town’s restaurants and pubs offer fresh fare,

Lock 32

with many patios to enjoy. The sandy beach is another great place to stop and take a break. Along the way, marvel at the stunning gardens through the main street and green spaces.

A trip down Dunn Street will take you back in time at Kawartha Settlers Village. This townwithin-a-town has heritage buildings that show visitors what pioneer life was like at the general store, school, blacksmith shop, barn, church and several small homes. A walk around its streets is a peaceful way to learn about history while entertaining the whole family.

For more outside activities, catch a game of golf at a nearby course or get out on the lake for some incredible fishing. Even in the unlikely event that you don’t catch anything, the views are worth the trip out on the water.

As www.VisitBobcaygeon.com says: “You may never leave…”

Kawartha Settlers Village

BOBCAYGEON BIKEFEST

June 3

Tommy Anderson Park

94 Dunn St, Kawartha Lakes

SETTLERS’ DAY

June 10

Kawartha Settlers’ Village

85 Dunn St, Bobcaygeon

BOBCAYGEON CRAFT

BEER & FOOD FESTIVAL

Aug 19

Kawartha Settlers’ Village

85 Dunn St, Bobcaygeon

OKBT #5 - TRI-LAKES

Sept 9

TRI-LAKES (Chemong, Pigeon, Upper Buckhorn, Little and Big Bald Lakes)

BOBCAYGEON FALL FAIR

Sept 28 - 30

Bobcaygeon Fairgrounds

TREATS & EATS

 Just for the Halibut

 Donattela

 Egg Smart

 The Grilled Cheese Hideaway

 Kawartha Coffee Company

 Kawartha Dairy

 Bolton Sports Cafe

THINGS TO DO

 Kawartha Settlers’ Village

 Bobcaygeon Fall Fair

 Globus Theatre

 Bigley’s

 Lock 32

 Bobcaygeon Farmers’ Market

 Boyd Heritage Museum

 Sheffield Greens Golf Club

WHERE TO STAY

 Bobcaygeon Inn

 The Victorian Getaway

 New Rockland Motel

GUNSLINGERS

CLASSIC ROUCK, COUNTRY & MORE

May 19

Royal Canadian Legion

Branch 497

46 King St E, Omemee

RAIL TRAIL & GRAVEL RIDE

Mon, Jun 5

Omemee Municipal Park

2 George St S, Omemee

TREATS & EATS

 Mickaël’s Café

 King’s Fortune

 Bill’s Pizza House

THINGS TO DO

 Omemee Heights Greenhouses

 Omemee

Municipal Park

 Emily Provincial Park

7B

7

KENTST.

OMEMEE

explore OMEMEE

Halfway between Peterborough and Lindsay, this is a great place to stop, refuel and explore. Sitting on the Pigeon River, it has central docks for boaters to hitch up then walk into the village.

A variety of shops line the main street, offering home décor items, sweet treats and other essentials. Just a few blocks to the south, Omemee Municipal Park has a nice beach and play area for a family visit.

Pick up pizza, Chinese cuisine, baked goods or diner fare while you’re there. The variety of eateries is larger than you’d expect in a small settlement.

On its outskirts, you’ll find three natural areas that will leave you with great memories.

Riding east on the TransCanada Trail, you’ll

O H Greenhouses

find the trestle bridge and its fantastic views of the nearby hill. Accessible by bike or hike, it’s worth the trip.

Northeast of the village, Emily Provincial Park has great water access and a play area. Watch for the osprey nests in the area to see more nature at its finest.

Going west, stop in at Windy Ridge Conservation Area on Mount Horeb Road. It has 1.8 kilometres of hiking and biking trails that take you to panoramic views from the lookout atop the area’s highest ridge. Its 209 acres were donated by two families in recent years to preserve this gem.

This is an excellent area to see local birds and add more to your life list. The picnic spot is also a welcoming spot for a quiet getaway.

