Modern Travel: Soaking up summer in the 1000 Islands
/All photos by Jay Kana unless otherwise noted.
There’s plenty to unpack here for enjoying the breathtaking 1000 Islands region.
It’s one of my favourite places to visit in Canada as there’s a plethora of things to see, do and experience.
I had a splendid summer visit this year with excellent experiences and making connections with new friends.
Special thanks to the team at BMW Canada for providing the perfect traveling companion; a 2021 M5 Competition.
LYNDHURST
Berry Homestead Farm
My previous interactions with donkeys were by watching the Shrek movies. I don’t have anything against them; I’d simply not crossed paths with one…until my visit with Annick and Jean-Sebastien, owners of the off-grid Berry Homestead Farm in lovely Lyndhurst.
Their drove of donkeys were quite affectionate, gently nuzzling up to me and asking for pets and pats, which I happily obliged with.
Annick walked me through how these beautiful animals are used for therapy and meditation on-site, how they’re quite intelligent, how soap is made from their milk and that they make a trusty hiking companion.
They really are underrated and magnificent animals.
Their self-sustaining farm includes growing their own vegetables, chickens/turkeys, there are bee hives and a solar panel grid.
After an hour visit, I felt I’d known them for years and left with a stronger appreciation for both donkeys and how they’re carefully reducing their ecological footprint in a modern world.
They’ve got workshops for those looking to learn more, which I’ll be tuning in for.
berry-h-farm.com
Wendy’s Country Market
Every meet someone by chance and after an hour long chat, feel like you’ve known them your entire life? I can add Wendy Banks, owner of Wendy’s Country Market to my list.
I’d stopped by mid-afternoon for a small snack to hold me over until dinner, chatted with her daughter, Leigha, about ice cream offerings and the history of the market.
Fortunately, Wendy was close by, a quick introduction was given, and through our conversation, I learned just how impactful Wendy’s is in the community.
She supports over 60 local businesses, farms, and producers, is the go-to spot for locals looking for fresh produce, preserves, baked goods, dairy, meats, and truly cares for her community.
She says "supporting local producers will help ensure the future of a secure food system, and sustain our local communities for generations to come.”
As a sixth-generation farmer, she’s an asset to the community, is a wealth of information, treats strangers like family and her selection of goods is astounding. She loves local, lives local and supports local, with you being the lucky recipients of delicious food in an inviting and friendly environment.
WESTPORT
Foley Mountain Conservation Area
In the wonderful world of Westport, Foley Mountain awaits.
To get a picturesque panoramic view of Westport, use the Blue Circle Trail and in a couple of minutes, you’ll arrive at the Spy Rock Lookout Point. The 3.2 km trail has two gems in the form of benches that look out upon Westport; keep an eye out for them and enjoy the silence and serenity for a few minutes on them.
Once you conquer that, there are six additional trails awaiting you, plus they connect to the famous Rideau Trail.
rvca.ca/conservation-areas/fee-required/foley-mountain-ca
Scheuermann’s Winery
After you’ve bolstered your daily step count at Foley Mountain, take the short drive through Westport and soak in all the beauty Scheuermann’s Winery has to offer. Make sure there’s room on your phone for all the pictures you’ll snap of the grounds, especially since it overlooks Westport Sand Lake. Roam the winery and enjoy the views and atmosphere before digging into the wine and food menu.
Their wood-fired pizzas are delightfully delicious and their variety of wines include Vidal, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. These are best enjoyed on their spacious patio, complete with a stellar view.
scheuermannwinery.com
Westport Village
You’ve explored Foley Mountain and refuelled at Scheuermann’s; stroll the streets of this charming village that boasts a small-town feel in a modern world.
Pick up dessert at Vanilla Bean’s Café & Creamery (the cinnamon roll and dark roast coffee is a must!) or try the popular Kawartha Dairy ice cream, along with other sweet treats.
For beer lovers, pop over to Westport Brewing Company and have a drink on their gorgeous patio.
Rosie Yumski’s Fine Foods boasts astounding sauces, jellies, spices, mustards and much more.
NEWBORO
Photo provided by Kilborns.
A hidden gem that needs to be discovered comes via Kilborn’s on the Rideau.
This massive, multi-level shopping destination has something for everyone, from luxury clothing, home wares, cowboy boots, games, furniture and plenty in-between.
Approaching 20 years in business, the friendly staff and wide array of offerings provide visitors with an unmistakeable experience.
GANANOQUE
The hub for the 1000 Islands region is here; let’s go through some highlights of their dining scene.
Anthony’s Restaurant is best enjoyed upon a beautifully lit patio, complete with a view of a creative street mural. Scan the menu for casual dining favourites including pastas, wraps, and sandwiches; the burger and hot wings did it for me!
The Old English Pub has a new quaint patio that seems to make the beer taste better and the food more delicious. (Maybe it was due to the perfect summer night in late July when I was there.) Captain Obvious is here to mention what’s on the menu - pub favourites!
Choose from fish and chips, burgers, salads, wings and a few other hunger-solving items.
Where is the service as sweet as the food? Easy: Panache Bakery & Café.
How I didn’t order one of everything is beyond me. What I can speak to is their fresh, flakey, buttery, absolutely perfect croissants and fresh coffee, which made my morning that much better.
Laverne’s Eatery is easily found in the heart of Gananoque and serves up oh-so-good baked goods. Everything is made with love and fresh, seasonal ingredients, including free-range eggs and real butter. The kitchen is open so you can watch them create delicious goodness.
Get a birds-eye view via the team at 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours and see one of my favourite parts of Canada from high above.
You won’t be faulted if your smartphone camera is constantly clicking to capture the captivating scenery.
Once you’ve returned to solid ground, pop over to Canada's largest outdoor contemporary art exhibit, found at at Confederation Park. The sculptures are quite creative, the Gananoque River provides a calming backdrop and if you go on a sunny day, you can get some stellar reflection shots via the water.
To recharge between days, head over to the Howard Johnson Inn in town for a clean room, pool access, and friendly staff that are happy to see you. Ample parking awaits, along with a pet-friendly environment and you’ll always be minutes away from everything Gananoque.
Start planning your visit to the 1000 Islands region where you’ll create thousands of memories.
1000islandstourism.com
