2017/2018
BEST OF THE BRUCE
BRUCE COUNTY, ONTARIO BEST OF THE BRUCE 3
Explorers Welcome TABLE OF CONTENTS Find Yourself in Bruce County 4-5 Interior 46-57 In your hand is your ticket to explore Lucknow and Ripley 48-49 Peninsula 6-25 Walkerton and Area 50-51 Hike the path less traveled, breathe in gorgeous sunsets on sandy Tobermory 8-9 Paisley and Area 52-53 beaches, surge through forests on a bike or paddle in the Great Lion’s Head 10-11 Mountain Bike the Bruce 54-55 Lake! Bruce County is a place where children are encouraged to Wiarton 12-13 The Mighty Saugeen River 56-57 look under rocks, and parents help with the heavy lifting. Bruce Trail 14-15
Unique Experiences Abound in Bruce County MS Chi-Cheemaun 16-17 Visitor Information Centres 58 If you are scouting for hidden treasures, courting a cultural scene Scuba Diving and Snorkeling 18-19 or seeking an unmatchable camping experience, come unearth it Flowerpot Island 20-21 Festivals and Events 59 here. Your journey will be marked with inquiry and discovery. Dark Sky Astronomy 22-23
Plan your Journey Bouldering 24-25 Include some of the exclusive adventures available in our regions. Ideas for your shopping, dining and sleeping experiences and stellar Lakeshore 26-45 community activities are in this guide. Come… Sauble Beach 28-29 Southampton 30-31 Explore the “Best of” Bruce County Port Elgin 32-33 Kincardine 34-35 Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band Parade 36-37 Lighthouse Tours 38-39 Kiteboarding and Great Lakes Surfing 40-41 Kayaking in the Fishing Islands 42-43 Explore the Unforgettable 44-45
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Find Yourself in Bruce County Work / life - zero distance in between
Starting a business in Bruce County is like setting up shop in a natural, entrepreneurial incubator. Your neighbours are your mentors, your customers are your boosters. Canada’s largest market is only two hours away. You’re surrounded by opportunities in food, energy, tourism, environmental and creative industry segments we can’t even imagine yet. But you will - because your commute from work to life is either very short or extremely exciting. Get on your bike...
Contact us 1-800-268-3838 businesstobruce.com
EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Peninsula 854 kilometres of coastline - 2 National Parks
It took millions of years for sediments to compress into the richly-layered, rugged coastline of the Bruce Peninsula. It will only take you a few moments on your first day here to realize how untouched it remains. From ancient forests to interior trails to every hand-hold and new perspective, this is the explorer’s natural playground. Grab life here...
explorethebruce.com/peninsula
Explore these Uncover these communities experiences
TOBERMORY 8-9 BRUCE TRAIL 14-15
LION’S HEAD 10-11 MS CHI-CHEEMAUN 16-17
WIARTON 12-13 SCUBA DIVING AND SNORKELING 18-19
FLOWERPOT ISLAND 20-21
DARK SKY ASTRONOMY 22-23
BOULDERING 24-25 BEST OF THE BRUCE 9 explorethebruce.com/tobermory
Left to right: Ropes course at Little Cove Adventures, Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill, Blue Bay Motel is steps to the marina, gifts at Mariner Chart Shop Tobermory The 8th Wonder of Canada
Situated at the tip of Bruce County, Tobermory’s clean, fresh air will invigorate you with every breath, and its pristine turquoise waters will captivate you.
Taking in your surroundings, you realize that with the Do Shop Eat Stay Great Lakes by your side and 1000 year old ancient Scuba diving capital of Tobermory is a fun, Live music, a wood fired Walk to your slumbering cedars firmly at your back, this is Canada; authentic, Canada, Fathom Five National bright and flavourful marine pizza oven and stunning views place at Blue Bay Motel in the rugged and stunningly scenic. Marine Park is home to 22 community with art galleries, over Georgian Bay contribute heart of Tobermory overlooking shipwrecks – many dating back scrumptious treats and nautical to the delicious experience that Big Tub Harbour on Georgian to the mid-1800s. Or view them antiques. Watch the magic awaits you at Tubby’s Lounge Bay. Or, for a secluded stay, through glass bottoms boats happen at The Sweet Shop: and Gastropub. Tucked watch the sunset at Bear Cove with Blue Heron Cruises or where fine confections are away in the Cornerstone Golf Bed & Breakfast on Lake Bruce Anchor Cruises on created the old fashioned Club clubhouse, the Ancient Huron. Even though you are at your way to Flowerpot Island. way. Unearth fine art pieces at Cedars Café features a menu the tip of the Peninsula, have no Launch your own SUP adventure Circle Arts that are uniquely to suit everyone’s desires; fear… free Wi-Fi is available. with rented gear from Bruce Peninsula and crafted vegan, gluten-free or complete BEST TIME TO VISIT Thorncrest Outfitters or join by Canada’s finest artists. The carnivore options. End your day Fathom Paddle Guiding to Mariner Chart Shop, along sipping a Bruce Trail Blonde Ale TOBERMORY Spring/Fall view the historic Big Tub the dock, is a must visit, full of or Fathom Five Porter at the Lighthouse and shipwrecks at clothing and gifts. Tobermory Brewing your own speed. Company and Grill.
DON’T MISS FUN FACT BRUCE PENINSULA FLOWERPOT ISLAND MS CHI-CHEEMAUN BIG TUB LIGHTHOUSE NATIONAL PARK 519-596-2233 1-800-265-3163 1-800-268-3838 Number of shipwrecks in the area: 22 VISITOR CENTRE pc.gc.ca Front Street 264 BigEXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Tub Road 1-888-773-8888 ontarioferries.com BEST OF THE BRUCE 11 explorethebruce.com/lions-head
Left to right: Dark Skies exploring, Lion’s Head Inn, shopping at The Dandy Lion, view from the side patio at Lion’s Head Beach Motel & Cottages
Lion’s Head Serenity on Bruce Peninsula
Situated in a secret nook on the famous Bruce Peninsula, Lion’s Head is a little town perfect for those looking for Do Shop Eat Stay Come see Saturn’s To find that uniquely Before heading out to enjoy Trip Advisor’s top rated peaceful serenity. rings, Jupiter’s moons and the Canadian-made reminder of the serenity of Lion’s Head, grab B&B on the Bruce Peninsula, Great Red Spot with Bayside your restful unwinding in Lion’s a perky cup of fair trade organic Taylor-Made Bed and Residents and tourists come to Astronomy every Friday and Head, visit The Dandy Lion. coffee fromRachel’s Bakery Breakfast welcomes you home Saturday evening at dusk in the Discover hidden secrets at and Café. Lunch is served at to a relaxing evening and gets Lion’s Head to explore the crystal summertime at the Peninsula Hellyer’s Food Market. An Marydale’s Family Restaurant, your day fueled with energetic clear blue-green waterways under the Observation Deck, just steps unexpected staircase in the a cozy neighbourhood hangout choices for breakfast. For a from the Lion’s Head Marina. cereal aisle transports shoppers majestic escarpment. in the centre of town. Many water-side stay, Lion’s Head At Greig’s Caves, explore to Grandad’s Attic, to pick up scrumptious choices on menus Beach Motel & Cottages lets natural limestone caves and a board game or elusive antique The area boasts of amazing hiking, safe shallow illustrated by local school you hear the waves lapping at breathtaking views from 300 for the cottage. beaches and natural attractions, all perfect to host children, but locals will say the the shoreline while you sleep. feet above the sparkling waters your next retreat. Crispy Chicken Wrap is their of Georgian Bay. Or head to hands down favourite. Walk, The Bruce Trail, to hike in a drive, ski or snowmobile to nature reserve known for the the traditional English pub, largest concentration of glacial The Lion’s Head Inn, at the potholes on the escarpment. end of the day to savour their LION’S HEAD panko breaded Perch Feast.
DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE BAYSIDE ASTRONOMY GREIG’S CAVES LION’S HEAD PROVINCIAL HARBOURSIDE MUSIC 519-377-5166 519-377-8762 NATURE RESERVE 519-793-4782 Lighthouse and Harbour 1 Bruin Street 407 Scenic Caves Road 519-389-9056 Lion’s Head Harbour 44°59’27.1”N 81°14’56.6”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM bpba.ca greigscaves.ca ontarioparks.com visitlionshead.ca BEST OF THE BRUCE 13 explorethebruce.com/wiarton
Left to right: splash pad fun, fuel up at the Green Door Cafe, shop the Rankin River Trading Company and sleep at The Spirit Rock Outpost & Lodge
Wiarton Basecamp to the Bruce Peninsula
As the provisioning headquarters to the beautiful Bruce Peninsula, Wiarton is the perfect basecamp for any day hike, boat trip or Do Shop Eat Stay camping adventure. With magnificent views Food, fashions, and You’d be crazy to miss the Glamping is taken to a of Colpoy’s Bay, Bluewater furnishings can be found on the Gourmet Local Lamb Burger new level at The Spirit Rock Park offers a waterfront main street in Wiarton. Pick up with garlicky homemade Outpost & Lodge. In addition Pack your bags, explore the wilderness campground, picnic and some delicious Wiarton Willie Caesar Salad at Green Door to conventional motel of the region, and challenge yourself playground areas, swimming Droppings or Bruce Trail Mix Café, or for a vegetarian option, accommodations, four Cabin pool, splash pad, tennis courts, from Northern Confections try the Roasted Vegetable Pita Tents are burrowed into the to the top of the escarpment. fitness trail, historic Train and start your shopping with Goat Cheese. For outdoor bush and provide all the Station, ball diamond and experience at Josie’s of dining, grab an incredible Bento comforts of traditional lodgings. Nestled between the rugged limestone cliffs Wiarton Willie. On Groundhog Wiarton for a fantastic dress Box Combo from The Wiarton Located in a Heritage- of the Niagara Escarpment and the shores of Day, this nationally-renowned fitting session. Before heading Inn for a picnic in beautiful designated home, The Wright Georgian Bay, you can’t help but notice the stunning prognosticator makes his to the cottage, stop at Home Bluewater Park or dine on the House Bed and Breakfast is landscape and opportunities to touch, climb annual spring prediction at the by Design to pick up waterfront patio of Dockside an Edwardian mansion with and experience the outdoors right at your fingertips. Wiarton Willie Festival. contemporary home decor for a Willies. antique furniture, cozy rooms For a breathtaking hike, take the chic element, or Rankin River and delectable home-cooked Bruce Trail north from the park Trading Company if rustic breakfast. to climb the red spiral staircase cottage is more your style. to Spirit Rock Lookout and the Spirit Rock Conservation Area.
WIARTON DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE WIARTON WILLIE BRUCE TRAIL SPIRIT ROCK THE BRUCE BECKONS FESTIVAL 1-800-665-4453 CONSERVATION AREA 519-534-1256 Niagara Escarpment from Wiarton Bluewater Park 519-534-4545 400 William Street Highway 6 38 Beckons Lane 44°44’39.2”N 81°08’12.2”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Bluewater Park brucetrail.org greysauble.on.ca thebrucebeckons.ca
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This 890 km trail runs between Queenston, in the Niagara region, to Tobermory in the Bruce Peninsula.
EXPLORE CANADA’S OLDEST As you hike along the trail you will see the spectacular scenic AND LONGEST FOOTPATH Hike the Bruce Trail lookouts overlooking Georgian Bay with the escarpment as the backdrop. BRUCE TRAIL CONSERVANCY Challenge yourself and hike along Canada’s oldest 1-800-665-HIKE and longest footpath: The Bruce Trail. brucetrail.org TOP 10 HIKES ALONG THE BRUCE TRAIL
1 6
Overhanging Point Hope Bay
2 7
Devil’s Monument Sydney Bluff
3 8
White Bluff Jones Bluff
4 9
Lion’s Head Malcolm Bluff
5 10
Jackson’s Cove Spirit Rock
explorethebruce.com/bruce-trail
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BE A CRUISING EXPLORER
MS CHI-CHEEMAUN RESERVATIONS MS Chi-Cheemaun 1-800-265-3163 Crossing the main channel, stand on the ship’s deck to watch over Georgian Bay as the sun dawns in the east on another adventurous day.
explorethebruce.com/cruise
Clockwise from left: Sailing into Tobermory; view from the stern; at the dock with the bow open to load and unload passengers Coming home, gaze west from the MS and But the MS Chi-Cheemaun isn’t only a means of getting from here to there. Sunset Dinner Cruise & Concert Series pair Traditional watch the sun melt into golden Lake Huron. Storytelling and live concerts with delectable three-course, gourmet dinners. Board the MS Chi-Cheemaun, or the Big Canoe, by car, camper, or Are you catching the last sail back to the mainland? Late evening bike (motor and pedal) or bus for a short cut to Northern Ontario sailings are a mystical star-gazing voyage. An experienced or an experience in its own right. Set sail for a 2 hour cruise from astronomer guides passengers through the Bruce Peninsula’s Dark Tobermory at the very tip of the Bruce Peninsula, to Manitoulin Sky Reserve. Night sky Astronomy Tours will help you find stars, Island, the world’s largest freshwater island. The 111 metre ship can meteors and many other hidden treasures in the sky. ferry almost 650 passengers and over 140 vehicles! To make the 40 kilometre crossing comfortable, the ferry has a complete cafeteria service, a children’s play area, indoor and outdoor lounges and a “Boatique” gift shop.
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BE AN UNDERWATER EXPLORER
DIVER’S DEN Fathom Five National Marine Park is an 519-596-2363 www.diversden.ca underground museum.