Photo Credit: Brian Parypa

HALIBURTON COUNTY

You are always welcome in the beautiful Haliburton Highlands, just east of Hwy. #11 and north of Hwy. #7, where residents and visitors celebrate the essence of Canada’s outdoor and creative spirit all year long.

The Haliburton Highlands, once known as “Gidaaki” – upward earth or height of land – by the Anishinaabe, is a place of connections: to the land, to history, to culture, to adventure, to each other and to ourselves. We acknowledge and respect the connections that First Nations have with this land that we love, and we want you to explore your own connections.

Explore ADVENTURE on the 600 lakes and 2000 kilometers of all-season trails. Whether you prefer self-propelled back country adventures, or motorized exploration, you will find a place to connect and rejuvenate here.

Explore CULTURE through the rich creative community. With live music, theatre, Opera (yes! Opera!), 100s of working artists, an outdoor art gallery, and the Haliburton Campus of Fleming’s School of Art and Design, this is your destination for experiencing creativity in an inspiring natural setting. An ever-increasing local food community and collection of unique food offerings – from sit-down gourmet to food-truck

finds – we will keep you nourished during your adventures.

Explore HISTORY and walk in the footsteps of Group of 7 member A.J. Casson, listen to the roar of water through a traditional log-chute, and explore historical buildings rich with stories.

Our community of communities welcomes thousands of visitors from all over the world each year. We are proud to say that communities aren’t just something we have, they are something we do.

When you visit you will enjoy unique “bucket list worthy” attractions like the iconic Dorset Lookout Tower, just north of Minden on Hwy. #35. The Haliburton Sculpture Forest, in Glebe Park, near the quaint village of Haliburton, an outdoor collection of sculptures by Canadian and International artists is open all year round. The Haliburton Forest, a privately owned 100,000 acres forest with 100 lakes and the famous Wolf Centre. Minden, home to the White Water Preserve and the Gull River.

We would love to help you plan the experience of a lifetime! Find everything you need at MyHaliburtonHighalnds.com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or call 705-286-1777.

HALIBURTON COUNTRY FAIR

June 10

Minden Fairgrounds

2048 Fleming Rd.

10TH ANNUAL CHARITY

GOLF CLASSIC

June 22

Pinestone Resort and Conference Centre

4252 Haliburton County Rd 21, Haliburton

HALIBURTON

ART & CRAFT FESTIVAL

Fri, July 21-23

Head Lake Park

2412 Monck Rd, Kirkfield

PREDATOR PROWL

July 5

Haliburton Forest and Wildlife

1095 Redkin Road

explore HALIBURTON

You will find tiny Haliburton tucked into a series of highland hills and you’ll be glad you made time to find it.

Inhabited by a richly talented group of artisans, the town thrums with creativity. The local campus of Fleming College offers courses in glassblowing, painting and drawing, jewelry design, ceramics and more, bringing more creative people to study while they vacation. A Creative Business Incubator also adds to the mix.

With more than 30 lakes in Haliburton County, the area thrives on tourism. The nearby Haliburton Scout Camp is also the largest of its kind in Canada, generating a lifetime of memories for thousands of campers each summer.

For a great outdoor adventure, explore the Haliburton Sculpture Forest between the Fleming College campus and Head Lake. You will find more than 30 large sculptures,

Abbey Gardens

including a metal moose, nestled into the trails of Glebe Park. This family outing is a kid-friendly way to get outside and encourage a love of the arts.

The Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve is a must-see destination for its wolf sanctuary and tree canopy walk. The trails around the facility are also worth a visit.

Drive or hike up the hill to Haliburton Skyline Park to see the town and all the beauty that surrounds it. The quiet forested area is a wonderful reprieve from busy days. The view is spectacular, particularly in the autumn when the leaves change to rich hues of red and gold.

The town’s 21 restaurants give you lots of choices for price and menu type while you dine. You can pair your meal with a beer from Haliburton Highland Brewing microbrewery to add more local flavour.

