This morning I opened my weather network app to look at a video I had seen the other day. However, instead of finding what I was looking for, I found that four letter s word that I dread! And to go with it? The squalls word… It really got me to thinking about summer and not being able to wait for next year!
I am truly one of those Canadians who absolutely loves being Canadian, I am proud to be Canadian, I love everything about Canada… except for the snow. So, when the snow starts to come around I like to think ahead and plan our summer vacation.
With 6 kids, all school aged, we spend a lot of summer vacation travelling locally. We love everything to do with the outdoors, and are always looking for good fishing, hiking, and canoeing.
One place that we have found that offers all of these, and more, is The Great Canadian Hideaway, just outside of Parkhill, Ontario. The Hideaway is located on the water of a 200-acre man made lake, and features a natural beach area. This is perfect for fishing, picture taking, or launching your paddle boat or canoe (both can be rented here, if needed).
The lake makes for a beautiful canoe ride through the Spring, Summer, and Fall. We try to canoe here at least once in every season.
They offer beautiful, treed, spacious lots for both tents and trailers. There is a heated pool (seasonal), store, petting zoo, bike and pedal cart rentals, and a beautiful hiking trail along the old railroad tracks, which is filled with geocaches, and in the bordering Ausable Bayfield Conservation Area.
There is also a special set of campsites, with controlled entry, for families and couples. This is called the Hidden Hideaway, and it has set quite hours. This is the perfect spot to bring your family with young children. There are also laundry facilities and bathrooms (yes, with showers!) within.
The Hideaway is a great place to come and make new friends, enjoy some amazing activities, and take in beautiful, breath-taking scenery.
Travelling with Nichole 