The Explorer’s Guide to Ontario: From Niagara Falls to the Northern Lights
Welcome to Lake Superior
Lake Superior, the largest of the Great Lakes, often stands out for its sheer size and natural grandeur. Nestled along Ontario’s northern shores, Lake Superior boasts pristine waters and dramatic landscapes. Its rugged coastlines, sweeping vistas, and secluded beaches make it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The lake’s crystalline waters are perfect for kayaking, sailing, and fishing, while its surrounding wilderness provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting. Lake Superior’s undeniable beauty, combined with its sense of wild solitude, contributes to its reputation as one of the most captivating and awe inspiring lakes in Ontario.
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3 Interesting Facts about Ontario
Land of Lakes
Ontario is home to over 250,000 lakes, which contain about one-fifth of the world’s fresh water. This includes part of the Great Lakes, the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth.
Ontario’s Grand Canyon
The Cheltenham Badlands, located near Caledon in southern Ontario, is a unique and striking landscape resembling a desert with its exposed red and orange clay hills. The formation was created by poor farming practices in the 1930s.
Magnetic Hill, Sudbury
Sudbury is home to a peculiar phenomenon known as Magnetic Hill. When cars are placed in neutral on Magnetic Hill Road, they appear to roll uphill, creating an optical illusion that defies gravity.
Must See Attractions
Algonquin Provincial Park
Nature & Parks
The park is a wilderness expanse celebrated for its stunning landscapes, wildlife, and extensive network of lakes and rivers.
St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market
Shopping
The market is renowned as one of Canada’s largest year round farmers’ markets, offering a vast array of locally grown produce, crafts, and homemade foods, all set within a charming and vibrant Amish community atmosphere.
Niagara Falls
Nature & Parks
Niagara Falls captivates millions of visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty as colossal volumes of water cascade over the iconic Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Lakes to Explore
1. Lake Ontario
3 Miles
Lake Ontario offers breathtaking views, with Toronto’s skyline to the north and serene beaches and parks along its shores.
2. Kawartha Lakes
127 Miles
The Kawartha Lakes region is a popular destination for recreational activities and is known for its charming small towns.
3. Lake Erie
129 Miles
Lake Erie provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating, and is bordered by picturesque towns and vineyards.
4. Lake Huron
207 Miles
Lake Huron is celebrated for its clear blue waters, beautiful beaches, and the unique Flowerpot Island.
5. Muskoka Lakes
212 Miles
This network of lakes is famous for quintessential Canadian cottage country, offering tranquil settings for boating, fishing, and relaxation.
6. Rideau Lakes
292 Miles
These lakes—Big Rideau Lake and Upper Rideau Lake—are perfect for boating and fishing, set amidst picturesque towns and nature.
7. Lake Superior
876 Miles
Lake Superior is renowned for its rugged beauty, clear waters, and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities like kayaking.
8. Lake of the Woods
1832 Miles
Straddling the border with Manitoba and the U.S., this massive lake is dotted with over 14,000 islands.
Annual Events and Festivals
Winterlude
Winterlude in Ottawa is a dazzling annual winter festival that transforms Canada’s capital into a wonderland of snow and ice. The festival’s centerpiece is the Rideau Canal Skateway, the world’s largest naturally frozen ice skating rink, offering a unique and exhilarating experience for skaters of all ages. Winterlude also features magnificent ice sculptures, crafted by talented artists from around the globe, showcased in sparkling displays that light up the night. Interactive activities abound, including snow playgrounds, ice carving competitions, and live entertainment.
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair is one of the world’s largest indoor agricultural and equestrian events. This prestigious fair has been a celebrated Canadian tradition since its inception in 1922. Visitors can experience a wide array of activities and exhibits, including livestock competitions, horse shows, agricultural displays, and educational demonstrations. The horse show is a particular highlight, featuring international equestrian competitions that draw top riders from around the globe. The fair also offers a delightful culinary experience, with a focus on locally-sourced, artisanal foods and beverages.