G+S WATERSPORTS LTD 519-596-2200 Renowned for scuba diving, Fathom Five National Marine Park is Canada’s first underwater park and boasts 22 known shipwrecks! www.gswatersports.net Regardless of your experience as a diver or snorkeler, the dive LITTLE COVE ADVENTURES shops of Tobermory will introduce you to Canada’s premiere 519-596-8622 dive destination. www.littlecove.ca The park is over 116 square kilometres of crystal clear water surrounded by an archipelago of 19 islands. Sheer cliffs and huge Scuba Diving and Snorkeling PARKS CANADA DIVER caves can be found both on the islands and beneath the turquoise 22 shipwrecks - 10-150 feet REGISTRATION CENTRE 519-596-2233 waters. And for the diving enthusiast, the remains for over 20 historical shipwrecks lie 10 to 150 feet beneath the surface waiting With tanks or without, diving enthusiasts will be reluctant to be investigated. Savage storms have left masts broken and scattered, but massive timbers remain intact, giving divers and to surface with so much to see. You’ll see plenty with up to 100 feet snorkelers a glimpse of steamers and cargo ships that brought of water clarity. Our pristine waters feature submerged forests, passengers and supplies to the Bruce Peninsula over a century ago. limestone shoals and as varied a collection of submerged vessels in Tobermory is one of the few places in Canada to have a hyperbaric dive chamber, refurbished in 2015 to provide essential medical and one place as you’ll encounter anywhere. Fathom the possibilities... educational support for the North American diving community.
Dive shops, sightseeing and charter vessels and the Parks Canada Diver Registration Centre are all located within walking distance in Little Tub Harbour. All divers planning to dive in Fathom Five, need to first obtain their dive tag by registering at the Centre.
Exploring the limestone nooks and crannies in the crystal clear turquoise waters of Big Tub Harbour
explorethebruce.com/diving
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BE AN ISLAND EXPLORER
BLUE HERON CRUISES Glass Bottom Boat Tours to 519-596-2999 BRUCE ANCHOR CRUISES Flowerpot Island 519-596-2555 BRUCE PENINSULA Nestled on the shores of crystal clear tropical blue water, NATIONAL PARK 1-888-773-8888 Tobermory is the 8th wonder of Canada.
explorethebruce.com/flowerpot
Located at tip of the Bruce Peninsula, shipwrecks laying just beneath the surface in Big Tub Harbour and share the history of those shipwrecks as you embark on the Flowerpot Island is a scuba diver’s paradise, journey to Flowerpot Island. an explorer’s dream and a family’s Flowerpot Island gets it’s name from the two natural “flowerpot” BEST TIME TO VISIT memorable vacation. rock pillars. Here you can explore the flowerpots, caves, historic light station and ancient cedars, some over 750 years old! To scope Spring/Fall out all of the beauty on the island, it is recommended to plan for Flowerpot Island is located in Fathom Five National Marine 5 hours. And remember to wear running shoes or hiking footwear; Park, 6.5 km off the shore of Tobermory and is only accessible by rugged terrain ahead for the adventurous. boat. Blue Heron Cruises and Bruce Anchor Cruises are the only two private boat tour companies that make multiple trips If you’re interested in spending the night, there are 6 campsites daily beginning in the spring until mid-fall. Both companies on Flowerpot Island that can be booked through Bruce Peninsula Top: Viewing the shipwrecks in Big Tub Harbour feature glass bottom boat tours that explore some of the National Park Reservations. Bottom: One of the majestic Flowerpots
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Big city lights will be a faint glow in your memory as the peninsula darkness BE A DARK SKY provides the perfect EXPLORER Dark Sky backdrop for a BAYSIDE ASTRONOMY Astronomy spectacular view of 647-885-6998 our Milky Way. As the sun sets on another glorious day, Bayside Astronomy is a free the starry vistas begin to unfold in the Dark Sky program, beginning at dusk Preserve on the Bruce Peninsula. every Friday and Saturday night from Canada Day to Labour Day at the Peninsula Observatory Deck (POD) beside the Lion’s Head Marina. Astronomy enthusiasts start the adventure at dusk with a short constellation conversation and then you can explore the awe-inspiring vastness of the universe like never before using volunteer telescopes. Planning a week-long stay? Bayside Astronomy takes the show on the road: Mondays at Miller’s Family Camp, Wednesdays at Summer House Park and Thursdays at Singing Sands in Bruce Peninsula National Park.
Ever wondered “What is the brightest star in our sky?” or “How far away is the closest star?”. Ever wanted to travel to Andromeda, the next galaxy? Or thought “Why is it called the Milky Way? Whether you are an amateur astrophotographer or want to glimpse Saturn’s rings, the best way to appreciate the sky is to see it for yourself.
Clockwise: Bayside Astronomy evenings explorethebruce.com/darkskies at the POD, volunteer showing the constellations, wonderful view of the Northern Lights EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM
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BE A CLIMBING Bouldering EXPLORER PARKS CANADA VISITOR CENTRE in Bruce Peninsula 1-888-773-8888 National Park
With large limestone boulders dotted along Georgian Bay’s turquoise shores, the Bruce Peninsula offers exciting bouldering opportunities.
CAVE GEORGIAN BAY POINT
FOREST BOULDER explorethebruce.com/bouldering BEACH
BEST TIME TO VISIT LAKESIDE DAISY ZONE Spring/Fall FOREST
BRUCE TRAIL
Climbing boulders, “Problems” are the paths As a core part of UNESCO’s Parks Canada and the Ontario time to boulder is in the spring and fall when the crowds climbers take to get to the top Niagara Escarpment World Access Coalition provides or bouldering, is a have dwindled. There is a nominal cost to park at Halfway Log and each boulder may have Biosphere Reserve, Bruce bouldering guidelines to protect Dump and keep in mind, beyond the parking lot, there are HALFWAY DUMP many problems of varying Peninsula National Park sprawls the park and keep you safe. SIDE TRAIL TO self-powered, low no washrooms or garbage receptacles. Get up-to-date BOULDERING impact outdoor difficulty. Since ropes and over 156 square kilometres Visit www.ontarioaccess information on parking, visitor attractions and alternate harnesses are not used, and is home to many coalition.com for more bouldering and climbing destinations at the Parks Canada activity that is both bouldering is made safest endangered and at risk species. information and to review their Visitor Centre in Tobermory. fun and challenging. through the use of spotters Bouldering is only permitted Interpretive Bouldering Guide HALFWAY and protective crash pads. from Cave Point to Boulder to Halfway Log Dump. PARKING LOT DUMP RD A climber starts her ascent at Boulder Beach. Beach at Halfway Log Dump Right: Map of permitted bouldering areas It’s not uncommon for the Open Closed Washrooms within Bruce Peninsula National parking lot to fill to capacity in Park. An agreement between July and August, so the best EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Lakeshore 3,543 km3 of fresh water - sunsets daily
Something special happens to the human spirit when Lake Huron waves brush beaches in perfectly-timed succession. It reveals your playfulness to others and releases peace inside that few other experiences match. That’s only just the start of Bruce County’s Lakeshore experience. The expanse of water and sand neighbours entire villages of quaint shops, unique eateries and soon-to-be friends. Welcome to where we live...
