Manitoulin Island, Ontario

Location: Lake Huron

Ease of Getting There: 8/10

Ease of Staying There: 9/10

Ease of Eating There: 7/10

Known as the “Heart and Spirit of the Great Lakes of Canada,” Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Canada, is a magical escape that separates Lake Huron from the North Channel. 

For people who love the outdoors, Manitoulin Island offers several activities for travelers to participate in, such as horseback riding, cycling, golfing, fishing, hiking and some of the world’s best hunting. From casual walkers to hiking enthusiasts, you’ll find trails that range from taking a couple of hours to a full day.

Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world and has over 100 inland lakes. Among those lakes are Lake Manitou, Lake Kagawong and Lake Mindemoya, which even have their own islands, including Treasure Island. Witness the big waves of Lake Huron as you stroll the boardwalk or take a dip at Providence Bay Beach.

A unique feature of Manitoulin is its native people. Learn about the culture of the Anishinabek people on the Great Spirit Circle Trail, where the Indigenous people host authentic tours sharing the history and culture of the region and its original inhabitants. You can also attend traditional song and dance performances, torch or drum making workshops and eat an Aboriginal feast.

The island’s eatery options range from high-cuisine restaurants to small town restaurants with Manitoulin charm. During your stay, you can rest in a cottage, B&B, motel, hotel, beachfront apartment or camp out in a tent or your RV.

The island is accessible by taking Highway 6, flying into the Gore Bay-Manitoulin Airport or from May-October you can take the MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry. From Toronto, Manitoulin Island, Ontario, is just under six hours by car.