25 Superb Issues to Do in Kawartha Lakes this Summer season

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Searching for superb issues to do in Kawartha Lakes? Positioned east of Toronto, the Peterborough and the Kawartha Lakes area of Ontario is a vacation spot with a lot to supply travellers in search of a spring or summer season getaway full of lovely surroundings, positive regional delicacies, craft beer and outside journey.

This area of mirrored lakes, rivers and waterways is called after an Anishinaabe First Nation phrase that means “Land of Shining Waters” and when the weekend comes, there’s no different place I’d reasonably be.

Past the glowing lakes, there are numerous causes to plan a summer season trip or weekend getaway at one of many many Kawartha Lakes resorts, parks and cottages.

Positioned a 1.5 hour drive from Toronto, they’re a lot nearer than these in  Muskoka, Prince Edward County or Thunder Bay.

Plus there’s much less freeway site visitors and plenty of artisanal foods and drinks, distinctive museums, quirky sights and implausible summer season actions and festivals to get pleasure from.

Whilst you can have a good time on a day journey from Toronto, there are such a lot of enjoyable issues to do within the Kawarthas, it’s value planning to remain a weekend or perhaps a full week.

Whether or not you’re planning a {couples} weekend getaway, a solo trip or a vacation with household, children or associates, right here’s our choose of the very finest issues to do in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, the Metropolis of Kawartha Lakes in addition to round Rice Lake, Ontario, Canada this summer season.

1. Go Birdwatching and Truly See A number of Birds

A certain signal of spring within the Kawarthas is the return of migratory birds. Chook watching is without doubt one of the finest free issues to do in Peterborough & the Kawarthas since you don’t should look very exhausting to see songbirds, birds of prey and water fowl.

Greater than 259 chook species have been recorded within the area. A few of the finest birding spots are conveniently positioned alongside the biking and strolling trails constructed on the deserted railway corridors all through the Kawarthas.

It’s doable to see loons, pelicans, geese and swans, hawks, eagles, grouse, turkeys, owls, hummingbirds, warblers, finches and extra on even a brief weekend getaway, so it’s value putting in a Birding App in your cell system so you may determine the birds you encounter.

🌟 Insider Tip: Should you’re a chook lover who’d prefer to study extra about birds and different wildlife, try the occasions supplied by the Peterborough Discipline Naturalists membership. This long-established charitable group gives a spread of actions akin to guided Sunday Morning Wildlife Walks, subject journeys, pollinator backyard excursions and mushroom foraging workshops.

Should you’re in search of an off-leash canine park within the Kawartha Lakes, be sure you try the Ken Reid Conservation Space north of Lindsay. This 110-hectare protected space has a wealth of amenities to your four-legged associates.

2. Cycle the Trans Canada Path within the Kawartha Lakes

Between dodging clouds of butterflies, wild turkeys, and turtles pedaling a bicycle alongside the Trans Canada Path in Lindsay, Ontario feels loads like navigating a wilderness agility course. That’s factor.

Biking away from the crowds is without doubt one of the prime issues to do within the Kawartha Lakes. It additionally occurs to be one of many prime free issues to do for households.

This stretch of secluded pathways, constructed on a former railway mattress slicing by way of the Kawarthas Northumberland area in a community of devoted trails stretching from Fenelon Falls to Rice Lake, options extra wildlife than folks.

The Ganaraska Path, the Lang-Hastings Path, the Kawartha Trans Canada Path, the Lakefield Path and the Victoria Rail Path Hall are a part of 300+ kilometres of signed biking routes and community of devoted trails within the Kawartha Lakes space.

But it’s simply over an hour from Toronto.

🌟 Insider Tip: Don’t miss seeing the Doube’s Trestle Bridge on the Trans Canada Path (Google Map). This former railway line and soars above the panorama providing spectacular views.

I like to recommend  The Days Inn & Suites Lindsay as one of the best place to remain for a weekend of biking. Along with being a licensed bike-friendly lodge with storage lockers), it’s positioned straight throughout the street from an entry level to the biking trails.

You’ll additionally get a complimentary breakfast, free parking and an indoor swimming pool.

3. Eat Butter Tarts on the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour

Meals followers gained’t need to miss the Kawarthas Northumberland Butter Tart Tour, a set of greater than 50 tasty stops.

