2016/17 Bay of Quinte Regional Tourism Guide

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE

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2016-17 WHAT’S INSIDE

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05 Get To Know The Region 14 Inside Cottage Life on the Bay 36 Family-Friendly Trails 43 New Spaces, Places and Faces 50 Hidden Gems on Historic Routes

A PROUD PARTNER OF

Visit bayofquinte.ca

ENJOY THE SIGHTS

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In celebration of the unique places that make up the Bay of Quinte region, we worked to craft three very special covers for the 2016 tourism guide.

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01 Belleville’s downtown rejuvenation is a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving its history and architecture.

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02 Home of the new Trent Port Marina, Quinte West is a thriving waterfront community.

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03 Stumble across hundreds of secluded lakes, rivers, and streams in Hastings County's great outdoors.

Cover Photographer 

@johnnycylam

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ARTICLE GENRE

Here in Canada, we take pride in our ability to weather what each season brings. Our years are divided into four distinct seasons: we look forward to the blooms of spring, the heat of summer, the colours of fall, and the icy wonderland of winter. It’s usually not until we’re in the thick of changing seasons that we remember everything in between.

One of the best things about living in the Bay of Quinte

region is the range of opportunities these changing seasons provide. As the ice recedes from the bay at the beginning of spring, we stow away our ice huts and make room in our sheds by dusting off the bikes. We’re even more inclined to bundle up around a campfire at the waterfront as hot summer days fade into the cool nights of early fall. We replace the busyness of the high seasons with the calmness of the in-between times.

This year, we’re looking forward to some of the biggest events this region has hosted in decades: the Quinte International Air Show kicks off the summer in June at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton; the Belleville Waterfront and Ethnic Festival returns again this summer; and the Hastings County Farm Show and Plowing

Match—which will be in Queensborough this year—will once again draw hundreds of vendors and thousands of attendees celebrating our agricultural heritage. It’s easy to find a handful of events to choose from each weekend, and you’ll find all manner of things to do listed on our blog and online calendar.

Don’t forget to take a look around in-between events as the seasons unfold across the Bay of Quinte. It’s time you discovered why we live, work, and play here.

 facebook.com/bayofquintetourism

Copyright © Bay of Quinte Tourism

Bay of Quinte Staff – Jeremiah J. MacKenzie Executive Director Dug Stevenson Director of Tourism Laura Voskamp Communications Manager

Welcome

Photo: Mark Hopper

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bayofquinte.ca #bayofquinte

 twitter.com/bay_of_quinte instagram.com/bayofquintetourism  pinterest.com/boqtourism  bayofquinte.ca

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WELCOME

Meet Our Contributors

Our Bay of Quinte ambassadors help us tell the stories of the places they call home.

Photographers, videographers, writers, and small business owners make the region go round. Each year, we work with a team of creative folks to not only produce this guide

As a writer specializing in arts, culture, and personalities in eastern Ontario, Anita Jansman travels near and far in search of beautiful art galleries and shows. Always on the lookout for hiking possibilities and cultural activities, she is a frequent visitor to the Bay of Quinte when she is not on her farm in nearby Lennox and Addington.

Kelly Potter Scott lives in Toronto and cottages on the Bay of Quinte with her husband and their two young children.

She runs her own PR, marketing, and events shop and blogs in her spare time. One of her favourite places to be is relaxing on the dock at the family cottage with a glass of PEC wine in hand!  @kellyannescott

John R. Moodie is a multimedia journalist based in the Quinte Region and Loyalist College Public Relations grad.

He is passionate about destination branding, social media technology, and community politics. He is an avid reader, hip-hop aficionado, and a serious tennis fan.  @john_q_pr

Jennifer Pinarski is an adventure and travel blogger who happily calls the Bay of Quinte Region home. When she’s not exploring the region itself, you’ll find her searching out the Bay’s best craft beers and cheeses as part of her story research on the Bay of Quinte Tourism blog.  @jenpinarski

Jordan Whitehouse is a writer and editor with Bay of Quinte roots and has a travel bug he can’t shake. Whether exploring The County, discovering Halifax, or visiting small farms in the west, his notebook is always open, his mind always searching for the right turn of phrase.  jordanwhitehouse.com

Angel MacCallum hails from Nova Scotia but has made Ontario home since 2014. Currently working as a Communications Coordinator, MacCallum plans to join the Royal Canadian Air Force. She has a love of travel and the great outdoors—frequently spending her free time exploring the beautiful Bay of Quinte region. @angelmacc

Mark Hopper is a Toronto-born photographer whose work has been featured in various publications, including Canadian Geographic and the Toronto Star. His artistic creativity, spirit, and community commitment are clear in his work, which is featured at the TownePlace Suites by Marriott in Belleville. Stunning landscapes are reflected in every photo. @hoptheshark

Born in Hong Kong, grew up in Toronto and now living in Prince Edward County, photographer Johnny C.Y. Lam is a contributor for various publications, including Food & Drink, Food & Wine and The Globe & Mail to name a few. When he's not on location, he's usually out fishing with friends or canoeing with his wife.  johnnycylam.com

but to keep the good times rolling on the Bay of Quinte blog, as well.

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ARTICLE GENRE

An Inside Look 

A day on the bay makes for no work and all play.

Thumb through Down By The Bay to explore more of our spaces, places, and faces.

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20

43

Down By The Bay

Food & Drink

Bay Living

06 08 10 12

20 22 24 26

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Belleville Hastings County Quinte West Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory 13 Prince Edward County

14 Photo: Johnny C.Y. Lam

Stay & Explore

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14 Kids Always Welcome 16 Getaway Packages 18 Your Hosts

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Food Trucks in the Family Waterfront Dining Local Flavours The Local Food Chain

28 Outdoors & Adventure

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30 30 32 36 38

Fishing Quinte Getaway Packages Off the Beaten Path Four Trails with a View Our Great Outdoors

48 Arts, Culture & Events

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48 50 52 54

Our Can't-Miss Events Historic Routes Then & Now Touring the Arts Route

56 We're Almost Instagram Famous REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 3

ABOUT US

Come explore, you'll find us here year-round

From Highway 7 in the North to Lake Ontario in the South, we’re easily accessible from major Canadian city centres and the northern USA.

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01 Brighton / 02 Marmora & Lake / 03 Stirling-Rawdon 04 Quinte West / 05 Township of Madoc / 06 Centre Hastings 07 Belleville / 08 Municipality of Tweed / 09 Tyendinaga Township 10 Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory / 11 Deseronto 12 Greater Napanee / 13 Prince Edward County 08

OTTAWA / 245 KM 

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MONTRÉAL / 336 KM 

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NEW YORK BORDER / 100 KM 06 03

 TORONTO / 171 KM

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04 01

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Photos: Rowers on the bay by Mark Hopper, Water by Johnny C.Y. Lam

ARTICLE GENRE

Down By The Bay Find your destinations across the region

The Bay of Quinte region is vast and varied, from the wooded hills and open farmland of Hastings County to the architecture of historic Downtown Belleville, the vibrant arts scene of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, and the entrance to the Trent-Severn Waterway in Quinte West. Get to know each of the areas that make up our region in the pages ahead.

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ARTICLE GENRE

Belleville

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The City of Belleville is a thriving community of fifty thousand people, set at the mouth of the Moira River where it meets the Bay of Quinte. Centrally located between Toronto and Ottawa, Belleville is easily accessible by major routes such as Highway 401, Highway 2, and Highway 62.

Settled in 1789 by United Empire Loyalists, Belleville enjoyed a period as a bustling logging town from the late 1700s to the early 1800s, and was also the source of a variety of manufactured goods, such as wagons, and candles, and all things between. Export trade of lumber and flour sparked the beginning of a busy harbourside in Belleville, which is frequented by recreational boaters today. Belleville has public and private marinas to accommodate seasonal and transient boaters.

Concentrated in the downtown core, Belleville is home to artists and artisans of all backgrounds and skillsets, and a mix of venues for the arts community to gather and work.

Galleries, live theatre, and events such as Flavours of Fall Festival, Waterfront Festival, and Rockfest attract participants and attendees from across the province. Downtown Belleville’s heritage buildings are its defining feature, and the rejuvenation of the core is a major focus of the Build Belleville infrastructure project.

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Glanmore National Historic Site Downtown Belleville Shopping The Empire Theatre Waterfront Trail and Boat Launches Belleville Waterfront & Ethnic Festival Reid’s Dairy Black Bear Ridge and Trillium Wood Golf Courses Belleville Farmers’ Market 200th Anniversary Meyers Pier Pirate Ship and Zwick’s Park Accessible Playground Corby Rose Garden Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre Historic City Hall Pinnacle Playhouse Christmas at the Pier

Photos: L’Auberge de France by Johnny C .Y. Lam; City Hall and Meyers Pier by Mark Hopper

Key Attractions

DOWN BY THE BAY

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Top Left: Belleville is the home of Top 30 Canadian golf course Black Bear Ridge. Middle Left: Meyers Pier is the best place to catch a sunset over the Bay of Quinte.

Top Right: The centuries-old downtown is also home to Belleville's historic City Hall.

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For more on golf greens, gardens, and Glanmore connect with us at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/belleville

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ARTICLE GENRE

Hastings County Hastings County is the second-largest county in Ontario, spanning almost 160 kilometres from the Bay of Quinte to the border of Algonquin Park in the north. It is comprised of 14 member municipalities, including the towns of Stirling, Marmora, Madoc, Tweed, Deseronto, and Tyendinaga Township in the Bay of Quinte region.

The southern portion of Hastings County is home to a strong culinary scene offered through Harvest Hastings and a budding entrepreneurial agri-food sector. The rural lifestyle remains strong here, and you will find unique antique shops dotted throughout that make for a wonderful day of shopping while you explore welcoming villages and hamlets. You can also explore the county along its Arts Route, which features local artisans at their studios and shops, or go back in time to experience the heritage of its small farming towns at interactive museums like the Tweed Heritage Centre, Farmtown Park, and the O’Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation Area.