Niagara Grape and Wine Festival
Held in the renowned Niagara Peninsula, an area acclaimed for its fertile soil and ideal grape-growing conditions, the festival occurs over several weeks in September, coinciding with the grape harvest season. The festival features a plethora of events including winery tours, tastings, and educational sessions where visitors can indulge in and learn about the area’s world-class wines. A highlight of the festival is the grand parade, a vibrant and colorful procession through the streets, celebrating the community’s wine-making achievements. Local wineries participate enthusiastically, offering special events and promotions, including food pairings, live music, and exclusive tours.
Top Hiking Trails
The Crack Trail
The Crack Trail (Parking Lot), Killarney, ONtario P0M 2A0
The Crack Trail, nestled within Killarney Provincial Park in Ontario, stands as a testament to the raw and rugged beauty of Canadian wilderness. A challenging yet rewarding hiking trail, The Crack earns its name from a distinctive narrow fissure in the quartzite rock that adventurous hikers ascend to reach the summit of the La Cloche Mountains. The trail offers a captivating journey through dense forests, rocky terrain, and pristine lakes, ultimately leading to a breathtaking panoramic view at the summit. Hikers are treated to vistas of Georgian Bay, Killarney’s azure lakes, and the stunning expanse of the surrounding wilderness.
Visit their website for more information
Lion’s Head Lookout
McCurdy Drive Parkette, 89 Moore St, Lion’s Head, ONtario N0H 1W0
The Crack Trail, nestled within Killarney Provincial Park in Ontario, stands as a testament to the raw and rugged beauty of Canadian wilderness. A challenging yet rewarding hiking trail, The Crack earns its name from a distinctive narrow fissure in the quartzite rock that adventurous hikers ascend to reach the summit of the La Cloche Mountains. The trail offers a captivating journey through dense forests, rocky terrain, and pristine lakes, ultimately leading to a breathtaking panoramic view at the summit. Hikers are treated to vistas of Georgian Bay, Killarney’s azure lakes, and the stunning expanse of the surrounding wilderness.
Visit their website for more information
Grindstone Creek via Waterdown Trail
150 Mill St S, Hamilton, ONtario L0R 2H0
The Grindstone Creek via Waterdown Trail, located near Hamilton, Ontario, offers a serene and picturesque escape into nature. This trail, part of the larger Niagara Escarpment trail system, winds its way through the lush forests and along the meandering Grindstone Creek. Known for its moderate difficulty, it caters to both casual walkers and more avid hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The trail features a variety of landscapes, including wooded areas, creek side paths, and occasional open meadows, offering a diverse array of flora and fauna. One of the highlights of this trail is the scenic waterfalls along Grindstone Creek, where the sound of cascading water adds to the tranquility of the hike.
Visit their website for more information
Best Golf Courses
St. George’s Golf and Country Club
1668 Islington Ave, Etobicoke, ONtario M9A 3M9
St. George’s Golf and Country Club, located in Toronto, Ontario, is one of Canada’s premier golf destinations, renowned for its rich history, exceptional design, and challenging layout. Designed by the legendary golf architect Stanley Thompson and opened in 1929, St. George’s is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in Canada and the world. The course is celebrated for its classic, strategic design which demands precision and thoughtful play. With its rolling terrain, elevated tee boxes, and undulating greens, the course presents an engaging test for golfers of all skill levels.
Visit their website for more information
Muskoka Bay Resort
1217 North Muldrew Lake Rd, Gravenhurst ONtario P1P 1R2
Crafted by renowned architect Doug Carrick, the course opened in 2006 and quickly gained a reputation as one of Canada’s top golf destinations. The course is woven into the dramatic landscape of the Canadian Shield, featuring sweeping fairways, sculpted terrain, and dramatic elevation changes that provide both a visual treat and a challenging game. The natural features, including rocky outcrops, wetlands, and forests, have been thoughtfully incorporated into the course design, creating a seamless blend of nature and playability. Each hole offers its own unique character, with strategic bunkering and beautifully manicured greens.
