Home > Best Friends Getaway along the Escarpment

Best Friends Getaway along the Escarpment

Skip the crowds and soak up the good vibes, visit Bruce County Sunday to Thursday for shorter lines, quieter beaches, and a more relaxing getaway!

Grab your friends and escape to the Bruce Peninsula for the ultimate spur of the moment getaway. Think clear turquoise waters, rugged cliffs along Georgian Bay and hike along Canada’s biggest foot path offering some of the most stunning views in Bruce County.

Find a place to stay and explore the communities of Tobermory, Lion’s Head, and Wiarton.

Day 1

On your drive up to Tobermory, take in the stunning views that Wiarton has to offer. Stop in Wiarton and take a picture with the iconic Wiarton Willie statue that sits along Colpoy’s Bay. Browse the local shops, pop into Josie’s for a new vacation outfit or find the perfect host gift at Symon Says. Grab a coffee at Lost Art Espresso, then wander through Taylor Gallery and Ashanti Cafe. On your way our of town, grab lunch at Green Door Cafe, The Silo, or Wiarton Inn.

Make your way to Spirt Rock Trail to stretch your legs where you can checkout the iconic spiral staircase that winds down the Niagara escarpment to the shoreline or explore the ruins of the McNeill Estate. Then make one last stop at the Georgian Bay Country Market for fresh homemade bread and local produce before continuing your journey.

Day 2 

Begin your day in the town of Lion’s Head, nestled on a nook midway up the peninsula. Walk through the Lion’s Head Farmers Market and check out the local produce and homemade crafts. Looking forward to reward yourself with an amazing dinner? Stop by Rachel’s Restaurant for the iconic beef dip, The Taste Kitchen for Pad Thai or Cindy Lou’s for fresh fish and chips! After you grab a bite to eat, go explore the shops. Stop by The Shops at 84 Main to pick up a new game to play or some decor for your home. Forgot to pack something? Head up to Leo’s Closet to grab a sweatshirt. Make your way along Scenic Caves Road and venture into earth’s ancient history by exploring Greig’s Cave.

Don’t forget to secure your parking in advance before making your way up the Bruce Peninsula.

Day 3  

Wake up in the morning in Tobermory and venture into town to grab your morning java and take in the views of Little Hub Harbour. If you’re up early enough, catch the divers on their way to exploring shipwrecks underwater. Grab life by the handle bars and rent e-bikes to take in the charm that Tobermory has to offer.

As you make your way through Tobermory, be sure to visit Fathom Five National Marine Park, home to the famous Flowerpot Island. Thanks to Tobermory’s fleet of glass bottom tour boats, you can plan an amazing day trip to Flowerpot Island that takes you past two shipwrecks, three lighthouses, a few scuba divers or snorkelers, and two flowerpots all while cruising the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. The ultimate Flowerpot Island photo op? Floating right by the famous Flowerpot itself!

Pack a picnic and hike some of the trails on the island (be sure to come prepared), taking in all of the scenery and finishing up the day with a dip in the waters of Georgian Bay. Take a hike on one of the many hikes Tobermory has to offer like Burnt Point Loop offering beautiful views along the way.

Don’t feel like hiking? Stop for dinner at Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill or Pharos. Walk along Big Tub Harbour and end your day with a visit to Big Tub Lighthouse.

If you’re looking to explore on (or under) the water, be sure to book a boat tour with Blue Heron Cruises, Bruce Anchor Cruises, Tobermory Wave Adventures or Dive Life. See shipwrecks under water, lighthouses, Flowerpot Island and an incredible view of the Peninsula shoreline. Extend your trip with a ride on the Chi-Cheemaun Passenger & Vehicle Ferry which travels from Tobermory to Manitoulin Island.

Remember to Explore Safely and Sustainably

Remember that parks, beaches and farms are carefully managed eco-systems, not just awesome Instagram backdrops.
It’s our responsibility to leave nature untouched and preserve its beauty for future generations. When visiting Bruce County, prioritize sustainable travel practices. Here are a few tips to help you leave no trace:

1. Pack in, pack out: Be mindful of the waste you generate. Bring reusable water bottles, food containers and bags to pack out any trash and minimize your impact.
2. Stay on designated trails: Stick to marked paths to protect fragile ecosystems and prevent damage to flora and fauna. Resist the urge to venture off-trail.
3. Respect wildlife: Observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or disturb them. Remember, they are the rightful inhabitants of this land, and our presence should not disrupt their natural behaviour.
4. Capture memories, not souvenirs: Take plenty of photographs but resist the temptation to collect natural souvenirs like rocks or seashells. Leave them where they belong, as each element plays a vital role in the delicate ecosystem.
   Remember to reduce your environmental impact while still exploring and having fun. Let’s make every adventure count for our planet!