Marvelous Manitoulin

Paddling in Providence Bay on Lake Huron

Our family of six moved to Sudbury in September 2022.  As a result, we have been privileged to explore parts of Ontario where few venture.  The latest destination was Manitoulin Island.

Bridal Veil Falls in Kagawong all to ourselves

Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world.  With a population of 13,500 permanent residents and likely double that in summer, it's land mass is half the size of Prince Edward Island.  It has a Cape Cod-like feel, with many white cottages and water everywhere.  Surrounded on all sides by Lake Huron, there are also three large interior lakes and numerous smaller ones.  Every road leads you to water.  The breezes off the lakes moderate the temperature, and the sound of waves lapping on shore is very relaxing.

Gore Bay Lookout

It is an hour and a half from Sudbury across the swing bridge to Little Current.  From there, central Manitoulin is all within a 45 minute drive in each direction.  We explored Bridal Veil Falls in Kagawong.  A stunning setting, you can swim in the water underneath the waterfall.  We hiked the Cup and Saucer trail.  There are gorgeous lookouts that show you the Niagara Escarpment.  Wildlife abounds, with numerous rabbits, deer, butterflies, and wildflowers.  We even had a chicken coop where we were staying.

Lake Mindemoya is a beautiful lake in which to swim.  Splashtown has fabulous floaties in the water and for $20 each, adults and children can play there.  The water is warm and clear and the topography very pretty.  Many pleasure crafts troll the waters, with kayaks and canoes along with fishing boats.  The town of Mindemoya boasts two laundromats, a general store, a grocery store, a library and a couple of car repair and towing places.  With a population of 1,730, it is the second largest town on the island after Little Current.

Providence Bay had a fireworks show on July 1st at 10:15 pm, one of the only places in Ontario granted a license because of the province-wide fire ban.  The fireworks were launched from a barge in the water and the night was clear and beautiful.  Providence Bay Beach is lovely in the daytime as well...sandy with shallow gradual water that permits all ages to enjoy.  The small town flavour was in evidence on Canada Day with the town offering free cake - chocolate or vanilla - made by Mum's Bakery along with lemonade to anyone who wanted it.  The Ribfest was on all Canada Day weekend in Mindemoya, and we went two days running the food was so good.

South Baymouth has the ferry depot.  We bought some lovely necklaces at the Trading Post and viewed the lighthouse.  The ferry is large and takes people from Tobermory to the island and back.  In the summer, you need to book a couple of months in advance to secure a berth.

Gore Bay also boasts floaties in the water along with Buoy's Eatery.  The stuffed crust pizza was excellent.  There is also a small chocolate factory in town along with a library and yacht club.  Most of the towns have fresh fish and chips, and Gore Bay's restaurant overlooks the water.

A week was the perfect length of time to spend on the island.  We enjoyed every community that we explored, and found island life slower and more relaxing than mainland life.  We ate well, from fresh fish and homemade chips to fresh baked goods. There are many Amish on the island, and we were fortunate enough to buy the best homemade cinnamon buns I have ever tasted from a lady who made them without electricity.  The people were almost all friendly, and the natural beauty everywhere you looked on the island was good for the soul.  Other than Meldrum Bay and boating the 160 mile North Channel, we saw everything we came to see.  I would highly recommend you make the time to explore the island.  It is truly an Ontario treasure.