THINGS TO DO

 Lockside Trading Company

 Abbey Gardens

 Haliburton Highlands Studio Tour

 Abbey Gardens Disc Golf Trail

 Haliburton Sculpture Forest

 Haliburton Highlands Museum

 Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve

 Haliburton Forest Wolf Centre

 Haliburton County Farmers’ Market

 Algonquin Provincial Park

TREATS & EATS

 Nomi’s Lands 8FIFTY

 Maple Avenue Tap & Grill

 Baked & Battered

 Haliburton Highlands Brewery

WHERE

TO STAY

 Lakeview Motel & Resort

 Sir Sam’s Inn and Spa

 Pinestone Resort

WHY CHOOSE OPERA?

July 31

Abbey Gardens

1012 Garden Gate Dr, Haliburton

FROM OPERA TO BROADWAY

August 3

St George’s Anglican Church

617 Mountain St, Haliburton, ON

JOHN MCDERMOTT BAND

August 12

Abbey Gardens

1012 Garden Gate Dr, Haliburton

HALIBURTON FOREST 100

September 9

West Guilford, ON

HALIBURTON HIGHLANDS STUDIO TOUR

Sept 30- Oct 1

 Silver Maple Motel Visit us at www.froghollowarttour.com for ARTIST STUDIOS & LOCATIONS

Oct 7-8

explore WILBERFORCE & CARDIFF

While traveling to the South Gate of Algonquin Park, deep in the Haliburton Highlands, you will travel through the Municipality of Highlands East with a string of seven hamlets that make up the Geocaching Capital of Canada: Irondale, Gooderham, Tory Hill, Wilberforce, Harcourt, Highland Grove and Cardiff.

The picturesque hamlet of Wilberforce is nestled on the shores of Pusey Lake (commonly referred to as Dark Lake) and has plenty to offer. Wilberforce is home to the first Red Cross Outpost in Ontario which is now a National Heritage Site, the Wilberforce Agricultural Fair and is the Geocaching Capital of Canada.

The original mining town of Cardiff was built in the 1950’s. The hamlet entrance, located off HWY 118, features a large dragon fly sculpture, probably the largest in Canada. It has a Municipal Office, Public Library, Post Office, Fire Hall, Community Centre, Legion, General Store/Liquor Outlet/Restaurant, Public School and two Churches. Cardiff has a public in-ground pool and offers swimming lessons during the summer.

The area is also a mineral collecting hotbed. A fun outdoor activity adults and kids alike will delight in the chance to dig for buried treasure and bring home some colourful gems!

If you are an art lover the Highlands East Studio Tour in August will take you to quality studios of fine art and crafts amidst the breathtaking scenery and quaint local communities. Inspired by the beautiful lakes and hills of Highlands East between Bancroft and Haliburton this group of artists and artisans create exquisite ‘one-of-a-kind’ creations in a wide variety of media.

The Village of Wilberforce offers a great home base for your adventure and is home to the Wilberforce Fair, “the Biggest little fair around” which is hosted in mid August.

A Visitor Information Centre is open daily, midMay through to Thanksgiving and located at 2786 Essonville Line in Wilberforce, at the Curling Club. Contact the Info Centre at 705-448-2981 Ext. 432

TREATS & EATS

 Nomi’s Lands 8FIFTY

THINGS TO DO

 South Algonquin Trails Inc

 Red Cross Outpost

Historic House Museum

 Agnew’s General Store

 Geocaching Capital of Canada

WHERE TO STAY

 Nomi Resort

WILBERFORCE AGRICULTURE

FAIR

Aug 11-12

Wilberforce Curling Club

2786 Essonville Line, Wilberforce

Hwy648

Algonquin Trails

explore DORSET

Dorset – the Community with a View

The quaint village of Dorset, in the beautiful Haliburton Highlands offers genuine country charm in every way; local pride in their heritage and culture is displayed in art, festivals and community spirit overall. People are so friendly and welcoming; be it in the famous Robinson’s General Store, voted Canada’s Best Country Store or any one of the local eateries. Dorset is a go-to spot for visitors and cottagers and is home to the famous Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower, located off Highway 35 just north of the village of Dorset.