Obtain a free Butter Tart Tour Map and get exploring Ontario’s largest butter tart path. The Little Pie Shack, in Fenelon Falls, gives a gentle and flaky raisin butter tart that’s arguably one of many tour’s gooey finest.

Mix it with a cease on the Garnet Graham Seashore Park (Google Map), dwelling to a splash pad, picnic tables and a small, sandy seaside in Fenelon Falls.

One other of my favorite locations for butter tarts is the aptly-named Buttertarts ‘N Extra positioned on the outskirts of Lindsay at 1535 Freeway 7. They’re critical about their butter tarts right here. Get them plain, with raisins or pecans.

Additionally worthwhile is a cease at Doo Doo’s Bakery in Bailieboro. Their line-up of prize-winning butter tarts consists of our private favorite – maple whisky butter tarts!

There are even gluten-free butter tarts. Order prematurely to keep away from disappointment.

4. Get a Blast from the Previous at Lang Pioneer Village

An excellent spot to start your summer season trip within the Kawarthas is by exploring its previous. Settlement within the Peterborough & Kawartha Lakes space started within the 1800s with the arrival of immigrants from England, Eire and Scotland.

Villages sprung up beside rivers the place water was used to energy the mills that floor grain into flour. The Lang Pioneer Village Museum positioned beside the Indian River within the hamlet of Lang, is a recreation of a type of early settlements.

To create this open-air museum, historic buildings from the 1800s have been rescued from throughout Ontario and relocated to the positioning. Right this moment, this assortment of restored and furnished heritage buildings consists of an agriculture barn, blacksmith store, a log college, a white clapboard Methodist church, the Lang Grist Mill and the Keene Lodge.

It’s undoubtedly one of many prime sights within the Kawarthas for households with children. Toddlers to pre-teens will get pleasure from exploring what life was like in pioneer instances. 

Don’t miss the one-room college home the place they’ll sit at classic desks and faux they’re actual college students.

Lang Pioneer Village is an ideal vacation spot if you happen to’re taking a street journey with a child on board. It’s a pure level to make a cease to take a break if you happen to’re headed to Ottawa or different factors east.

5. Expertise the Zen of Paddling a Canoe

One other quintessential Kawartha Lakes expertise consists of paddling a canoe or kayak on one in all its serene lakes and rivers.

Most resorts present free use of non-motorized watercraft to in a single day company. Don a life vest, seize a paddle and glide over mirrored waters the place earth and sky blur right into a dreamlike horizon.

Surrounded by towering pines and the haunting calls of loons, you’ll really feel the the heartbeat of the Canadian wilderness regardless that you could solely be a couple of ft from shore.

For the final word aventure strive the Canadian Canoe Route (CCR) connecting Toronto with Ottawa, a route solid by First Nations, fur merchants and explorers.

Or, head north to Muskoka cottage nation or west to Agate Seashore close to Thunder Bay.

6. Get Impressed on the Canadian Canoe Museum

You may even paddle (cycle or stroll) your approach to the latest main attraction within the Kawarthas.

Set on a 5-acre web site overlooking picturesque Little Lake in Peterborough, the brand new Canadian Canoe Museum (Google Map) is related to each the Trans Canada Path and the Trent Severn waterway.

Its hovering 2-storey wood construction appears to emerge naturally from its forested environment. Inside, you’ll be amazed by the world’s largest assortment of canoes,, kayaks and paddled watercraft.

Along with well-known Canadian canoes (akin to Invoice Mason’s 16-foot pink Prospector canoe and Don Starkell’s The Orellana), there are watercraft from around the globe. Every tells a singular story.

As a part of the museum’s design you’ll hear tales of indigenous peoples within the native Michi Saagig dialect of Anishnaabemowin.

From Might to October, there are many outside actions on the Lakefront Campus dwelling to the Canoe Home, Gathering Circle and campfire pit. Take a stroll on the boardwalk, take a paddling or cooking workshop and get out on the water by renting a canoe or kayak.

You may even take part in a Voyageur Canoe Paddling Expertise and paddle round Little Lake on a 36 or 25-foot canoe with a information. E-book your tickets prematurely on-line on the Canadian Canoe Museum web site. 

🌟 Professional Tip: Don’t miss attempting native specialties akin to Kawartha Ice-Cream, strawberry lemonade, charcuterie and a Canookie ice-cream sandwich on the onsite Silver Bean Café.

