Hastings County

Food is the great uniter – it brings people together and provides a social context to feed our spirit as well as our bodies. And isn’t it true that a gathering of family and friends can only be enhanced by the accompaniment of really good food (and vice versa)? This fall, we invite you to […]

Fall is the perfect time for astronomy lovers to explore the night skies no matter where you are, but especially in Ontario’s Highlands, known for some of the darkest skies in the province. In fall, the cold air holds less moisture than warm air so the night sky is amazingly clear; plus, this is the […]

Raise your hand if you’re all about snacks while hiking, camp meals on the fire, or cabin feasts with friends? (we’re going to go ahead and assume that your hand is up because all these things are awesome). Plant life contributes to the ecosystem, meals are the cornerstone of communities, and packing the right food […]

It’s easy to miss Wollaston Township, and the unfortunate few may pass it by on their way to Algonquin or the Kawarthas. If you slow down and stop into this small community 20 minutes south of Bancroft, you’ll find a densely forested oasis pocketed with lakes with names that make you wonder, like King and […]

What makes cheese something we crave so much? Is it the slightly salty flavour, or because it’s the ultimate comfort food? Whatever the reason it’s a fact that cheese added to pretty much any dish only makes it better. No matter where you are from, cheese has played an important role in our gastronomic evolution. […]

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 […]

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 […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. The next time you are outdoors, take a moment to stand and truly feel of the land beneath your feet. If you concentrate really hard you may be […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. On my mother’s side, I am Algonquin Anishinabek, an original inhabitant of Turtle Island, known today as North America. The traditional homelands of the Algonquin people are the […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. – Amber Hein is Algonquin Anishinabek, an original inhabitant of Turtle Island, known today as North America. Read her perspective on how to give back to the land […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. Canadians are becoming more aware of the injustices perpetrated against Indigenous Peoples since settlers arrived on the shores of Turtle Island (North America). Still, many of us aren’t […]

This content is part of the broader Our Connections campaign, and is intended to broaden the understanding of Indigenous peoples, their cultures, and their histories in Ontario’s Highlands. Canada is home to more than 630 First Nations, representing over 50 sovereign nations with their own lands, culture, language, creation stories, language or dialect. With such a […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. The summer may be over but that doesn’t mean the party has to stop. Events that take place in fall are in many ways even more amazing than summer events – there are no bugs, the weather is more reasonable, and we’re all eager […]

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

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Why sleep in a boring old hotel when you can turn your overnight into an experience all its own? We love discovering new places to lay our heads and the more unique the better. These are the places that are so fun they just […]

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

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. In fall you aren’t looking for a highway experience, you want to cruise the backroads and kick up the leaves into a whirlwind behind you as you pass. The best fall drives will you past spectacular scenery to small communities, perfect picnic spots, and […]

What do you get when you combine cute shops and restaurants housed in heritage buildings with enticing waterfront or a dash of strollable parks? You get totally adorable small towns that make the perfect road trip destination.  Whether you’re in it for the food, need some retail therapy, or are seeking natural wonders like towering […]

Local’s Take is a series highlighting the staycation experiences available close to home this summer. The experiences featured in this series were hand curated to highlight fun insider spots in our region. Use these stories as your launchpad to create your own staycations in Ontario’s Highlands.  Local: Nathan and Jessica Rogers From: Stirling, Hastings County Travelling: Hastings County Exploring in […]

When you hike, is it to experience nature? Perhaps catch up with friends? Whether if it’s one or the other – or maybe both! – nothing trumps taking a pause to listen to nature’s ‘music’. There is beauty is listening to bird songs, frogs’ choruses, and the wind through the trees. In fact, it’s an […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. A creative spirit craves uninterrupted time to dream, wander, and replenish. It longs to absorb the creative vibes from others and bask in beautiful art and artistry. If your creative well has run dry or you are looking for an inspirational retreat to relax […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. We all want to be able to make beautiful music, paint stunning works of art or write beautiful prose, but if it were easy, everyone would be doing it, wouldn’t they? It’s fair to say that fostering creativity is difficult to achieve in a […]

