Susanne Our first stop was in the village of Buckhorn where a Parks Canada employee explained to us the system of 45 locks that are part of the 386 km Trent-Severn Waterway. We watched how the big sluice gates opened up after the water level had adjusted in order to let a variety of boaters pass through. Inspired by what we saw, the idea of exploring this area in a houseboat came up, and my European friends seemed to consider it for their next trip to Canada.
Historical interpreters promote the town of Bobcaygeon
At mid-day we reached Bobcaygeon, a beautiful waterfront town where we had a late lunch on the patio of the Waterfront Restaurant, overlooking the serenity of the canal. We took a little stroll through town where young men and women dressed in historical costumes were interacting with travelers and promoting tourism in this picturesque country community.
Fenelon Falls
Next came Fenelon Falls, known as the “Jewel of the Kawarthas”, where we connected with two extremely friendly officers from the Ontario Provincial Police. They did not mind at all having their pictures taken with us and joked with us for a few minutes.
My friends are joking with the OPP officers
Our final stop was in the charming town of Port Perry on Lake Scugog which beckoned with its quaint shops and restaurants on Queen Street. Port Perry, with its beautifully restored Victorian streetscape and nice waterfront parks, has also become a very popular destination for weekend escapes, particularly since it is just about an hour from Toronto.
Beautiful streetscape in Port Perry
Our one-and-a-half day tour had provided all of us with a great overview of some of the popular getaway spots close to the city. We all enjoyed our peaceful break at the Shining Waters Bed and Breakfast, and concluded that Ontario’s countryside offers many gorgeous destinations to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Summer fun in Bobcaygeon