Tourists can enjoy a multi-use trail system that wanders past scenic villages, historic ghost towns, and clear lakes and streams. The network of groomed trails offers year-round adventures for off-roading with ATVs, snowmobiling, skiing, hiking, biking, and birding. Tourists come to fish in Hastings County year-round in its 180 lakes, streams, ponds, and rivers.

Key Attractions              

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Stirling Festival Theatre Farmtown Park Agricultural Museum Ontario Water Buffalo Company Marmora SnoFest Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance (EOTA) Crowe Lake Cruises Hidden Goldmine Bakery Ivanhoe Cheese Factory Tweed Tribute to Elvis Festival Potter Settlement Winery O’Connor House Tea Room Karen Brown’s Antiques O’Hara Mill Homestead & Conservation Area Tyendinaga Cavern & Caves

Photos: Enright Cattle Co. and Price Conservation Area by Johnny C.Y. Lam, O'Hara Mill courtesy of Friends of O'Hara Mill

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ARTICLE GENRE

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OPPOSITE PAGE

For more on Elvis Festival, Enright Cattle Co., and EOTA connect with us at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/hastings-county

Top: Enright Cattle Co. supplies grass-fed beef across Eastern Ontario. Bottom: Farmtown Park hosts the Agricultural Hall of Fame. Middle left: The Hastings County Arts Route leads you along a trail of artisan studios. Middle Right 1: Marmora SnoFest is a "mush-see" event. Middle Right 2: Ivanhoe Cheese began in 1870.

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ARTICLE GENRE

Quinte West

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The region’s “Natural Attraction,” Quinte West’s position directly on the Bay of Quinte makes it a playground for outdoor and water enthusiasts. At its heart lies the southern gateway to the Trent-Severn Waterway, which is a unique, 386-kilometre system of lakes and rivers connected by locks, stretching from the Bay of Quinte in the south to Georgian Bay in the north.

The city was formed in 1998 by the amalgamation of the former municipalities of Trenton, Sidney, Murray, and Frankford.

Quinte West is known for its military heritage, specifically as the home of Canada’s largest air force base at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton. The National Air Force Museum of Canada hosts valuable artefacts from our military past, including an outdoor airpark and the restored Handley Page Halifax Bomber.

Trenton’s downtown is home to a variety of unique dining, retail and amenities as well as the Front Street Farmers’ Market.

Quinte West features a vast array of distinct attractions, cultural festivals, and music and sporting events. Catch a film at Trenton’s state of the art cinema, take in the music during the weekly evening summer concert series at the newly rejuvenated RiverFront Square, and experience the enchantment of the Lift Lock System from picturesque Frankford Tourist Park.

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Trent Port Marina RiverFront Square Bleasdell Boulder Frankford Tourist Park Mount Pelion Montrose Inn Batawa Ski Hill Festival on the Bay Bay of Quinte Velo Weekend Afghanistan Repatriation Memorial Batawa Dino Dig Front Street Farmers’ Market Trenton Scottish Irish Festival National Air Force Museum of Canada Batawa Natural Playground Bay of Quinte Golf & Country Club

DOWN BY THE BAY

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Top Left: RiverFront Square in Quinte West is home to the free outdoor summer concert series.

Middle Left: Uncover Walter the Tyrannosaurus Rex at Batawa Dino Dig. Top Right: Mount Pelion may have served as a lookout over the Trent River

by Samuel de Champlain.

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For more on Batawa, Bleasdell, and boating connect with us at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/quinte-west

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 11

ARTICLE GENRE

Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory

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Top: A dancer at the Tyendinaga Annual Traditional Pow Wow. Middle: The Mohawk Landing is commemorated in May each year.

Bottom: Traditional dance is an important

The rich history of Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory is one of the reasons the Bay of Quinte region is unique in Ontario.

Mohawks are referred to as the Keepers of the Eastern Door within the Iroquois/Six Nations Confederacy, and this community has made the area its home for hundreds of years.

Each year, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory hosts a series of signature events celebrating its history and culture, beginning with an event to honour the anniversary of the Mohawk Landing, which happened over 230 years ago. The Landing is commemorated near the end of May and is marked by the paddling of a canoe to the shores of the territory, during which paddlers encounter the same view their ancestors would have seen in 1784.

At the beginning of August, the Tyendinaga Annual Traditional Pow Wow combines a variety of traditional songs and dances that visitors can participate in. The Grand Entry at the start of the Pow Wow is a sight to behold. The event also includes kiosks and stands selling handmade jewellery and crafts.

Delectable dishes such as Indian Tacos and Corn Soup are a highlight of the event at Tsi Tkerhitoton Park.

At the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory Fairgrounds, the Mohawk Agricultural Fair promotes the territory’s farming history. Visitors will find traditional preserves, livestock competitions, 4H demonstrations, and displays showing Mohawk culture and heritage. Now in its 116th year, the fair is a staple of the region and a testament to lasting traditions.

element of the yearly Pow Wow.

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Key Attractions 

For more on hundreds of years of heritage, connect with us at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/mbq-tmt

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Commemoration of the Mohawk Landing Tyendinaga Traditional Pow Wow Mohawk Agricultural Fair

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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Top: Taste what’s in season from a farm stand,

Prince Edward County

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vineyard, field, table, or our backyard—Lake Ontario.

Middle: Feast your eyes on artisans unique work in galleries, barns, and studios. Bottom: Explore the 800km of shoreline, reconnect with nature and experience the ‘local’ way of life in The County

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With its combination of rural calmness and authentic sophistication, The County has always been a hub for creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Explore, taste, reconnect, and establish your own lifestyle in a place with an unmatched quality of life set against a beautiful backdrop. Experience what it means to live off the land— for a weekend or a lifetime. buildanewlife.ca Food is central to The County’s past, present, and future, and locally sourced everything is a way of life. Check out the Taste Trail for farm stands, food trucks, restaurants, and cafés. Menus are ever-changing with the season and are often inspired by our very own backyard—Lake Ontario.

When you know where your food comes from, it tastes so much better. tastetrail.ca Art is everywhere in The County! Find Arts Trail artists in modern galleries, rustic barn studios, and everywhere in between; the places you visit will be as diverse as the artists themselves. Purchase a unique work of art as a keepsake of your time in The County. artstrail.ca The island has over 40 wineries, a growing craft-beer scene, cider, mead, and spirits; your thirst will easily be quenched. The County’s limestone-rich soils create an unmistakable taste of place and produce award winning wines. princeedwardcountywine.ca Come experience the bounty of The County.

For information on these attractions and more, connect with us at visitthecounty.ca or @visitthecounty

Key Attractions         

Sandbanks Provincial Park 40+ Wineries Taste Community Grown Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park The Great Canadian Cheese Festival Arts Trail Taste Trail Countylicious Maple in the County

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STAY & EXPLORE

Kids Always Welcome A Toronto mom and Bay of Quinte cottager shares her favourite kid-friendly places in the region

Kelly Potter Scott is a Toronto mom of two who describes her cottage on the Bay of Quinte as her happy place, where she spends each summer soaking up the sun and serenity with her family.

Here, Kelly hand picks some of her favourite family-friendly spots to visit on cottage weekends.

You can find more of Kelly’s cottage stories at pencilskirtsandplaydates.com

soccer field for sports, this place has something for everyone.

When we’re looking for a change of scenery from the cottage, Zwick’s is our go-to spot. Bay Bridge Road, Belleville.

CAMPBELL’S ORCHARDS

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MEYERS PIER

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The kids love hopping in the boat for a trip to Meyers Pier. There is a great open-air restaurant, where you can eat with your family and watch the boats go by. 1 South Front Street, Belleville.

ZWICK’S ISLAND

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Pack a picnic, hop on your boat or your bike, and head to Zwick’s for an afternoon. Kids of all ages will enjoy it! From a massive playground, complete with a zip line, to a large covered space with picnic tables for hosting summer birthdays, to the spacious

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Campbell’s is just a short drive over the Bay Bridge, from Belleville. This place is loads of fun for the little ones! During the summer months, they have a playground, a sandbox, and an animal pen that houses pigs and ducks. In the fall, the farm hosts hayrides and is home to two corn mazes—one for the little kids and one for the big kids.

Don’t forget to pick up some seasonal fruit and veggies from the country store! 1633 County Rd 3, Carrying Place, campbellsorchards.com

CENTENNIAL PARK

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This park is home to the city’s soccer club games every night of the week, and also has a fantastic splash pad that’s open until 8:00 every night. The park’s amphitheatre hosts regular outdoor concerts, and it’s also the site of the best Canada Day fireworks diaplay around, sourced by local company Mystical Distributing.

Couch Crescent, Quinte West.

MOUNT PELION LOOKOUT

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Pack a picnic and get your cardio in by climbing up the built-in staircase to the summit of Trenton’s mountain for a bird’s-eye view of the waterfront. Dufferin Avenue, Quinte West.

STAY & EXPLORE

FUN WITH STITCHES

RHINO SPORTS & PLAY

I’m a big DIYer, and I love spending an hour poking around a great fabric shop, especially this one, which is located in a cozy, old farmhouse. The store owner, Gail Bax, has hidden tiny fabric mice all over the shop—tucked into fabric rounds and nooks and crannies. So, while you shop for threads, your kids will keep busy with a mouse hunt! 1977 Old Highway #2, Quinte West, funwithstitches.com

On a rainy day, this is the place to be with your kids. There’s something here for everyone to enjoy, including a climbing wall, an artificial ice pad, and an indoor play structure for the smaller ones. 393 Sidney Street, Belleville rhinosportsandplay.com

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OUTDOOR MOVIES AT EMPIRE SQUARE

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Each summer, the community votes on three family-friendly movies to be screened at the square. Take a peek online to see what’s playing each month! You can bring your own lawn chairs and snacks, or grab fresh, buttery popcorn from The Empire Theatre. Empire Square, Downtown Belleville, downtownbelleville.ca

THE TOWN OF STIRLING

REID’S DAIRY

Stirling is a feel-good town that’s so fun to explore on a day trip from the cottage. The museum at Farmtown Park is home to a miniature village and buildings filled with historic farm equipment, plus there are so many places to stop for sweets on the way home. We like The Scoop for ice cream and Stirling General Mercantile for old-fashioned candy. stirling-rawdon.com

Reid’s is a big deal to our family. Sometimes we finish our cottage weekend with a Loonie Shake run. Our kids look forward to pushing the button inside the store that makes the giant cow “moo”. Curious kids can watch the dairy’s operations in the factory through the windows. Plus, it’s a peanut-free facility! 222 Bell Boulevard, Belleville, reidsdairy.com

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Photos: Reid's Dairy by Jacob Côté, Centennial Park by Peter Gorski, Meyers Pier by Mark Hopper

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

More of What You Love

GETAWAY PACKAGES Book your wine tour or beach day package now to make the most out of your escape to the Bay of Quinte

SOAK UP THE SUN, SAND, AND SURF; OR SIP ON RED, WHITE, AND SPARKLING

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Whether you’re seeking a little rest and relaxation on the beach or are interested in touring the ever-growing wine region of Prince Edward County (a fantastic getaway in every season!), our travel packages make it easy to pair your activity of choice with perfect accommodations.

