Haliburton Highlands

Friluftsliv (free-lufts-liv): Free air life If you’re worried about being stuck indoors this winter, the Scandinavians may have the solution with this hard to pronounce and consonant-filled word: friluftsliv. Loosely translated, friluftsliv means “free air life,” a concept that was coined by writer Henrik Ibsen in 1859. Even if we can’t pronounce it easily, this […]

You wander through rural communities, along rugged trails, or gravel sideroads, fixated on one thing and one thing only: your next cache. When you are geocaching, you can’t help but become fully immersed in the moment, setting your sights on an outdoor adventure that takes you somewhere. Geocaching is about first finding your place in […]

Thanksgiving dinner is something we dream about all year long – the perfectly roasted turkey dishes up with cranberry sauce, potatoes and veggies, and often paired with more than one glass of wine or a cold pint of beer or cider, not to mention the dessert. Unfortunately, when the cranberry sauce is gone, the turkey’s […]

So you’ve seen the Instagram posts of friends or family seated around a rustic campfire, enthusing on the beauty of nature and a rugged camping experience, but you’re thinking “That’s totally not for me?” Hey, don’t sweat it, you are not alone. Camping isn’t for everyone, and who says it should be? If everyone were […]

When was the last time you bit down into something so warm and rich, cheesy and flavourful that your heart said “thank you!” and your belly said “more please!” The best comfort foods are rich and calorie-laden, and best enjoyed in a warm, cozy restaurant or at home on the couch in your comfies. These […]

There’s something lingering in the air throughout October, leading up to the culmination of all things spooky on its final day – Halloween.   October starts with the summer’s lush canopy of green bidding a final farewell through a stunning display of vibrant colours. When the leaves die off and settle as a multi-coloured blanket on the forest floor, and the fog rolls in over the lakes and […]

Celebrate the beauty of autumn in unique ways across Ontario’s Highlands

Who says art can only be found in big galleries or urban showrooms? To find fantastic local and Canadian art you need to head to the places that inspire artists to create, and Ontario’s Highlands is among the most beautiful places in Ontario (in our humble opinion). Beyond the inspiration found in the rugged hills […]

When the forest has transformed from shades of green to vivid reds, fiery oranges and brilliant yellows, the road will begin calling, sending a gentle reminder that the days where you can head out on the road with the windows down are numbered. In fall you aren’t looking for a highway experience, you want to […]

Explore Ontario’s muddiest places with these ATV trails in Ontario’s Highlands.

Could this be Ontario’s tastiest bike route? A natural backdrop of Canadian Shield, shimmering lakes and lush Crown land forests surround you as you pedal down a 50/50 mix of quiet paved roads and gravel rail trails that traverse a series of communities. These small towns and rural hamlets are now known for art and […]

In my humble opinion, there is no better time than fall to hop on my bike and hit the roads, gravel, and trails of Ontario’s Highlands. I don’t have to worry about overheating, nor will I find myself pushed to my limit while trying to outrun a swarm of deer flies for 20 kilometres (true […]

Are you the type to pull over when you see a comically large roadside attraction, or a picture-perfect spot to snap a few shots? Amateur photographers and Instagrammers alike can agree that a giant ice cream cone, a massive mural adorning the side of a building, or a full-size replica of a jet plane are […]

Find the best vantage points for all the brilliant fall colours this season.

Discover these top lakes and rivers in Ontario’s Highlands to discover the beauty of fall colours from a canoe.

It’s been a heck of a year, hasn’t it? If ever there was a year to test your capacity for resilience, it would be 2020. After such a momentous year, what we all could use right now is a little “me time” – a little pampering, and a little bit of peace and quiet to […]

We are so lucky to come from a place that has it all: phenomenal views, rugged landscapes, abundance of trails, and infinite opportunities for recreation, all enticing you to leave your comfort zone and step into the wild. Here, endless forests meet cool, clear lakes and rivers to create incredible vistas that reach out to […]

Remember when your whole summer was devoted to swimming, playing, catching frogs, and finding adventures? At one time, this was an entire season fueled by ice cream, Freezies, and hot dogs. August always felt so short, and by the time it rolled around you’d scramble to finish your summer bucket list, savouring each shortened day […]

