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 forests, lakes teeming with fish and hidden swimming holes create an authentic summer getaway for us to enjoy.
After long months spent inside, now is the time to pitch a tent and gather around a crackling campfire and give thanks to everything that makes Hastings County #WildlyAuthentic.
To Our Forests
Thick forests and winding trails lead you on an unscripted exploration deep into the land that is Hastings County. Look up at the treetops and imagine the view from above: a colourful patchwork of forests, valleys and community spread out below. Challenge yourself to climb to one of the lookout spots tucked deep in the bush and see for yourself; you’ll find the journey is worth the prize at the end.
…thank you for teaching us.
Explore Our Forests: Spread your arms in the wide open spaces at Vanderwater Conservation Area’s near Thomasburg. Take your time wandering the 15-kilometres of trails that run through cedar, hardwood and coniferous forests running parallel to the Moira River.
To Our Farmers
If we could see it from above, we’d see Hastings County as a patchwork of forests mixed with pastures, glades, and winding waterways. Here, growers put their heart and soul into producing delicious offerings for us to savour. Farmers’ markets are found in virtually every community and folks are happy to have a chat and share with you the bounty the land has provided.
…thank you for feeding us.
Explore Our Growers: At Enright Cattle Co. in Tweed, nothing is wasted from the beef they raise. From the hides used to make stunning leather products, to the tallow that is the basis of their soap, it’s sustainable farming at its best. Order one of their food boxes and get beef, eggs, and vegetables delivered right to your door.
To Our Rivers
Rivers of all paths and directions snake their way across the countryside here. The mighty Madawaska River dominates the landscape, shaping waterfront communities and contributing to our culture. Watch as the current pushes millions of litres of water through the countryside. Wide and majestic, the Madawaska invites us to get wet and meet adventure head on.
….thank you for making us laugh.
Explore Our Rivers: Learn how to carve at Madawaska Kanu Centre, and spend the day on the river practicing your rolls and paddling skills. Thrill with the exhilaration of a guided rafting trip over rapids, and at the end of the day enjoy a patio-side chat with family and friends while dining on local cuisine.
To Our Communities
The people here have a backbone that’s stood us in good stead in good times and bad. Wander through any of the communities here – Madoc, Tweed, Bancroft, and beyond – and stop for a bite to eat and chat while you break bread with the people and faces who shaped the community so long ago. Here the stories of trials past, and challenges met and surpassed.
…thank you for always being there for us.
Explore Our Community: Meet the folks at Kings Mill Cider and hear their story about how they started producing cider in Hastings County. Kick back while savouring a wood-fired pizza and cool, crisp cider on the outdoor patio.
To Ourselves
If the land can be healing for the mind and body, then spending time some of the most beautiful regions in Ontario will leave you refreshed and restored in no time. Here in Hastings County we are all invited to take a deep breath and then exhale…to be present in the moment.
…thank you for healing us from within.
Explore Our Healing Places: The area around Madawaska Kanu Centre is lightly wooded and populated by songbirds and small woodland animals to create a peaceful and soul-renewing getaway. Enjoy a three-day yoga retreat with Creekside Yoga and develop your practice in Ashtanga Vinyasa, Yin, and AcroYoga.
With love,
From the Wanderer inside all of us XOXO
What do you appreciate most about Hastings County? Share your love and post a picture to Instagram with #HastingsLoveLetter honouring your favourite place in Hastings County for a chance to win a GoPro Hero 8 or a local prize pack.