Written By Alan Good
TRAVEL - Continuing our journey in Ontario’s north, after a stay at Sturgeon Bay and then Kiosk in north Algonquin Park, we traveled to the largest freshwater island in the world.
Manitoulin Island is 2,766 square kilometers of forests, beaches, shops, and many summer adventures. It’s said to be on many Canadians’ bucket list, according to a CBC survey asking what ten unique places every Canadian should try to visit. Whether you go to Tobermory and take the MS Chi-Cheemaun or travel the seven-plus hours around to the swing bridge at Little Current, your adventure can start anywhere.
Once on the island, swim, fish or boat on one of its 108 inland freshwater lakes. Lake Manitou, where we stay, is the largest lake on a freshwater island in the world at 104 square kilometers. Manitoulin is also home to Treasure Island in Lake Mindemoya, “the largest island in a lake on an island in a lake in the world”.
Manitoulin holds several powwows during summer months, all a delight in colour and sound. Stop in several villages and see, taste, and buy Aboriginal wears. Paintings and carvings, clothing and more, are available to the traveler.
One stop you might want to visit is the Bridal Veil Falls, said to be eleven-meters high. People come from all around just to see it and walk behind the cascading water. Take the steel stairway down to the base of the falls and later walk the trail along the river to Lake Kagawong. A chocolate delight awaits you at Chocolate Works and while you’re there, visit the Wild Creations gift shop.
On the south side of the island, Providence Bay boasts a two-kilometer beach of white sand and shallow water. The Boardwalk is wheelchair-accessible path that spans the Mindemoya River and winds through the local sand dune ecosystem. Elevated viewing platforms at the mouth of the Mindemoya River offer spots to watch rainbow trout and salmon migrate upstream. Take in the interactive interpretive space highlighting the region’s natural history and local culture at the Discovery Centre.
Like visiting micro-breweries? Split Rail in Gore Bay has great choices and food as well. The cup and saucer trail offers easy or challenging hikes and a view that take the breath away.
Whether you like sunsets or sunrises you’ll find a body of water from which to experience it. Staying either at campsites or in cabins, for a few days or weeks, Manitoulin Island is an experience you shouldn’t miss.
