BRUCE PENINSULA NATIONAL PARK

Bruce Peninsula National Park, now on land, would, if it were still underwater, have an aquatic environment similar to the reefs of the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Instead, it is a limestone rock with a high concentration of magnesium. In short, the landscape is both different and spectacular. Massive cliffs, age-old pines, numerous orchids and crystal clear waters are part of an unparalleled natural heritage.

A visit to the visitors' center is a must. It is both modern and eco-friendly, and offers a chance to learn more about the spectacular scenery that surrounds it. You'll find a museum on the natural and cultural history of the region as well as a 20-meter tower with a breathtaking view of the two national parks.

With 872 plant species, including 34 orchids, and beautiful trees, Bruce Peninsula Park is fabulous. Several trails make up the hiking network. Easy hikes begin near Singing Sands Beach, which seems to stretch on forever. For the more athletic, the Georgian Bay and Marr Lake trails form a 3 km (approximately 3 hour) loop. In the Bruce Caves area, five caves are revealed along the easy 1 km trail. There are many challenging, yet short hikes worth the spectacular views. Jones Bluff is a 7.5 km loop around a huge headland, with no less than five lookouts to enhance your appreciation of this charming area. Lion's Head reveals amazing rock formations.

A must-see: The Grotto, a picturesque coastal cave with a pool of crystal blue water at its center (swimming permitted). The place is fabulous, although highly frequented in the heart of summer.

Camping. This beautiful national park, one of the most beautiful in Ontario, offers over 230 campsites, accessible by car, in three lots at Cyprus Lake, as well as yurts. There are no serviced sites or showers, but all sites have a picnic table and fire pit with grill. Backcountry camping is also available at Stormhaven and High Marble Pass. Both of these sites are accessible from the Bruce Trail and are only accessible by foot over rough terrain. In the fall and winter, camping is done independently.