Kawartha Region, Ontario

By Juanita Losch

If you're heading to Toronto and want to see more than just Ontario's capital, here's a perfect place to experience a true taste of small town living that fits within a shoestring budget.  The Kawartha Region, known as "the land of shining waters" is a 90-minute drive northeast from Toronto and promises to satisfy the outdoorsy type.  You'll find yourself captivated by the beauty of small town living, pristine lakes, and good old Canadian cottage country.
Peterborough is the central city within the region and has a population of 77,000, priding itself as home to the world's highest hydraulic lift lock. This National Historic site awes all who experience it. Getting there is easy. Either take a bus for $35 from Toronto or rent a car. Having a car is strongly recommended as most activities are outside the city. From Toronto, take Highway 401 east to Highway 115, exiting at "The Parkway" which brings you to the downtown core.

It's advised to travel to this natural jewel during the summer months from June to August when daytime highs average 28 to 32 degrees Celsius, creating a perfect Central Ontario day. Students flock to both Sir Sandford Fleming College and Trent University adding a youthful vibrancy to the city. The streets are alive by 9 p.m. and the number of watering holes in the downtown core reflects this.

There are patio pubs with cheap eats (The Arms: Charlotte Street), to dance clubs with trendy techno music (The Vibe and The Trasheteria: George Street, and The Rooster: Hunter Street), to smoky jazz and blues clubs with top-notch live bands (The Red Dog: Hunter Street), and of course, the typical hangout most noted for cheap beer and women (Sin City: George Street). They are all within walking distance, ensuring a well-rounded evening. Accommodations AREN'T the cheapest in the region, so split a room to cut costs. Hot showers and warm beds can be found on George Street in the downtown area. The Days Inn and The Holiday Inn are your best bet at $89 a double room per night. However, if you are prepared to camp, stay at the Beavermead Park ground located on the outskirts of town on Ashburnham Drive. Make advance reservations.  Fifteen dollars a day will get you a decent campsite nestled along Little Lake and an Ecology Park where fresh fruit and vegetables can be purchased.

There are an abundance of gorgeous lakes surrounding the area making canoeing and kayaking a big hit. Rentals are available at Wild Rock (Charlotte Street) for $30 a day including paddles and lifejackets. Also in the area is Warsaw Caves and Campground. There you will find great spelunking (cave crawling). Wear old clothes and proper footwear and bring a flashlight. When you're finished, take a dip in Indian River also located in the park.

Petroglyphs Provincial Park is a spot you don't want to miss. This historical 1,643-hectare provincial park is recognized in Canada as a sacred First Nations site. There you will find the largest concentration of aboriginal rock carvings in North America. Chiseled into white marble rock face 1,200 years ago, the 900 petroglyphs depict turtles, snakes, birds and humans.

If you are in Peterborough during the months from June 1 to Aug. 17, don't miss the free outdoor concert and fireworks display at the annual "Summer Festival of Lights" featuring Canadian musicians. The festival is every Wednesday and Saturday night from 8 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. at Del Crary Park
(George Street). Bring a blanket, munchies and kick back and enjoy the show.