Wine lovers will especially enjoy The Inn at Huff Estates (top left), an elegant country lodging with rooms and suites overlooking the serene vineyard of Huff Estates Winery and Oeno Gallery. It’s an ideal place to unwind.

The Holiday Inn Express Belleville (top right) offers modern rooms and suites—which are well-stocked with amenities—and a free hot breakfast bar. Here, you’ll have access to the best of Belleville and will be just a short drive from our wineries and beaches.

At the Drake Devonshire Inn (bottom left), each room is an experience of its own, having been meticulously designed.

With a lake-view restaurant and deck serving creative regional cuisine, and with rotating on-site art exhibits satisfying your creative interests, the Drake provides a truly unique experience in the heart of wine country.

TownePlace Suites by Marriott (bottom right) offers high-end amenities, contemporary kitchenettes, an indoor swimming pool, and a daily hot breakfast. It’s the perfect place to call home after a day of beach lounging or wine tasting.

You can comfortably shop until you drop when the dropping happens in one of our amazing rooms. Relax from a long day of exploring and recharge to do it all again the next day at one of our many available accommodations.

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Book your wine tour or beach package at bayofquinte.ca

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

More Shop & Stay

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Hidden gems to explore on a Sunday drive through the Bay of Quinte region

The Clafeld Fruit Winery & Marketplace offers a variety of hard apple ciders and an extensive selection of jams, mustards, chutneys, pickled vegetables, artisan cheeses, sauces, spreads, and freshly made baked goods; all capturing the taste of The County. 3013 County Rd 8, Waupoos, 613-476-1772

Downtown Brighton boasts prime antiquing, unique gifts, quaint dining experiences, chocolates, sweets, and ice cream.

Relax in the park, browse the clothing and shoe stores, pop into the bookstore or the yarn and quilt shop, and see for yourself why Brighton makes the perfect getaway destination. facebook.com/downtownbrighton/on

Drive the spectacular countryside along the Arts Trail, and meet the talented artists and gallery owners who make Prince Edward County a beautiful place to explore, tour, and unwind.

With modern galleries, rustic barn studios, and everything in between, the places you visit will be as diverse as the artists themselves. artstrail.ca

The Hastings County Arts Route highlights artisans and galleries across Hastings County, creating a trail of discovery that leads to local painters, potters, jewelry makers, photographers, wood craftsmen, and more. Travel at your leisure and satisfy your artsy side by purchasing a creation direct from the artist who made it. artsroute.ca

North Shore RV Park offers seasonal and overnight sites, new rental cottages, and many amenities on the shores of beautiful Weller’s Bay. 1675 County Rd 64, Carrying Place, 613-475-2036, northshorepark.com

Deseronto Waterside Market features indoor and outdoor vendors on the scenic shore of Mohawk Bay. Open weekends from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 240 Main St, Deseronto, 613-396-2819, deserontowatersidemarket.com

Mrs. B’s Country Candy is home to gourmet sweets, artisan Belgian chocolate, and gelato that is handmade on-site, one small batch at a time. 7 Prince Edward St, Brighton, 613-475-5644, mrsbcountrycandy.com

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Find hidden gems and take-home treasures at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/shop-stay

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 17

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Your Hosts Local isn’t just about food—in the Bay of Quinte region, it extends to where you choose to lay your head as well

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Your hotel—whether it’s a worldwide brand or a family operation—is your home base, and from the moment you walk through the door, staff will be ready to show you around the place they call home year-round.

Photography by Johnny C.Y. Lam

ARTICLE GENRE

QUINTE ACCOMMODATIONS & ATTRACTIONS ASSOCIATION

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Belleville  Extending your stay? Full kitchens and suites are available. 613-779-1212, 400 Bell Boulevard, Belleville Fairfield Marriott Belleville  Marriott's most affordable hotel is seconds from Highway 401. 613-962-9211, 407 North Front Street, Belleville Holiday Inn Express Belleville  Steps to Starbucks and Burger Revolution. 613-962-1200, 291 North Front Street, Belleville Best Western Belleville  Make your own waffles at this pet-friendly option. 613-969-1112, 387 North Front Street, Belleville Huff Estates Winery & Inn  Visit Oeno Gallery and do a wine tasting and tour. 613-393-1414, 2274 Highway 62 S, Bloomfield Picton Harbour Inn  The Lighthouse Restaurant has The County's favourite breakfast. 613-476-2186, 33 Bridge Street, Picton Drake Devonshire Inn  The County outpost of Queen West's hippest hotel. 613-399-3338, 24 Wharf Street, Wellington

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Opposite: Stew Jones hosts Memphis Tuesdays at Drake Devonshire, its weekly open mic night. Top: This year, the Quinte Accommodations and Attractions Association have taken another step to help you plan your time in the region with wine touring, beaches, fishing, and golf packages. Middle Left: Packages are available at familiar branded hotels as well as through independent accommodators. Middle Right: Book your stay and be picked up by a fishing charter operator outside your door. Bottom Left and Right: Make yourself at home— everything is taken care of.

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 19

FOOD & DRINK

Food Trucks in the Family The fleet grows with each year, gathering momentum, as new food trucks join the scene and old favourites bring the classics

Whether you’re seeking out festival fare or hankering for good old-fashioned comfort food, mobile kitchens are where it’s at. Case in point: each summer, we tour the Bay of Quinte region’s finest selection of meals on wheels for our #FoodTruckFriday series… A road trip in pursuit of the “foodie fleet” if you will.

Follow along on the blog, and don't forget to check for mouth-watering pics on our Instagram feed @bayofquintetourism!

Laura Voskamp is Bay of Quinte's Communications Manager and resident food truck fanatic. A project started during her internship, the Food Truck Friday series is now in its third summer of pulled pork, donut holes, and more poutine than one person can safely consume.

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@bayofquintetourism Inspired by the growing mobile food scene, Gary and Kasandra Wood learned the ins and outs of wood-fired ovens at a specialty workshop.

Kissed By Fire Wood Fired Pizza is mobile throughout the region.  kissedbyfirewoodfiredpizza

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@bayofquintetourism Local food runs in the family at Kimberly Rutledge’s Potato Patato truck outside Stirling: her mother-in-law is the face behind long-time favourite preserves maker Jessie’s Jams!

2528 Stirling-Marmora Road, Stirling  @potatopatatoCT

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@bayofquintetourism When the opportunity arose to take over an existing food trailer, Downtown Julie Brown's was born. The cozy family-run business offers Enright Cattle burgers, Prinzen Farms chicken wings and Julie’s handmade pogos! 113 Station Street, Belleville  downtownjuliesbrowns2

FOOD & DRINK

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@bayofquintetourism Jean and Murielle Lemieux started their fleet of Duffers Chip Wagons in 1978 in Tweed, with just a single coffee route. Now, the smell of fresh fries wafts through the air at nine locations, all offering classic fare, such as burgers, fries, and milkshakes.  dufferschipwagon.com

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@bayofquintetourism Chef Amanda Nichol brings her love of local and handmade food to her new food truck Black Sheep Cannery, right next to 66 Gilead Distillery.

PS: Follow the truck’s Instagram for photos of Amanda's growing farm! 114 Gilead Road, Prince Edward County  @blacksheepcannery

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@bayofquintetourism Two locations along the Moira riverside means that Herbert's Fries (AKA The Incredible Fries) boasts some of the best views in town. The family operation has recently grown to include a spot at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore on Bell Boulevard as well!

350 Cannifton Road, Belleville  herbertsfries.com

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@bayofquintetourism Nice Ice Baby Ice Cream Truck is the new sister to Urban Herb on The Curb.

The trucks are both available for events; locally made, locally sourced, and locally served! 26 Victoria Avenue, Belleville   niceicebabyicecream

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@bayofquintetourism Two years into its run, Food Trucks United is now a popular draw in Quinte West, where food trucks from across Ontario gather to support the United Way of Quinte. September 17th, 2016, Centennial Park, Trenton

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@bayofquintetourism In a sunny corner beside FreshCo in Trenton, TJ’s Frize has served up classic chip truck fare to hungry boaters for 20 years, in clear view of the new Trent Port Marina. 30 Ontario Street, Trenton

Follow us for our #FoodTruckFriday photos and more  @bayofquintetourism

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 21

FOOD & DRINK

Waterfront Dining Lakes, rivers, bays, oh my: six of the best waterfront patios in the region

Nothing tastes better in the summer than a fresh, cold drink on a waterfront patio.

Add a plate of local flavours to taste, and maybe a blues guitarist to play in the background, and there would be no better place to be, guaranteed. Enjoy upscale Italian fare along the Trent River or a barbecue where you can capture the sunset over the bay. Here are six options that’ll definitely take you to summer patio bliss.

THE PIER PATIO AND BBQ

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THE BOATHOUSE SEAFOOD RESTAURANT PATIO & LOUNGE

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The Boathouse was voted “Quinte’s Favourite Seafood Restaurant” ten years running by Belleville Intelligencer readers. Located on the bank of Victoria Harbour, where the Moira River flows into the Bay of Quinte, the Boathouse’s harbourside patio offers restaurant-goers the perfect space to relax and enjoy fine dining beneath the summer sun, with a spectacular view of the pier’s 120 slips. As for the food, it’ll be hard to top the always-popular fish and chips (haddock or halibut). Crab, scallop, shrimp, and lobster fans are also covered, and surf-and-turfers will love the creole shrimp steak.