It’s the most effective locations to eat in Peterborough in terms of informal fare.

7. Splash out at Elmhirst’s a Prime Kawartha Lakes Resort

You’ll discover loads of outside journey at family-friendly Elmhirst’s Resort, the center and soul of lakeside vacationing on the north shore of Rice Lake.

Positioned on a parcel of land initially granted to the Elmhirst household in 1818 by King George IV of England, the positioning has advanced from its farmland beginnings to grow to be a thriving all-season resort.

Test costs and availability of Elmhirst’s Resort and Cottages on Reserving.com.

Nonetheless family-owned and operated, it gives positive eating, the enjoyable Wild Blue Yonder pub, snug cabins, a full-service spa, a swimming pool, horseback using and all of the water sports activities akin to tubing, canoeing and kayaking wanted to make an ideal summer season.

The waters are so calm you may paddle board across the lush inexperienced islands dotting Rice Lake. 

It’s value bringing your personal paddle board (SUP) so you may actually go exploring – they’re much more inexpensive than you would possibly suppose. Learn these critiques of the finest stand-up paddle boards for each finances.  

Teenagers gained’t be bored on a household getaway at Elmhirst’s. From basketball courts, waterskiing classes, an Escape Maze and even ax-throwing courses there’s one thing for everybody’s summer season bucket listing for households. 

Excited about doing a little Rice Lake fishing? Fishing is without doubt one of the prime issues to do within the Kawarthas. Leases can be found for many who need to benefit from the sports activities fishing Rice Lake is known for or you may fish proper from the dock.

For a very memorable expertise, you can too go flight-seeing in a 1947 Piper Cub bush aircraft. 

8. Go for Sunday Brunch overlooking Rice Lake

A preferred day journey from Toronto for foodies is Sunday Brunch at Elmhirst’s Hearthside Eating Room the place you may get pleasure from a locally-inspired menu. 

Highlights embrace hard-carved Black Angus Beef from the resort’s personal herd, a seafood buffet and house-made dessert pastries whereas taking in views of the gorgeous shoreline and the panorama of maple, oak, ash and black cherry timber.

You too can get pleasure from a wine tasting at Elmhirsts Resort. Their underground wine cellar options a big selection of premium VQA wines. Personal tastings could be booked for teams of 4 to 12.

🌟 Insider Tip: After brunch, e book a flight-seeing tour over Rice Lake and see the traditional burial grounds of Serpent Mounds.

9. Cling Out within the Cute Village of Hastings 

After brunch at Elmhirst’s Resort, take a scenic 15 minute drive east to Hastings. It’s effectively value planning to spend a while right here. It’s undoubtedly one of many prettiest cities in Ontario.

It’s additionally the hub for a number of seasonal RV parks and campgrounds set proper on Rice Lake. Should you hope to attain one in all these coveted spots, it’s clever to do some RV journey planning effectively prematurely.

One of many principal sights of this area is its well-maintained recreation path. The Lang-Hastings Path is positioned on a former rail line and stretches 33 kilometres (every method) from  Hastings within the east to Peterborough within the west.  It’s the most effective bicycling trails in Ontario.

You will discover entry factors and parking in Keene (close to the Lang Pioneer Village), in Peterborough and within the city of Hastings itself.

The Lang-Hastings Path is particularly lovely within the spring when the lilac bushes, white trillium (Ontario’s provincial flower) and different wildflowers are in bloom.

Prime issues to do in Hastings embrace: 

• swimming on the sandy seaside (positioned on the north shore of the Trent River,
• fishing for bass and different freshwater fish from the bridge,  
• watching the boats cross by way of Lock 18 on the Trent-Severn Waterway. 
• getting a photograph with Pisces Pete, a Canadian landmark. Created by artist Invoice Lishman, this big sculpture of a walleye fish, is fabricated from stainless-steel and is 12 ft lengthy and stands 12 ft excessive. It’s positioned in Hastings Pisces Park on the south shore of the Trent River.
• eating (McGillicafey’s Pub & Eatery at 13 Bridge St. N has an out of doors patio)  or picnicking on the waterfront. 

🌟 Professional Tip: Make a cease on the Kawarthas Northumberland tourism workplace (beside the bridge) to choose up maps and different helpful journey data.