The original tower was built in 1922, was 25 metres high (82 feet) and used as a fire lookout tower until 1961. The current tower was built in 1967 and is 30 metres high

(100 feet) and was erected for visitors to enjoy the view. Annually, more than 10,000 vehicles (60,000 visitors) will pass through the gates. In the peak Autumn season, it is not unusual for more than 600 vehicles to visit the tower in a single day. Visitors are welcome to climb to the observation deck, which is 142 metres (465 feet) above Lake of Bays, and enjoy the view from the treetop lookout as well as ground level lookouts. Facilities include picnic sites, restrooms, a tourist information kiosk, a gift shop, and a hiking trail.

Pristine lakes and landscapes with lush forests full of fascinating wildlife await you in Dorset, get your adventure on!

TREATS & EATS

 Dominion Hotel Pub

 Kawartha Dairy

 The Pepper Mill

Steak and Pasta House

 Riverbank Cookhouse

THINGS TO DO

 Kinmount Artisan’s Marketplace

 Kinmount Fair

 Walsten Marine

 Minden River Walk

 Wild Water Preserve

 The Kinmount Heritage Model Railroad & Museum

 Austin Sawmill Heritage Park

WHERE TO STAY

 Dominion Hotel

 Motel Minden

 The Highlands Motel & Lodge

 Minden House B&B & Cottages

HALIBURTON COUNTRY FAIR

June 10 Minden Fairgrounds, 2048 Fleming Rd.

explore MINDEN & KINMOUNT

The beauty of Kinmount will impress you as soon as you drive into the village. For such a small place, it has a rich history which unfolds via a 22-point walking tour of the village.

Begin at the former train station – now the tourism office – to see the miniature version of the rail line from the town. From there, head outside to discover several grand heritage structures, along with the beautiful and lush Austin Sawmill Heritage Park on the site of the former sawmill. Visitors will also learn about the Icelandic settlers who tried to make their home here and how their journey ended in tragedy.

Don’t miss the mural on the side of the post office, showing the main streetscape circa 1900. It’s great for photos to remind you of your visit. Enjoy a show at one of the four theatres at the Kinmount Cinemas and Movie Museum, a rare gem in cottage country.

Catch lunch while overlooking Burnt River, whether you eat in or grab takeout. Every restaurant here is a winner.

Continuing north, you will find the town of Minden on the shores of the Gull River. This area is often the scene of international whitewater kayaking events due to the excellent racing watercourse. Amateurs, of course, are welcome to try it as well but it’s just a thrill to watch others train as you listen to the rushing water.

You can also enjoy a walk along the river or a visit to the Snowdon Park Wetland and Forest Preserve. If you want to add more birds or plants to your life list, this is the place to do it. For an overview of the area, head to Panorama Park Lookout and admire the scenery. Leave time and room for lunch or dinner - Minden has a broad array of legendary dining establishments and a craft brewery.

HASTINGS COUNTY

Looking for the ultimate getaway that combines stunning natural beauty with rich cultural experiences? Hearken back to a simpler time in Hastings County with its saltof-the-earth farming roots and relaxed pace of life. Hastings County is the second largest County in Ontario spanning from the Bay of Quinte all the way North to Algonquin Park. Our County is situated on the traditional territory of many nations including the Huron-Wendat, Anishnaabe and the Haudenosaunee peoples. We acknowledge and respect the connections that First Nations have with this land that we love, and we acknowledge the Mohawk and Algonquin Nations whose traditional and unceded territory we gather upon.