What’s your favourite flavour of cycling? Do you prefer digging in off-road, pedaling hard for speed and distance, or just a light taste with a short meander? A bike ride can be what you want to make of it, which is part of the fun, isn’t it? Haliburton Highlands’ varied terrain calls cyclists to explore […]

Did someone say road trip? The mere thought of a road trip brings to mind the excitement of heading out on an adventure where you may not know where you will end up but you’re pretty sure the getting there will be half the fun. When you head out for the day the options are […]

We are happy to see that fall is in full swing here in Ontario’s Highlands, and even happier now that we have seen the lifting of many restrictions here in Ontario. After months of staying home we are eager to get out and stretch out legs and imaginations in a region made for discovery. This […]

Have you ever wondered about the mysterious realm outside our planet? Maybe you’ve wanted to roam the galaxy, travel among the stars, and get a new perspective on the universe. For now, stargazing is as close to it as us ‘average humans’ can get! Luckily there are still places to getaway, where the view of […]

You waken slowly in the early morning, the high-pitched warble of birdsong drifting lightly through the trees overhead. The sky is faintly brightening with the coming of dawn, and the natural world is gradually blossoming to life. Around you there is no trace of human activity, no murmurs of voices, clanging of dishes, or whir […]

Barbecue season and maple season combine with this sweet and sticky recipe from Wintergreen Maple Syrup.

Break a sweat in Ontario’s Highlands with these top hiking and biking destinations.

You don’t need to leave the house for a romantic and locally inspired experience. Bring date night home with these four romantic experiences.

Follow in the footsteps of the Group of Seven and be inspired by these five experiences across Ontario’s Highlands.

Tell Dad how much awesome he is this Father’s Day with a little local love from these places in Ontario’s Highlands.

A throwback to summers gone past, with inspiration for this year’s adventure.

Challenge accepted: Take on the Great Potato Abundance of 2020 and put a dent in the local potato population.

Discover the benefits of Wandering and why the place to do it is Ontario’s Highlands.

If you’re missing your spring cocktails, the drink makers at Rhubarb Haliburton are happy to share their recipe for a delicious and fizzy cocktail.

Hit the water and take advantage of these easy kayaking and canoeing opportunities in Ontario’s Highlands.

Take a trip around Ontario’s Highlands to these micro-breweries to discover your perfect summer beer.

Feed your curiosity and explore the diverse geology of Ontario’s Highlands at these Recreational Geology locations.

Pamper yourself with a little self love with this recipe for an at-home spa day from Wind in the Willows Spa in Haliburton, Ontario.

Wake up lakeside with a steaming cup of coffee from a roastery in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover the beauty of mindfulness and allowing yourself to Just Breathe.

From Bed & Breakfasts to manors, Ontario’s Highlands is dotted with unique accommodations options for a memorable night stay.

Chow down on artisan wood-fired pizza at any of these gems across Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover businesses across Haliburton County putting sustainability first.

Expert fishing guide Sebastian Kowalczuk shares his secret fishing spots where you’re guaranteed a good catch.

Spring’s revival invites you to immerse yourself in your senses.

Discover the story of Sarain Fox and her journey home to the Ontario’s Highlands, relieving memories of ice fishing and snowmobiling along the way.

The sun is warm, the air smells like spring, and the birds are singing their special warm weather songs. It’s official; spring has sprung. After a long Canadian winter, spring getaways are a time-honoured tradition for families here in the great white north, and haven’t we earned a little fun in the sun? This is […]

Celebrate Pi Day with the best pie at these bakeries in Ontario’s Highlands.

Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes. Celebrate Canada’s iconic sweetener in all its forms in Ontario’s Highlands.

Gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian – dine with confidence at these 10 Ontario’s Highlands restaurants. Your belly will thank you.

Escape the city for a hearty meal with pure maple syrup at these top places for pancake breakfasts in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover sweet places to stay for maple adventures in Ontario this spring.