10. Chow Down on the Greatest BBQ in Kawartha Lakes

As soon as voted by Harrowsmith journal as one in all Canada’s prime 10 prettiest cities, the village of Keene is lined with quaint retailers, artwork galleries and a profusion of flower baskets. With regards to genuine nation eats, Muddy’s Pit BBQ (3247 County Rd 2) is a Keene establishment.  

The specialty right here is slow-cooked Carolina-style pork again ribs, beef brisket and pulled pork. The meats are slow-roasted a minimal of eight hours over hardwood maple, which means they’re fall-off- the-bone tender.

Baked beans, aspect salads and desserts are made recent each day. Seize a seat on the picnic desk or get an order to go and luxuriate in one of the best barbecue north of the Carolinas. Plan forward and you’ll even get pleasure from some reside music.

🌟 Insiders  Tip: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Watch Muddy’s Fb Web page for information about what’s taking place this summer season.  

11. Take pleasure in Ontario’s Most interesting Steak at Hobart’s

It’s additionally doable to pattern the area’s artisanal components at choose eating places within the Peterborough and The Kawarthas area.

A prime spot for Angus beef is Hobart’s Lighthouse, named for Dr. Hobart F. Peters, a number one animal analysis knowledgeable within the subject of beef cattle manufacturing.

Along with its expansive menu together with signature steaks, burgers made with home sirloin chuck patty and attractive appetizers, Hobart’s Lighthouse (Google Map) is positioned on the waterfront at Stoney Lake in Lakefield.

12. Browse the Olde Gaol Museum in Lindsay

Though I used to be disillusioned to study the Youngtown Museum devoted to musician Neil Younger (he grew up in close by Omemee) completely closed in September 2017, it’s nonetheless worthwhile to go to the Olde Gaol Museum of Lindsay.

It’s nonetheless one of many prime sights within the Kawartha Lakes.

Operated by the Kawartha Lakes Historic Society, the Olde Gaol Museum is positioned throughout the former Victoria  County Jail, an imposing stone constructing positioned within the coronary heart of Lindsay.

Whereas the historic shows are fascinating information of youth within the area, probably the most evocative displays are behind the bars of  the previous jail cells.

Right here, you’ll study youngsters as younger as 10 years outdated who served jail time with exhausting labour for petty theft, in addition to Fred McGaughey, the final man to hold in Lindsay.

He was hanged on December 5, 1924 for the Might 25, 1924 homicide of younger Beatrice Charge, a remarkably fast trial, sentencing and execution.

Admission is free for youngsters underneath the age of 6, adults are $5, youngsters 3-18 $3 – fairly a cut price! Closed Sundays and Mondays.

🌟 Random Reality: In December 2017, Neil Younger returned dwelling to Canada to carry out at a live performance in Omemee. Who is aware of you could be fortunate sufficient to stumble upon him throughout your go to to the Kawartha Lakes.

Test charges and availability at Days Inn And Suites in Lindsay on Reserving.com

13. Expertise the Historic Trent-Severn Waterway

No journey to the Kawartha Lakes can be full with out spending time exploring the Trent-Severn Waterway. It’s a Nationwide Historic Web site of Canada and a 386 kilometre lengthy canal route connecting Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay.

Boating fanatics can truly navigate their method by way of the system of 44 locks  because the waterway meanders it method by way of cottage nation previous villages, swinging bridges, dams and management buildings.

One of many prime issues to do within the Kawarthas is to look at the boats as they enter the locks, witness the water rising and see the boats cross by way of the locks.  Meals followers will get pleasure from Beneath Water Eating at Lock 21 in Peterborough, the world’s highest hydraulic raise lock.

Tickets for this distinctive eating expertise have traditionally bought out the identical day they went on sale. So join the publication at Peterborough and the Kawarthas Tourism and be the primary to listen to about future occasions.

Bucket Listing Expertise: A singular approach to discover the Trent-Severn Waterway is on an Egan Houseboat Rental, a wilderness expertise that includes all of the comforts of a floating cottage. Swim, meet new associates and discover the 1000’s of lakes, bays and rivers of the Kawartha Lakes.

Try our Enjoyable Boating Drinks and 20 Prime Wrap Recipes to Tackle a Boat.  And also you’ll additionally need to refill on these 15 Wholesome Boat Snacks. 

