Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island – A 4-Part Guide For A Gem of Ontario Cottage Country

Today, we’re setting sail to the enchanting realm of Manitoulin Island. Nestled in Ontario, Canada, this captivating destination exemplifies the essence of “cottage country” with its awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant culture, and adventure around every corner. Mnidoo Mnising, the world’s largest freshwater island, has long been held sacred by the Anishinaabe people. With towering cliffs, vast wilderness, gorgeous inland lakes, and abundant wildlife, Manitoulin remains sacred to this day – to residents and visitors alike. So grab your explorer’s cap, and let’s dive in!

Featured Image – Manitoulin Island – NASA WorldWind, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Top Attractions and Places to Visit on Manitoulin Island

Bridal Veil Falls - Manitoulin Island
Bridal Veil Falls – Xander Ashburn CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Manitoulin Island is nature’s playground, with sites like Bridal Veil Falls leaving visitors spellbound. Marvel at the cascading beauty of the falls and engage in delightful activities around the area. To prepare for your visit, glean essential details from the Kagawong tourism guide.

For those with a thirst for adventure, the Cup and Saucer Adventure Hike is a must-do! Enjoy sweeping vistas from one of the island’s highest points. Uncover more about this top-tier hiking trail through the Manitoulin Island hiking guide.

Dive into the island’s soul via the Great Spirit Circle Trail, a gateway to the region’s profound indigenous history and culture. Plan your immersive journey with the help of the Great Spirit Circle Trail’s official site.

And for the starry-eyed, the Manitoulin Dark Sky Preserve awaits. It’s a stargazer’s paradise that shouldn’t be missed. Explore their night-sky programs on the Gordon’s Park Astronomy page.

Unique Sites to See

Lighthouse, South Baymouth, Manitoulin Island
Lighthouse, South Baymouth, Manitoulin Island – Xander Ashburn CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Art connoisseurs will find the Perivale Gallery an absolute delight. Discover talented local artists on the Perivale Gallery’s official website.

Indulge your sweet tooth at the Manitoulin Chocolate Works, where handmade chocolates reign supreme. Browse through their mouth-watering selection at the Manitoulin Chocolate’s online store.

For golfing enthusiasts, the Manitoulin Island Country Club promises an idyllic course with breathtaking views. Learn more about their facilities on the Manitoulin Island Country Club’s official website.

The Sheguiandah Archaeological Site provides a fascinating peek into the island’s ancient history. Delve into this time capsule by visiting the Sheguiandah Museum’s official site.

Best Eateries on Manitoulin Island

Meldrum Bay Inn
Meldrum Bay Inn – Xander Ashburn CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Fine dining meets rustic charm at the Garden’s Gate Restaurant. Experience their delectable menu on the Garden’s Gate official site.

Mum’s Restaurant offers a taste of home with its comforting, hearty meals. Sample their delicious offerings on the Mum’s Restaurant’s official menu.

Barbecue fans will find a haven at T&J’s SmokeHouse, renowned for its smoked meat delicacies. Peruse their tantalizing options on the T&J’s SmokeHouse’s official menu.

At The Island Jar, healthful cuisine and local produce converge. Explore their wholesome selections at The Island Jar’s official site.

Owning a Cottage in Manitoulin Island: An American’s Guide

Cottage on Georgian Bay, Ontario
Cottage on Georgian Bay, Ontario – Andre CarrotflowerCC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The allure of Manitoulin might inspire you to call it your second home. But before you take the leap, it’s crucial to navigate Canadian property laws and regulations for non-residents.

Canada welcomes non-residents seeking to own property, but be aware of unique tax implications. You can find comprehensive information about non-resident property ownership on the Canada Revenue Agency’s official site.

The property buying process is straightforward. Starting with finding a trustworthy realtor, to property search, financing, and finalizing the deal. However, nuances exist for non-residents. Delve into these details with this Canadian real estate buyers’ guide.

Manitoulin Island promises an enchanting blend of picturesque landscapes, warm local communities, and rich history. Be it a vacation or owning your dream cottage, Manitoulin Island extends an invitation for an unforgettable experience.

So go forth, explore, and let the magic of Manitoulin Island whisk you away. Your next adventure might just be a cottage away!

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Michael Hardy

Michael is a travel writer and local historian. His work can be found on a number of websites and print publications.

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