Located halfway between Toronto and Ottawa, our communities welcome thousands of visitors each year. Indulge in farm-to-table restaurants, cozy cafes, and charming bakeries serving up local cuisine that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds. Explore our history at key attractions such as Eagles Nest Park Lookout, the Bancroft Gem

and Mineral Museum or strolling through Farmtown Park. Enjoy interesting plays and performances at both the Stirling Festival Theatre and Tweed & Company Theatre.

Immerse yourself in our lush forests, crystalclear lakes, and rolling hills that make up some of the province’s most breathtaking landscapes. Take your outdoor adventures to the next level with hiking, biking, fishing, paddling and boating.

Known for its geological richness and significance, Hastings County covers a broad geographic landscape. Explore ancient rocks and minerals from one of the richest geological sites in Canada, or dig for more contemporary treasure in a local antique shop, filled with their own stories to tell. Stop by a farm stand and pick up some fresh produce. The more you explore, the more you will fall in love with Hastings County.

To help plan your itinerary, find everything you need at www.hastings.ca, or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

THINGS TO DO

 The Gen on Millpond

 Rivers Edge on Front

 Peppers Pet Food

 Lock 18

 Hastings Village Marine

 Hastings Field House

 The Water Lily Decor & Lockside Guest Suite

TREATS & EATS

 McGillicafey’s

 Banjo’s Grill

 Captain’s Table

WHERE TO STAY

 Hastings House B&B

HASTINGS

WATERFRONT FESTIVAL

Aug 19

www.hastingsfestival.ca

CROOKS RAPIDS COUNTRY FEST

Aug 25-26

Crooks Rapids Country Fest

45 Pickens Rd, Hastings

HASTINGS MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL

September 2, 3, & 4 100 Dunlay Road, Hastings

explore HASTINGS

The Village of Hastings has a rich and vibrant heritage dating back to the early 1600’s and the explorer Samuel de Champlain. It was incorporated in 1874 and remained a self-governing Village until 2003 when it amalgamated with surrounding communities and became part of the Municipality of Trent Hills.

Located on Highway 45, it’s just 30 minutes north of the 401 at Cobourg or east off Highway 7 from Peterborough, and 90 minutes from Toronto to the west or Kingston to the east. With a population of just over 1200, it offers a quaint downtown with all the necessary shops and services.

If you are travelling by boat, you will find Hastings on the Trent River, nestled in a valley halfway between Lake Seymour and Rice Lake at Lock 18 on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

The waterway provides a picturesque backdrop for your stroll about town, where you can indulge in retail therapy of all descriptions,

enjoy a sit-down meal, or grab some takeout for a riverside picnic.

The shimmering waters of the Trent River and Rice Lake are sure to please anglers and pleasure boaters alike. From Lock 18 in Hastings to Lock 19 in Peterborough, boaters have 60 kilometres of uninterrupted scenic water to explore and enjoy. Pleasure boating, sailing, water skiing, wakeboarding, wave running, swimming and fishing are perfect ways to pass the warm summer days on the waters around Hastings.

The Trans Canada Trail works its way through the community and offers breathtaking views for those who choose to cycle, walk, or horseback ride the groomed trail to or from Peterborough, or travel the rough trail to Campbellford via mountain bike or ATV. The roads of Trent Hills are open and welcoming to ATV users who respect the environment and the rules of the road.

Hastings – a winning combination of hometown atmosphere, with all the amenities, on a world class waterway.

The Gen on Millpond

TREATS & EATS

 7/62 Craft Brewers

 Ivanhoe Cheese

 Theo’s Pizzeria

 Kampfire Kitchens

THINGS TO DO

 Mackenzie Mills

 Kelly’s Flowers

 Madoc & District Chamber of Commerce

 Callaghan’s Rapids Conservation Area

 Horsin Around Riding Ranch

WHERE TO STAY

 Huntingdon House

Boutique B&B

 Crowe Valley

Campground/Resort

7/62 Craft Brewers

Ivanhoe Cheese

Kelly Flowers

MackenzieMills Emporium

MADOC

explore MADOC

Nestled in the heart of Hastings County on the Hwy 62 corridor the town of Madoc anchors Centre Hastings, a family-friendly community which offers a blend of rural and urban experiences with recreational activities and parks that both visitors and residents can enjoy.