🌟 What to Eat: Don’t miss sampling Moose Tracks ice cream, made by Kawartha Dairy Firm. Their creamy old school ice-cream has been a cottage-country custom for 80 years. An ice-cream cease is certainly one of many prime issues to do within the Kawarthas.

14. Cool Off with a Kawartha Lakes Craft Beer

You’re certain to work up a thirst whereas biking or exploring the Kawarthas so cool off with one of many native craft beers from Bobcaygeon Brewing, Smithavens Brewing Firm, Publican Home, Manantler and a rising variety of different craft breweries.

You may pattern many of those brews on the Kawartha Craft Beer Pageant held yearly on the waterfront at Millenium Park within the Metropolis of Peterborough.

15. Hearken to Loons at Viamede Resort, a prime Kawartha Lakes Resort

Should you’re attempting to determine on the place to go in your weekend getaway from Toronto,  you gained’t be disillusioned with Stoney Lake. It’s one of many prettiest lakes within the Kawartha Lakes area.

There’s nothing fairly as magical as waking up within the morning, taking a cup of steaming espresso  (or a glass of wine within the night) out to the entrance porch and listening to loons calling throughout the water.

You may expertise all this and extra on the historic  Viamede Resort in Woodview Ontario, round two hours from Toronto, set amongst tall pines and dense forest. 

There are a number of forms of lodging decisions from at Viamede Resort — from lodge rooms to cottages with full kitchens. A buffet breakfast is included with every in a single day keep and there are a number of eating places onsite so you may even lease a cottage but not should cook dinner.

🌟 Fascinating Reality: Viamede Resort is only a 15 minute drive to Petroglyphs Park, dwelling to a sacred web site that’s the biggest recognized assortment of indigenous rock carvings in Canada.

🌟 Tip: Attempt our recipe for traditional Balsamic and Beer Steak Marinade in your cottage BBQ grill at Viamede.

16. Dine on Forest-to-Desk Fare at Mount Julian Restaurant

Ever puzzled what cattails, birch aioli or spruce broth style like? Uncover these beguiling tastes of the Kawarthas at Mount Julian, a 7-table restaurant positioned inside Viamede Resort overlooking Stoney Lake.

Each dish on the 5, 7 and 9 course tasting menus options native components rigorously chosen from Viamede’s onsite farm, foraged from still-wild Kawartha Lakes forests or produced by native producers.

Pairing the positive delicacies with native wines is without doubt one of the finest issues to do at Viamede Resort.  The ingenious dishes will also be  paired with VQA wines (most sourced from Prince Edward County) and native craft beers.

The Inn at Mount Julian was in-built 1874 in order evening falls and the candle gentle on the tables begins to glow, you’ll really feel transported to a different extra gracious, elegant period. 

You’ll must make reservations to dine right here and it’s pitch black at evening (until you depend the fireflies) so it’s finest to remain the evening at Viamede Resort, simply steps away.

17. Expertise Laveanne Lavender Farm in Full Bloom

In your approach to the Kawarthas, one of the vital standard issues to do in July is to spend a morning or afternoon on the Laveanne Lavender Farm positioned close to Campbellcroft between Port Hope and Peterborough.

This expansive farm isn’t solely dwelling to an extremely aromatic subject of lavender in full bloom, nevertheless it additionally gives a lavender labyrinth.

This distinctive creation is 30 meters in diameter and options strolling  paths best for meditation and leisure. Strolling the spiral paths and respiration within the candy and therapeutic lavender scent, you’ll be sure you really feel any stresses you’ve got soften away.

There’s rather more to do than stroll the lavender labyrinth although. In July — generally known as Blossom Month–Laveanne Lavender Farm additionally hosts yoga courses, wreath-making workshops and seminars on rising, harvesting and utilizing lavender vegetation.

An out of doors bistro and reward store filled with lavender goodies– from honey to cleaning soap –spherical out the choices at this vacation spot. All of their physique merchandise are pure and comprise no parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances/colors or different synthetic components.

Visiting this lavender farm is without doubt one of the finest free issues to do close to Peterborough. Since admission is free please assist their operation by making a purchase order throughout your go to.

Test the lavender bloom calendar on their web site earlier than you go. The reward store is open each day Might 1st to October thirty first (and abbreviated hours as much as Christmas) so it’s value together with the Laveanne boutique in your subsequent day journey from Toronto.