Visit their website for more information
The Pulpit Club
3035 Escarpment Side Rd, Caledon Village, ONtario L7C 3L5
The Pulpit Club, is a distinguished golfing destination, renowned for its two exceptional courses: The Pulpit and The Paintbrush. Originally established as the Devil’s Pulpit Golf Association, the club has gained acclaim for its spectacular design and breathtaking scenery. The Pulpit Course, the club’s first course, opened in 1990 and was designed by the renowned architectural team of Dr. Michael Hurdzan and Dana Fry. It is set against the backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment and is celebrated for its stunning vistas, dramatic elevation changes, and strategic play. The Paintbrush, opened in 1992, complements its sister course with a more rugged and naturalistic layout, featuring undulating fairways and sculpted greens that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
Visit their website for more information
Water Sports
Algonquin Outfitters
Paddling
From the tranquil waters of the Muskoka region to the historic and wildlife rich routes of Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario’s diverse paddling experiences cater to all skill levels. Canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding (SUP) are particularly popular, allowing adventurers to immerse themselves in serene wilderness or enjoy the unique urban scenery along the waterfronts of cities like Toronto and Ottawa. One notable company providing excellent rental services is Algonquin Outfitters. With several locations, they offer a wide range of rental options, including canoes, kayaks, and SUPs, along with all necessary gear and safety equipment.
Visit their website for more information
Captain Action Charters
Fishing
Fishing in Ontario is a cherished pastime, drawing anglers from far and wide to its abundant lakes, rivers, and coastal waters. With a reputation as one of the world’s premier fishing destinations, Ontario boasts diverse freshwater ecosystems teeming with various fish species. Whether casting a line for the iconic smallmouth bass in the Kawarthas, seeking the elusive muskellunge in Lake of the Woods, or angling for trophy sized salmon in Lake Ontario, the province offers a fishing experience for every enthusiast. To enhance this angling adventure, one notable company providing exceptional fishing charters is Captain Action Charters. Based in Lake Ontario’s waters near Toronto, Captain Action Charters specializes in providing memorable and guided fishing experiences.
Visit their website for more information
Divers Den
Scuba diving
Scuba diving in Ontario unveils a unique and unexpected underwater world within the Great Lakes, making it a captivating destination for divers seeking freshwater adventures. Sunken ships, underwater caves, and vibrant marine life create an enchanting and sometimes eerie landscape beneath the surface. To enhance the scuba diving experience, one exceptional company that offers guided tours is Divers Den in Tobermory. Divers Den provides a range of scuba diving excursions, catering to various skill levels and interests. Their knowledgeable and certified dive instructors lead explorations to renowned sites like the iconic Flowerpot Island and the historic shipwrecks in Big Tub Harbor.
Visit their website for more information
01 / Snowboarding & Skiing
Ski resorts such as Blue Mountain, Horseshoe Resort, and Mount St. Louis Moonstone beckon winter sports enthusiasts with their well-groomed slopes and diverse terrain. Skiers can carve their way down a variety of runs, from gentle slopes perfect for beginners to challenging descents that cater to more experienced riders. Snowboarders, in particular, can take advantage of terrain parks and halfpipes, showcasing their skills in a dynamic and adrenaline-fueled environment.
02 / Winter Biking
Winter biking has emerged as an exhilarating and increasingly popular activity in Ontario, adding a new dimension to the province’s winter sports scene. With the growing popularity of fat bikes—specially designed bicycles with wide tires built to navigate through snow and ice—cyclists can explore Ontario’s snow covered trails and landscapes even during the coldest months. Parks, conservation areas, and trail networks throughout the province provide dedicated winter biking trails, offering riders the chance to pedal through serene winter wonderlands.
03 / Ice Fishing
As winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, frozen bodies of water like Lake Simcoe, Lake Nipissing, and countless smaller lakes become ice fishing havens. Enthusiasts brave the chilly temperatures to set up their ice shanties, drilling holes through the thick ice in anticipation of catching species like perch, walleye, pike, and trout.
