Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/809166
THE GREAT WATERWAY TAKES YOU TO UNEXPECTED PLACES BY JOSEPHINE MATYAS When somewhere is known as "great" it broadens the spectrum of possible experi- ences. This is true in Southeastern Ontario where ribbons of meandering lakes, rivers and bays of the majestic St. Lawrence River, the historic Rideau Canal, Lake Ontario and the Bay of Quinte are known collectively as The Great Waterway—just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, Ottawa or Montréal, and a quick hop from the United States at the Thousand Islands, Prescott-Ogdensburg and Cornwall-Massena bridges ( www.thegreat waterway.com ). It begins with water—sandy beaches and dune-lined shores, some of the world's best freshwater sailing, outstanding dive sites and exploration by kayak, powerboat or on a leisurely cruise. But not everything is on the water. Visit award-winning wineries, parks and hiking trails, golf courses, community festivals, music, theatre and slot in some time for fantastic downtown shopping. BAY OF QUINTE In the Bay of Quinte, getting outdoors is a way of life. Walleye abound for those with a passion for lake fi shing; area guides and outfi tters off er chartered fi shing tours or point fi shermen to "walleye hotspots." Cruising Canoes specializes in water and nature experiences with small group kayak trips and camping expeditions. GoActive Ontario customizes adventure tours like stand up paddleboarding or snowshoeing. The Bay of Quinte has earned its spot on the map as an active golf destination. There's a fi t for golfers of every skill level, with some of the country's fi nest public facilities and one of Ontario's oldest courses. Some have sweeping vistas over the Bay of Quinte and Picton Bay, others are tucked between groves of trees, rolling hills and natural grasslands. The National Air Force Museum of Canada honours Canada's military aviation and its evolution into today's modern air force. It boasts a world-class collection of 1000 ISLANDS • THE GREAT WATERWAY ON 104