Should you missed the lavender fields blooming in Ontario and it’s not within the finances to journey to Provence, you can too head south to the lavender fields within the USA to go to one of many many lovely lavender farms there.

 18. Commune with Crocodiles at Indian River Reptile Zoo

When a venomous copperhead snake was noticed on the free in Ajax’s Greenwood Conservation Space in 2016, authorities known as specialists on the Indian River Reptile Zoo to trace it down. 

This registered not-for-profit registered charity is dwelling to greater than 400 snakes, turtles and lizards, a lot of them rescued, deserted by their homeowners or smuggled endangered animals seized by authorities.

Along with seeing pythons and different uncommon snakes throughout the local weather managed academic centre, guests also can do a croc-walk previous ponds full of numerous species of crocodiles and luxuriate in a spread of out of doors amusement park sights.

Youngsters will love the life-sized Tyrannosaurus-Rex and different robotic dinosaurs, mini-golf and a Bone Yard sandbox the place tots can dig for “dinosaur” bones.

19. Get Awe-struck by Superb Sunsets within the Kawarthas

One of the crucial memorable experiences within the Kawarthas is catching one in all its well-known technicolour sunsets. Whereas Rice Lake is so huge it gives a variety of vantage factors for sundown viewing, most of the neighbouring lakes provide sunsets which might be equally as spectacular. 

Selecting to remain at a campsite in a tent or RV nearly ensures you’ll be sure you catch a implausible sundown. Whereas Ontario Parks provincial campsites e book up rapidly, it’s typically doable to discover a web site accessible at a personal campground, akin to one of many 350 members of the Ontario Personal Campground Affiliation. 

Simply try the choice of lovely websites set within the forest at Lakefield Park & Campground overlooking the Otonabee River and also you’ll perceive why their motto is “Make the Nice Outside Even Larger.” 

Should you’re a tenting beginner, get tips about how to decide on one of the best campsite earlier than you e book at any campground. 

20. Catch a Bass on a Balsam Lake Fishing Journey

Rising up in Flin Flon, Manitoba  fishing for northern pike or pickerel was all the time an enormous a part of our summer season adventures.

Whether or not it’s shore fishing or fishing from a ship, fishing within the Kawarthas gives most of the identical challenges, pleasure and pleasure. 

It’s all the time nice to spend a day on the water in Canada surrounded by magnificence (though I’m grateful there are fewer ferocious horseflies in Ontario than there have been in Northern Manitoba).

Balsam Lake fishing is among the finest in Ontario. Positioned on the highest level of the Trent-Severn waterway, it’s dwelling to the villages of Coboconk and Rosedale. Though finest recognized for its smallmouth and largemouth bass nevertheless it’s additionally received walleye (pickerel), muskie and perch which makes it the most effective fishing lakes in Ontario.

Balsam Lake Provincial Park can be positioned on Balsam Lake and encompasses a sandy seaside, canoe, kayak and paddleboat leases in addition to boating on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Test with Ontario Parks to e book a campsite or discover out concerning the Study to Fish program, a free introduction to fishing that features one hour of supervised hands-on fishing.

🌟 Insider Tip: Borrow fishing gear without charge from OFAH TackleShare at 140 Loaner Websites at Ontario Parks, public libraries, conservation authorities and different neighborhood organizations.

21. Sip Native Wine at Rolling Grape Winery 

Among the finest issues to do on a weekend in Peterborough & The Kawarthas (or Port Hope) is to make a cease at Rolling Grape Vineyards on County Street 2 close to Bailieboro. 

This family-owned farm, winery and vineyard is positioned simply 20 minutes south of Peterborough and is about among the many picturesque hills of Rice Lake. Rolling Grape produces eight completely different wines together with the favored chardonnay, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc whites and a number of other reds together with a signature marquette aged in oak.

These small-batch wines are natural (though not licensed) and promote out rapidly. Be a part of the wine membership to get two distinctive wines delivered to your door every month and also you gained’t miss out.

Take pleasure in a glass of wine and nibble on a charcuterie tray ($14 per individual) that includes native cheeses and savoury bites whereas absorbing the spectacular views. You’ll really feel your metropolis stresses soften away. 

Rolling Grape Winery can be a taking place place. It’s standard occasions akin to wine tastings, reside music and salsa nights make it a prime place to go for {couples} within the Kawarthas.