explorethebruce.com/lakeshore
Explore these Uncover these communities experiences
SAUBLE BEACH 28-29 KINCARDINE SCOTTISH PIPE BAND PARADE 36-37
SOUTHAMPTON 30-31 LIGHTHOUSE TOURS 38-39
PORT ELGIN 32-33 KITEBOARDING AND GREAT LAKES SURFING 40-41
KINCARDINE 34-35 KAYAKING IN THE FISHING ISLANDS 42-43
EXPLORE THE UNFORGETTABLE 44-45 BEST OF THE BRUCE 29 explorethebruce.com/sauble-beach
Left to right: Planning a SUP path; double decker taco bus; handmade delectable chocolates; dessert at Carson’s Camp
Sauble Beach The Retro Beach
Walking downtown showing off your swimsuit. Listening to tunes from the passing cars with ice cream in hand. Playing a round of mini-golf, or catching the Do Shop Eat Stay latest sunset. These are all Spring and fall are the For your swim gear, visit Solas Grill is known for With many campgrounds normal experiences found in best times to hike the Sauble Jack n Jill’s Surf Shop, the the beachfront patio and to choose from such as Trail to Sauble Falls. Cabana Beach House, or homemade pizzas. Bring Carson’s Camp, White Sands, Sauble Beach. Overhanging trees and the Longboard Woody’s Surf burgers and fries from The Sauble Falls Tent and Trailer tiered waterfall make for a Shop. For stylish summer wear, Crowd Inn or Mars Fries back and of course Sauble Falls perfect Kodak moment. See on and off the beach, visit This is the second longest fresh water to the beach towel. Craving Provincial Park, your hundreds of vintage cars and The Garage Clothing Co. tacos? Casero Taco Bus serves adventure continues into the beach in the world with an 11 kilometre motorcycles along Main Street For your cottage décor visit fresh, locally-sourced, evening for campfires and stretch of white sandy beach. every Tuesday night during One 0 Six On Main and homemade Mexican Cuisine. s’mores. If you are looking for the summer at classic Cruise Sauble Beach Antiques. At Beach Burger, sink your a comfortable bed down river Your Sauble Beach experience is one of the summer Night. Rent a Stand up Paddle Looking for some snacks for teeth into a juicy burger topped from the falls, stay at Sauble family fun, old fashioned values and retro flashbacks, board from SUP Sauble Beach the beach? Stop in at Bruce with pineapple. For an River Marina and Lodge all set on a beautiful beach of Sauble. and paddle along the Lake County Nut and Fudge for eclectic cafe experience, Resort where you can rent SAUBLE BEACH Huron shoreline. In the their popcorn, fudge and visit Two Chicks Cafe and canoes, kayaks and bicycles. summer, join the fun at the chocolate bark. Smoothie Bar or Macbeths Sauble Speedway on Saturday Cafe & Bakery. Open year nights to cheer on the Thunder round, Sauble Dunes will Cars, Four Cylinders and of satisfy steak lovers with their course – lawnmowers! Steak and Caesar Salad special.
DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE SAUBLE SPEEDWAY SAUBLE FALLS TRAILS SAUBLE SAND DUNES GIGGLES ARCADE 519-422-1422 519-422-1952 Sauble Falls Parkway 519-422-9937 Sauble Beach Sign 1199 Bruce Road 14 1400 Sauble Falls Road visitsaublebeach.ca 107 Main Street 44°37’46.0”N 81°16’14.3”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM saublespeedway.ca ontarioparks.ca gigglesarcade.com BEST OF THE BRUCE 31 explorethebruce.com/southampton
Left to right: shopping on High Street, boating back from Chantry Island; dish by Elk & Finch; strolling along Fairy Lake, strolling into Chantry Breezes.
Southampton Master the art of strolling
High Street in Southampton is a place to bump into old friends and new, to slow down your pace and treat yourself to a little something from the boutique Do Shop Eat Stay or bistro. Thorncrest Outfitters Stroll into Offshore One of the first Chantry Breezes Bed will suit you up for your canoe, Bakery for a “Bruce County structures built in Southampton and Breakfast is a gracious kayak or stand up paddle board Potato” or their famous flaxseed Allow yourself the time to listen in 1852, the Walker House Victorian home with spacious trip along the Saugeen River. bread. Southampton Olive offers scrumptious house wrap-around porches, patios, to every word of meaningful Martin’s Bike Shop rents bikes Oil Company offers a specialties. Armen’s creates and flower gardens and offers conversations. to those looking to bike along tasting extravaganza of olive delicious dishes inspired from the discerning visitor an the waterfront North Shore oils and balsamic vinegars. world journeys that are hard to exceptional standard of Create the time to enjoy the flavours of every last Trail. Take a short ferry ride to Cooks Cupboard will replicate at home. Gather at accommodation. Camp at the morsel. Stroll into niche boutiques and find that special the bird sanctuary on Chantry entertain you with kitchenware Elk & Finch for locally sourced Dreamaker Family something to make your loved one’s eyes sparkle. Stroll Island to climb the lighthouse and gadgets that take ordinary meals and “to die for” desserts. Campground on the shores along the favourite beach boardwalk, then make your and explore the light keeper’s food to the extraordinary. Enjoy the famous fish & chips of the Indian or Deer Ponds. way to a beach-side bench to take in a lingering view of cottage. Browse the L & Co., Infinite and Sisters and a little karoke at Duffy’s, Quality Inn is just steps away the naturally beautiful Chantry Island lighthouse. Southampton Art Gallery on Huron and Preview order a delicious catered meal from the Saugeen River. Or find at the historic Southampton provide chic clothing and at Little Black Dog, try an a cozy, private cottage to stay in Town Hall. See the vintage intimates for Boomers, that award-winning veal sandwich with your group. SOUTHAMPTON cars on Cruiser’s Nights at the can be equally embraced by at Highview Food & Drink and flag each Thursday evening in their daughters. savour a home brewed pint at the summer. Outlaw Brew Co.
DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE SOUTHAMPTON RENT A BIKE CHANTRY ISLAND TOURS BRUCE COUNTY MUSEUM ARTS CENTRE 519-797-3200 519-797-5862 & CULTURAL CENTRE Views from Southampton Pioneer Park 519-797-5068 235 High Street 86 Saugeen Street 33 Victoria Street N. 44°30’00.1”N 81°22’26.1”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM 201 High Street martinsbicycleshop.com chantryisland.com brucemuseum.ca BEST OF THE BRUCE 33 explorethebruce.com/port-elgin
Left to right: Port Elgin Steam Train; delicious Fireside Stix at Allen’s; walk, bike or rollerblade on the North Shore Trail; relax in Super 8 Motel’s pool
Port Elgin Celebrate
Port Elgin is the perfect celebration destination to share with friends and family by your side. Do Shop Eat Stay Whether it’s a girl’s night on the Sightseers won’t want Looking for that Grab a seat outside at Sit back and relax in town sipping wine at a bustling to miss the Port Elgin Steam perfect outfit for your night on Chester’s, The Wismer comfort at Port Elgin’s Super 8 restaurant, or the smiles you’ll receive Train along the shore, or the the town? Beachin’, Cabana House and the Queen’s Bar Motel or Colonial Motel. shuttle that travels , on your anniversary knowing you SS Trolley Beach House Mensch and Grill for a cold beverage Both locations have to and from Port Elgin and Clothing and Casual Corners and delicious pub fare. restaurants on site to offer a hot found the perfect gift to surprise that Southampton. Take the crew will have that stylish outfit Executive Chef Randy Felker at breakfast before you start your special someone. out to walk, bike or rollerblade with the perfect shoes to make Ristorante Rosina’s creates next adventure! Campers and along the lakefront North you feel great as you dance gourmet dining experiences. day trippers can delight in the So go ahead, give yourself a pat on the back for Shore Trail. Or head inland the night away. Belle of the Gather with friends to watch open-year-round MacGregor surviving the week, enjoy a delectable meal, listen to to the Saugeen Rail Trail. Boudoir carries beautiful the game at Allen’s Fireside Point Provincial Park in Port live music over a pint at the pub, lay back and kick it on Enjoy Metta Wave Yoga on intimates for women. Visit and share a plate of their Elgin and seasonal Inverhuron the beach, or shop downtown. Toasting life’s moments the beach, or challenge your Port’s Emporium or Accents signature Fireside Stix. For a Provincial Park in Tiverton. is made easy in Port Elgin. friends to a Stand Up Paddle for trendy home decor and gifts. steaming cup of java, visit Both offer superb trails and Board session! In the winter, Pick up something for the kids Rabbit Dash or Ashanti. beautiful beaches along Lake snowshoe and cross country at Turtle Crossings Toy Store Select farm fresh produce at Huron. ski groups gather at Beiner or Bicyclette Rouge. Hi-Berry Farms from spring Bush Trail and Woodland PORT ELGIN to fall. Pick apples and Trail, a non-motorized forest navigate the corn maze at trail system. Smith’s Apples in autumn.
DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE SS TROLLEY STEAM TRAIN BEACH YOGA SESSIONS SMITH’S APPLES 519-832-2332 519-389-3919 226-453-3020 & FARM MARKET Port Elgin Harbour 642 Green Street 101 Green Street Port Elgin Main Beach 470 The River Road 44°26’39.0”N 81°24’12.4”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM sstrolley.ca visitportelgin.ca mettawave.com smithsapples.com BEST OF THE BRUCE 35 explorethebruce.com/kincardine
Left to right: Stroll along the boardwalk at Station Beach, enjoy a bite at The Bruce Steakhouse, shop the main strip and enjoy a sunset
Kincardine Ontario’s Scottish Destination
Kincardine is proud of their Do Shop Eat Stay Scottish roots and their March with the Looking to try your hand Enjoy casual fine dining Just steps away from the connection to Lake Huron. Kincardine Scottish Pipe at Stand Up Paddle-boarding with a side serving of sunsets at downtown core and shoreline Band as they parade Queen or being outfitted for the sport? the Harbour Street Brasserie, the Inn at the Harbour, From their Scottish themed festivals and pipe band Street every summer Saturday Check out West Shore Surf showcasing an ever-changing, Kincardine’s premier boutique parades to their phantom pipers, Kincardine offers evening at 8pm in downtown Shoppe for all of your surf, surf seasonal menu. The Bruce hotel, will delight even the most an original Scottish experience, a historic downtown Kincardine. Head to Walker’s rental and beach wear needs. Steakhouse is the place to get discerning of traveler. And did atmosphere and a waterfront location where the local Lookout or grab a seat on one Kincardine’s Scottish Shop, local food - Bruce County’s we mention that every room tartan is proudly displayed and everyone can enjoy a of our Big Blue Beach Chairs located across from Victoria famous beef. Hawg’s Breath has a sunset view? For a true little taste of Scotland. and take in a famous Lake Park, are the purveyors of all features the best sandwiches waterfront stay, fall asleep to Huron sunset as the Phantom things Scottish including kilt and friendliest atmosphere the sound of the waves at the Piper’s eerie lament pipes the rentals! Visit Penetangear, in town. Lakefront Bed & Breakfast, sun to sleep. Grab your surf the lakeside lifestyle experts, a truly romantic, adult retreat. board, beach towel or volleyball for casual, outdoor and active The Best Western Governor’s and hit up sandy Station Beach clothing and equipment for the Inn or Marriott Towne Place & Boardwalk home of many entire family. Kincardine is also Suites offer the quality and events throughout the summer. host of several high-end gift space for a group stay or big shops and ladies fashions, such event. as Nine Waves.
KINCARDINE
DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE KINCARDINE STONEY ISLAND BRUCE POWER VISITOR PADDLEBOARD RENTALS CRUISE NIGHTS CONSERVATION AREA CENTRE 519-396-5369 Station Beach Big Blue Beach Chairs 519-396-4396 431 County Road 23 177 Tie Road Station Beach 44°10’28.5”N 81°38’30.1”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM sunsets.com/kincardine svca.on.ca brucepower.com westshoreclothing.com
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Kincardine Scottish
Pipe Band Parade BE A SCOTTISH EXPLORER As eight o’clock approaches, there’s an KINCARDINE TOURISM energy that starts to build as spectators 1-866-546-2736 await the march of the Scottish band.
Listen to the faint Follow the Band as they parade north on Queen Street to drone of the bagpipes Quinn Plaza (just south of as the band begins to Broadway Street), where the warm up in Victoria Band will take a short, and well deserved break before Park. embarking on the return route. Be sure to stay with the Band all the way back to Victoria The sound of lawn chairs being Park, and enjoy a short concert set up as faithful attendees following. claim their spot along the parade route. The excitable Understandably, not everyone laughter as youngsters stand is able to visit on a Saturday in impatiently in line for ice the summertime. If visiting any cream while the anticipation other evening during July & grows. A main street tradition August, you’re invited to in Kincardine since 1948, you’ll Walker’s Lookout to enjoy thrill to the sights and sounds the haunting sounds of the Everyone gets of Scotland as the Kincardine Phantom Piper, as the sun in on the action Scottish Pipe Band parades is piped to sleep from atop each Saturday Queen Street every Saturday the Kincardine Lighthouse. evening in the evening in the summertime. The lament of the pipes can summer be heard as the sun starts its The band forms up at Victoria descent, until well below Park (Durham Market Square the horizon. This unique North), with hundreds – if not experience is an ode to the thousands of spectators falling Legend of Donald Sinclair, in line directly behind, awaiting which can be found inscribed the procession. At 8pm sharp, on a plaque on Walker’s Lookout. explorethebruce.com/parade rain or shine (and we really mean rain or shine), we march! EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Clockwise from left: Big Tub lighthouse in BEST OF THE BRUCE 39 Tobermory, Chantry Island lighthouse in Southampton, Point Clarke lighthouse and Kincardine lighthouses at sunset
BE A LIGHTHOUSE Lighthouse Tours EXPLORER explorethebruce.com/lighthouses Steadfast, serene, immovable, the same year after year, through all the silent nights, Bruce County’s lighthouses evoke romantic mystery of lighthouse keepers devoting their lives to the preservation of fisherman and lake travelers.