Resorts to Explore
Deerhurst Resort
Waterfront, Family friendly
1235 Deerhurst Dr, Huntsville, Ontario P1H 2E8
Touchstone Resort
Waterfront, Family friendly
1869 Muskoka District Road 118 West, Bracebridge, Ontario P1L 1W8
Somerset Lakeside Resort
Waterfront, Family friendly
27075 ON-28, Cardiff, Ontario K0L 1M0
Tips on Vacationing in Ontario
Consider a City Pass in Major Cities
In cities like Toronto and Ottawa, consider purchasing a city pass for discounts and skip the line access to major attractions.
Enjoy the Lakes
Ontario is home to many beautiful lakes. Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and the smaller Muskoka lakes are perfect for boating, fishing, and water sports.
Plan According to the Season
Ontario’s climate varies greatly throughout the year. Summer (June-August) is perfect for outdoor activities like visiting Niagara Falls or exploring provincial parks. Winter (December-February) offers excellent opportunities for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, particularly in areas like Blue Mountain. Fall (September-November) is ideal for witnessing the stunning fall foliage, and spring (March-May) showcases beautiful blooms.
Ontario is a beautiful and diverse Canadian province just waiting to be explored. Whether you are planning a relaxing getaway in Muskoka or an action packed adventure in bustling cities, Ontario has the perfect vacation rentals to suit your needs.
Cottage country in Ontario gives you the perfect opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the beautiful, serene landscapes peppered with sparkling lakes and lush forests. Hike among the awe inspiring natural wonders or enjoy recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching.
If you prefer the vibrancy of city life, Ontario’s big cities like Toronto and Ottawa offer a rich cultural scene with world-class museums, art galleries, and theaters.
The Highlights
– Ontario offers versatile vacation rental options for a diverse range of experiences.
– Escape to cottage country for tranquillity and outdoor activities, or explore Ontario’s bustling cities for cultural adventures.
– Booking through Lake.com ensures a secure and worry free experience.
Overview of Ontario Vacation Rentals
Rental Types
Ontario vacation rentals include various accommodations, such as cottages, boathouses, and condos in downtown Toronto right on Lake Ontario.
You can find rental properties in different sizes, styles, and budgets to suit your needs. If you’re a solo traveler or a couple, a cozy condo in the city might be just what you need. On the other hand, if you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends, a spacious cottage or house could offer more room and privacy.
Some vacation rentals in Ontario also come with convenient amenities like air conditioning, bedding/linens, child friendly spaces, and even pet-friendly options.
Top Rated Rentals
When choosing a vacation rental, it’s always a good idea to go with one highly rated by previous guests. Here are a couple of top rated rentals to consider for your Ontario vacation:
– A 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom bungalow in Niagara Falls with a 5.0 star rating (based on 2 reviews). This rental offers air conditioning and child friendly spaces. It’s available from $342 per night.
– A stylish Toronto condo with a 4.0 star rating (based on 4 reviews). This vacation rental provides air conditioning, parking, and pet-friendly options. The price starts at $247 per night.
When searching for the perfect vacation rental, consider your preferences and budget, and always check reviews to ensure a quality stay.
Experiences in Cottage Country
Waterfront Cottages
Imagine waking up to a picturesque view of the lake just beyond your window. You’ll experience that when staying in a waterfront cottage in Ontario’s cottage country. These cottages offer direct access to the lake to enjoy swimming, fishing, or paddling your kayak. Book a cottage with a boathouse where you can sleep over the water. With numerous waterfront cottages available, such as in Muskoka that includes the Big Three lakes, Lake Muskoka, Lake Joeseph, and Lake Rosseau, the Kawarthas region, and Lake Simcoe, you’ll have thousands of cottages to choose from.
