Find out why travelling sustainably is a must this summer, and why Ontario’s Highlands should be your next travel destination.
If there’s a hot topic in tourism these days, it’s sustainability. The pandemic taught us to cherish the treasures found right in our backyards, and today’s travellers are less into extravagant jet-setting and more into treading lightly on the earth.
Given the wealth of wild and remote locations in Ontario’s Highlands, it’s a prime destination for those who are conscious of their travel impact. The key is to conserve what’s here so we can all continue to enjoy the vast stretches of untouched forest, plentiful lakes, and diversity of flora and fauna for generations to come.
Come wander sustainably
Responsible tourism is an approach to tourism that focuses on supporting and growing the community and culture while protecting the environment and its ecosystems. It means travel-planning from a new perspective and consciously seeking out experience providers who care about how they impact their community and environment.
In ecologically diverse regions like Ontario’s Highlands, a focus on responsible tourism is even more important.
“In Ontario’s Highlands, we need to be mindful of tourism’s impacts and ensure we don’t ruin the very attractions that support the experiences we enjoy,” says Kasey Rogerson, Director of Industry Development for Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization.
Diversity, pristine wilderness, and community
Ontario’s Highlands’ remote spaces, biological diversity, and collection of small, vibrant communities make it a coveted travel destination for hikers, paddlers, cyclists, cottage-goers, fishers, and small-town lovers. The region attracts intrepid adventurers as well as those looking to its endless forests for a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
“For those who love to wander, there’s nothing more enticing than the prospect of an untouched beach, a sleepy small town, or a lush forest silent but for the sound of bird calls,” says Rogerson. “It’s what makes Ontario’s Highlands so unique and ideal for sustainable travel.”
Build your own (sustainable) adventure
For those looking to explore their sense of adventure and to embrace the stillness and wonder of nature and rural life, Ontario’s Highlands’ website, comewander.ca, is a treasure trove for planning getaways and one-of-a-kind experiences in the region.
From the adrenalin-spiking experiences of epic whitewater paddling to sedate and introspective rambles through the same terrain that inspired the Group of Seven, comewander.ca has everything you need to plan an amazing adventure here, and from a sustainable perspective.
“At comewander.ca, visitors can look for stories that touch on the uniqueness of the region while also celebrating its diversity, with reminders and information on how to tread lightly during your visit,” says Rogerson.
Rogerson suggests seeking out accommodations or experiences that embrace an eco-friendly and inclusive offering. “Our website makes it easy to do this by identifying the experiences and destinations in Ontario’s Highlands that are literally walking the walk of sustainability, so we can support them,” she says.
Take an Epic and Responsible Road Trip
Madawaska Kanu Centre (MKC)
Take a course at the MKC to learn how to whitewater paddle a canoe or kayak, and book one of its accommodation options (camping, lodge, or cabin). The MKC is also Feast On-certified and has signed the Sustainable Tourism 2030 Pledge.
Somewhere Inn, Calabogie
Somewhere Inn is minimalist, fresh, and unique. The outdoors is the focus here, which makes sense given its location next to Calabogie Lake and Calabogie Peaks, both of which offer year-round recreation. These folks are a Living Wage Employer and EcoFund-certified.
Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve
Experience four-season outdoor adventure in this nature reserve deep in the wilds of the Haliburton Highlands. With 100,000 acres, 100 lakes, and millions of trees, you can stay and play in breathtaking surroundings. While you’re here, book one of the on-site experiences from Yours Outdoors or walk the longest canopy walk in Canada.
Algonquin Eco-Lodge
Nestled in the wilds of the Haliburton Highlands, this lodge is in Algonquin Park territory and amidst all the beauty that area provides. The lodge is a winner of the Ontario Tourism Sustainable Tourism Award and is 100 per cent off-grid, thanks to its micro-hydropower system.
Cabinscape
Tiny homes are the newest trend in eco-friendly living and when you stay with Cabinscape you can experience tiny living without committing to getting rid of your king-sized bed. With 20 cabins located in stunning wild places in the Haliburton Highlands, Lanark County, Frontenac County, and the Ottawa Valley, you can experience your very own wilderness adventure.
Learn more at comewander.ca.
