If there is a hot topic for tourism these days, it’s sustainability. The pandemic taught us to cherish the treasures found right in our backyard, and today’s travellers are less into extravagant jet-setting and more into treading lightly on the earth.

 The key is to conserve what’s here so we can all continue to enjoy the vast stretches of untouched forest, plentiful lakes, and diversity of flora and fauna for generations to come.

Come Wander Sustainably

Responsible tourism is an approach to tourism that focuses on supporting and growing the community and culture, while protecting the environment and its ecosystems. It means travel planning from a new perspective and consciously seeking out experience providers who care about how they impact their community and environment.

Diversity, Pristine Wilderness, and Community

Ontario’s Highlands’ remote spaces, biological diversity, and collection of small, vibrant communities makes it a coveted travel destination for hikers, paddlers, cyclists, cottage goers, fisher people, and small-town lovers. The region attracts intrepid adventurers as well as those looking to its endless forests for a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Build Your Own (sustainable) Adventure

For those looking to explore their sense of adventure, to embrace the stillness and wonder of nature and rural life, Ontario’s Highlands’ website, ComeWander.ca is a treasure trove for planning getaways and one-of-a-kind experiences in the region. 

From the adrenalin spiking experiences of epic whitewater paddling to sedate and introspective rambles through the same terrain that inspired the Group of Seven, ComeWander.ca has everything you need to plan an amazing adventure here, and from a sustainable perspective. 

When looking to travel lightly in your holiday, seeking out accommodations or experiences that embrace an eco-friendly and inclusive offering is a must. These tourism operators are offering visitors options to tread lightly during their travels in Ontario's Highlands. 

Take a course at MKC to learn how to whitewater paddle a canoe or kayak, and book one of their accommodation options (camping, lodge, or cabin). They are also FeastON certified and have signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge. 

Somewhere Inn is minimalist, fresh, and unique. The outdoors is the focus here, which makes sense given their location next to Calabogie Lake and Calabogie Peaks, both of which offer year-round recreation. These folks are a Living Wage employer, and EcoFund certified. 

Experience four-season outdoor adventure in this nature reserve deep in the wilds of Haliburton Highlands. With 100,000 acres, 100 lakes and millions of trees, you can stay and play in breathtaking surroundings. While you’re here book one of the on-site experiences from Yours Outdoors or walk the longest canopy walk in Canada.

Nestled in the wilds of Haliburton Highlands, this lodge is in Algonquin Park territory and all the beauty that area provides. The lodge is a winner of the Ontario Tourism Sustainable Tourism Award and is 100 per cent off-grid, thanks to their micro-hydro system. 

Tiny homes are the newest trend in eco-friendly living and when you stay with Cabinscape you can experience tiny living without committing to getting rid of your king-sized bed. With 20 cabins located in stunning wild places in Haliburton Highlands, Lanark County, Frontenac County and Ottawa Valley, you can experience your very own wilderness adventure.

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