32 South Front Street, Belleville, 613-969-2211, boathouselure.ca

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This seasonal restaurant at Belleville’s Meyers Pier has the patio trifecta: barbecue-style food, refreshing beverages, and breathtaking sunsets. When this place opened in 2011, it was—quite literally—a breath of fresh air. Its simple but well-executed menu, which caters to a range of appetites from burgers to nachos to thin-crust pizza, is a secret waiting to be discovered by boaters and by those who happen upon it during a stroll along the waterfront. Live music is also a big draw here; you’ll hear folk, blues, and rock musicians; and maybe even a couple tunes from your friends, family members, or neighbours on open mic nights. 1 South Front Street, Belleville, 613-968-9494

THE PORT BISTRO PUB

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The Port—which has one of the best patios in Trenton—is the place to go for locally sourced comfort food done with class. Overlooking the Trent-Severn Waterway, the stone terrace backs onto RiverFront Square. If you’re there at the right time, you might catch an outdoor concert over a plate of McColl Farm lamb or an Enright Cattle Co. burger. Friday nights feature acoustic-style performances by local musicians.

Cocktail lovers and beer buffs can enjoy a rotating lineup of seasonal beverages anytime. 21 Front Street, Trenton, 613-955-1409, portbistropub.com

ARTICLE GENRE

GOLF CLUB GRILL

TOMASSO’S ITALIAN GRILLE

The second floor patio of The Golf Club Grill in Picton may just have one of the most spectacular views on this list. Situated above Picton Bay and Picton Golf & Country Club’s eighteenth hole, the deck looks out over the rolling hills toward Glenora and the expanse of water beyond as it opens into the Bay of Quinte. Expect an easy-going atmosphere, fresh local flavours, and a well-rounded craft beer, wine, and cider selection.

This is also a great spot for Sunday brunch (go for the eggs Benny). 734 County Road 49, Picton, 613-476-8383, pictongolf.ca

Tomasso’s motto is Chi mangia bene, vive bene (Who eats well, lives well). Since 1970, it has been living up to that motto, and then some. The patio, like the interior, is a mix of clean, modern decor with rustic charm, and it comes with a backdrop of the Trent-Severn Waterway just before it meets the Bay of Quinte. The menu, crafted with original family recipes and homemade ingredients, features classic Italian fare. You can’t miss with the pizza, which put this place on the map; and for drinks, you have your choice of local and international pairings of wines, craft beers, ciders, and even Ontario-crafted tea.

35 Front Street, Trenton, 613-392- 4333, tomassos.ca

Photo: The Drake Devonshire by Nikolas Koenig, The Boathouse Restaurant by Johnny C.Y. Lam

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DRAKE DEVONSHIRE

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No patio list would be complete without mentioning the waterfront deck at Drake Devonshire, Wellington’s hip inn and restaurant that made Travel + Leisure magazine’s 2015 “It List.” In the summer, head out on the deck with a glass of County Chardonnay, get comfortable at a picnic table, and let that Lake Ontario breeze take you to your happy place. If it’s a chilly morning, cozy up to the fireplace with a cup of joe and buttermilk pancakes. If the stars are out, ask for a slice of pie and a cocktail, and thank the heavens for this gem in the heart of Prince Edward County. 24 Wharf Street, Wellington, 613-399-3338, drakedevonshire.ca

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For more patio vibes check out the listing at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/waterfront-patios

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 23

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Discover and Savour

LOCAL FLAVOURS Hundreds of years of agriculture mean local food is a way of life for restaurants and home cooks alike

From the Cheddar & Ale and Chocolate & Apple Trails to the bi-annual Quintelicious and Quinte Craft events, you’ll find out pretty quickly that food is one of our most celebrated assets. Explore wineries, cheese factories, and craft breweries, and then raise a glass of your favourite at family-owned restaurants.

Discover the tastes of the Bay of Quinte at these must-visit culinary hot spots.

A DEEP APPRECIATION FOR THE TASTE OF A PLACE

UPSCALE CASUAL FOOD IN A COMFORTABLE ATMOSPHERE

Norman Hardie invites you to taste and experience carefully crafted wines that reflect the clay and limestone-rich soils in which they were grown. Enjoy a glass with wood-fired pizza (served from May to October) on the vineyard patio.

1152 Greer Rd, Wellington, 613-399-5297, normanhardie.com

The refined Capers menu features meals created from scratch using the freshest local ingredients and an exceptional wine list featuring the region’s best wines and craft beer on-tap.

Catch live folk, blues, and acoustic acts every Saturday night.

272 Front St, Bellevile, 613-968-7979, capers.ca

CRAFTING HUGE FLAVOUR IN SMALL BATCHES

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY’S FIRST WINERY IS FULL OF FLAVOUR

LOCAL HEALTHY FARE OVERLOOKING ROSEHALL RUN VINEYARDS

Barley Days Brewery produces exceptional craft beer, from a solid lineup of popular mainstays to an ever-changing rotation of specialty brews. Stop by to enjoy tastings, to tour the facility, and to relax on the patio. 13730 Loyalist Pkwy, Picton, 613-476-7468, barleydaysbrewery.com

Waupoos Estates Winery offers an impressive selection of award-winning wines, but you’ll also find locally made sweet treats in the Chocolatier & Gelato Shop and a homegrown meal in their Gazebo Restaurant overlooking Lake Ontario.

3016 County Rd 8, Waupoos, 613-476-8338, waupooswinery.com

Picnic Food Truck serves up Rosehall Run wines by the glass and delicious sandwiches, salads, charcuterie platters, and desserts using ingredients produced right in Prince Edward County. Open from May to September with catering available year-round. 1243 Greer Rd, Wellington, 613-920-6934, picnicpec.com

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Get more of our favourite foodie finds at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/food-drink

24 / BAY OF QUINTE 2016-2017

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Potato Patato is a family-friendly food truck just outside of downtown Stirling. There is plenty of space to stretch your legs, and your kids will love the sandbox! Potatoes are the name of the game, alongside bacon cheeseburgers and sausages.

Located next to Jessie's Jams, the truck also makes use of the local preserves. 2528 Stirling-Marmora Rd, Stirling, @PotatoPatatoCT

Huff Estates Winery is a contemporary, state of the art facility offering exceptional wines sourced from well-maintained County vines and experienced winemakers. Enjoy a quality dining experience from May to October that features seasonal fare paired perfectly with their wines. 2274 County Rd.1, Bloomfield, 613-393-5802, huffestates.com

Originally established 65 years ago in Vigevano, Italy, Donini Chocolate has been producing high-quality specialty chocolate in Belleville for over thirty years. The shop is well-stocked with all your chocolate needs. Fresh gelato is available in-store during the summer season.

355 Bell Blvd, Belleville, 613-967-2378, bit.ly/doninichocolate

Linguine’s is a family-owned restaurant that offers many authentic Italian lunch and dinner options (plus homemade tiramisu for dessert!) to enjoy inside the dining room or outside on the patio. 257 North Front St, Belleville, 613-962-5444, linguines.ca

Tomasso’s Italian Grille offers a diverse, authentic menu serving up everything from classic Italian dishes to your favourite comfort foods. You’ll enjoy superb dining indoors or outdoors on the waterfront terrace. 35 Front St, Trenton, 613-392-4333, tomassos.ca

Visit Sandbanks Winery for tastings and daily vineyard tours. This family-owned winery also boasts a season packed full of lively events, a picnic area, and an outdoor gazebo bar.

17598 Loyalist Pkwy, Wellington, 613-399-1839, sandbankswinery.com

Relatively new to the scene, La Cultura Salumi has quickly made a name for itself with its wide selection of high-quality, dry-aged meats that are lovingly crafted using Italian artisanal techniques. 842 Hamilton Rd, Belleville, 613-962-0719, laculturasalumi.com

401 Cider Brewery, a new addition to The Big Apple, uses 100 percent Ontario-grown apples to produce memorable, delicious dry and iced apple ciders and wines. Taste their original apple beverages, or try them with exciting flavour twists such as pear, cranberry, and caramel. 262 Orchard Dr, Colborne, 905-355-2574, 401ciderbrewery.com

Hillier Creek Estates is a reconstructed Loyalist barn-turned-winery-and-tasting-bar that lies in the countryside.

Their patio overlooking the vineyard creates the perfect setting to experience award-winning wines—crafted from estate-grown grapes—over a delectable, homemade, wood-fired pizza.

46 Stapleton Rd, Hillier, 613-399-5114, hilliercreekwinery.com

Experience the local flavours of Prince Edward County along the Taste Trail. Visit artisan shops and farmers’ markets for handcrafted preserves and locally grown goodness; or pop into a cidery, brewery, or ice-creamery for a cold treat. Visit the wineries and taste innovative vintages, or enjoy a meal at one of the trail’s spectacular restaurants. tastetrail.ca

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 25

ADVERTISING FEATURE

The Local Food Chain There’s plenty to be found within 100 kilometres of the Bay of Quinte, in any direction you choose

Independent food and drink producers have made their homes in the Bay of Quinte region for generations. Farming has been a way of life since the landing of the Mohawks at Tyendinaga, through to the mass settlement of the Bay of Quinte region

by United Empire Loyalists, following the American Revolution.

Dubbed the “Cheese Capital of Canada” in the 1800s, Hastings County was, at one point, home to over 100 cheese factories. Today, cheeses from the five remaining historic factories—Empire, Ivanhoe, Maple Dale, Black River and Wilton—are found on menus across the province.

But the cheese doesn’t stand alone. Hundreds of local products bring a true taste of place to the menus of Quinte Restaurant Association members (QRA). Twice each year, these restaurants come together to feature all-local menus during Quintelicious; Enright Cattle Company’s Tweed-raised grass-fed beef is found alongside fruit from Grills Orchards, Wild Card Brewery’s Devil’s Tail Red Ale influences a creamy Ivanhoe Cheddar soup, and an antipasto platter features La Cultura Salumi’s dry-aged meats and Fifth Town’s artisan cheeses. This is just the start: the region is also home to a chocolate factory, a water buffalo farm, a haskap berry patch, heritage red-wattle pigs, and everything in-between.