Whether it’s for their beauty, romance or practicality - or a combination of all three - the mystery and tradition of lighthouse-keeping has us both fascinated and intrigued.
The Bruce Coast Lighthouse Tour is a self-guided world-class marine heritage experience available only in Bruce County! Our coastline spans a whopping 854 kilometres, offering up 15 different lighthouses to explore from spring until fall. For a peek inside, daily tours are available at select lighthouses: • Chantry Island (Accessible by boat only. Daily tours provided by Marine Heritage Society. Hours vary) • Flowerpot Island (Mid May - Thanksgiving, Museum: July & August) • Kincardine (Open July 1st – Labour Day: 11:00am – 5:00pm) • Point Clark (Open late June to Labour Day, 10am - 5pm daily)
For a truly authentic experience, the Flowerpot Island Lighthouse offers aLighthouse Keepers Program. Brave souls, ready for the challenges of living on the rocky shoreline edge, can experience what some of the lighthouse keeper’s duties were. For more information, visit: • Cabot Head – www.cabothead.ca • Flowerpot Island – www.castlebluff.com
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BE A WIND Kiteboarding and AND WAVE EXPLORER LEARN & RENT GEAR FROM:
Great Lakes Surfing SAUBLE BEACH KITESURFING SCHOOL Harness the power of the wind and waves 519-422-3962 on the coast of Lake Huron. JACK N JILL’S SURF SHOP 519-422-1440
WEST SHORE LAKESIDE SURF SHOPPE 519-396-5369
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Kiteboarding Surfing
Slicing through the water, powered only by the wind is an Any surfer will tell you, timing is everything, and nowhere is that exhilarating experience that lofts you into a magical natural more evident than the surf on the Great Lakes. With more than Right: a surfer catches some waves in kingdom where air currents are the rulers. Once you’ve mastered 17,000 kilometres of coastline, Kincardine is a spot with the perfect Kincardine. Top and right: a kiteboarder carving out an edge and start cruising crosswind, the exhilaration combination of underwater terrain and wind currents to create catches some air in Oliphant and freedom from skimming across the water becomes addictive. those clean peeling waves. But swells here are fickle; they can come up fast and sometimes they will be gone in as little as three hours. Oliphant, located just north of Sauble Beach, attracts some of the Other times a swell can last all day, giving surfers unlimited action. world’s renowned kiteboarders from all over the world. With its warm shallow waters, generous open space and steady crosswinds Kincardine has been recognized as Ontario’s surfing hot spot! off Lake Huron, it’s a kiteboarder’s paradise! Whether a beginner The wind from Lake Huron and the depth of the water makes the surfer or seasoned rider, Sauble Beach Kite Surfing School offers perfect waves for great lakes surfing! During the spring and the fall, lessons from May until October to get your feet wet. They are fully you can get as many as 50 days of solid surfing. equipped with all of your equipment needs. Kincardine has also made it’s way in the surfing circuit. Each fall, West Shore Lakeside Surf Shoppe hosts The Great Lake Surf Competition. Surfers compete from all over and the event continues to grow each year! No gear? No problem; West Shore has all your gear and rental needs for the perfect Great Lakes surfing experience. EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM
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BE A PADDLING Kayaking EXPLORER EXPLORER’S TREAD in the Fishing Islands 519-270-8461
SUNTRAIL SOURCE FOR With the warm sun overhead and a shore lunch packed away, set ADVENTURE out for a paddle through crystal clear waters around the spectacular 519-935-2478
dolomite islands off the west coast of the Bruce Peninsula. THORNCREST OUTFITTERS 519-797-1608
GREAT LAKES SEA KAYAKING ASSOCIATION www.glska.com
explorethebruce.com/kayaking
Paddling can be a solitary or group activity. If you are looking for company, the Great Lakes Sea Kayaking Association This Fishing Islands, an archipelago of Whether you are starting in Oliphant and Spy on cormorants and hosts paddles periodically over 70 islands 3 kilometres off the western travelling north to Howdenvale, or paddling bald eagles, hover over the shore of Oliphant through Howdenvale, the route in reverse, the fresh air, the lush shipwrecked ruins of the is designed for the first time kayaker to green of the islands along the way and Gold Hunter and absorb the discover the sport of sea kayaking. the joy of adventure guarantees pure The area’s warm shallow channels are rejuvenation. breathtaking scenery that protected from the oftentimes harsh unfolds in front of you. conditions of Lake Huron’s open waters. Some islands are large, almost spanning 100 acres, while others are no larger than the exposed top of a shoal, so pay attention when you are paddling.
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Explore the WHAT IF LIVING IN THE MOMENT INCLUDED Unforgettable THE PAST? Let time slow down as the history and culture BRUCE COUNTY MUSEUM & CULTURAL CENTRE of Bruce County is revealed. 1-866-318-8889
explorethebruce.com/museums
Journey through thousands of years of natural assistance, browse through a variety of documents: Personal Papers, Municipal, Educational, Business and Organizational Left to right: and human history, meet the shopkeeper and Records, as well as photos in our multimedia Collections. Explorers viewing travel back to a time where residents picked The Museum hosts a number of special events and programs exhibits, kids up sugar, bread and the latest news in the ranging from live entertainment, theatre, speciality events programming, adults (Medieval Day), holiday programming, March Break and Summer enjoying cultural General Store. Day Camp, to featured special guests and more! events and exhibits.
A Membership is the best way to enjoy all the Museum has to offer Aboard the HMS General Hunter, “fire a cannon” and defeat the including sneak peeks and exclusive events. Our Ticket to Culture enemy while learning how to properly tie a slip knot to secure your program offers members free admission to Grey Roots Museum rig. Experience Past, Present & Future Inventions in the Technology & Archives, Simcoe County Museum, Huron County Museum and lab in the Rise of Community exhibit. Rediscover the significant Waterloo Region Museum. sacrifices Bruce County soldiers made inBruce Remembers. Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the First Peoples’ Gallery Check out www.brucemuseum.ca to learn more about our and learn about traditions that shaped our landscape today. interactive experiences, exhibits, events, programs, gift shop, and facility rentals. The Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre is The Bruce County Archives & Research Room preserves the located at 33 Victoria Street North, Southampton. You can call us collective memory of the County and makes available our at 1-866-318-8889. documentary heritage to visitors and researchers alike. With
EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM Interior Over 1,455 family farms - zero calories
You could call the southern interior of Bruce County its breadbasket with all the farms, fresh produce stands, unique cheeses and even our own winery. The extremely cool thing about all that fresh country air and goodness is that you can trek, bike, ride horseback and paddle in between each wonderful meal. It’s an easy calorie burn...
