Lakes of Ontario Road Trip (5-Day Self-drive Tour)
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5 DAY ONTARIO LAKES & MANITOULIN ISLAND

CODE
5DON
STARTING FROM
$1,270 USD
PLACES VISITED
Parry Sound, Killarney, Manitoulin Island
TRIP DESCRIPTION
Your adventure starts with just a three hour drive from Toronto to Parry Sound on the eastern shores of Georgian Bay. Following the highway connectors, you will experience beautiful scenery, epic waterways and small communities. From rich Indigenous experiences to world-class attractions and Francophone experiences, and food; Ontario is amazing.
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
  • Dinner cruise in Parry Sound
  • French River sightseeing
  • Manitoulin Island
  • 2.5 hour long indigenous cultural canoe ride with storytelling and traditional tea
  • Scenic drive through Bruce Peninsula and Owen Sound
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1: Toronto to Parry Sound

Located less than three hours north of Toronto, and two hours south of Sudbury, Parry Sound literally hugs the shores of beautiful Georgian Bay. In 2004, UNESCO designated the area a World Biosphere Reserve, the Georgian Bay Biosphere. Known to locals as the “jewel of the 30,000 islands,” Parry Sound is a great place to start off this tour. A bustling waterfront town, take time to explore the Museum on Tower Hill, the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame and be sure to find out if there are any concerts happening for the Bands on Bay series in the summer months. Remember crystal clear waters will be calling you on hot days, so relax, catch a few rays and enjoy a beautiful swim. With various parks and beaches in Parry Sound, you will have plenty of options. This evening you enjoy a delicious dinner cruise amongst the 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay. This 2.5 hour cruise explores the majestic waterways of the Big Sound, spectacular summer cottages, resorts, the granite bluffs of Hole-in-the-Wall and numerous islands, returning to view Parry Sound’s glowing skyline. This sunset dinner cruise, catered by The Log Cabin Inn, winds it way through the bays and islands of the Sound, including Hole in the Wall, ending with a spectacular Georgian Bay sunset.
Overnight: Parry Sound
Day 2: Parry Sounds to French River and Killarney

Today you drive through the Municipality of French River - a beautiful and scenic area of Ontario. With a true small-town feel, travellers are welcomed here and the area is well known for fishing, paddling, and camping, which is why outdoor enthusiasts have gathered here for years. Throughout history the French River was a natural waterway for Indigenous people as it flowed westward from Lake Nipissing to Georgian Bay. Originally settled by the First Nations people, the French River has the distinct designation in 1986 as being Canada’s first Heritage River. As you travel through the French River area, look up at the cliff-like rocks around you and you will see inukshuks, part of Inuit culture. It’s a mystery as to how long each one has been there, though these were important to navigation as a point of reference or as a marker for hunting/fishing grounds. Stop at the award-winning French River Provincial Park Visitor Centre for spectacular views and learn about the significance of the river to the Indigenous peoples’ trading heritage and the region’s French and English explorers. The French River Gorge, the visitor centre and Recollet Falls Trail are highlighted at www.visitamazingplaces.ca. Consider a moderate hike along the trail, or take in the views from the nearby suspension bridge.A favourite stop along the highway in the French River is the French River Trading Post. It started as a small family-operated shop on a gravel road, and now it’s a booming business with a restaurant and a trading post filled with souvenirs that include Canadian-made moccasins, local handicrafts, and its famous cream and butter fudge.You continue to Killarney, a picturesque and historic village situated on the entrance to the North Channel amidst sparkling white quartzite peaks and pink granite rock. Its harbour shelters from the turbulent waters of Georgian Bay by George Island, and the original Village of Killarney is the oldest community on the north shore. Visit the Killarney Centennial Museum which contains a variety of household items, medical equipment, photographs and artifacts relating to the commercial fishing, logging, mining and tourism industries. The Old Killarney Jail House is located here as well. The nearby Lighthouse Trail is primarily used for walking, hiking and bird watching.
Overnight: Killarney
Day 3: Killarney to Sudbury and Manitoulin Island via Sudbury