With each passing season, Quintelicious menus draw inspiration from the handmade and homegrown foods produced across the region. Chefs work directly with producers to craft their seasonal menus; and each time, the results are delicious.

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A strong relationship between growers and chefs shines through in the taste of place you experience at Bay of Quinte restaurants. From classic French breads and wood-fired pizzas to authentic Mexican staples and Canadian comfort food, we know where our food comes from: our neighbours.

Photography by Johnny C.Y. Lam

QUINTE RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION MUST-TRY LOCAL FAVOURITES

Earl & Angelos  The Steak Feast for two, topped with homemade onion rings. 613-962-1182, 182 Front Street, Belleville Red Rock Canyon  The Cheeseburger in Paradise, topped with a fried pickle! 613-966-8210, 365 North Front Street, Belleville The Port Bistro Pub  The Enright Cattle Co. Cottage Pie. 613-955-1409, 21 Front Street, Trenton Dinkel’s + Paulo’s  Paulo’s traditional Margherita Pizza.

613-966-2556, 44 Bridge Street E, Belleville Capers  A delicious rotating seasonal menu; Truffle Frites are a constant favourite. 613-968-7979, 272 Front Street, Belleville Sans Souci  Check online for unique weekly specials in the cafe as well as the Chef’s Table. 613-707-7036, 240 Front Street, Belleville The Boathouse  Wednesday's Pint & Pound of Mussels on the patio. 613-969-2211, 32 South Front Street, Belleville Burger Revolution  Vote online for the Burger of the Month! 613-966-3388, 300 North Front Street, Belleville Linguines  The Lasagna—a true Italian masterpiece.

613-962-5444, 257 North Front Street, Belleville L’Auberge de France  Try the Smoked Salmon Croissants in the cafe, or call to reserve for the monthly Chef’s Table. 613-966-2433, 304 Front Street, Belleville Chilangos  The Pombaza: a Mexico City specialty.

613-771-9292, 394 Front Street, Belleville Royal Haveli  The Chicken Biryani is aromatic and delicious.

613-962-0043, 366 North Front Street, Unit 22, Belleville

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Opposite: L'Auberge de France Top: Burger Revolution Clockwise Middle: The Port Bistro Pub, Chilangos and Ontario Water Buffalo Co. Bottom: Enright Cattle Co.

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 27

OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE

Fishing Quinte Local angler and Instagram a-fish-ionado Matt Heayn shares some of his top tips for reeling in the wealth of species found throughout the bay

Whether you fish from shore, troll the depths, or paddle the shallows to a secret fishing hole, you are bound to encounter at least one if not all of the fish species that thrive in this healthy region. Making the most of your opportunities requires you to do your research, learn new techniques, and sometimes think outside the tackle box.

With the help of an expert angler, you’ll be on your way to Quinte Gold in no time.

Matt Heayn knows the Bay of Quinte inside and out, a fact evidenced by his angling adventures on Instagram. He spends countless days each year on the water, and we love following along via social media as the seasons change.

Here are a few of Matt’s key tips for anglers seeking multiple species on the bay and its surrounding waters.

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@matthewheayn If you love a challenge and consider yourself a thrill seeker, SUP fishing might be for you.

Quietly gliding across the surface of the water to your next fishing spot gives you a huge advantage and means your time on the water is also a workout!

28 / BAY OF QUINTE 2016-2017

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@matthewheayn They might not be the prettiest, but the common carp can live for several decades and grow to massive proportions! The most widely distributed species in the world, carp fishing is the ultimate pursuit of power and satisfaction.

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@matthewheayn A familiar face in Tweed, the longnose gar is an Instagram-worthy catch! Often caught by accident, this prehistoric fish can be landed with efficiency using small flies, ultra-light crankbaits, or even a hookless piece of yarn.

OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE

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@matthewheayn Trying something new can be a very rewarding experience, especially when it’s fly fishing! Minutes outside of Belleville, the Moira River can provide incredible results.

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@matthewheayn When it comes to putting fish in the boat, the squarebill crankbait is the jack-of-alltrades. The sudden change in direction as the bait crashes through cover can bring a reaction from a variety of species.

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@matthewheayn A great way to introduce your kids to the joys of fishing is by targeting species like perch, bluegill, and rock bass. These fish will provide a child with sufficient excitement and consistent action without being unduly challenging.

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@matthewheayn The Waterfront Trail along Belleville’s shore can be a perfect place to cast a line. Heavily weeded areas, rock-to-sand transitions, and overhanging trees are key areas to find larger fish.

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@matthewheayn Trolling in the fall walleye season can be an effective way to locate fish. Try using deep diving baits, controlling your speed, and watching your electronics for best results.

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@matthewheayn Releasing fish is not only a rewarding experience, but it also ensures the survival of our trophy fishery so that one day your children can fish the beautiful #BayofQuinte region.

Follow more of Matt’s adventures in the Bay of Quinte  @matthewheayn

 @matthewheayn

 paddleandfins.com

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 29

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Find your Perfect Match

GETAWAY PACKAGES We pair the fun of the outdoors with the comfort of the indoors to create your ideal adventure getaway in any season

FINS AND SKINS

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If your idea of a vacation isn't complete without a tee time or a tackle box, book your golf or fishing adventure in the Bay of Quinte.

The Bay of Quinte region is known for many things, including its spectacular four-season fishing (think trophy walleye, salmon, and trout) and breathtaking golf courses. Our travel packages make it easy to book your next adventure, and they offer accommodations to match.

Best Western (top) is a pet-friendly option with spacious guestrooms and endless amenities, including an indoor swimming pool and a complimentary hot breakfast. Its close proximity to the Bay of Quinte and the region’s best golf courses means you won’t have to travel far to find fun.

Across from the Quinte Mall, Fairfield Inn and Suites

by Marriott (middle) offers large and comfortable guestrooms at a superior value. Complemented by a fitness centre, a heated indoor swimming pool, and a free hot breakfast, this well-equipped pick is located in the heart of all the action.

Nestled in a historic hub on the water, Picton Harbour Inn (bottom) features recently updated guestrooms, a three-bedroom apartment, and the Lighthouse Restaurant, which has been named Prince Edward County’s favourite breakfast joint in the County Weekly News year after year. Its location is ideal for fishing enthusiasts who have the option to dock in the harbour’s available slips.

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Book your golf or fishing package at bayofquinte.ca

30 / BAY OF QUINTE 2016-2017

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Even More to Explore

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Get out and about with guides, charters, lessons and events around the region

Batawa Ski Hill is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding. Its nine runs and terrain park can be enjoyed by both the novice and the experienced rider. Once the snow melts, the hill serves as a scenic haven for hiking, for mountain biking, and for summer camps. 99 Ski Club Ln, Batawa, 613-398-6568, batawaskihill.com

Icons: Freepik from www.flaticon.com Photo: Canadian Forces Snowbirds by Mark Hopper

Trenchtown Wake Park is Ontario’s newest cable wakeboarding park, featuring two System 2.0 cables with jumps and rail features. Trenchtown caters to both seasoned riders and beginners with their pro shop, rentals, and on-site lessons at Centennial Park.

Couch Crescent, Trenton, 647-392-4FUN, trenchtown.ca

Quinte Fishing Charters is comprised of the most experienced group of independent fishing charter operators in the region. With over one hundred years of cumulative expertise, their Transport Canada certified marine captains will help you have an unforgettable fishing experience on the Bay of Quinte. quintefishingcharters.com

Trust your hunt to the professionals at Go Get Em Guide Services. Use proven baits in your game pursuit with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Go Get Em offers a range of hunts, including bear hunting for those looking to step up their game.

Comfortable lodging is available for extended adventures.

RR#1 Roslin, 613-477-2473, facebook.com/gogetemguides

The Quinte Sports & Wellness Centre offers action for all ages, whether you’re looking to swim, skate, or play. The QSWC has it all! 265 Cannifton Rd, Belleville, 613-966-4632, qswc.ca

Golf the way it was intended to be played at Picton Golf & Country Club: 18 holes, par 72. Afternoon specials everyday and waterfront dining overlooking Picton Bay. 734 County Rd #49, Picton, 613-476-2222, pictongolf.ca

On June 25-26, watch spectacular aerial performances at the Quinte International Air Show. 8 Wing/CFB Trenton, qias2016.com. Enjoy Glass Tiger—with opener, Photograph—in concert June 25th, hosted by the City of Quinte West. Centennial Park, quintewest.ca

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Find out about fishing, golf, skiing and more ways to explore at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/sports-adventure

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 31

OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE

Off The Beaten Path Two outdoors guides share their favourite experiences on land and water around the Bay of Quinte region

Outdoor adventure is easy to come by in the Bay of Quinte region. For the casual day tripper, conservation areas and parks are perfect for taking family photos on picnics, hikes and camping trips. But, if you’re feeling adventuresome and want to try your hand at long treks and survival excursions, seasoned guides are the way to challenge yourself in the backcountry.

Andrew Twigg (Twiggy) was born in love

Darren Cole is working his way through

with the outdoors. His grandmother (also

the Paddle Canada Kayaking Certification

Twiggy) was a head Girl Guide. She taught

program while leading kayak tours with

him how to make a fire and paddle a canoe.

the Trenton Rowing & Paddling Club.

We caught up with Belleville-based Cruising Canoes, which is owned by Andrew Twigg and staffed by a crew of trained and licensed guides. Cruising Canoes shares how they experience the Bay of Quinte, from high-five-worthy portages to winter camping throughout Hastings County.

Taking to the rivers, we also spoke to Darren Cole of OSTS Outdoors—the camping and paddling side of One Shot Tactical Supply in Trenton. Darren sells and rents canoes, stand up paddle boards, and kayaks, and he leads tours and group paddles with the Trenton Rowing and Paddling Club.

