Discover Ontario through its most beautiful tourist sites!
Ontario is the most populous of the Canadian provinces. And in this province as large as Egypt, the least we can say is that there is a lot to see. Certain places are very well known to the general public, especially in France: Toronto or the Niagara Falls; others, a little less, such as Ottawa or the region of Kingston and the 1000 islands; and others, almost unknown, such as Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.
To make this unique road trip, it's time to settle in comfortably. On the program: 1,650 kilometers on Ontario roads, a climb 553 meters high at the top of CN Tower in Toronto, then a dive 30 meters underwater to explore wrecks in the waters of Georgian Bay . Fasten your belts, we're off!
Toronto, the Queen City
Your plane has just landed on the runways at Pearson Airport. Once past customs and immigration, it's time to discover the fourth most populous city in North America. And to take the pulse of the "Queen City" as it is known, nothing better than to climb up to the top of the CN Tower . This 553-meter tall tower is to Toronto what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris: an absolute symbol. Built from 1973 to 1976, it offers an incredible view of the megalopolis by day and by night. To test absolutely, the glass floor which will give you the impression of walking in a vacuum at 340 meters above the ground.
Once you have recovered from your emotions, it's up to you to explore the city and continue with the Distillery Historic District . A typical historic 19th century industrial district, now converted into a pedestrian village with multiple boutiques with a bohemian-chic and design atmosphere.
Then it's time to go to Asia ... without leaving the city. Head to Chinatown with this typical neighborhood with exotic flavors and a very special atmosphere. Restaurant, shops ... it's up to you to test and try everything the neighborhood has to offer.
The next day, take the ferry to cross Toronto Bay towards its islands. The Toronto Islands are an archipelago located just opposite the city. This is the best view of the Skyline, take the opportunity to take photos! Once there, if the weather permits, have fun and relax on the beaches, in the small amusement park or on the many cycle paths. It's nature in the city.
Once back in the city center, hit Yonge Street, one of the largest in the world with its 1896 kilometers . Yes, yes ... you read that right! This huge shopping street cuts Toronto in half and has the largest shopping center in the city with the Easton Center .
But time is running out, and it's time to start again. Leave the city to go green, in the 1000 Islands National Park.
Also Read: 10 Must See National Parks in Canada
The experience to live
The Edge Walk at the top of the CN Tower: a hands-free walk 356 meters high where you can lean into the void, while being securely attached. A great way to face the height and have the feeling of flying over the city.
Kingston and the 1000 Islands
Located at the mouth of Lake Ontario and dispersed over the St. Lawrence River, the 1000 Islands National Park is a unique archipelago, accessible by boat, kayak or jet ski. On the border between
and the United States, it is a poetic and varied place: there are small rocks colonized by birds, islets that accommodate a typical Canadian cabin or cabin, or large islands overlooked by villas for millionaires. Technically, there are moreover 1865 islands which must respect certain precise criteria to be referenced there: to be a piece of earth or rock under water for 365 days a year, to shelter at least two trees or shrubs and to measure two square meters minimum! In the midst of all this, the immense St. Lawrence River whose secrets are explored.
Not to be missed: the visit to Boldt Castle , pure eccentricity at once magnificent and tragic of an American billionaire for his wife, who died before the work could be completed. After years of neglect, he is now rehabilitated and his visit is all the more beautiful. Note, however, that the castle is located in American territory and you will have to pass American immigration.
The experience to live
Helicopter flight: embark on one of the many tours offered over the 1000 islands, Boldt Castle or ruined mansions and really take on the dimension of the grandeur of the place.
Ottawa, the national capital
For a large capital, Ottawa , remains a city on a human scale and very airy. A city where English and French coexist with intelligence, it is best known for hosting the Canadian Parliament and most federal institutions. This is also the first step upon your arrival, with a free visit that will take you to the top of the Peace Tower, the building's large bell tower, from where the 360-degree view offers a new perspective.
Ottawa also has many world -class museums , each more interesting than the last and major festivals in the summer. If you are there in July, do not miss the Bluesfest , one of the biggest Canadian festivals where several giant stages welcome the star groups of the moment. To end the evening, take advantage of the Byward Market, a semi-pedestrian area, lively during the day and very lively at night with its bars, restaurants, pubs and concert halls.
The experience to live
Skate on the largest ice rink in the world : in January and February, the canal that crosses the city becomes a giant ice rink, free and accessible to all. The Rideau Canal - named after one of the two rivers it connects - is then a unique place, where you can skate outdoors and in the city center, with entertainment and stands throughout the 15 round trip kilometers. Not to mention the Winterlude in February where the entertainment is at its peak (concerts, ice sculptures, slides, exhibitions ...).
Algonquin Park
Four hours' drive from Ottawa, Algonquin Park offers a summary of the best that Canadian nature has to offer: endless forests with incredible colors in fall, crystal-clear lakes, hiking trails, wilderness camping, natural rivers , steep relief and wild fauna (it is not uncommon to come across bears, in particular). It is a huge space which lends itself to many fun and sporting activities: hiking, kayaking, animal observation, cycling, camping, trekking ... In short, a real return to nature in its raw state.
The experience to live
The canoe-camping : you can explore the park for several days by canoe, go from lake to lake and sleeping in the wilderness camping wild fashion in the middle of the forest or the lake. The true Canadian dream!
Bruce Peninsula
Five hours' drive later, and you're at the end of the Bruce Peninsula , an isolated national park that feels like the end of the world. The peninsula actually hosts two parks: that of the Bruce peninsula with its amazing geological formations, its freezing turquoise waters, its forest and its pebble beaches, as well as the Fathom Five National Marine Park, one of the must in terms of scuba diving. -Marine.
The small town of Tobermory, located at the end of the Peninsula is the perfect place to explore the surroundings, on foot, by car, by bike or by boat. Do not miss the surprising Flowerpot Island , with famous stone flower pots that monitor the waters of the Georgian bay. Again, it is a true haven of peace and a piece of splendid nature "made in Canada".
The experience to live
Scuba diving is already an epic activity in itself. But when, in addition, you can do it in the clear waters that border the peninsula and leave to explore shipwrecks, it is an activity not to be missed. In the 19th and early 20th century, Tobermory was then a large port with intense activity and dozens of boats sank in the waters of the bay. Some, just a few meters from the mainland, others, much further, but all can be visited and explored according to your level, your experience and your budget.
The Niagara falls
This is the last step on your Ontario journey and probably the most symbolic. Known all over the world, the famous Niagara Falls are not the tallest, but probably the most impressive. The tourist operation of the site may surprise, but this mini Las Vegas on the edge of the falls offers many activities that will keep tourists passing through. There is a lot to do during the day and at night. Note that the falls are located on the border between Canada and the United States. Even if the Canadian side is the most spectacular, nothing prevents you from crossing the border on foot or by car to see the show from Uncle Sam's side.
The experience to live
It is of course the boat tour at the foot of the falls! Protected by a magnificent red plastic poncho, we get as close as possible and we really measure the power of this incredible spectacle. The more adventurous will stay on the upper deck of the boat to live the most intense experience, while being copiously watered!