Ontario one of Canada’s eastern provinces, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and unforgettable experiences. Anna, our Product Manager for Canada took a familiarisation trip there last year, and here is her account of her experiences.

“Our journey took us across the province, from the stunning landscapes of Killarney to the cultural heart of Manitoulin Island, and into the wild beauty of Algoma. We started  at Heathrow Airport, where we met Emma, the Ontario Tourism manager for the UK,  at check-in before boarding our Air Canada flight to Toronto. A quick connection took us to Sudbury, and from there, we embarked on a scenic 1.5 hour drive to Killarney Mountain Lodge.

Nestled along the Georgian Bay, Killarney Mountain Lodge was the perfect retreat to kick off our adventure. With cosy accommodations and stunning views of the La Cloche mountains, it provided the ideal setting for relaxation and exploration. Our first evening featured a great BBQ followed by a serene sunset sail cruise.
On Day Two, after a hearty breakfast, we explored the lodge before heading to Killarney Outfitters, where we paddled and kayaked through Killarney Provincial Park, along crystal-clear waters and rugged wilderness. Lunch was a classic fish fry—an authentic outdoor dining experience sitting on the rocks of Fox Island overlooking the sparkling clear waters. The evening was spent back at the lodge, enjoying in a delicious dinner and unwinding under the clear, starry sky.

The next day we departed early for Manitoulin Island, home to Wikwemikong Tourism. Our first experience was the “Making Footprints” guided hike, followed by an Indigenous culinary lunch. The “Unceded Journey” historic tour deepened our understanding of the land and its people, and we marvelled at the stunning artwork at the James Mishibinijima Art Gallery. The day concluded with an interactive Dewegan Drum and Song Experience, where we joined in traditional dancing. Our accommodations at the Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre were both comfortable and culturally inspired, making it a great home for the night.

Our road trip continued to Sault Ste. Marie, with a stop at Serpent River First Nations Trading Post. In Sault Ste. Marie, we explored the Agawa Canyon Train Tour Depot, the Bushplane Museum, and Whitefish Island, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s heritage and natural beauty. Checking in at the Water Tower Inn, we enjoyed an evening of fine dining and relaxation, preparing for another exciting day ahead.

Driving north along Highway 17, we reached Missanabie, where we boarded the VIA Rail train bound for Lodge Eighty Eight. This secluded lodge, set on Esnagi Lake, was a haven for nature lovers. We each had our own cabin with sitting area and kitchen facilities.

The afternoon was spent either on the lake soaking in the breathtaking surroundings on a boat trip. With gourmet home cooked meals and rustic charm, Lodge Eighty Eight offered an unparalleled wilderness experience. With its remoteness, it was fantastic to switch off from the “real world” as we didn’t have wi-fi throughout our stay. In the evening, we sat on the deck, looking up at the clear night sky full of stars.

After a morning at Lodge Eighty Eight we took the boat back to the train station towards Lake Superior. With Naturally Superior Adventures, where we (all 15 of us!) sat in one large canoe on Lake Superior’s pristine waters and paddled throughout the lake. That evening, we arrived at Wawa Motor Inn, a cosy motel in the heart of Northern Ontario, where we enjoyed a hearty meal in a very eclectic restaurant and a restful night’s sleep.

Departing Wawa, we visited the Lake Superior Visitor Center before heading to the Agawa Pictographs, a sacred Indigenous site featuring ancient red ochre paintings. Our journey continued to Chippewa Falls, famously captured in a painting by A.Y. Jackson of the famous Group of Seven. Arriving at Quattro Hotel in Sault Ste. Marie, we enjoyed a final night of comfort before our return journey.

Our last morning featured a scenic boat tour of the Sault Locks aboard the Miss Marie. After a farewell lunch at North 82, we departed for the airport, catching our flight back to London with memories of an extraordinary journey."