The Great Canadian Wilderness is a four-season destination where iconic landscapes and welcoming communities come together to showcase the best of Ontario’s natural beauty. Spanning Algonquin Park and South Algonquin, Almaguin Highlands, Loring-Restoule, Parry Sound, and Muskoka, the region invites travellers to explore pristine lakes, dense forests, rugged shorelines and charming small towns. From paddling and hiking to snowshoeing and skiing, outdoor adventure is always within reach, complemented by arts, culture, festivals and the timeless appeal of cottage country.
The food and drink scene reflects the land itself, authentic, seasonal and proudly local. Visitors can enjoy everything from lakeside dining and cozy cafés to chef-driven restaurants, artisan bakeries, craft breweries, wineries and distilleries. Menus often highlight regional ingredients like freshwater fish, maple syrup, wild berries and locally sourced meats, alongside Indigenous-inspired flavours rooted in a deep connection to the land. Whether sipping a craft beer after a day on the trails or lingering over a memorable meal with a view, the Great Canadian Wilderness offers a culinary experience that’s as rewarding as the journey itself.
Anytime is Coffee Time in Bracebridge, Ontario
Good coffee makes everything better! Whether you are on your way downtown to peruse through our quaint little shops, or...Continue reading→
10 Ontario Craft Beers for a Hoppy Summer
Summer is here in Ontario, and there’s an enormous selection of local beer styles, flavours, and collaborations available across the...Continue reading→
Start your day in Gravenhurst with a delicious breakfast-style crawl, beginning at The Bakery for classic treats like apple fritters, Boston cream donuts made with real cream and their famous soft, sticky Muskoka Chelsea buns. From there, make your way to The Oven Woodfire Pizza to pick up their well-loved English muffins, perfect to snack on later or take home. If you’re craving something savoury early on, Pizza on Earth is another can’t-miss stop where both the pizza and bagels are worth building your morning around.
As you continue deeper into the region, stop at Dent Bay Bakery in Parry Sound and treat yourself to a buttery croissant before heading toward Silver Stream Farms Market in Port Sandfield, known for their famous deli sandwiches and fresh donuts. For a classic Muskoka-style lunch experience, consider making your way to Henry’s Sans Souci, where the reward is boat-access fish and chips served in an unforgettable lakeside setting. If you’re visiting during the fall season and would rather keep your afternoon focused on seasonal local flavours, visit Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery for their unique Bog to Bottle experience, where you can wade out and explore the cranberry bog, learn how these tart local berries are grown and harvested and discover how they’re transformed into delicious wines and products that capture the essence of Muskoka in every sip.
Continue your culinary adventure with a stop at Canvas Brewery, pairing a craft beverage with gourmet fried chicken sandwiches from the Fox in the Henhouse food truck. For a sweet and locally sourced detour, visit Hubbert’s Maple to pick up authentic maple syrup, then stop by Board’s Honey Farm to explore local honey products. If you’re looking for something a little different, Blue Willow Tea Shop is a charming place to slow down with tea-inspired finds, while Wild Muskoka Botanicals offers handcrafted products that reflect the natural beauty of the area.
To add an adventurous element to your day trip, include a stop at Santosha Farm and connect with Missing Link Adventure Tours for a wilderness-forward experience that highlights the Great Canadian Wilderness Region’s outdoor spirit. Before dinner, swing by Muskoka Springs Ginger Ale for a refreshing local sip and a fun take-home beverage. End your day with an unforgettable dinner reservation at Arowhon Pines Resort, and if you’re still up for one more stop, finish the night at Bongpix Tavern for a lively, unexpected pub experience that’s the perfect finale to a full day of exploring.
Exploring the Region?
Here are a few great places to start.
A PROUD MEMBER OF THE CULINARY TOURISM ALLIANCE.