Summer may be over but the beautiful weather is still calling us for one more wander, one more explore to bask in the sun, wander hand in hand and take in the brilliant display of fall colours. And even though the cooler weather may mean ample snuggle time, we still want to get out and make the most of the warmer weather with one last road trip before the snow flies.

This fall, set off on a road trip to end all road trips. One that invites you to discover (or re-discover) your feelings for one another among some of the most beautiful fall scenery in Ontario.

2-Night, 3-Day Couple's Road Trip for Maximum Fall Colours
3 Days | Total Distance: 156 km

Start Here: Sir Sam's Ski & Ride

What better way to get a bird’s eye view of the fall foliage than at the top of a mountain? We start our itinerary here to give you a sneak peek of the amazing sights you can expect on this journey.

  • Take a chairlift to the top of the ski hill and see the beauty of autumn from a bird’s eye view over Eagle Lake.
  • Relax on the on-site patio (open weekends from noon to 5 p.m.) to savour more than just the colours.
  • Plan your visit to fall over Thanksgiving weekend and take part in the ski hill’s Fall Festival.
Eagle Lake
Haliburton County
From Toronto: 266km • 2 hr 52 min From Ottawa: 298km • 3 hr 30 min

With a rich history in the Haliburton Highlands area, Sir Sam's Ski/Ride is every adventure's dream in both the summer and winter.  This picturesque ski hill overlooking Eagle Lake is perfect for mountain biking for every skill-level, with a walk-on, walk-off covered lift perfect for beginners.  You can ride, run, or hike over 100 acres of ancient Canadian Shielf and hardwood forest.

Time Spent Here: Plan for an afternoon at Sir Sam's, between three and four hours.

End Your Day: Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa

Practically right next door to the ski hill is Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa, the perfect place to snuggle in for the night without giving up stellar autumn views of Eagle Lake.

  • Take advantage of the water circuit to relax and connect while maintaining your view of the lake.
  • Sir Sam’s spa’s “Unconditional Love” hand treatment will awaken your heart chakra and invigorate your emotional side.
  • End your spa visit in the on-site sauna for two.
  • Romance and good food awaits at Twin Fires Restaurant, a cozy spot with romantic ambiance.
  • Take a tip in the swimming pool or Eagle Lake. You can also borrow a kayak or canoe to glide through this beautiful body of water.

Time Spent Here: You can enjoy the property and facilities here at your leisure before settling in to your room for a romantic evening for two.

Start Here: Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa

Waken refreshed from the crisp, autumn air, and ready to see more of the beauty of Ontario in fall.

    • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Twin Fires Restaurant while overlooking Eagle Lake.
    • Plan ahead for one more tour of the water circuit before heading out on the road.

    Next Stop: Haliburton

    Head south for a 20-minute drive to the charming village of Haliburton. Here, art is the focus, and romance is literally in the air.

    Haliburton
    Haliburton County
    From Toronto: 215km • 2 hr 55 min From Ottawa: 285km • 3 hr 15 min

    In addition to its' stunning scenery, Haliburton is home to a thriving arts community.  With plenty of galleries dotting the countryside, a must-visit is the renowned Haliburton Sculpture Forest, a unique outdoor collection of sculptures by Canadian and international artists.

    Time Spent Here: Plan to spend at least half a day in Haliburton proper, roughly three to four hours.

    Next Stop: Harcourt

    Hwy 118 takes you close to the southern point of Algonquin Park along winding, tree-lined roads that are simply breathtaking when the fall colours are at their peak. Relax and savour each moment of the drive; remember half the journey is the getting there.

    Harcourt
    Haliburton County
    From Toronto: 250km • 3 hr From Ottawa: 255km • 3 hr 10 min

    Time Spent Here: Depending on whether or not you book one of the experiences in the Harcourt area, you could take the whole day to experience this phenomenal region.

    End Your Day: Footprints Resort

    The southern tip of Algonquin Park is the stunning setting for this private, adults only boutique resort. Tucked amongst vast forests on a private lake, this will feel like a tiny oasis of peace in a busy world and perfect for reconnecting. Book a room or cabin and let your carries wash away while you drink in the fall scenery.

    • Swim, paddle or float (rentals available onsite) in the private lake bordered by the blazing forests of autumn.
    • Lounge with a cocktail on the private beach side by side with your loved one.
    • Either make the short drive back to Harcourt to pick up dinner from South Algonquin Diner or pick something up along the way from Haliburton or Harcourt.
    • Roast marshmallows in front of the bonfire before or after soaking in the on-site hot tub.

    Time Spent Here: Arrive early enough in the evening that you can relax and unwind. Please note that you will need to bring edibles or dinner with you.

    Start Here: Footprints Resort

    Waken refreshed from your night’s sleep in this quiet paradise, then set off for the next leg (and final day) of your adventure. First stop, Bancroft!

    Next Stop: Bancroft

    Pay close attention to the scenery as you head north-east from the resort – you will be driving along the southern shore of South Baptiste Lake and the views will be phenomenal. If you didn’t make something to eat at the resort, you’ll be ready to fuel up for the day ahead and there is an awesome spot to break your fast en route.

    • If you waited for breakfast, the local favourite, Café B.C. is the place to go for an amazing breakfast. You can’t go wrong with their eggs benedict.
    • Learn more about the heritage of the area at the Bancroft North Hastings Heritage Museum.
    • Play a quick nine at Bancroft Ridge Golf Club.
    • For more fall colours make the short hike to the lookout at Eagle’s Nest Park right in Bancroft. The view from the platform is an amazing way to see the fall foliage from up high.
    • Bancroft is known as the mineral capital of Canada and is a popular spot for rockhounding. Purchase a permit from Kauffeldt’s General Store to dig in an open-pit quarry nearby.
    • The Granite is a nice, romantic spot to stop for lunch or dinner.
    Bancroft
    Hastings County
    From Toronto: 245km • 2 hr 50 min From Ottawa: 220km • 2 hr 35 min

    Bancroft, the Mineral Capital of Canada, is a rockhounders' dream. Must stop locations for all rock-lovers includes the Bancroft Mineral Museum and the Princess Sodalite Mine. Or take a trip down The Miner's Loop and walk in the shoes of miners long ago.

    Time Spent Here: You’ll want to plan for a half day in Bancroft.

    Next Stop: Madoc

    The small town of Madoc is a straight shot from Bancroft down Hwy 62. Expect your views to be no less inspiring than they've been so far on this trip. This is your last stop!

    • Visit Kings Mill Cider to celebrate the fall harvest of apples that will be turned into delicious cider. Of course, you will want to sample some while you’re there. We recommend their wood-fired pizza.
    • The sight of a winery in fall is not something you want to miss. Make a detour to Potter Settlement Winery to sample some of their award-winning wine.
    • Wander at Kings Mill Conservation Area, a former grist mill and dam for more fall colours in a different setting.
    • Have one of 7/62 Brewery’s loaded charcuterie boards with a sampling of beer on their patio to take advantage of the warm weather.
    • Grab an ice cream produced by nearby Kawartha Dairy (or a meal) from Madoc Dairy – Burnside’s Casual Dining, a local favourite.
    Madoc
    Hastings County
    From Toronto: 210km • 2 hr 30 min From Ottawa: 195km • 2 hr 20 min

    A trip to Madoc isn't complete without a stop to the Hidden Goldmine Bakery for a delicious cinnamon roll or butter tart.  Get a flavour for Madoc's gold rush history at this quaint bakery nestled on the historic main street.

    Time Spent Here: Linger as long or as little as you like as this destination is your last stop!

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