Ontario Explorer: Urban Vibes & Nature Escapes by Car

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN TORONTO

Arrive in Toronto, pick up your rental car, and transfer to your downtown hotel. Enjoy a day free for exploration. Opt to meander one of the city’s fabulous neighbourhoods, such as the Annex, Chinatown, or Yorkville, to name a few. People watch in one of the many relaxing parks or dare to ascend the 553-metre CN Tower to get unparalleled panoramic views from the top. While here, make time to taste the array of international cuisine options this city is famous for.

Overnight: Kimpton Saint George (or similar)

DAY 2: TORONTO TO KINGSTON

Travel east to historic Kingston and Gananoque, which grace the shores of the St. Lawrence River. Along the way, perhaps stop for lunch in beautiful and historic Picton, or tour one of the local wineries Prince Edward County is renowned for. With a rich past, Kingston features many classic limestone buildings dating from the early 19th century and is one of Canada’s oldest settlements. While here, take a boat tour of the Kingston Mills, the southernmost locks of the Rideau Canal, and enjoy the scenery. From Gananoque, hop on a harbour cruise to explore the Thousand Islands and spot Boldt Castle and Millionaire's Row. With many waterways and rivers in this region, there are plenty of ways to spend time on the water.

Overnight: Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront (or similar)

DAY 3: KINGSTON TO OTTAWA

Make your way to Ottawa and enjoy time exploring Canada’s capital city. View the neo-gothic parliament buildings surrounded by lush lawns and gardens. Enjoy the liveliness of Byford market and the many historical and cultural sites across the city. While here, cruise the Ottawa River and see the city from a unique angle. Stroll beside the Rideau Canal, or experience it by boat. A UNESCO and National Historic Site, it’s a prime example of a 19th-century slackwater canal with many locks still operated by hand-crank. At sunset, admire the waterways as they light up in a blaze of colour before setting out on the town.

Overnight: Metcalfe Hotel (or similar)

DAY 4: OTTAWA TO CALABOGIE

Today head to the Ottawa Valley for more adventure. Spend two nights based in Calabogie and get ready for your rafting adventure along the Ottawa River. Spend today relaxing and enjoying the surrounding area, which offers many trails and picturesque lakes. The day is at leisure to explore the local area.

Overnight: Calabogie Peaks Resort

DAY 5: RAFTING ADVENTURE

Begin your guided eight-hour adventure this morning, and spend the day having fun among the low-intensity rapids and warm pools ideal for floating in. Afterwards, you’re free to enjoy the resort’s sandy beach or various water sporting activities. Meals: dinner.

Overnight: Calabogie Peaks Resort

DAY 6: CALABOGIE TO HUNTSVILLE

Check out in the morning and head north to the heart of Ontario’s cottage country, and enjoy two nights in the beautiful Muskoka region. Visit Algonquin Provincial Park, one of the largest and oldest in Canada. While here, you’ll encounter a world of diverse wildlife, deep freshwater lakes, and a uniquely Canadian ecosystem. Drop by the visitor centre to learn about the park, enjoy interpretive walking trails, wildlife watching, or journey out to the Logging Museum. In this region, take pleasure in the many idyllic lakes and rivers ideal for swimming and countless other water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, or portaging.

Overnight: Deerhurst Resort (or similar)

DAY 7: HUNTSVILLE

Enjoy a full day in Muskoka, where you’ll find several boat rental options and guided cruises within the Huntsville area, offering one of the best ways to take in the scenery of this region. Spend the day on the lakes, or head to one of the many pristine beaches for the day. Book a round of golf, or ride horseback through picturesque trails and countryside. After dark, find satisfaction in relaxing and stargazing the spectacular night sky

Overnight: Deerhurst Resort (or similar)

DAY 8: HUNTSVILLE TO ELMHIRST’S RESORT

Travel to the Elmhirst’s Resort, a family-run establishment located in the Kawarthas district on the northern shore of Rice Lake. Spend two nights in one of their private cottages and select one of three included activities on the following day. Today, explore the many fabulous amenities such as the spa and pool or hike and bike the various nature trails. Join a fishing derby, or take a dip in the refreshing lake. For more water activities, spend your time kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddle boarding, while adrenaline seekers can opt for water tubing and kite-boarding on the lake.

Overnight: Elmhirst’s Resort

DAY 9: ELMHIRST’S RESORT

Today enjoy your chosen activity package. You'll either take part in a maze adventure followed by a pub lunch and spa visit, a half-day on the waters of Rice Lake with a 9.9hp motor boat, or a fabulous dining experience that includes breakfast and dinner at The Hearthside Room plus a top- notch glass of local VQA wine. Once finished, continue exploring the resort, which features a farm, various sports, ax throwing, campfire nights, and more — or return to the lakefront for more time by the water.

Overnight: Elmhirst’s Resort

DAY 10: ELMHIRST’S RESORT TO TORONTO

Return to Toronto for one final night in the city before completing your Ontario adventure. Visit the Eaton's Centre or Queen St. West for some last-minute shopping, or continue to explore this very walkable city. Discover Kensington Market, Greektown, or Yonge St. Perhaps hop aboard an east-bound streetcar for a quintessential Toronto experience and pay a visit to the Beach, where you can stroll the boardwalk or swim in Lake Ontario. Sample some of the city's many microbreweries, countless restaurants, and endless cuisine options.

Overnight: Kimpton Saint George (or similar)

DAY 11: DEPART TORONTO

Today drop off your car rental. Your holiday comes to an end.