On the road... from Ontario

Discover Ontario through its most beautiful sights!

Ontario is the most populous of Canadian provinces. And in this great province like Egypt, the least we can say is that there are many things to see. Some places are well known to the general public, especially in France: Toronto or Niagara Falls; others, a little less, like Ottawa the Kingston area and the 1000 islands; and others, almost unknown, such as the Algonquin Park or the Bruce Peninsula.

To achieve this unique road trip, it’s time to settle comfortably. On the program: 1650 kilometers on Ontario roads, a climb to 553 meters high at the top of the CN Tower of Toronto, then a dive at 30 meters under water to explore wrecks in the waters of Georgian Bay. We're gone!

Toronto, City-Reine

Your plane just landed on the runways at Pearson Airport. Once customs and immigration have passed, it is time to discover the fourth most populous city in North America. And to take the pulse of the “City-Reine” as it is surnamed, nothing better than taking the height up to the top of the CN Tower . This large tower of 553 meters is at Toronto what the Eiffel Tower is in Paris: an absolute symbol. Built from 1973 to 1976, it offers an incredible view of the megalopolis of day and night. To be tested, the glass floor that will give you the impression of walking in the void at 340 meters above the ground.

Once you’ve recovered from your emotions, you’re going through the city and chaining it with the Distillery Historic District . A typical historic quarter of the 19th industrial century, now reopened in a pedestrian village with many shops in the bobo-chic atmosphere and design.

It is then time to go to Asia... without leaving the city. Direction Chinatown with this typical area with exotic flavors and so special atmosphere. Restaurant, shops... to you to test and try everything the neighborhood can offer you.

The next day, take the ferry to cross Toronto Bay towards its islands. The Toronto Islands are an archipelago located right across the city. This is the best view of the Skyline, enjoy it to make photos! Once on site, if time allows, have fun and relax on the beaches, in the small amusement park or on the many bike paths. It is nature in the middle of town.

Once back to the city center, attack Yonge Street, one of the world’s largest with its own 1896 kilometres . Yes, yes... you've read well! This huge shopping artery cuts Toronto in two and has the largest shopping center in the city with the Easton Centre .

But time is running, and it’s time to leave. Leave the city to get a little green in the national park of the 1000 islands.

Experience to live

The Edge Walk at the top of the CN Tower: a walk, hands free at 356 meters high where you can lean in the void while being firmly attached. A beautiful way to confront the height and feel like flying over the city.

Kingston and the 1000 islands

Located at the mouth of Lake Ontario and scattered on the St. Lawrence River, 1000 islands national park is a unique archipelago, accessible by boat, kayak or jet-ski. On the border between Canada and the United States, it is a poetic and varied place: there are small rocks colonized by birds, islets that host a typical Canadian cabin or chalet, or large islands overlooked by villas for millionaires. Technically, there are 1865 islands that must meet certain specific criteria to be referenced: be a piece of land or rock below the water for 365 days a year, house at least two trees or shrubs and measure two square meters minimum! In the midst of all this, the immense St.Lawrence River we explore the secrets.

Not to be missed: the visit of Boldt Castle , pure eccentricity both magnificent and tragic of an American billionaire for his wife, died before the work can be completed. After years of abandonment, he is now rehabilitated and his visit is only more beautiful. Note, however, that the castle is located in American territory and you will have to pass American immigration.

Experience to live

Helicopter overflight: board for one of the many tours offered above the 1000 islands, the Boldt Castle or manor houses in ruins and take the dimension of the size of the place.

Ottawa, National Capital

For a great capital, Ottawa , remains a city of human size and very airy. A city where English and French live with intelligence, it is best known to host the Canadian Parliament and most federal institutions. It is also the first step when you arrive, with a free visit that will lead you to the top of the peace tower, the large bell tower of the building, hence the 360-degree view offers a new perspective.

Ottawa also has many international-class museums, all more interesting than others and great festivals in the beautiful season. If you're on site in July, don't miss it Bluesfest , one of the largest Canadian festivals where several giant scenes host the stars of the moment. To finish the evening, enjoy the By market, semi-piétonnier district, very lively the day and very lively at night with its bars, restaurants, pubs and concert halls.

Experience to live

Patiner on the largest ice rink in the world : in January and February, the canal that passes through the city turns into a giant 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 in the open air and in the middle of the city, with animations and stands throughout the 15-kilometre round trip. Not counting snow ball in February where animations are at their peaks (concerts, sculptures on ice, slides, exhibitions...).

Algonquin Park

At four hours’ drive from Ottawa, Algonquin Park offers a condensed of what Canadian nature can best offer: endless forests with incredible colours in the autumn, crystalline lakes, hiking trails, wild camping, natural rivers, steep terrain and wild fauna (it is not uncommon to cross bears, in particular). It is a huge space that lends itself to a lot of fun and sporting activities: hiking, kayaking, animal watching, cycling, camping, trekking... In short, a real return to nature to the crude state.

Experience to live

The canoeing : explore the park for several days in canoe, pass from lake to lake and sleep in the wild camping mode in the middle of the forest or on the edge of a lake. The real Canadian dream!

Bruce Peninsula

Five hours later, and here you are at the end of the road Bruce Peninsula , an isolated national park that gives an impression of the end of the world. The peninsula is actually home to two parks: that of the Bruce Peninsula with its amazing geological formations, turquoise glacial waters, its forest and pebble beaches, as well as Fathom Five's National Marine Park, one of the must in terms of scuba diving.

The small town of Tobermory, located at the end of the Peninsula is the perfect place to radiate in the vicinity, on foot, by car, by bike or by boat. Not to miss the surprising Flowerpot Island , with famous stone flower pots that monitor the waters of Georgian Bay. Again, it is a true haven of peace and a splendid piece of nature made in Canada.

Experience to live

Diving is already an epic activity in itself. But when, in addition, we can do it in clear waters that border the peninsula and that we are going to explore ship wrecks, it is then 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, only a few meters from the farmland, others, much further, but all can be visited and explored according to your level, experience and budget.

Niagara Falls

This is the last stage of your Ontario journey and probably the most symbolic. Known all over the world, the famous Niagara Falls are not the highest, but probably the most impressive. The tourist exploitation of the site can surprise, but this mini Las Vegas on the banks of the falls offer many activities that will occupy the tourists passing by. From day to night, there's a lot to do. Note that 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 on the side of Uncle Sam.

Experience to live

It is of course the boat ride at the foot of the falls! Protected by a magnificent red plastic punho, you get closer and you really measure the power of this incredible show. The most adventurous will remain on the upper deck of the boat to experience the most intense experience, while being thoroughly watered!