It’s been a long time since we’ve been able to gather in person, and the moment we’ve all been waiting for is finally here. If you have been missing gathering with friends and family to watch a live performance, dance under the stars, or just hang out together, the time is now. Celebrate the summer […]

Local’s Take is a series highlighting the staycation experiences available close to home this summer. The experiences featured in this series were hand curated to highlight fun insider spots in our region. Use these stories as your launchpad to create your own staycation in Ontario’s Highlands. Local: Ardith Racey From: Hastings County Travelling: Hastings County If recent times have kindled […]

If there’s one thing we can agree on it’s that few of us will turn down an opportunity to see a waterfall. Whether it has something to do with the mesmerizing whitewater cascade or the white-noise that comes with it, a waterfall is a universal attraction. It can be the reason for a hike or […]

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

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. Getting to know a river is almost like embarking on a wet and wild love affair. You forge a connection, learn everything you can, and then strengthen it over time. Sounds like a relationship, doesn’t it? The connection you have with a body of […]

Learn how you can get the most out of your river experience, while being a responsible tourist in Ontario’s Highlands.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. This summer is the year to be on the water, to cast off on an epic paddling adventure that will take you along winding rivers, past shorelines crowded with towering trees, and where the ripples on the water draw you forward with each pull […]

“The river is where I’m my best self. It doesn’t care who I’m pretending to be.”- Stefi  Van Wijk, avid paddler. It’s no exaggeration to say that water is in the blood for whitewater paddler, instructor, and paddle school manager, Stefi Van Wijk. Most days Stefi looks like she’s coming straight off a paddling trip […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. The game is on to make the most of summer 2021 and the winner gets to spend the summer soaking wet and grinning from ear to ear. Are you up for the challenge? It goes without saying that the best warm-weather activities centre around […]

In the dog days of summer, when the sun is relentless and the humidity won’t cut you a break, there’s nothing more refreshing than an ice cream. Not only are our favourite frozen treats delicious, but they have the added bonus of helping regulate our temperature on a hot, sticky day. Scientifically proven or not, […]

When was the last time you discovered a local landmark or business that you didn’t know was there? In Ontario’s Highlands, we have some amazing spots and experiences that you might be surprised to hear about. For example, did you know the longest canopy boardwalk in the world is located in Haliburton Highlands? Or that […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  If you’re dreaming of having the best foodie experiences in Ontario, we’ve got your back. Where else can you visit and sample products from craft breweries, distilleries, and cideries, cheese makers, and award-winning eateries that reflect the diverse flavours of 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.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out, Whether it’s a throwback to simpler days when a weekend picnic was a full day adventure or a need to connect with nature, having a picnic is something we universally enjoy. Spreading your picnic blanket on the ground and lounging while you nibble on […]

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

From the day we burst into the world, mothers mean safety, warmth, and unconditional love. Mothers are almost superhuman, virtually able to leap tall buildings in a single bound and cure all ills with the sweep of a hand. Moms know when you need a hug, when you need to be left alone, and are […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. The highlight of a rural road trip is often the impromptu stop at a small town general store where you can find everything from pickled eggs to popsicles, and where penny candy begs for a sampling. General stores are a staple of the rural […]

Stepping into your local outdoor outfitter or bike shop last year to find nothing but empty shelves was a good indication that bikepacking, the activity that combines backcountry camping and off-road cycling, will be a popular option for a COVID-friendly outdoor getaway this year. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran ready to take on multi-day tours […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out. These days the warm weather is telling us summer is here and we don’t need to be told twice to get out and embrace the outdoors and the freedom it offers through physical distancing. The best summer hikes not only take us into the wild […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  Valentine’s Day may be over but that doesn’t mean our chocolate indulgence has to end. Is there even such a thing as too much chocolate? We think not. For true chocolate lovers, every opportunity to sample a new artisanal chocolate is reason to rejoice. […]