This Valentine’s Day, dare to do something different and visit Artech Studios.

Soak up incredible views and beneficial side effects across Ontario’s Highlands.

Add a little romance at one of these nine intimate Ontario retreats.

You slip and slide your way across the ice, your arms laden with fishing gear, excitement building at the thought of the unscripted day ahead. Tucked amidst your gear is a warm blanket, a thermos of something rich and delicious, and a carefully packed cooler with goodies to keep you cozy all day. Ice fishing […]

Discover rider-designed loops, private snowmobile trails, and places to stay along the way in Ontario’s Highlands.

Winter events across Ontario’s Highlands that will help you keep your New Year’s Resolutions.

A grown-up’s guide to falling in love with Snow Days in Ontario’s Highlands.

Meet up with friends after a day well spent on the slopes or on the trails. Discover these top places in Ontario’s Highlands to celebrate the Apres Ski!

Get into the holiday spirit this month with these mixologists and craft drink producers in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover some of the best bakeries in Ontario’s Highlands and their tasty treats.

Unique winter experiences in Ontario’s Highlands that will give you something to brag about.

Warm up your winter in Ontario’s Highlands with a getaway to one of these snug lodges or resorts.

Give the ultimate surprise to your loved ones this Christmas season.

Challenge yourself to reach new heights with an ice climbing adventure at these places across Ontario’s Highlands.

If you can’t beat winter, join it with an epic dog sledding excursion through some of the most beautiful forests in Ontario.

Get hooked on the ultimate Canadian winter experience with an ice fishing getaway in Ontario’s Highlands.

Explore wild places on cross country ski or snowshoe trails in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover these 6 cabins in Ontario and uncover the beauty of a winter staycation in Ontario’s Highlands.

Skip the line-ups this winter and spend more time on the slopes at these Ontario’s Highlands hills.

Tips for a successful catch with ice fishing this winter.

Today’s craft markets are full of fresh, hip products made by creative and talented makers. This holiday season, go above and beyond by picking up handmade items with a story to tell at one of these Ontario holiday markets.

Spend the night in historic accommodations to take yourself to way-back-when, and get into the spirit of the community you’re visiting. These inns have stories to tell of the people who lived and breathed inside their walls.

Unique date night ideas in Haliburton County.

Fall food festivals to warm your spirits and delight your taste buds in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover the warmth of friendly artists and artisans this fall with Studio Tours in Ontario’s Highlands.

Read these tips to help plan your hikes and time at the Hike Haliburton Festival.

Discover these places in Ontario’s Highlands that allow you to get out into nature, benefiting your mental and physical health.

Live in the moment and tune into yourself at one of these 6 nature spots in Hastings County and Haliburton County.

Places throughout Ontario’s Highlands for any type of group.

Discover the best places for summer sunsets in Ontario’s Highlands.

Discover these top ice cream stops across Ontario’s Highlands to keep cool this summer on your road trip.

Camps across Ontario’s Highlands to fill your kids’ days with excitement.

Sip and savour under the sun on a dreamy waterfront patio at one these spectacular restaurants.

Stretch your legs and fill your belly at these easy stops along three routes headed to Algonquin Park.

Check out these top spots near Toronto to upgrade your outdoor skills and gear.

Get your muscles working with these five ways to embrace the Canadian wilderness in Ontario’s Highlands.

From rock to folk, these Ontario’s Highlands summer music festivals will keep you coming back year after year.

Discover these top ways to enjoy the strawberry season, when you let these farm-fresh berries shine on their own or in a variety of treats.

Celebrate creativity at art festivals across Ontario’s Highlands this summer.

Molding clay. Blowing glass, Painting water colours. Discover these unique art workshops in Ontario’s Highlands.

3 tips to ensure a memorable cottage escape in Ontario Highlands.

Head into the woods and onto the water this summer and discover these off-grid cabins in Ontario.

Indulge your taste buds this summer with these 5 local finds at Farmers Markets through Ontario’s Highlands.

Take a road trip this summer in Ontario’s Highlands and visit these key food festivals.

Discover ways to give a mom a Mother’s Day to remember, with gift ideas that go above and beyond.