22. Pet a Rescued Donkey at PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary

Do you know that donkeys make wonderful guard animals? Many farms throughout Ontario, Australia and the USA use donkeys to guard their flocks of sheep from predators akin to coyotes, wolves and canine. A donkey’s herding intuition and pure hatred of canine make them efficient guard animals.

How do they defend a flock of sheep? They patrol the herd diligently, braying loudly and kicking their entrance hooves ought to a predator assault.

Seize your barn boots and study extra fascinating details about donkeys on the PrimRose Donkey Sanctuary in Roseneath, Ontario positioned southwest of Rice Lake. This not-for-profit group rescues mistreated and uncared for donkeys, mules, miniature horses, goats, pot-bellied pigs and different animals.

They then present them with veterinary care, meals and security inside  the sanctuary’s  charming assortment of indoor stables, outside pastures and corrals. Founder Sheila Burns deserves an award for her open coronary heart and open door coverage that turns away no animal.

The general public can go to Primrose Donkey Sanctuary on Sundays and Thursdays between 1-4 PM and get a free tour of the sanctuary and even pet the animals. Make sure you make a donation to assist assist this worthy trigger! Particular occasions (akin to Desserts and Tea on June 24) additionally happen all year long. Whilst you might not uncover why donkeys dislike canine, you’ll undoubtedly come away with an appreciation for these sociable and endearing cattle.

The place to Keep: The closest lodge is Golden Seashore Resort on the south shore of Rice Lake. Though the seaside right here is  tiny and reasonably muddy for swimming, the sunsets are implausible.

Plus you may lease boats to go fishing. There’s additionally a helpful child’s membership, an out of doors swimming pool and a restaurant with a patio.

23. Experience the Historic Roseneath Carousel

Whereas technically positioned in Northumberland County, the Roseneath Carousel is shut sufficient that you would be able to simply match it right into a weekend within the Kawarthas.

Sundays from the Victoria Day lengthy weekend  to Thanksgiving are a particular time to go to the fairgrounds within the city of Roseneath Ontario. That’s when it’s doable to journey one of many world’s most charming and effectively restored carousels.

Inbuilt 1906 by the Charles Wallace (C.W.) Parker Carousel Firm in Kansas, this spectacular vintage carousel options  40 hand-carved and rideable basswood horses and two boats.  A 1934 Wurlitzer Band Organ performs music whereas the merry-go-round spins speedily and the horses journey up and down.

C. W. Parker was born in 1864 in Griggsville, Illinois. Referred to as the “Amusement King”, his profession within the leisure enterprise started with the acquisition of a taking pictures gallery and by 1892 he had constructed his first carousel.

His firm went on to provide carousels within the County Honest model, which meant they have been meant to journey round North America, reasonably than keep stationary akin to these in amusement parks and seaside resorts akin to Coney Island.

In contrast to different carousels that featured a menagerie of carved animals akin to swans, frogs and monkeys, the C.W Parker Firm’s carousels featured horses. However these are horses of exceptionally positive high quality.

The carousel options three rows of horses. On the inside and outer rows, Parker Jumper Horses dance and prance. Their manes and curved sinewy necks make them seem able to take flight because the carousel spins spherical. It took as much as 40 hours of labour to carve each by hand.

Congratulations and thanks to the Roseneath Agricultural Society for restoring the Roseneath Carousel with such care. Solely 4 of the sort of carousel have been in-built 1906 and the Roseneath Carousel is the one one nonetheless in existence in North America.

To revive it, Grasp carver Konstantin von Waldburg stripped seven coats of paint right down to the bottom coat and ordered the precise pigment of unique paint from Europe.

Open Sundays . 1-3 pm Victoria Day Weekend to Thanksgiving Weekend. Price is $3.00 per individual. There are public washrooms onsite. (905) 352-3778. 9109 County Street #45

24. Expertise First Nations Tradition

Store for regionally grown wild rice, uncooked honey, hand-crafted beadwork, carvings and different made-in-Canada merchandise on the fascinating  Whetung Ojibwa Centre positioned within the coronary heart of the Curve Lake First Nation (Google Map).

Chat with First Nations artists within the gallery, choose some Canadian-made moccasins (enormous choice in all sizes), store for stone carvings and porcupine quill baskets, marvel on the masks assortment and extra.

It’s additionally worthwhile to go to the museum positioned on the decrease degree. 