Discover one-of-a-kind treasures and delicious treats downtown or explore the many farm gates open for you to buy straight from the farmer’s fields. Charming B & B’s nestled in picturesque settings dot the Centre Hastings area, giving you a home base from which to explore.

Downtown Madoc offers quaint stores and amenities all within two blocks! From tasty treats to one-of-a-kind treasures and even a craft brewery, there is something for everyone in the village centre.

Start your visit on Durham Street South and explore any number of eateries and stores selling a range of items from bulk foods to books and gifts. Explore Elgin Street to stock up on groceries and hardware products, then head down St. Lawrence Street for prescriptions or pet supplies. You can also tend to

all your beauty needs at any of the excellent salons.

Centre Hastings Park, located on Seymour St. W., is one of the finest family recreation facilities in the province, and includes two skateparks, playground, splash pad and picnic shelter.

A stone’s throw from Madoc’s downtown, Whytock Park is 60 acres of conservation land where you can walk, relax, and enjoy the tranquility; or you can make use of the outdoor pool, horseshoe pits, beach volleyball courts, remote control car pad and more.

Just north of Madoc you can visit the hamlet of Ivanhoe, home to the award-winning cheese factory.

For boating and fishing, head just off Hwy. 62 to Moira Lake – the perfect spot to fish, swim, or canoe. You’ll find a boat launch, washrooms, shaded picnic areas and plenty of parking.

Come for the day, come to play, come to stay –Madoc and Centre Hastings welcome you.

2 Craft Brewers

CROWE VALLEY COUNTRY MUSIC JAMBOREE

June 8-10

Marmora Fairgrounds

facebook.com/crowevalleyjamboree

www.crowevalleyjamboree.ca

CRUISIN’ THE 50’s 60’s 70’s

ROCK N ROLL FESTIVAL

Thu, June 22–24

2 Crawford Dr, Marmora

HERITAGE DAY

O’HARA MILL HOMESTEAD

July 15

10am – 4pm

638 Mill Road, Madoc

explore BANCROFT

This picturesque town, set along the York River, is a great spot for a day trip or as home base as you explore the area over a few days.

The Mineral Capital of Ontario will brighten your day with several shops selling gems discovered nearby. The Bancroft Gem and Mineral Club’s museum also offers a local history of mining and a wide range of rocks and gems in the former railway station.

Set in the Canadian Shield, this town was once abuzz with mining activity. The mineral veins here are rich but small, creating a niche market for gemhounds.

Many specimens from this area can be found in museums and collections all over the world, including the Smithsonian Institute. You can join the hunt for your own gems, or enjoy other outdoor activities, such as hiking, riding ATVs, fishing or camping.

The town is home to many talented artists, who sell their wares from their studios and at special events.

Driving in via Highway 28, you can take a break south of Bancroft at Silent Lake Provincial Park or continue north to explore the south end of Algonquin Park.

Take a drive or a trek up the mountain to Eagle’s Nest - across from Tim Hortons - to see for miles from the high lookout point. The natural area at the top of the steep rock face is rich in flora and fauna, offering a quiet refuge just minutes from the busy highway.

You can shop for all essentials here, thanks to the well-stocked grocery, hardware, dollar and liquor stores. The local coffee shops and bakeries will also tempt you with butter tarts and other sweet treats.