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

*Stay home, stay safe. This article contains experiences you can have at home or that conform with current stay-at-home orders. Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but unfortunately this year brings with it new challenges.  You can’t go out to dinner, you can’t go see a movie, and many of the typical Valentine’s Day […]

The ground may be covered by snow right now, but we’re dreaming of the warm weather and the camping season to come in the wild places in Ontario’s Highlands. Camping reservations have recently opened at provincial campgrounds across Ontario and if last year was any indicator spots will book up fast. You can book a […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  If you have been longing to cruise along snowy trails where the winter forest towers over you and the rush of the frosty wind fills your ears, this is the year to get out and explore the landscapes close to home. COVID-19 has made […]

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.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  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 […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  The hill spills beneath the runners of your toboggan, plunging into a darkness made even deeper by the sparkle of snow beneath the moonlight. Your nose is cold but your mittened hands are warm, and your heart is pumping in anticipation of careening downhill […]

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

The holiday season is coming, and it’s the season for giving. You might be the type to start planning early, or the kind who is motivated by pressure, not even beginning your shopping until the 11th hour. Whichever you are, we’re here to help get the ideas flowing with a list of online gifts that […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  When the holiday decorations go up in December the whole world begins to shimmer with magic. Every car ride or stroll is filled with wonder as we drink in the night filled with sparkling holiday lights of all colours. For the next […]

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

Snuggle down for an enchanted sleigh ride through snowy forests and pristine wilderness settings in Ontario’s Highlands.

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  You’ve heard the word and maybe you’ve even seen Instagram pics of colourful charcuterie boards, and if you’re lucky you’ve sampled this meaty treat yourself (in case you wondered, it’s pronounced shahr-ku-tuh-ree). Charcuterie is originally a French word that literally translates to […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  If you were sad to pack away your bike for the winter, are lamenting the loss of beautiful weather for an early morning run, or regretting all the days you could have been churning through whitewater this summer but weren’t, we have […]

‘Tis the season – for shopping. Yes, the leaves may have barely fallen from the trees but the jack-o-lanterns will shortly be switched out for ornaments and holly and the days are numbered before the holidays are here live and in person. This year when planning your shopping to-do list, we have two words for […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  You waken to the sound of new snow drifting onto the top of your tent or cabin, landing light as a feather one snowflake at a time. The world is hushed and the air snaps with cold but you are warm and […]

Friluftsliv (free-lufts-liv): Free air life *Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  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 […]

*Wander safe, wander local. Check your region’s local health guidelines before heading out.  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 […]

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 […]

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

Discover the best of fall with these 14 scenic driving routes in North Hastings.

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

Discover how four craft drink makers harness Mother Nature’s flavours to elevate their beverages in Ontario’s Highlands.

So you’re not ready for camping season to end? Here’s a tip: It doesn’t! Just because the summer is over doesn’t mean we need to head indoors, when it comes to camping experiences, fall is where it’s at. Fall camping is an entirely different (and some would say better) experience from summer camping. Sure it’s […]

Find these cideries on your next road trip through Ontario’s Highlands to discover a refreshing way to toast the apple harvest with a cold cider.

If you have been feeling a little tight around the shoulders, are sleeping a little less deeply, or just generally feeling stressed, we have good news. There is no better time to connect with yourself, family, or friends, than right now. After such a momentous year, what we all could use right now is a […]

The deep lakes and meandering rivers here are ripe with life, both on land and in the water. This land is known as a region rich with minerals, and we haven’t forgotten how our communities were settled by the gold rush, where miners flocked, eager to delve into the earth to unearth its riches. Thick […]

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 […]