25. Go Ziplining and Treetop Trekking Ganaraska Forest

Should you’re prepared for high-altitude journey, spend a half-day exploring the forest cover on a guided aerial tour at Treetop Trekking exercise centre throughout the Ganaraska Forest Centre. Whereas not formally within the Kawartha Lakes area, it’s very straightforward to get to from Peterborough.

This Ontario attraction is without doubt one of the finest issues to do on a household trip, particularly for households with teenagers. They’ll have quite a lot of enjoyable traversing  an agility course that options ziplines, log bridges, monkey cables, Tarzan swings and Timberwolf, probably the most difficult aerial course in Ontario.

Insider Tip: Save $10 on Sundays in Might and June on Zip Line and Aerial Recreation Treks! Go to Treetop Trekking Specials for the promo code and information on particular occasions.

26. Go Kawartha Tubing on a Actual Lazy River

Whereas it’s now not doable to lease inside tubes from Kawartha Journey and Paddle to go river tubing within the Kawarthas, adventure-lovers have a DIY possibility.

Simply carry your personal inside tube and life jacket to get pleasure from a lazy journey down the Mississauga River close to Buckhorn.

There’s an entry level close to Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park off Freeway 36. Simply put on water footwear and be sure you get out earlier than you hit the rapids. When water ranges are excessive it may be fairly a rush!

27. Go Fishing for Rainbow Trout

Foodies shall be concerned about making a visit to the Linwood Acres Trout Farm is positioned at 8382 Gilmour Street, simply north of Campbellcroft, which is 20 kilometres north of Port Hope. Linwood Acres Trout Farm is positioned close to Laveanne Lavender Farm so it’s value combining the 2 sights into one street journey.

The pastoral forested grounds of Lindwood Acres encompasses a pond stocked with trout, a fish farming facility and a retailer promoting recent trout, smoked trout and reward certificates. Casting for trout within the fishing pond is a enjoyable factor to do for households with children.

Linwood Acres Trout Farm is open 12 months spherical for excursions and fishing, typically between 9 am and 5 pm.  They typically promote out of smoked trout, so name forward to put an order and keep away from disappointment. Their cellphone quantity is (905) 797-2484.

Costs for rainbow trout start at 14.00 CAD per kg ( within the spherical) to $44.10 ( smoked fillets), topic to vary.

Different Enjoyable Issues to Do in Peterborough and the Kawarthas

There are a wealth of different vacationer sights in Peterborough. Dotted with public parks, conservation areas, rivers and lakes, it’s undoubtedly one of the vital lovely locations in Ontario.

It’s additionally wealthy in tradition so be sure you contemplate including vacationer sights akin to Academy Theatre in Lindsay, Kinmount Theatre, Globus Theatre and even Westben Theatre in close by Trent Hills to your summer season itinerary.

Phew! That’s quite a lot of superb issues to do! Are there any outside adventures, eating places, seashores or resorts you’re keen on within the Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough or Rice Lake space?

Any must-try experiences we’ve missed? Tell us within the feedback part under!

This put up was initially revealed in 2018 however has been up to date yearly with new data and pictures. It was considerably rewritten in 2024.

Extra Ontario Weekend Getaways

The Meals-lovers Information to Muskoka 

Agate Seashore and Different Superb Thunder Bay Adventures 

Warming as much as Winter on the Niagara Icewine Pageant 

5 Issues To Do When Visiting Toronto 

Why Hockley Valley Ought to Be Your Subsequent Weekend Escape 

What’s the finest city in Kawartha Lakes?

With its sandy seashores, scenic river promenade, historic centre, charming boutiques, kayaking and biking trails, Lakefield is one of the best city in Kawartha Lakes for guests. Millbrook can be an enthralling place to go to.

What’s Kawartha Lakes recognized for?

The Kawartha Lakes area is finest recognized for its relaxed cottage nation ambiance, small historic cities and outside pursuits akin to boating, canoeing and fishing for bass, northern pike, walleye and muskie.

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Dividing her time between Canada, Guatemala and Mexico (or the closest tropical seaside), Michele Peterson is the founding father of A Style for Journey. Her award-winning journey and meals writing has appeared in Lonely Planet’s cookbook Mexico: From the Supply, Nationwide Geographic Traveler, Fodor’s and 100+ different publications.

Learn extra about Michele Peterson.