two kids, one in pink the other in a yellow lifejacket splashing and running into the water

Top 10 Things to Do When the Grotto Is Full

Yearning for a tranquil escape where you can truly connect with nature and immerse yourself in the local culture? Look no further.

Nestled away from the busy Bruce Peninsula, this picturesque region is a haven for those seeking a slower pace, untouched landscapes and authentic experiences.

Let us guide you to the hidden gems that await..

1. Bluewater Park, Wiarton

Stretch your legs and cool off at Bluewater Park. Bluewater Park is a hidden gem on shores of Colpoy’s Bay and is where the home of world-famous Wiarton Willie can be found.

The Park includes a seasonal and transient campground, picnic areas, an outdoor swimming pool, splash pad, tennis courts, fitness trail,  historic Train Station and Information Centre, restaurant, beach, playground area, ball diamond, and the Bruce Trail.

Bluewater Park is also used for many events including the Rotary Fair, the Agricultural Society Fall Fair, Farmers Market and the Wiarton Willie Festival.

2. Spirit Rock Conservation Area, Wiarton

People visit from all over the world for the Spirit Rock Conservation Area’s local history, legends and remarkable view of Colpoy’s Bay. You can explore the “Corran” – the ruins of a 17 room mansion and an impressive view from the top of the Niagara Escarpment. For the brave souls, there is a spiral staircase that leads to the water’s edge, and you can access to the Bruce Trail.


Bring your camera for some amazing sights!

3. Enjoy a Culinary Adventure in Southern Bruce County

Putting toppings on pizza

Plan a road trip through the hidden gems and food scene of Bruce County. Savor farm-fresh flavours at local markets, indulge at farm-to-table restaurants and leave craving more.

4. Jones Bluff Hike, Wiarton

The Jones Bluff Loop is a challenging 8.5 kilometre hike on the Bruce Trail, but it’s worth the effort. There are stunning lookouts over MacGregor Harbour from your vantage point on Cape Croker. Admire Sydney Bluff, Cape Dundas and Barrier Island as part of this magnificent scenery. 

Walk through the forest while listening to the sound of crashing waves just beyond the trail. This is a three to four hour hike with no shortcuts. The trail itself is relatively flat, but the distance itself can test your endurance. There’s complimentary parking at the Bruce Trail lot on Boundary Road.

Spend the night at the Purple Valley Hideaway Farm and dine at Coral’s Caribbean Cuisine in nearby Wiarton.

5. Greig’s Caves, Hope Bay

Enjoy a hike through rugged forested trails and explore spectacular natural limestone caves. Hike the trails at Greig’s Caves for breathtaking views at 300ft above the sparkling waters of Georgian Bay.

6. Sauble Falls, Sauble Beach

Sauble Falls

Experience a low, cascading waterfall at Sauble Falls Provincial Park, the perfect day trip destination at the base of the Bruce Peninsula. Pack your own picnic and don’t forget your swimsuits and water shoes to enjoy a dip in the Sauble River.

7. Discover Lighthouses Along the Shoreline

Point Clark lighthouse
Kincardine

Spanning from Point Clark in the south all the way up the Lake Huron shoreline to Tobermory and back down Georgian Bay to Wiarton, our shoreline has more than our fair share of lighthouses. Pick and choose your favourites to explore, and make stops along the way to discover local craft breweries or hiking trails.

8. Rural Rootz Nature Reserve, Wiarton

Rural Rootz Nature Reserve is a protected forested area filled with gardens and hiking trails. Located in Wiarton, they teach spiritual healing through various tours and courses. Walk the labyrinth, explore rock caves, or stay in the guest treehouse–Rural Roots Nature Reserve offers an experience like no other!

9. Ascent Aerial Park, Sauble Beach

Looking for a little adventure in the sky? Look no further than Ascent Aerial Park in Sauble Beach.
Ascent Aerial Park is located in downtown Sauble Beach. This aerial park features 3 sections. ‘The Tall’ is the main part of this adventure park, featuring 30 different obstacles on three levels. Test your balance on suspension bridges, cargo nets, lumberjack logs, ship masts nets, and many more! ‘The Wall’ is a rock climbing wall featuring beginner, intermediate and advanced routes! Test your strength and reaching ability on this challenging rock wall! ‘The Fall’ is a 40 foot free fall experience. The scariest part is stepping off the edge- your heart will be pounding! Try the free fall for an exhilarating experience! This Ascent Arial Park is a must try when visiting Sauble Beach this summer.

10. Mountain Bike Adventure Park, Wiarton

The Mountain Bike Adventure Park has over 15km of both double and single track trails. Local riders consider the MTB Park one of the most challenging trail properties within the County of Bruce. Rocky outcrops, armored tread sections, wicked rock outcrops and newly created family friendly loops put this property high on the “to-do-list” of MTB riders.

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