The Chocolate Rabbit

The Old Tin Shed

BOTH SIDES NOW: THE MUSICAL ERA OF JONI MITCHELL

June 14

Bancroft Village Playhouse

5 Hastings St S, Bancroft, ON

EDUARDO AT THE GRANITE

July 1

The Granite, 45 Bridge St W, Bancroft, ON

58TH ROCKHOUND GEMBOREE

Thurs. Aug.3 - Sun. Aug. 6

16 Station St, Bancroft, ON

BANCROFT POUTINE FEAST

Aug. 10 - 13

Millennium Park

166 Hastings St N, Bancroft, ON

COE HILL FAIR

Fri Aug 25 – Sat Aug 26

Hwy 620, Coe Hill, ON K0L 1P0

Mack

Bancroft Art Gallery

Chocolate Rabbit

Hwy28

Mill Street

WHERE TO STAY

 Sword Inn Bancroft

 Grail Springs Retreat Centre for Wellbeing

 MapleView Cottage

 Bancroft Inn & Suites

 Bancroft Bed & Breakfast

TREATS & EATS

 The Chocolate Rabbit

 The Granite

 McG’s Cakes on Main

 Wattle & Daub Cafe

 Eagles Nest Restaurant

 Bancroft Brew Pub

 Café B C

 Dave’s Place Restaurant

 Vito’s Pizzeria

 Pine Yard Chinese Food

 J. J’s Diner

 Market Cafe & Fudge Factory

THINGS TO DO

 The Old Tin Shed

 Art Gallery of Bancroft

 Mack Attack Outdoors

 Heritage Museum

 Millennium Park

 Eagle’s Nest Lookout

 Egan Chutes Provincial Park

 Bancroft Brewing

 Princess Sodalite Mine

 Bancroft Farmers’ Market

The Old Tin Shed

Attack Outdoors

NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY

Welcome to Northumberland County, a scenic collection of communities situated on the north shore of Lake Ontario, east of Toronto.

Northumberland County includes the popular towns of Cobourg, Port Hope, The Trent Hills and Brighton.

Northumberland County is located on the traditional territory of the Mississauga Anishinaabeg. It is important to recognize and show respect to the traditional keepers of this land - Indigenous peoples who first lived, and currently live, on the land where we live and work.

There is so much to see and do when visiting Northumberland County which is rich in forested adventure areas and unique cultural and artistic flair.

With events and festivals happening through all seasons there is always something fun on the go in Northumberland. Watch the amazing steelhead run on the Ganaraska River – or see local fair-weather enthusiasts floating down the Ganny on fun rafts during Float Your Fanny Down the Ganny every April. TreeTop Trekking through the Ganaraska Forest is also a highlight, and a must do on the day-trip bucket list, and the Big Apple in Brighton celebrates all things apple throughout the year!

There are an abundance of trails; the County Forest has over 118 km of trails and hosts over 50,000 visitors per year.

The trail network includes approximately 36 km of non-motorized double-track trails and 6 km of non-motorized single-track trails. There are 47 km of motorized double-track trails and roads and 7 km of motorized single-track trails. If hiking is more your speed find 15 km of hiking only trails and 4 km of accessible pedestrian trails.

When visiting Brighton, you must take a day and explore Presqu’ile Provincial Park! Presqu’ile is a park in southeastern Northumberland County on the north shore of Lake Ontario. With an area of 9.37 km2 (3.62 sq mi) there are an abundance of pristine beaches, camping, hiking and bird watching opportunities. The name of the park is the French word for peninsula, or literally “almost island”, and was believed to be named by Samuel De Champlain on his second expedition. Presqu’ile has 397 campsites, day use area, beach, store and two visitor centres.

Outdoor Markets and events are found locally all summer long, as well as concerts in parks and at the famous Westben Theatre just outside of Campbellford – open air music and theatre are good for the soul.

We invite you to experience all that Northumberland County has to offer, and encourage you to make a weekend of it, with excellent overnight accommodations and endless sights to see, and activities to keep the whole family entertained, Northumberland County delights visitors of all ages.