Cabins in the Woods
Surrounded by lush forests and serenity, these reclusive cabins are the perfect place to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature. Whether exploring the popular Muskoka region or the vast Haliburton Highlands, you’ll find cozy cabins in the verdant landscape. Take morning hikes, watch for local wildlife, and warm up by the fireplace in the evening—your wooded retreat awaits!
Condos with Scenic Views
For a more modern experience, consider renting a condo overlooking Toronto’s beautiful Lake Ontario. Toronto’s skyline is made up almost entirely of glass high rises, with nearly all apartments facing the water. By booking a place in Toronto, you get the best of both worlds by experiencing the attractions and vibrant nightlife of a global city, you could make a day trip up to Muskoka and tour Lake Muskoka by taking a ride on the oldest operating steamship in the world. There’s even a dinner cruise that departs at 6:00 pm that’s best for capturing the sunset in Muskoka.
Outdoor Activities
Ontario is a fantastic vacation spot, offering numerous outdoor adventures for you to enjoy. With so many activities, finding something that will suit your interests is easy. This section will explore some exciting water sports and mountain biking opportunities.
Water Sports
Ontario’s waterways offer fantastic opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills or prefer a leisurely paddle in beautiful surroundings.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Ontario is a paradise for kayakers and canoeists with thousands of lakes and over 1,600 km of mapped canoeing routes. Rent a kayak or canoe and explore winding rivers, picturesque waterfalls, or riverfront views. If you’re new to the sport, plenty of guided tours are available to help you get started. Remember to visit Ahoy Rentals at 21 Ontario Street for equipment rentals.
Other water sports
Ontario has you covered if you want more than just paddling. Try your hand at stand up paddleboarding, white water rafting, or even windsurfing. With so many options available, you will surely find the perfect water sport to suit your interests.
Mountain Biking
If you prefer exploring on two wheels, Ontario’s mountain biking trails offer a thrilling mix of challenges and spectacular scenery. Each lake has its own trails, but let’s head far north for some recommendations that you should check out:
Kivi Park
Located in Sudbury, this 480 acre greenspace offers incredible mountain biking trails for all skill levels and on-site equipment rentals. In addition to mountain biking, Kivi Park features SUP, kayak, and canoe rentals for a well-rounded outdoor adventure.
Long Lake
Conveniently situated near the city center of Sudbury, Long Lake offers a great combination of hiking and mountain biking trails. The picturesque lake is also an excellent spot to rest and recharge after an exhilarating ride.
Hiking
Hiking in Ontario offers some of the most breathtaking trails to explore. Let’s dive into a few popular spots you will want to take advantage of on your trip.
Where to Stay
The Bruce Peninsula
The Bruce Peninsula is an absolute must visit location. This stunning area boasts pristine forests, crystal clear waters, and unique rock formations. The hiking trails here range from easy to challenging, so there’s something for everyone. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Georgian Bay from the cliff top trails and discover serene inlets and beaches along the shoreline paths.
One incredible trail in the Bruce Peninsula is the iconic Bruce Trail—Canada’s oldest and longest marked footpath. The trail spans over 890 kilometers and takes you through diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rocky cliffs. As you hike this scenic trail, keep an eye out for rare flora and fauna that make the region so unique.
Tobermory
In addition to the Bruce Trail, Tobermory is a quaint town located at the northern tip of the peninsula that offers picturesque scenery and access to various hikes. With its charming harbor, crystal clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, Tobermory is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. A few local trails are:
– The Flowerpot Island Trail: Accessible by boat, this rugged trail allows you to explore the island’s famous “flowerpot” rock formations.
– The Burnt Point Loop Trail: Enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride along this 4 km circular trail with picturesque lake views.
With its captivating landscapes, diverse trails, and charming accommodations, you’re guaranteed to have an epic outdoor experience.
Muskoka
Get ready to experience the heart of Ontario’s cottage country with a stay in Muskoka. Nestled among lakes and forests, you’ll find a range of vacation rentals in this picturesque region.
