Get On The Water In South Eastern Ontario

Go Play Outside

This beautiful stretch of Ontario is entirely linked by water – from Cornwall on the St. Lawrence River to Lake Ontario’s Kingston and on to Belleville on the Bay of Quinte. There’s also the Rideau Canal and thousands of other lakes and rivers dotted throughout. With all this water, we’ve mastered how to have a whole lotta fun on it and in it. Whether flying solo or traveling with the kiddos, the outdoor recreation opportunities here will help you burn off pent up energy and become one with nature! No matter where you go, civilization is always near. Take a break and explore the colourful shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Day 1: 1000 Islands Gananoque

But first…coffee! Adventure requires java!  Head over to Laverne’s Eatery for your first hit of caffeine and try their new Crumpet Eggs Benny – yup they went there! Make sure you grab a snack for your water adventure.

Get out on the St. Lawrence River with 1000 Islands Kayaking to get up close and personal to the 1000 Islands for this refreshing look at the river. With an expert-guided full-day or half-day trip, recreational paddle or fitness programs, they’ve got you covered. Tip: bring your camera.

Enjoy lunch at 1000 Curry. Authentic Indian cuisine that will make your mouth water or check out other dining options here.

If you’re staying the night, check in to your local accommodation before you check out what other interesting opportunities await you in this Canadian Gateway to the 1000 Islands. 

Day 2: Brockville

Up for a cruise? 1000 Islands and Seaway Cruises will do the driving, and they offer cruises like the 90 minute Jewels of the St. Lawrence tour where you will cruise by the mansions on Millionaire’s Row. If that’s too tame for ya, then jump on the Wildcat for a high speed cruise on a catamaran. If you’ve just been aching to see Boldt Castle up close and personal, Rockport Cruises offers a chance to explore the grounds on their 4 hour tour or do a double take with the “Two Castle Tour” and experience Single Castle as well.

Prefer to kayak?  Mac Johnson Wildlife Park is a sheltered pond that will allow you to have a relaxing paddle through the wildlife park. A canoe launch can be found on Centennial road, near the dam. You can also check out the paddling routes from the Frontenac Arch Biosphere.

Downtown Brockville offers a host of options to grab a bite. Sit inside at the Buell Street Bistro or grab a local favourite at Don’s Fish & Chips and make it a picnic. Looking for something different? Look here.

We bet you’re kinda tired and you definitely deserve to rest and relax. Take your pick of just about any kind of accommodation you can think of. Brockville has it: Historic luxury, family friendly, efficiency suites, B&B’s, cottages, camping and RV parks – they’re all here. Find the spot that suits you best, then rest up because you’re going to Cornwall tomorrow!

Day 3: Cornwall

Try a transparent kayak and see the lake like you’ve never seen it before! You can rent them at Guindon Park from Boatingery. Book ahead because they’re clearly popular- pun intended.

Now that your world has changed a little for the better, we think the best way to feed the beast and get to know the Cornwall food scene a little more is to take a Cornwall Food Tour. You can choose the Downtown Cornwall Food Tour or enjoy a picnic with their Brunch Picnic Basket packed with everything you need for an afternoon at the park.

Stay a little longer and explore! 

Celebrate the warmer season!