CAMPBELLFORD FAIR

Aug 11 - 13

315 County Rd 38, Campbellford

SOUNDS OF SILENCE

July 13

Westben, 6698 County Rd 30, Campbellford

TREATS & EATS

 World’s Finest Chocolate Outlet

 Empire Cheese

 Capers Tap House

 Dooher’s Bakery

THINGS TO DO

 Giant Toonie

 Memorial Military Museum

 Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge

 Trent-Severn Waterway, Lock 13

 Campbellford Farmer’s Market

WHERE TO STAY

 Campbellford River Inn

 The Waters Edge Inn

WORLD’S FINEST

explore CAMPBELLFORD

This delightful town on the Trent River has lots of excuses for you to drive down for the day. It is famous for several landmark businesses that are complemented by other entrepreneurs’ work.

Locks 11 and 12 of the Trent-Severn Waterway will get you to the south end of the town, a short walk to the commercial district. If you are driving in, its suspension bridge draws you into the heart of the town, just past the park where you will discover the giant sculpture of a twodollar coin, celebrating its local designer.

In addition to its parks and trails, you will want to visit the famous Dooher’s Bakery – named the sweetest bakery in Canada for the past two years. Its donuts are just one of the many highlights from its array of treats.

Church-Key Brewery is another highlight, as the longest-serving microbreweries in the area.

Just a short drive east, you will discover the World’s Finest Chocolate plant where candies are stored in bins large enough to satisfy any sweet tooth.

The Empire Cheese Co-op is another popular stop. Choose from their award-winning cheese products, especially on Saturday mornings when their famous fresh cheese curds are ready.

Once you’ve eaten well, walk south to the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge and into Ferris Provincial Park to explore its trails. The longer hike takes you along the river gorge. Seymour Conservation Area are also worth a visit to see its restored oak alvar savannah and for its great fishing spots.

On the west side of the river, you will find the Memorial Military Museum and its treasures. Make time to take in its many exhibits.

LILAC FESTIVAL

May 27 & 28

Millennium Trail

Main St, Warkworth

WARKWORTH

MUSIC FEST

Sat, Jul 27 - 30

Warkworth Fairgrounds

FALL FAIR

Sept 8 - 10

Warkworth Fairgrounds

Hwy25

WARKWORTH

WARKWORTH GOLFCLUB OUR LUCKY STARS

Hwy29

TREATS & EATS

 Our Lucky Stars

 Centre & Main Chocolate Co.

 Villa Conti Oak Heights Winery

THINGS TO DO

 Warkworth Golf & Country Club

 Ah! Arts And Heritage Centre

 Millennium Trail

 Villa Conti Oak Heights Winery

explore WARKWORTH

Surrounded by seven hills, this town is rich in artisans and its celebration of the arts. From its many shops to its Town Hall Centre for the Arts, it supports the creative people in its circle.

Known as a designated arts community since 2004, Warkworth is a regional hub for artistic endeavors. It is blessed with numerous galleries, featuring local and Canadian artists. Since it is so welcoming, the town has become home for many artists seeking like-minded people.

The Ah! Arts and Heritage Centre also adds to the rich culture here, organizing exhibitions, workshops and performances for dance, costumes, puppetry, masks and much more. It runs out of the Trent Hills Municipal Heritage Building.

The business association has set up a walking tour to highlight the stunning brickwork and other architectural details of the homes along Main, Centre and Church streets and nearby

roads. With 24 sites, it becomes a delightful treasure hunt.

Once you are done shopping for art, you can stop by the Villa Conti Oak Heights Winery for a glass or bottle of fine wine. You can complement your purchase there and treat yourself to goodies from the chocolate shop or the village pantry. At least five restaurants and cafes welcome you to try their delicious menu items.

Bring your bike and get out to explore five paved cycling routes around the town. They range in length from less than 30 minutes to four hours, taking you around town or across the adjacent countryside.

For another outside adventure, check out the Warkworth Conservation Area’s three acres of parkland. Mill Creek is dammed there, creating a great fishing spot. It is also a popular destination for anglers, photographers, painters and picnickers.

Warkworth Golf & Country Club