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Explore these Uncover these communities experiences
LUCKNOW AND RIPLEY 48-49 MOUNTAIN BIKE THE BRUCE 54-55
WALKERTON AND AREA 50-51 THE MIGHTY SAUGEEN RIVER 56-57
PAISLEY AND AREA 52-53 BEST OF THE BRUCE 49 explorethebruce.com/huron-kinloss
Left to right: Vegetable patch at the Food Garden; Armstrong Bakery pies cooling; bright and lively gifts at Everlasting; dinner is served at Fisherman’s Cove
Lucknow and Ripley Experience the Backforty
Outdoor activity is a highlight in this region, with farm gate markets, a lighthouse and two Do Shop Eat Stay downtowns to explore. Participate in a “Fired Nine Waves in Lucknow The Cheesy Monkii at Enjoy the peaceful Up Fridays” event at sells stylish brand names from Pine River Cheese has lunch countryside at Grey Ox Agriculture is the predominant Grassroots Rural Retreat Europe. At Susan Nichol covered! Try their poutine made Meadows B&B, tucked into the industry in this region, providing outside of Lucknow and enjoy Pottery in Ripley purchase with fresh Pine River Cheese rolling hills outside of Lucknow. wood fired pizza and great one of a kind serving trays, curds. Lake Range Family Rent a cabin or bring your own chances for visitors to explore musical entertainment. Stroll bowls, vases and more and be Restaurant is a great place for camping trailer to Fisherman’s vegetable patches, roam with cattle through the beautiful Bruce prepared for your next summer dinner following a busy day at Cove. This is an award in gathering. herds and savour amazing local Botanical Food Gardens Everlasting Flowers the beach. They are famous for winning campground featuring Ripley and learn all about the and Gifts in Lucknow has their Fish n’Chips! Visit a beautiful lake, playgrounds culinary delights. rare and endangered plants beautiful items to liven-up your Armstrong’s Bakery in and two indoor pools. growing there. All plants are home. Check out their selection Lucknow to try their fresh fruit Be greeted by friendly local passersby, who will edible and for a donation, of barnboard vintage décor. tarts. If you are early enough in make you feel at home. you can take some fresh the day, you may even get your produce home! hands on their mouthwatering donut holes!
RIPLEY
LUCKNOW DON’T MISS FUN FACT ICE CREAM TRAIL GRASSROOTS RURAL BRUCE BOTANICAL SECRETS OF THE BACK 40 519-395-3735 RETREAT FOOD GARDENS 519-395-3735 Lucknow’s Paul Henderson scored the winning 21 Queen Street, Ripley 519-528-2210 62 Park Street, Ripley 21 Queen Street, Ripley goal in the 1972 Summit Series against the USSR EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM icecreamtrail.ca 760 Bruce Road 86 bbfg.org BEST OF THE BRUCE 51 explorethebruce.com/walkerton
Left to right: The vineyards at Hoity Toity, Harley’s butter tarts piled high selecting colourful specimens at Folmer’s, a warm welcome awaits at the Best Western
Walkerton and Area Clean Water Living
Sitting on the banks of the Saugeen River, Walkerton is surrounded by one of the Do Shop Eat Stay province’s premier canoe routes Learn how to craft cider Are your loved ones Locals gather at the After a long day fishing or and one of Canada’s best with the owners at Hoity Toity paddling down the river or fly Walker’s Landing for the “fall walking the Saugeen River Trail, fly-fishing rivers. Cellars! Visit Southwestern fishing? Don’t worry, downtown off the bone” ribs, live music Best Western Plus Walkerton Ontario’s largest private garden Walkerton is home to many and draft brews. The Old East Ridge Hotel is the best at Folmer’s Botanical boutique shops such as His Garage Wood Fired Pizza place to unwind, soak in the The Bruce County capital Gardens. Stroll through 30 Style, Kisses/Lifeology, uses local ingredients and has hot tub and float in the pool. acres of display gardens Amazing Assets and MOMS. known for its tight-knit, lively a homemade pizza sauce that Westwind Woods Bed & showcasing rare and exotic Find the best outdoor-living for rivals that of the Italians. Breakfast is a newly built log community members. plants, ponds, waterfalls and your home or cottage at Walkerton Sushi is Bruce and timber frame home on a 5th even a labyrinth! Enjoy the Walkerton’s Water & County’s first sushi restaurant, generation family farm offering Features a variety of contemporary downtown retail wildlife along the Saugeen Wellness. A&R Music offers a serving sashimi, maki rolls and gentle views of meadow and and restaurants, all surrounded by a natural flowing River Trail, the perfect spot wide variety of musical bento boxes. The award- woodlands for rest and renewal. river that offers visitors plenty of room to unwind. to watch spring and fall instruments. Mildmay Cheese winning butter tarts from The beautifully restored spawning runs. Stroll by the Haus is home to over two Harley’s Pub & Perk in Chepstow Inn offers a historic Victoria Jubilee hundred kinds of cheese, Mildmay have perfect crumbly fabulous stay in rural Bruce Hall, Walkerton Jail and including crumbly, ten year old pastry and oozing pecan, County. Courthouse. cheddar, and samples to help coconut or raisin fillings that will you find your favourite. literally run down your arm.
WALKERTON DON’T MISS SNAP THIS #EXPLORETHEBRUCE SAUGEEN RIVER TRAIL VICTORIA JUBILEE HALL WALKERTON KINSMEN LOBIES PARK AND 519-881-0625 519-881-2826 SPLASH PAD CAMPGROUND Saugeen River Trail 430 Durham Street E. 111 Jackson Street 519-881-0625 519-881-0625 44°07’42.6”N 81°08’27.1”W EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM brockton.ca vjhall.on.ca Centennial Park brockton.ca BEST OF THE BRUCE 53 explorethebruce.com/paisley
Left to right: hiking at a trestle bridge or river dam, natural soaps from Elora Soap Company, picturesque Legion building
Paisley and Area Artisans on the River
Paisley’s arts scene provides fantastic unique heritage, Do Shop Eat Stay shopping opportunities and local For a unique camping Visit Paisley’s artistic, Save your appetite and The Saugeen Bluffs experience, gear up at Cowan riverside community for reserve your table at Marty’s Conservation Area is located culinary delights. Canoe & Kayak and paddle homemade, natural soaps, Bar & Grill for huge, fresh just outside of Paisley’s north to the Saugeen Bluffs pottery and unique-finds at plates of ribs, chicken, seafood, side. It features rolling hills and The quaint decor and lights make it as Conservation Area, just north Elora Soap Company. Looking and more. Big Dipper Bakery spacious campsites right by of Paisley. New in 2016 is an for a rainy day activity? Visit Café offers artisan breads, old the Saugeen River, with river picturesque as a Christmas card. entire area designated for the Past Time Goldmine for all of fashioned baking, homemade access. Sleep in tents or bunkies horse camping enthusiast and your board game and play time chocolates and gourmet surrounded by 250 acres of sugar Outdoor adventure and local festivals are another offers 15 kilometres of needs. Well worth a visit is dine-in lunch options. Enjoy the maples and trails. Gar-Ham highlight of this inland area, complete with grand rivers, challenging riding trails for Nature’s Mill Works, located riverside patio at Back Eddie’s Hall is a charming Victorian-era historic buildings, bridges and forest trails to explore. day rides. The Bruce County in Paisley’s historic flour mill. for scrumptious breakfast or home surrounded by lovely Rail Trail is an 80 kilometre Local artisans showcase their lunch. Food here is made using gardens, within walking distance multiuse trail that circles the work here, including paintings, local ingredients, plus the fair of downtown Paisley. charming town, with two crafts, children’s books, trade, organic coffee is roasted refurbished trestle bridges and more. on site. Stroll into the Paisley giving trekkers panoramic Farmer’s Market for fresh views of Paisley’s rivers. finds every Saturday morning during the summer. PAISLEY
DON’T MISS FUN FACT SAUGEEN BLUFFS TREASURE CHEST HERITAGE WALK NATURE’S MILL WORKS CONSERVATION AREA MUSEUM 519-363-3039 519-353-4017 Paisley is home to one of the last Historic Hose 519-353-7206 519-353-7176 explorethebruce.com/ 4575 Bruce Road 1 Towers in Ontario, used for drying fire hoses. EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM svca.on.ca 407 Queen Street paisley naturesmillworks.com
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Mountain Bike the Bruce WHERE WILL NATURE 80 kilometres - countless curves TAKE YOU?