Muskoka is made of several lakes, but the Big Three, as locals know them, include Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joeseph. Muskoka is a 2 hour drive north of Toronto.
When in the area, Arrowhead Provincial Park, mentioned by National Geographic Traveler, offers quiet tranquility, perfect for a retreat to nature. With two lakes (Mayflower and Arrowhead) awaiting exploration, your Muskoka getaway will be one to remember.
Georgian Bay
Looking for an escape on one of the Great Lakes? Head to beautiful Georgian Bay on Lake Huron, where the clear blue waters are lined with cozy cottages for your vacation rental needs. Enjoy breathtaking scenery as you kayak, hike or just relax by the shore. Georgian Bay is home to several quaint towns, offering a variety of dining and shopping experiences to suit every taste.
Haliburton
Escape the hustle and bustle in the peaceful surroundings of Haliburton. Here, you’ll find a variety of cottage rentals nestled among the rolling hills, forests, and serene lakes. Fill your days with outdoor adventures like fishing, hiking, and biking, or simply unwind on the porch of your vacation rental with a good book. Your stay in Haliburton will be a memorable one.
Kawarthas
Just a 90 minute drive from Toronto, the Kawarthas region is the perfect city dweller’s getaway. Featuring a chain of picturesque lakes and charming towns, explore this region’s many vacation rentals for your next cottage country escape. Enjoy activities like kayaking, fishing, or hiking during the day, and retreat to your cozy cottage in the evening for a well-earned rest.
Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County offers an unforgettable cottage retreat for those who appreciate a blend of natural beauty and fine dining. You can enjoy the best of both worlds with a range of vacation rentals available. Rent a bike and explore the numerous wineries dotting the countryside, all while taking in the warm summer sun and stunning views.
Niagara-On-The-Lake
Discover the perfect mix of luxury and relaxation in the charming town of Niagara-On-The-Lake. With a variety of accommodations available, including cottages and vacation rentals, this destination has something for everyone. Visit the famous Niagara Falls, the world’s second most popular honeymoon destination, indulge in a wine tour, or explore the historic town center with its shops, restaurants, and theater at the Shaw Festival.
Big Cities on Ontario Lakes
Toronto
Named the most multicultural city in the world, Toronto has a fantastic waterfront and rental properties along Lake Ontario. From trendy restaurants to world-class museums such as the Royal Ontario Museum or ROM, and the CN Tower, the tallest building in the Western hemisphere, there’s always something to do in this walkable city.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is another fantastic option for a waterfront vacation rental in Ontario. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, you can enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the iconic Niagara Falls.
One great option is the Hideaway, a cozy cottage in wine country that can sleep up to two people. Apart from the beautiful lakefront views, you can also explore the surrounding vineyards and indulge in wine tasting from Jackson Triggs, Pelham Estates, and even Gretzky.
If you’re traveling with a larger group, there are options like the Crystal Bay Getaway, which can accommodate up to eight people and offers total views of Lake Erie. This vacation rental is ideal for families and friends looking to spend quality time together.
So, whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat in Niagara Falls or a family getaway in Toronto, Ontario has plenty of waterfront vacation rentals to cater to your needs.
Ontario’s Cultural Adventures
Ontario offers vacationers a rich array of cultural adventures, including boat shows, film festivals, music festivals, and the cottage life show. You’ll find various events and activities that cater to your interests and provide a memorable experience in a comfortable Ontario vacation rental.
Antique Boat Show
If you’re a fan of classic, vintage watercraft, you’ll love visiting one of Ontario’s antique boat shows at Muskoka Warf in the city of Gravenhurst, the Gateway to Muskoka. This is the biggest antique boat show in North America, possibly the world.
On a personal note, my Dad and I enjoy the Antique Boat Show each year and marvel at how well these boats have been maintained. The event showcases beautifully restored wooden boats, each with its own unique history. You can marvel at the craftsmanship, chat with fellow enthusiasts, and even attend workshops to learn more about these nautical treasures.