32 / BAY OF QUINTE 2016-2017

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@cruisingcanoes What’s the best part about spending a night in the wild? Breakfast the next day, of course! Everything tastes better after you’ve gone the extra mile.

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@osts_01 Take an evening paddle down the Trent River to its mouth at the Bay of Quinte, and you’ll be treated to an unmatched view of the sunset over the water.

OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE

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@osts_01 The #BayofQuinte is dotted with unique places to pull up by kayak and explore. Remember to wear rubber boots to allow yourself to get to shore wherever you choose.

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@cruisingcanoes Winter camping might be more accessible than you’d think. Spending time outdoors in the off-season will get you out of your comfort zone and will help you brush up your backwoods survival #skillz.

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@osts_01 Taking a break for a drink of water on a tour through the Trent-Severn. We guide tours through a number of @OntarioParks (with Presquile being our favourite) as well as the #QuinteWest area.

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@cruisingcanoes The prize at the end of a long paddle is the view. For those unsure about how to approach the backwoods, a seasoned guide is key to finding the best places to set up camp.

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@osts_01 A calm bay makes for a relaxing date night.

Paddling together allows you to feel a connection and challenge yourselves while still doing your own thing.

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@cruisingcanoes The photo opportunities on an outdoor excursion are truly endless, but you might have to wait until you get back to town to share them online!

Want to follow along with the action? Both Darren and Andrew post their adventures on Instagram, including tips, tricks, and upcoming paddles or treks that you can join.

Andrew  Darren 

@cruisingcanoes @osts_01

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 33

Close to Everywhere,

Far From Ordinary Cool urban and country vibes, water at every turn, heritage & culture; all bursting with activity.

Your amazing getaway is closer than you think.

1.5hrs from Toronto

1hr from Ottawa

1.5hrs from Montreal

Rideau Heritage Route Bay of Quinte Enjoy the great outdoors with spectacular views and world class fishing, cycling and golf.

Prince Edward County This emerging tourist hot spot is getting lots of attention for its award winning wineries, beautiful white sandy beaches and vibrant art scene.

Land O’Lakes Camp, fish and boat... with over 5000 lakes, it’s the perfect destination for all things outdoors.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, boat or paddle through quaint communities, charming countryside and historic lockstations.

Brockville Kingston 1000 Islands

A culinary paradise and an art lover’s dream.

Visit Fort Henry National Historic site, take in amazing theatre and celebrate summer at one of the many festivals.

Gananoque 1000 Islands

Experience one of the world’s most beautiful places on a scenic cruise or during a breathtaking helicopter tour.

1000 Islands

Visit Canada’s oldest railway tunnel, see impressive tall ships or tour the impressive and interactive Aquatarium.

Get your FREE key code for instant access to Insider Rewards, offering exclusive deals and content to give you the inside scoop.

Insider-Rewards.ca

Cornwall

and The Counties Upper Canada Village and the Historic Cornwall Jail will transport you to a bygone era.

OUTDOORS & ADVENTURE

Four Trails with a View Sweeping waterfront views and stunning hilltop vistas are your rewards on these postcard-perfect hikes

HOW TO GET THERE: 30 Golf Course Road, Quinte West.

MAPS AND MORE: ltc.on.ca

KIWANIS EAST BAYSHORE TRAIL AND PARROTT RIVERFRONT TRAIL

SAGER CONSERVATION AREA

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From the top of this glacial drumlin, peaceful farmland sprawls out, forming a verdant checkerboard. The Trent River flows swiftly in the distance and is, in the summer months, dotted with boats making their way through the historic Trent-Severn Waterway. The view from the top of the newly renovated observation tower is stunning and gives you a sense of the region’s agricultural heritage. After you trek to the top of the observation tower, stretch out your legs on Sager’s shaded, tranquil looped trail.

LENGTH: 1 kilometre trek to the top of the tower.

DIFFICULTY: Easy thanks to stone steps, but note the steep incline.

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These are some of Belleville’s most-used trails, but since they're out of the way of the 401, they're often missed by travelers. It’s definitely worth re-routing from the highway though, for example the 2.5 kilometre Bayshore Trail follows the Bay of Quinte from Meyers Pier to Herchimer Avenue in

Jen Pinarski’s goal is to get her family outdoors and active whenever possible, and the backdrop of the Bay of Quinte presents plenty of opportunities to do so. Here, she shares four hikes that are just the right length for a family to enjoy, each with a perfect rest-stop and a bird’s-eye vantage point.

By Jen Pinarski

the city’s east end, with parks, benches, and water access points along the way. Both trails are fully paved and ideal if you’re pushing a stroller or riding a bike.

LENGTH: Kiwanis East Bayshore Trail is 2.5 kilometres and the Parrott Riverfront Trail measures 1.6 kilometres.

DIFFICULTY: Easy - the trails are paved and flat, and are two of the best places in town to catch a breeze off the bay.

HOW TO GET THERE: Take the 543 exit from Highway 401 in Belleville and follow Highway 62 (through town it’s called North Front Street and Pinnacle Street) through to downtown.

MAPS AND MORE: belleville.ca/residents/page/trails

ARTICLE GENRE

LAKE ON THE MOUNTAIN PROVINCIAL PARK

surrounding countryside. The British Royal Navy cannon near the observation tower is a recent addition, at least when compared to the age of Mount Pelion; the cannon dates back to 1808 and was used to defend the Trent River.

But if you’re only taking the paved path to the observation tower, you’re missing out on the best part of Mount Pelion Park: the wooded, single-track trails that crisscross the area. Fragrant conifers keep this unmarked trail shaded and provide homes for the chipmunks and squirrels, which will dart across the trail as you explore. Truly, this is Quinte West’s best kept secret.

Photos: Sager Conservation Area courtesy of Lower Trent Conservation, Kiwanis East Bayshore Trail by Mark Hopper

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High above the Bay of Quinte, Lake on the Mountain is an anomaly: it has no apparent source. From the top of this breathtaking summit, you can see across to the deep blue waters of Adolphus Reach and the historic Loyalist Parkway.

Lake on the Mountain is an historic and sacred space for Mohawks: detailed legends tell of the Sky Woman who lived above what they referred to as Onokenoga: the Lake of the Gods. Lake on the Mountain is as peaceful as it is mysterious.

LENGTH: 750 metre paved path to observation tower.

Single-track can be varied according to your fitness.

LENGTH: The park, with the lake included, encompasses 104 hectares.

DIFFICULTY: Lake on the Mountain is more of a rest area than a trail; it has plenty of room to stretch your legs after a long journey. Check out the lake and the view of the Glenora Ferry on the opposite side of the road.

HOW TO GET THERE: Keep right on Bridge Street as you head out of Picton toward Glenora. Signs for the park will appear about 8km out of town.

MAPS AND MORE: ontarioparks.com/park/lakeonthemountain

DIFFICULTY: Moderate to challenging, thanks to the elevation, but worth every step.

MOUNT PELION PARK

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On the region’s western edge, a Canadian flag snaps crisply in the wind atop Mount Pelion in Quinte West. Affectionately called "Trenton’s Mountain," this 60-metre drumlin was shaped by ancient glaciers and offers hikers a steep trek to the observation tower. A paved pathway and staircase takes you to the top of the hill, where you’re rewarded with expansive views of the Bay of Quinte, Prince Edward County, and the lush,

HOW TO GET THERE: Despite its imposing stature, Mount Pelion is a bit of a hidden gem, so don’t rely on a maps app to find it. Car access to the summit is at the top of MacLelland Ave., or park at the northernmost end of Dufferin Avenue at Dufferin Park and look for the paved path on the right hand side. Follow the path up to the observation tower. The single-track trails branch out north of the tower.

MAPS AND MORE: quintewest.ca

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Choose How You Will Explore

OUR GREAT OUTDOORS It’s all about the modes of transport visitors can use to enjoy the region, from stand up paddle boarding on the bay, to cruising a motorcycle on the back roads, to tearing up the trails on a snowmobile

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE ON THE TRAILS

UNEARTH THE NATURAL TREASURES OF THE TRENT VALLEY

FRESH AIR AND FUN AT LOCAL CONSERVATION AREAS

Eastern Ontario Trails Alliance manages a trail system that is easy to navigate, allowing you to enjoy the region and beyond year-round. Ride your bicycle from one charming community to the next, ride through a winter wonderland on your snowmobile, or join likeminded travellers on a guided ATV tour. There are so many ways to move and explore! thetrail.ca

Take the time to discover nature’s hidden gems in one of seventeen local Lower Trent Conservation areas. Soak in spectacular panoramic views from the Sager lookout tower, visit one of North America’s largest glacial erratics at Bleasdell Boulder, explore wilderness trails in an urban setting at Proctor Park, or craft your own outdoor adventure. ltc.on.ca

Quinte Conservation offers 23 conservation areas that are open to the public daily from dawn to dusk. Spend a weekend camping at Depot Lakes, explore a cobblestone beach at Little Bluff, enjoy accessible paved trails on the Bay of Quinte at Potter’s Creek, or hike any of Quinte Conservation’s stunning natural areas. quinteconservation.ca

Go Active provides four-season outdoor adventure and activity programs and products for people of all ages and experience levels. From snowshoe excursions through the winding wilderness to stand-up paddle boarding in our scenic waters, you’ll get to explore parts of the region that are rarely seen and have fun while being active. Let Go Active get you moving and playing in the great outdoors. 613-922-6857, goactiveontario.ca

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Join a passionate and knowledgeable leader for lessons, taster sessions, or exhilarating tours that are perfectly tailored to your needs.

Icons: Freepik from www.flaticon.com

EXPLORE THE BAY OF QUINTE REGION LIKE NEVER BEFORE

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MUST-STOP MARINA ALONG THE TRENT-SEVERN WATERWAY Come ashore in Quinte West and spend your summer of boating fun, adventure, and relaxation in our 374-slip boating community. With day, transient, and seasonal docking, the Trent Port Marina is an ideal destination and resting point for boaters navigating the Bay of Quinte and Trent-Severn Waterway.

