In the middle of Lake Huron is where you’ll find the largest freshwater lake island in the world, Manitoulin Island. Its history dates back to 10,000 BC when Paleo-Indian and Archaic cultures are thought to have lived there. The island contains four rivers which provide spawning grounds for salmon and trout in the area. The scenic surroundings of the island draw thousands of visitors every summer who come by ferry, car, or boat to enjoy all that Manitoulin Island has to offer.
If you want to experience something unlike anything you’ve probably ever experience before, come to Little Current, an area at the northeast tip of Manitoulin Island, in August during their Haweater Festival. The haw berry is unique to Manitoulin Island, and they’re so distinctive that native Manitoulin Islanders are called “haweaters”. The festival celebrates the berry and features cardboard boat races, a parade down the main street and games in the town square. This is a great place to bring the kids for a little fun in the sun and some free activities.
The island is known for its scenery, so it’s not wonder the population balloons in the summertime with tourists. Boating is a big activity here since Manitoulin Island itself has 108 freshwater lakes, Lake Manitou being the largest. Fishing is another water activity that has tourists flocking to Manitoulin in the warmer months. The island also boasts incredible hiking trails, cycling trails, hunting areas and horse back riding options. Check out Bridal Veil Falls for a neat waterfall hike where you’ll be able to take a dip in the water at the bottom of the cascading falls.
Manitoulin Island has a handful of informative historical museums that are definitely worth a visit. The Gore Bay Museum was originally built as a jailhouse, but has been converted into a historical museum housing art exhibits, fossils, and artifacts from the early history of the island’s settlers. The Net Shed Museum is housed in a building that was once used as a fisherman net repair shop and now pays tribute the island’s marine heritage. Stop by the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation Spirit Island Museum which features exhibits on the native Anishnaabek people. Whatever your interests, Manitoulin Island probably has a museum for that!
Take the Owen Sound Transportation ferry to Tobermory, a small town on the tip of Bruce Peninsula. Here, you’ll be able to walk around and explore Bruce Peninsula’s live music, waterside dining, and picturesque lighthouses. Up for an adventure? Bruce Peninsula is home to the Fathom Five, Canada’s first National Marine Conservation Area. It houses some of the most unique areas for scuba diving and snorkeling. Jump into the clear waters of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay and work your way through the water where more than twenty 100- year-old shipwrecks reside in the marine park. After a day in the water, head to Tubby’s Lounge for a drink and dinner on the waterfront before heading back on the ferry to Manitoulin Island.
Tripping.com offers over 80 rentals on Manitoulin Island. Stay in an alpine-style lodge with free wi-fi and bicycle rentals as well as an outdoor patio and trampoline for the kids. Or, choose a beautiful cottage on the shores of South Bay on Manitoulin Island. You can stay in close proximity to the water or a little off the beaten path. The choice is yours!
For some great eats, you’ll have plenty of options in Manitoulin. Stop by Anchor Grill at the Anchor Inn Hotel for a pint of beer and some delicious food. The Bang Bang Shrimp and Sriracha Cod Tacos are crowd pleasers. For some downright tasty cooking, try Garden’s Gate Restaurant. Its farmhouse-style restaurant features some great options, like Broccoli and Anise Soup, and they serve up beer and wine, too!
Fly into Greater Sudbury Airport and drive 2 and a half hours to get to Manitoulin Island. There are a select few places in Manitoulin Island that will provide shuttle services, but a car is the fastest and most reliable way to get there from the airport. While on the island, you can use your car to explore the many different parts of Manitoulin. You can also sign up for a tour and have a guide show you around, or take the ferry (during May-October) to get to Tobermory.
Looking for the perfect vacation rental for your Manitoulin Island getaway? Tripping.com’s got your trip covered. Whether you’re seeking a villa, cabin or cottage, Manitoulin Island offers 31 affordable homes to choose from, offering far more amenities, space and convenience than the average hotel room. Select from 14 properties with high-speed internet, full with jacuzzi and pool, and homes complete with outdoor patio well-suited for a barbecue with loved ones. Whatever your needs, find the perfect rental that best matches your accommodation style and budget.
For travelers planning for an extended stay, long-term lodging and corporate rentals only cost an average of $2090 a month. Save hundreds with Tripping.com and even book instantly with properties marked “Instabook.” Manitoulin Island has 31 gorgeous homes with 18 pet-friendly rentals to choose from, perfect for your furry friends. Check out our listings now to get the latest deals, and book the right vacation rental for you and the whole family. Feel at home wherever you are and experience an unforgettable vacation with Tripping.com.Search properties from 4 rental sites in Manitoulin Island where the top providers in that area are HomeAway, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com. There are 13 HomeAway rentals, 8 TripAdvisor short term rentals and 6 Booking.com vacation rentals.