A short 1 hr 15 minutes drive takes you to Sudbury, which is situated on the Canadian Shield in the Great Lakes Basin. Greater Sudbury is becoming one of Ontario’s popular go-to destinations, and has everything from award-winning attractions to impressive four season trails. Science North is Northern Ontario’s most popular tourist attraction with a fun and friendly approach to science education led by Bluecoats (real scientists and science communicators) who make interacting with the exhibits and live ambassador animals even more informative and fun.Take some time to visit Crosscut Distillery, a 100% grain-to-glass distillery sourcing grains and botanicals from all across Northern Ontario. Crafting one of a kind vodka, gin and whisky, there is a spirit sure to please everyone. Book your tour in advance, or stop in for a tasting flight, craft cocktails and charcuterie!Continue 165 kms to Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world with the town of Mindemoya at its heart. With a diverse ecology and geography, the island provides a natural playground where you can hike, bike, paddle or boat and fish. Immerse yourself in the community spirit and history of the Anishinabek people by visiting the numerous museums and galleries.Visit the Pioneer Museum and Welcome Centre located in Mindemoya, or enjoy a walk on Wagg’s Woods Park & Trail, a 4 km walk through the forest with views of the Niagara Escarpment. There is a small sand beach and picnic area with views of Treasure Island at Mindemoya Beach. From Mindemoya it's about a 15km drive to the beach, which is said to be the best in Northern Ontario. Stroll along the boardwalk which offers scenic views of Lake Huron and the Mindemoya River. Visit Kagawong where you’ll find a good variety of shops, cafes and takeout spots. Be sure to stop in at the Old Mill Heritage Centre and don’t miss the Bridal Veil Falls Lookout featuring a picnic area, three tiers of lookouts, and stairs down to the base of the falls where you can swim.
Overnight: Manitoulin Island
Day 4: Manitoulin Island

A full day to explore amazing Manitoulin Island. A must-see in the M’Chigeen First Nation is the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation where you can explore the museum and art gallery and find the perfect souvenir in the gift shop. The nearby 4 km long M’Chigeeng Hiking Trail has one trail which runs below the bluff, while the other climbs to the top for spectacular views. Lillian’s Crafts is another great stop, located on Hwy 540 offering traditional items by Indigenous artists, including their famous hand-crafted quill boxes. Just northeast of M’Chigeeng along Hwy 540 you’ll find the magnificent Cup and Saucer Trail. Featuring a dramatic 70m cliff and breathtaking views, up to 12 km of hiking trails, and a 2 km adventure trail, it is one of the most popular trails in Ontario. You can spend hours here taking in spectacular views over both the North Channel and Lake Manitou.In the community of Wikwemikong First Nation we experience the traditional canoe routes of the Anishnaabek with your experienced First Nations guide who will share the history and legends of the majestic Odawa Mnis (Manitoulin Island). This evening you depart from Meeshkodewaang (Prairie Point) in the evening and paddle along the shorelines of Georgian Bay as the sun sets and the constellations begin to reveal themselves one star at a time. Your guide will share teachings of traditional aquatic plans and medicines until the sunlight fades into the night sky, and then you will become engaged in the stories and legends of the water spirits, history of the trading routes and ancient battle sites with the Iroquois. Complete your tour under the dark sky with a relaxing tea composed of natural ingredients foraged from the land, as you sit by the fire and learn about the ancient teachings of the star-world and constellations that connect the creation stories and language of the Anishnaabek people.
Overnight: Manitoulin Island
Day 5: Ferry from South Baymouth Tobermory and drive to Toronto

A short drive take you to the ferry terminal at South Baymouth from where you take the 2 hr long ferry ride to Tobermory and then drive through scenic Bruce Peninsula and Owen Sound as you head back to Toronto.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:  
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
$1,270 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.

The itinerary below is an independent package with intercity travel by self-drive car and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, available time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.

Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
  • 4 nights comfortable hotel accommodation
  • Dinner cruise in Parry Sound
  • 2.5 hour long Indigenous cultural canoe ride with storytelling and traditional tea
  • Ferry booking for South Baymouth to Tobermory for car and passengers
  • Car rental (intermediate category)
EXCLUSIONS
  • Meals unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary
  • Applicable government taxes
  • Tips and gratuities

Why Take A Custom Tour?

Private & Customizable You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for? Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL 1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ask A Question
Booking & Flight Questions

Do you arrange airport transfers?

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Can you assist with booking flights?

Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.

Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?

Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.

Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?

Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions

What is the average age of passengers for this tour?

Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+

I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?

There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.

How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?

This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.

How much luggage should I bring?

Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.

What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?

The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).

Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?

Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.

Are gratuities included in the tour cost?

For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your

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INDEPENDENT TRIPS

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