Grab your SUP board and take in the beautiful views at these 5 places in Ontario’s Highlands.

Check out one of these live theatre performances throughout Ontario’s Highlands.

Four memorable bike adventures in Ontario’s Highlands.

Welcome the warm weather together this spring at events across Ontario’s Highlands.

Enjoy some quality family time and embrace the season during an escape to Ontario’s Highlands.

Climb to new heights at the Medeba Ice Wall and enjoy the unique view from the top.

Make fresh tracks along premium snowmobile trail, the RAP Tour Loop.

Snowshoeing to serenity in #MyHaliburtonHighlands.

Visit Winterdance in Ontario’s Highlands and discover a love of winter from some of its biggest fans.

Watch JR Alli’s video and see what he discovers when he allows himself to just wander.

Follow along with Chris from Travelling Mitch as he wanders through Haliburton Highlands and Hastings County on the Rustic Roamer Road Trip.

Stand tall and marvel at the views from the top of historical attraction, the Dorset Lookout Tower.

Discover cabins in Ontario that allow you to get a temporary break from the online world.

Summer adventure of mountain biking awaits at Sir Sam’s Ski & Ride.

Step back into nature at the Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve to celebrate sustainability in this unique place.

Marvel at outdoor art dotting the streets and trails across Ontario’s Highlands.

A three-day Creative Cruiser Road Trip in Ontario’s Highlands sure to peak and feed your curiosity.

A three-day Rustic Roamer Route filled with surprising moments around each corner.

Discover Minden Hills, where you can seek both serenity and adventure with small-town charm.

Seeking thrills? Check out the adrenaline junkie’s guide to finding adventure without wasting time.

Travel ideas for Father’s Day and beyond.

This March Break, do something unexpected with the family.

Seven amazing ways to indulge your next craving with maple-inspired treats.

Fresh healthy food and local produce are summer staples in Ontario’s Highlands.

7 Locations that will relax the most stressed out traveller.

Become a pro on sustainable, local food with a visit to Abbey Gardens.

The unplanned moments that seem to go hand in hand with road trips in Ontario’s Highlands.

Two Canadians return home to rediscover their love for the Canadian winter.

Rejuvenate in the cold months with a getaway in Haliburton Highlands.

Six unique places to stay for an Ontario vacation.

5 iconic ways to experience winter like a Canuck.

Hidden trails and amazing surprises for sledders in Ontario.

Read how one Toronto adventurer finds inspiration in Haliburton.

Disconnect from the everyday with a snowmobile trip through Ontario’s Highlands.

Popular downhill skiing destinations in Ontario’s Highlands.

4 Tips for getting to welcoming Ontario’s Highlands communities.

An expert’s guide on the best fishing spots in Ontario’s Highlands.

Feast your eyes on some of the incredible flavours of the Haliburton Highlands.

Discover the ‘country’ in cottage country in Haliburton Highlands.

A beginner’s guide to everything you need for a great catch in Ontario’s Highlands.

Two bloggers uncover the outdoor beauty of Haliburton.

An Ottawa couple asks: to slow down or recharge with thrill?

Visit these 8 Ontario Parks’ campgrounds in Ontario’s Highlands and discover why they are worth the admission.

Meet Justin Beaver – one of Haliburton’s most colourful characters.

Top places to find cool stuff for Geocaching enthusiasts.

Restaurants with views as impressive as the menu.

Discover these charming Bed & Breakfasts in Ontario’s small towns.

Discover the rich canoe culture in Ontario’s Highlands.

After years of travel, read the story of why Emily returned to Haliburton to officially call it her home.

Sometimes it is the imperfect moments that matter the most. Become inspired to roam without the burden of worrying about everything going according to plan.

Take the road less traveled through Ontario’s Highlands to these unique festivals that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

Discover the best spots to learn about the vibrant culture and hidden gems in Ontario’s Highlands through the locals themselves.

Minden is your gateway to outdoor adventure, small-town charm and more.

Located in the Geocaching Capital of Canada, all you need is a GPS and curiosity to explore Wilberforce.