EXPLORETHEBRUCE.COM/BIKING Jumps, bumps and the whoops that erupt with every thump - it’s all in a day’s ride through your choice of four mountain bike trails over 80 kilometres. Our blend of rocks, roots and turns comes wrapped in majestic forests, natural undulations and a whole lot of amazing. And to top it off, great food and comfy chairs for tall tales are only a short drive away. Start pedaling... The freedom felt 80 kilometres of trail to choose from and each property is when it all comes distinctively unique; from the together, when the rocky Bruce Peninsula to the wind rushes by you deciduous valleys of southern Bruce County. You can find as you totally pin an array of open and flowing the trail in a perfect to tight and technical trail line, your passion concepts that include alternate lines for the more skilled riders. for the sport ignites We even have chariot trails! even more. Better yet, our trails are free to use.
It’s why you ride. The sport of All trails have a variety of “mountain biking” means so amenities. Our benches and much: it’s the freeriders and the picnic tables are the perfect backcountry explorers. It’s dirt place to rest up between rides jumpers in skinny jeans. It’s and washrooms are available Trail maps fat bikers pedaling on snow in seasonally from May to at every intersection winter. It includes the family of November. Our trails are maintained weekly and have give you sense four going for a leisurely pedal of direction signage throughout helping you on beginner-rated singletrack and help to match your skills to the level trail. plan your ride of difficulty found on the Bruce County is well-known property. Be sure to remember for its ecological diversity and your helmet. our mountain biking trails are no different. We have four trail explorethebruce.com/biking properties with a combined
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Paddling in the fall is the best way to see the autumn colours in Bruce County. Fly fishing is the locals’ favourite method. BE A RIVER The Mighty Saugeen River EXPLORER 30,000 steelheads - one lure COWAN CANOE & KAYAK LIVERY 519-353-5535 Regardless of your point of entry on Bruce County’s picturesque THORNCREST OUTFITTERS Saugeen River, you’ll find 102 kilometres of easy paddling, tree-lined 519-797-1608 shores and cliffs, and some of the best fishing in South Western Ontario. Forget the manic white water - we’re all about smooth strokes and perfect casts. Just touch the water with your lure and see what emerges. We’re always downstream...
When it comes to a canoe trip, many think of the rigorous routes, whitewater and rapids and portaging for kilometres at a time.
But the Saugeen River offers a canoe trip that is simple; where it can be an easy afternoon on the water. The most complicated part of canoe tripping on the river is the shuttle back to your vehicle. Thankfully, local outfitters make this easy for you. They’ve got shuttles going throughout the day from put-in and take-out spots all along the river and can get you back to your car for a minimal fee. Don’t forget a life jacket, safety gear, hats, sunscreen and a picnic lunch!
The Saugeen River is home to the one of the largest runs of migratory Rainbow Trout/Steelhead in the province of Ontario. It’s safe to say that Bruce County boasts some of the best steelhead fishing anywhere in Southern Ontario, if not the Great Lakes. The characteristics and biology of the Saugeen River teamed with Ontario Steelheaders efforts has created this crown jewel of Ontario fishing. Through an intensive local stocking program and ideal river conditions that encourage wild born fish, the annual run of trout is estimated to be over 30,000 fish. Pack some dry clothes, a good pair of waders and your favourite trout gear and head out to explorethebruce.com/saugeen get “hooked”.
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Festivals and Events
JANUARY AUGUST Sauble Beach Winterfest Sauble Beach Sandfest Saugeen First Nation Pow Wow FEBRUARY Cape Croker Pow Wow Wiarton Willie Festival Subaru Bruce Peninsula Multisport Port Elgin Rotary Winterama Race, Wiarton MARCH Walkerton Busker’s Festival Two hours northwest of Toronto, yet in a world of its own, the Bruce is part Purple Valley Maple Syrup Festival Bruce Peninsula Artists Studio Tour Saugeen Bluffs Maple Syrup Festival, Kincardine Marine Heritage Festival wonderland, part fun house, where nothing is ordinary, much is unbeatable, Paisley Bruce County Heritage Farm Show, and all is very welcoming. Paisley APRIL Lucknow Music in the Fields Midwestern Ontario Rotary Music VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRES Festival, Walkerton SEPTEMBER Find one on your route! Canadian Big Band Celebration, MAY Port Elgin Peninsula Lakeshore Interior Huron Fringe Birding Festival, Doors Open, Walkerton and South MacGregor Park Bruce Peninsula Tobermory Info Centre Southampton Visitor Lucknow Info Centre Tobermory Trail Race Weekend 519-596-2452 Information 519-528-3002 JUNE 519-797-2215 Bruce Peninsula Orchid Festival OCTOBER Ferndale Info Centre Walkerton BIA Office Rotary Huron Shore Run, Southampton Port Elgin Pumpkinfest 519-793-5474 Port Elgin Visitor 519-881-3413 Paisley Blues Festival Information Centre Wiarton Info Centre Mildmay Info Centre MS Chi-Cheemaun Festival, Tobermory NOVEMBER 519-832-2332 Remembrance Day Ceremonies, 519-534-3111 519-367-3545 JULY County-Wide Kincardine Info Centre Bruce Peninsula National Bruce Power Beach Party 519-396-2731 Park Visitor Centre Kincardine Scottish Festival DECEMBER 519-596-2233 Bruce Power Visitors’ & Highland Games Seasonal Events, County-Wide Centre Lake Huron Children’s Festival, Port Elgin Springmount Info Centre 1-866-748-4787 Lighthouse Blues Festival, Kincardine Plus MS Chi-Cheemaun Owen Sound Collingwood Southampton Marine Heritage Festival 1-800-265-3163 Barrie Bruce County
Toronto Guelph For more festivals and information, please go to Kitchener Waterloo www.explorethebruce.com Sarnia London and like us on www.facebook.com/ExploreTheBruce to catch the latest events. Windsor
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