Enjoy the modern, pet-friendly facilities, which include a private boaters’ lounge, private washrooms and shower pods, free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, BBQs and a canteen, and a covered patio, as well as a sandy beach area. The licensed main gathering hall overlooks the marina’s eye-catching boats and offers stunning views of the Bay of Quinte, making it the perfect location for an intimate celebration or a business meeting.

Experience downtown Trenton, just a short stroll from the marina, where you’ll be welcomed by Quinte West’s hospitality and will find a unique selection of dining and retail offerings, groceries and house supplies, an LCBO, a Farmers’ Market, and year-round events and entertainment.

Fully serviced slips and first-class boater amenities set the Trent Port Marina apart as the ideal place to “come ashore in the Bay of Quinte.”

15 Creswell Dr, Trenton, 613-392-2841, trentportmarina.ca

Icons: Freepik from www.flaticon.com

FOUR SEASON BACKCOUNTRY TREKKING Cruising Canoes’ seasoned guides are ready to take you on the outdoor adventure of a lifetime. Operating throughout Belleville, Quinte West, and Hastings County, try your hand in all manner of adventures, from creek runs to winter camping with the guidance of an experienced professional. Cruising Canoes also operates women-only adventures. Choose from planned or bespoke treks, then just sit back and allow your guide to lead the way through the backcountry. cruisingcanoes.ca

Cruising Canoes' guides are certified in advanced wilderness First Aid and CPR. They also possess the necessary skills in wilderness and canoeing leadership.

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 39

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Unique experiences and authentic moments

ONTARIO’S HIGHLANDS Ontario’s Highlands welcomes you to follow your sense of wonder and create your story

Come Wander

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It’s time you listen to that little voice inside your head; the one telling you to create your own path, to throw away your schedule, and embrace the unexpected. Follow your sense of wonder to a place where your imagination and authentic sense of discovery are the only compasses you need. Away from your busy nine-to-five, discover your true self—your inner wanderer. Just a short drive from the heart of Bay of Quinte, Ontario’s Highlands invites you to nourish your soul and disconnect from the every day while reconnecting with yourself and the people who matter most in your life. Step off the beaten path and into our world to find yourself while strolling through beautiful small towns, forests, and countryside. A trip to Ontario’s Highlands is about more than discovering the attractions and experiences, it’s about discovering something about yourself and creating your own story. Whether you’re searching for authentic moments, seeking to create and celebrate traditions, driven by the desire to make fresh tracks, looking for a chance to unwind, or eager to feed your thirst for knowledge, Ontario’s Highlands has something for everyone. Be wowed by our hospitality as we welcome you home, and share your stories with us by tagging your pictures and posts with #ComeWander.

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You can explore more opportunities to wander Ontario’s Highlands online at ontarioshighlands.ca, as well as our premier motorcycle routes at ridethehighlands.ca.

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Discover authentic moments and embrace the spirit of friendly locals as you roam through small towns and down main streets. Let the smell of homemade treats and the sounds of warm greetings truly welcome you to the area with a stop at Hidden Goldmine Bakery. Unearth hidden treasures and unique wares at the Unconventional Moose and discover the history of the land and its people with a wander around O’Hara Mill Homestead.

Create lasting memories with loved ones and friends—both old and new—during quirky festivals like Puppets Up! or the Perth Kilt Run. Looking for something sweeter? Celebrate traditions and discover a skill that has been passed through generations while indulging your inner child (and your sweet tooth!) during a visit to Wheelers Maple Heritage Museum or Fulton’s Pancake House and Sugar Bush.

Feel your heart race as you soar down a roaring river or fly across fresh powder. Surround yourself with the laughter of friends atop a raft with OWL Rafting, Wilderness Tours, or Madawaska Kanu Centre, or race them down the hill at Calabogie Peaks Resort. No matter the season, fresh tracks are not only welcomed but encouraged.

Explore at your own pace. Embrace the peace found in nature with a visit to Holness Yoga & Guest Suites or let your worries wash away during a dip in the lake or a soak in the hot tub at Heather Lodge. Get lost in the view at a lakeside retreat or find yourself amidst pure serenity, sitting in the middle of a secluded dock.

Feed your curiosity and see the world through new eyes with a venture below the surface at Bonnechere Caves. Discover the "story of our Earth" and learn how our unique geology has shaped life in the region. Roll up your sleeves and try your hand at rockhounding during a dig at AquaRose Gems & Minerals or learn the difference between graptolites and crinoids at the Bonnechere Museum.

ARTICLE GENRE

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 41

ARTICLE GENRE

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ARTICLE GENRE

Bay Living New Spaces, Places, and Faces

Bay of Quinte is a growing region with more to offer than might meet the eye.

As tourism and recreation bustle and boom, infrastructure, construction, small business startups, and immigration are right there beside them, helping to build the region into a great place to live, work, and play.

Photography By Johnny C.Y. Lam

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 43

ARTICLE GENRE

Building Belleville

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Visitors to Downtown Belleville are in for a surprise as they tour the core in summer 2016: Phase 1 construction of the Build Belleville City Centre Revitalization Project has been completed, meaning that the north end of Front Street is now more walkable, shoppable and liveable than ever before.

Since the section’s grand reopening, several new businesses have opened their doors on Front Street, including Chilangos, an authentic Mexican restaurant, and Share Centre, the first in a network of regional coworking spaces.

As the project moves forward, the streetscape has truly begun to change. Belleville’s centuries-old buildings between Pinnacle and Victoria streets are now anchored with wider sidewalks and the addition of multiple new bicycle parking stations. This theme carries through the next phases of construction as well; more bicycle parking is planned for Phase 2 between Victoria and Bridge streets, and a bike lane is planned for Pinnacle in 2017. While there are many moving parts, the goal remains simple: revamping Downtown Belleville’s municipal services while retaining and highlighting the architecture that imparts its old-world charm on the core.

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Top: Belleville's downtown architecture juxtaposes old and new. Bottom Left: Belleville’s street-level shops are filling up in anticipation of the new infrastructure, and renovations are also happening in the residential units above. Middle Right: The Build Belleville project headquarters provides open resources for the community.

Bottom Right: After operating a well-known catering business in the region, brother and sister duo Marlem Power and Abraham Ramos saw an opportunity to bring true Mexican cuisine to an historic downtown building.

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For more information, visit buildbelleville.ca

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

A County Makeover

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Downtown Picton’s Main Street is also undergoing a major facelift this summer, from sidewalks and curbs all the way up to new lighting and crosswalks. As a tourist attraction, Picton’s busiest months are July and August, but travellers needn’t worry; construction will be on hold during the top two beach months to allow for the steady flow of traffic to downtown shopping and Sandbanks Provincial Park.

Businesses like Coriander Girl, The Vic Cafe, and The County Canteen are just a few of the new kids on the block, each having opened up shop in Picton in the past year.

New doors have opened all across Prince Edward County’s downtowns since the last high season; OAK Clothing Co. brings beach-wear to Wellington, and Ideal Bike will be renting cruisers there beginning this season.

Outside of its downtowns though, in the bucolic countryside that The County is perhaps most known for, another shift is happening. Where it was once the trend to pack up after high school and head to the big city, young adults find themselves drawn back to The County’s expanding opportunity.

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Top Left: City Revival is a mainstay of the thriving downtown Picton retail district. Middle Left: County-born Matthew Fleguel and Elizabeth Armande once imagined they’d live the big city life after university. Instead, they jumped at the chance to head back home and live off the land at their sheep farm. Top Right: In the midst of the “Main Street Makeover,” Picton’s Royal Hotel is undergoing what might be the most extreme facelift of all.

Bottom: Alison Westlake’s Parkdale shop, Coriander Girl, found the perfect County outpost in Picton - a welcome contrast to the oranges and greys of construction.

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For more information, visit buildanewlife.ca

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 45

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Welcoming Newcomers

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Better infrastructure translates directly to more opportunities for both long-time residents and newcomers, as evidenced by the Bay of Quinte region’s new immigration website, in partnership with the Government of Ontario. The new site, which includes information about Belleville, Quinte West, and Prince Edward County, is aimed at increasing not only the population of the region but also the development of its workforce and economy.

The portal tells the unique stories of immigrants who have already landed in the region, and how the communities they have entered have helped shape their new lives. The provincial portal provides a platform to communicate the wealth of opportunities that exist in the region, to those considering a move to Canada from anywhere in the world.

Dr. Jinni Demine came to Canada from Russia, and has since opened her own veterinary practice in Trenton. She says that now she can’t imagine raising her three children anywhere other than Quinte West. The things we take advantage of as Canadians such as low traffic, clean air, and safety—Demine is thankful for every day because the conditions are so different from Russia.

After more than 15 years spent in the banking industry in Switzerland, Carolin and Alex Lacher made the move to Canada and settled in Prince Edward County. The two opened Twin Birch Suites & Cottages in Wellington in 2013 and felt at home right from the beginning. Now, every day, the pair takes pride in the area and helps guests determine points of interest to see while they are visiting The County.

Although their first Canadian winter experience may have been a shock for Luisa Sorrentino and her daughter Sophia, they now look forward to the winter months. When they came to Canada from Italy, the four distinct seasons were just one of the things that made living in the area appealing. Together, they enjoy winter activities in the Bay of Quinte that they wouldn't have been able to in Italy.

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Top: Luisa Sorrentino took a wild ride during her Loyalist College PR internship with Bay of Quinte Tourism. Middle: Dr. Jinni Demine came to Canada from Russia and has since opened her own veterinary practice in Trenton.

Bottom: Carolin and Alex Lacher share their love of the region with visitors at their Prince Edward County inn.

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Visit the portal and hear more immigration stories at bayofquinte.ca/immigration

We have 20 nationalities represented in our student body.

ARTICLE GENRE

Join us for an international experience at home.

APPLY NOW

TUITION ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE Small class sizes | Individualized attention |Positive learning environment Daily transportation | Curricular trips included | Flexible boarding options Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12/PG 160 Dundas Street West | Belleville, Ontario info@albertcollege.ca | 613-968-5726 | albertcollege.ca

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 47

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Concerts, Corn Boils, and Craft Beer

OUR CAN'T-MISS EVENTS The Bay of Quinte’s world-class events are some of our biggest draws for tourists across Ontario and Quebec, as well as the northern USA. Large signature events, coupled with under-the-radar discoveries make for a vacation experience that visitors will not want to miss Event locations, dates and times are subject to change. Please contact event organizers for more information.

