Lake Huron is the second-largest of the five Great Lakes, with the US/Canada border cutting across its middle. On the northeastern side, Georgian Bay extends into Ontario, creating a stunning channel of sparkling, clean, and warm waters. In some areas, sweeping beaches offer a perfect playground for those escaping nearby Toronto for a weekend retreat. Around Georgian Bay, a myriad of islands lines a rugged limestone coastline with rocky outcrops and untouched inlets. Inland, the landscape is equally diverse: the south features flat expanses of farmland, while the northern areas are dotted with lakes and rugged forests. Throughout the region, you’ll find charming country towns that grow smaller and more remote the further north you go. Many artists have been drawn here, inspired by the area’s beautifully varied scenery.

The Bruce Peninsula stretches southward, separating Georgian Bay from Lake Huron, and is home to numerous walking trails and scenic viewpoints. At the northern end of the lake lies Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world. Its position creates a narrow and challenging entrance into Georgian Bay from Lake Huron, a feature that has contributed to the area’s infamous history of shipwrecks — over a thousand have been recorded. At Fathom Five National Marine Park, you can even take a boat trip to see some of these wrecks. The region’s provincial parks provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, and with reliably hot summers, it’s no surprise that this is one of Ontario’s favourite holiday destinations.