And, if you miss the Muskoka Warf event, many boats can be seen at a smaller version of the boat show at Port Carling.
Film Festival
Movie buffs will enjoy attending one of the many film festivals held in Ontario. The biggest festival is the Toronto International Film Festival, or TIFF, as attendees call it. With a diverse range of genres and themes, there’s something for everyone, from independent movies to thought provoking documentaries. You can also participate in Q&A sessions with filmmakers and actors, adding an interactive component to your experience.
Music Festival
Ontario plays host to a variety of music festivals throughout the year, covering different genres like jazz, indie rock, and folk. You can groove to the tunes of your favorite bands or discover new artists while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of these outdoor events.
Cottage Life Show
If you’re interested in exploring the more relaxed side of Ontario, the Cottage Life Show is for you. The Cottage Life show happens twice a year, in spring and fall, and features exhibitors and experts in real estate, design, and outdoor living. You can learn about owning a cottage, get inspiration for your vacation rental’s interiors, or discover the latest trends in outdoor recreation.
Each of these cultural adventures adds a special touch to your Ontario vacation, allowing you to create lasting memories while you immerse yourself in the local culture.
Renting with TICO
Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO) is a regulatory body that ensures consumer protection in the travel industry. By choosing a TICO registered vacation rental provider, you’re adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind to your vacation planning.
How does TICO registration benefit you?
– Ensures the rental provider is following industry regulations
– Validates the legitimacy of the provider so you can avoid potential scams
– Offers additional protection through the TICO Compensation Fund, in case of any issues with the rental provider
Now, you might be wondering where you can find TICO registered vacation rental providers. The good news is that there are various options across Ontario, with properties available to cater to different preferences and budgets. Some examples include:
Ontario Cottage Rentals
Offers a diverse range of waterfront cottages, condos, and vacation rentals in popular locations, such as Muskoka, Georgian Bay, and the Orillia/Barrie area.
Rent By Owner
Find a wide selection of vacation rentals, from fabulous Toronto condos to charming bed & breakfasts like Echo Woods B&B.
You can always reach out to TICO directly for more information on registered providers. Contact them at 1-888-451-8426.
In summary, renting from a TICO registered vacation rental provider in Ontario offers important benefits and protections.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ontario
Yes, many people visit Niagara Falls as a day trip from Toronto. It’s approximately a 1.5 to 2 hour drive, and there are also organized tours available.
The average prices for vacation rentals in Ontario can vary depending on the location, time of year, and size of the rental. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $48 to over $600 per night. For example, a 4 bedroom house near Niagara Falls might cost around $342 per night, while a small apartment in Dovercourt Village could be priced at $48 per night.
Yes, there are pet friendly vacation rentals available in Ontario. Out of the options presented, about 40% of vacation homes in the region are dog friendly. Before booking, it’s always a good idea to check with the owners or rental agencies for any specific pet policies.
Popular locations for vacation rentals in Ontario include the charming towns of The Blue Mountains and Collingwood, situated along the Georgian Bay. Other sought-after areas include Huntsville and Baysville, with the Lake of Bays region being a top destination for vacationers.
To secure your preferred dates and rental, booking your vacation rental as far in advance as possible is best. Booking a few months ahead of your trip will give you a better selection of properties and maximize your chances of finding the perfect rental to suit your needs. This is especially important during peak travel seasons, like summer and major holidays such as Victoria Day, Canada Day and Labour Day, generally viewed as the last weekend of summer.
Standard amenities found in vacation rentals can include air conditioning, bedding and linens, fully equipped kitchens, and parking spaces. More luxurious rentals offer features like swimming pools, hot tubs, or game rooms. Review the rental listing or consult with rental agencies for a complete overview of the amenities.
To ensure a safe and secure rental experience, perform your due diligence when selecting a rental property. Research reviews, communicate with the property owner or rental agency, and thoroughly read the rental agreement terms and conditions. Using a secure payment method and considering purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip is always recommended.
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