For one of the best views of Bancroft, turn off Highway 62 onto Eagles Nest Crescent; turn right onto Eagles Nest Park Road and go up, up and then up some more. From the parking lot, take the Hawkwatch Trail; it won’t take long. You’ll find the lookout deck where you can see for yourself […]

This year the key to exploring is to keep it local; this is the time to explore our own backyards, and the regions close to home that have so much to offer us in the way of exhilarating outdoor experiences, fantastic food and drink, and blissful relaxation. If you’re exploring a new corner of Ontario’s […]

If you never thought that a simple road could spark your curiosity, initiate historical debates AND bring out your inner geologist, then you have obviously never been introduced to Letterkenny Road. Connecting the hamlets of Brudenell and Quadeville, this fully paved settlement road winds around pristine lakes, and leads you to a prized rose-quartz quarry. […]

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

Discover these chip trucks and their classic dishes, located throughout Ontario’s Highlands.

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

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.

Stretch your legs by exploring these nature hiking trails along Highway 7.

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

A frosty glass of crisp cider may be the perfect accompaniment for patio sipping, television watching, dock sitting, or just hanging out in the warm, lemony spring sunshine, but did you know it also happens to be a fantastic and versatile ingredient for cooking? For Margaret Van Helvoort and Kees Morsink there is no bad […]

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.

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.

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.

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.

This winter trek uncovers hidden treasures in Madoc, Ontario.

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

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

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

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

Broaden your horizons and learn something new at a unique museum in Ontario’s Highlands’.

Learn to climb or brush up on your skills with an epic ice climbing adventure at SOIceFest 2020 in Maynooth, ON.

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

Tour craft drink producers for a chance to meet the makers, and get the inside story on what inspires them to make and sell their product. Oh, and sample delicious brews, too!

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!

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

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

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

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

Tips for a successful catch with ice fishing this winter.

Meet Sarah Woods and Luca Molteni, owners of The Barn Chefs who are bringing a little slick of Italy to Coe Hill, Ontario.

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.

As an angler who is passionate about exploring new waters, I’m grateful to live in a region that has endless options! Whether you’re shore fishing, venturing out by boat, kayak, or canoe, there are bass fishing opportunities for everyone here in the Ontario’s Highlands region. I’ve put together a list of my five favourite bass […]

Bring a friend to visit these 6 rumoured ghost towns in Ontario.

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.

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

Discover these spots for delicious summer eats in Hastings County.

Discover these 5 golf courses in Ontario’s Highlands, perfect spots for your next golf escape.

Read about these 10 stops to visit on the way to your Bancroft area cottage.

Discover good food and great memories at the Ontario Water Buffalo Company.

Wander the waterways of Hastings County with Cruising Canoes.

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.

Check out these cycling races, plus where to stay, eat, and rest at the towns nearby.

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

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

Check out these spots for afternoon tea at these tea rooms across Ontario’s Highlands.

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.

Take a break to recharge your spirit and relax your mind while cross country skiing in the snow-covered woods of Silent Lake Provincial Park.

Sometimes what we need is a little technology detox to spend a little less time with the screens in our lives and a little more time with the people who matter most.

Discover why Ormsby Ontario is worth exploring on your next road trip.

Meeting cider kings and discovering great things in Hastings County.

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

A three-day Serenity Seeker Route to getaway, unwind, and leave any stress behind.

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

Travel ideas for Father’s Day and beyond.

Three reasons to see Hastings: The Musical with Tweed and Company.

Discover unique finds and decor on a shopping trip through Ontario’s Highlands.

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.

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

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

Pack your saddle bags and press the throttle for an ATV adventure like no other in Ontario’s Highlands.

Two wanderers explore 135 kilometres of hidden gems in Hastings County.

Discover breathtaking beauty blasted from the Earth at Marmora Mine in Ontario’s Highlands.

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

Rockhounding in Bancroft, Ontario, the Mineral Capital of Canada.

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

From hidden gems to ancient caves, these recreational geology trips are full of surprises.