Corks, Canoes and Capital
Ontario is full of experiences to delight the senses. From the cityscapes, waterways and charming villages of cottage country to wine tasting, fresh local produce and the crashing sounds of Niagara Falls, this self-drive itinerary focuses on the best and unique artisan offerings of the province. Begin in Toronto, home to a vibrant food scene and quirky neighbourhoods, before you journey to the vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula. Muskoka then beckons, home to lake activities and natural playgrounds. Connect with nature in Haliburton Forest and Prince Edward County’s beaches before you end in Ottawa – a melting pot of culture, nature and Canadian hospitality.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 : Toronto
Arrive in Calgary and collect your rental car. Take the short drive to Banff and check in for a 2-night stay.
Day 2 : Toronto
Take a walking tour of Toronto’s distillery district today. Once home to a large whiskey distillery, the cobblestone streets are now home to boutique bars, restaurants and shops. Later, take in city and lake views from the top of the CN Tower – admission is included.
Day 3 : Niagara-on-the-Lake (86 miles)
Collect your rental car and drive along the shores of Lake Ontario to the charming Victorian-era town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. You’ll feel a world away from its nearby neighbour Niagara Falls, but you must make a stop to witness the this marvel.
Day 4 : Niagara-on-the-Lake
Today you will join a tour of a nearby winery for a tasting. Afterwards, stroll around the town for souvenirs and enjoy a glass of local wine with dinner al-fresco as you people watch on Queen Street.
Day 5-6 : Minett (207 miles)
Depart today for the drive to Minett in the Muskoka region. A must stop for first time visitors to Muskoka, you may want to spend the afternoon strolling along the lake. Check into your hotel where you can relax lakeside for the next two nights, and enjoy the nature and relaxing atmosphere in cottage country.
Day 7&8 : Haliburton (76 miles)
A short drive today takes you to Haliburton, home to typical Ontario country scenery and resident artists. You may wish to drive to the Algonquin Provincial Park on your full day here, for a hike or a canoeing trip.
Day 9&10 : Prince Edward County (130 miles)
Today you’ll drive to Prince Edward County – ‘the island in the middle of everything’. A favourite weekend getaway for the people of Toronto, Ottawa and Montréal, this treasured holiday spot has a beach for you to enjoy, or venture to the 1000 Islands region for a short day cruise.
Day 11 : Ottawa (168 miles)
Take the drive to Edmonton today, Canada’s ‘Festival City’. Leave the National park behind as you begin to pass through wide open landscapes. Arrive in the city for the night.
Day 12 : Ottawa
Today your included excursion will see you taste your way through Ottawa’s most historic neighbourhood, and discover ByWard Market’s key sites. The tour includes five tastings and a drink, including the iconic Beaver Tail.
Day 13 : Ottawa departure
Make your own way to Ottawa airport for your return flight.