Signature Events

TWENTY-SIX YEARS OF CELTIC TRADITION EQUALS FUN FOR THE WHOLE CLAN On September 9-10, the Trenton Scottish Irish Festival celebrates the Bay of Quinte’s Celtic ancestry through traditional music, games, and fare. Take in the Friday night tattoo to experience professional pipers, drummers, and end-of-the-day ceilidhs, followed by a live performance from the renowned Alan Doyle, the voice of Great Big Sea. Saturday features a downtown parade, all-day Heavy Events, Highland Dancing, Pipe and Drum Bands, a vendor village, and live musical entertainment. Centennial Park, Trenton, trentonscottishirish.com

A smash hit attracting thousands for its inaugural event, Quinte Craft is the first beer festival in Belleville since 1977.

Breweries from the Bay of Quinte and beyond come together twice a year in Downtown Belleville to raise a glass over delicious local food and upbeat live music. quintelicious.ca/quintecraft

The Quinte Restaurant Association’s Quintelicious prix fixe event returns in September, 2016, and March, 2017. With multi-course menus ranging from $15 to $35 at 12 participating restaurants, local chefs are committed to sourcing the freshest ingredients grown, crafted, and raised throughout the region. quintelicious.ca

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Around the Region QUINTE WEST

BELLEVILLE

Returning for its fourth year on August 13–14, Bay of Quinte Velo Weekend will include a Criterium race on Saturday and a Grand Fondo ride on Sunday.

Centennial Park, Trenton, quintewest.ca

Take to the streets at Downtown Belleville’s annual Bridge Bash on August 19. This year, we host the well-known country band Ambush. downtownbelleville.ca

On September 24, pay tribute at the Ad Astra Stone Ceremony at the National Air Force Museum of Canada.

Open to the community; admission by donation. 220 RCAF Rd, 8 Wing/CFB Trenton, 1-866-701-7223, airforcemuseum.ca

Check out Kidstock Spring 2017, a wonderful, affordable, multi-day family festival featuring some of Canada’s top young acts. MUSIC. DANCE. THEATRE. Early-bird tickets are on sale in September 2016! kidstock-quinte.ca

HASTINGS COUNTY

Downtown Belleville is event central: from food tasting at Savour the Summer to Outdoor Movies running from June to August to the “spooktacular” Ghost Walk. Plus, stay tuned for the new vocal competition, The Village Voice.

Come shop, dine, and explore! downtownbelleville.ca

Icons: Freepik from www.flaticon.com

The Tweed & Area Studio Tour, on September 24–25, features local artisans showcasing their talents in the countryside of Hastings County. Locations brochure available from local businesses or online. tweedstudiotour.org

O’Hara Mill Homestead is home to year-round events for old-fashioned family fun. Come enjoy the 1850s Sugarbush (March 20–21), Heritage Day (July 24), Corn Boil (August 20), and Christmas at O’Hara’s (December 3–4). 638 Mill Rd, Madoc, 613-473-2084, ohara-mill.org

Take your taste buds to Tweed Memorial Park on September 11 for Our Backyard Feast From Farm.

Watch as popular chefs and local food producers cook up phenomenal fare while you sample local wines and craft beer and shop the farmers' market. tweed.ca

Experience First Nations culture at the Tyendinaga 29th Annual Traditional Pow Wow August 13-14 at Tsi Tkerhitoton Park. Grand entry at noon. 275 Bayshore Rd, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, 613-396-5365, mbq-tmt.org

TYENDINAGA MOHAWK TERRITORY

The Mohawk Agricultural Fair takes place August 6-7 at the Mohawk Fairgrounds. This event features foods, crafts, midway, and community exhibits. 1807 York Rd, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, 613-396-2132, mbq-tmt.org

Aboriginal ArtFest is an exhibition and sale from October 22-23 that features works from First Nation artists. On Saturday, enjoy a concert showcasing Tyendinaga’s musicians.

1807 York Rd, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, 613-396-3863

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ARTS, CULTURE & EVENTS

Historic Routes Writer John R. Moodie takes a road trip across the region, delving into the history of highways dating back to the Bay of Quinte’s roots

Grand architecture, famous people, important moments, and historic places are found along roads of the Bay of Quinte. Here are three

historic Loyalist Parkway. On a clear summer day or a starry winter night, the Glenora Ferry crossing provides a grand photo opportunity.

prominent roads with significant stories to tell.

LOYALIST PARKWAY HIGHWAY 33

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A Journey Into Canada’s Past

Champlain’s War Party, 1615 Begin your journey on historic Highway 33 at the mouth of the Trent River, where Samuel de Champlain launched a military expedition in 1615 against the Iroquois. From this historic site, Champlain’s small party of Frenchmen, along with 500 Hurons, crossed Lake Ontario and entered the Oneida River to launch an attack upon the Oneida village. In the battle, Champlain was injured and his party was forced to flee.

The Glenora Ferry Since the days when Loyalists first began to settle in Prince Edward County, there has been a ferry service connecting Glenora to Adolphustown. The Glenora Ferry crossing provides an unexpected scenic perk for anyone traveling along the

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The Murray Canal Prior to the completion of the Murray Canal in 1889, ships would have to travel the dangerous waters of Lake Ontario around Prince Edward County. The eight kilometre canal, connecting Lake Ontario with the Bay of Quinte, provided travelers an alternative route between Prince Edward County

Each road has its own story to tell, providing a unique and historic narrative about the communities they pass through. The Bay of Quinte region boasts several such routes, and there is something for everyone looking to journey down these historic roads.

By John R. Moodie

and the main land, effectively creating an island in the process.

Escape of the Royal George Where Loyalist Parkway meets Highway 21, one can look out from the shores of Lake Ontario between the tip of Prince Edward County and Amherst Island and can observe the scene of one of the most daring escapes in Canadian naval history.

It was here, through this gap, during the war of 1812, where the Royal George outran a fleet of seven American ships and found refuge in Kingston’s harbour.

ARTICLE GENRE

Sir John A. MacDonald in Picton Anyone with a passion for history must visit Picton, where Canada’s first Prime Minister began his career as a lawyer.

Nineteen-year-old John A. MacDonald won his first court case at the Picton Courthouse in 1833; his bronze statue can be found in downtown Picton today.

HIGHWAY 2

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The Historic Mail Road

Trenton, Clock Tower Those travelling on Highway 2 will discover many examples of historic architecture along the way. Once known as the “mail road,” the post offices in the towns spanning Highway 2 are some of the most impressive buildings along the route. Anyone passing through Trenton on Highway 2 cannot miss the iconic Clock Tower. The Tower, once part of Trenton’s post office, was built in 1888. The post office was designed by Thomas Fuller, the man better known as the architect of Canada’s Parliament Buildings. Though the post office no longer stands, the Clock

Tower has been preserved and is a landmark worth taking in.

Deseronto, Post Office Anyone passing through Deseronto should take note of its commanding post office. The imposing Romanesque building was built in 1901 and was also designed by Thomas Fuller.

Napanee, Post Office The Napanee post office is yet another creation of architect Thomas Fuller. The majestic building has been a landmark of main street Napanee since it was erected in 1888. The historic building served as the town’s post office until 1969.

HIGHWAY 62

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farming community with a population of about 200. As surrounding towns became increasingly connected by roads and railways, the residents of West Huntingdon began to move away. Today, the community has grown over, and all that remains are several abandoned buildings.

Eldorado, Ontario’s First Gold Mine When historic gold mines are brought up, the Klondike Gold Rush of 1896 immediately comes to mind. However, Ontario experienced its own gold rush decades earlier. In 1866, gold was discovered north of Madoc at what is now the village of Eldorado. Within a year of the discovery, Ontario’s first gold mine would be opened. The news of gold brought an estimated 4,000 prospectors from far and wide with dreams of striking it rich. Several mines were established throughout the region, but the deposits depleted a few years later and the mines closed.

The Main Artery to the North

West Huntingdon, Ghost Town Those in search of a unique historic experience can venture to the former community of West Huntingdon in Hastings County, near Ivanhoe. In the 1880s, this hamlet had a successful

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For more historical tour ideas, check out the blog at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/culture-heritage

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 51

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Heritage Sites

THEN & NOW Experience our region's evolution by taking a step into the past with some of the Bay of Quinte's most storied architecture and landmarks

CONNECT TO MORE ONLINE

Take a detour and learn about our roots at bayofquinte.ca/tourism/culture-heritage

DISCOVER BELLEVILLE’S TREASURE Glanmore National Historic Site is a breathtaking home built in 1883 that features bold Second Empire-style architecture and beautiful hand-painted ceilings throughout.

In recognition of its architectural significance, the property received National Historic Site designation in 1969; it opened as a museum in 1973. It now houses a collection of authentic furnishings and fine European artworks depicting the lifestyle of Glanmore’s original residents. 257 Bridge St. E, Belleville, 613-962-2329, glanmore.ca  THEN NOW 

Major restorations of the building’s interior and exterior have taken place in recent years, ensuring that this local treasure continues to impress.

OVER 155 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE AND EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION Founded as the Belleville Seminary in 1857, Albert College is Canada’s oldest independent, co-educational day and boarding school. Although it was at one time a university degree-granting institution, it became a private collegiate in 1884 and now provides an enriched, engaging curriculum to students in Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 from Canada and over 20 nations worldwide. 160 Dundas St W, Belleville, 613-968-5726, albertcollege.ca  THEN NOW 

Originally located on College Street, the school moved to its current location in 1926 after being partially destroyed by a fire.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Stirling-Rawdon is one of the oldest settlements in Upper Canada. The township’s premier industries included square timber manufacturing and food production, which remain a driving force today. Farmtown Park museum keeps the area’s rich agricultural history alive, and the downtown core features charming shops, quaint eateries, and a lively theatre, all in original Victorian architecture. stirling-rawdon.com

Since 1973, the John M. Parrott Art Gallery has been displaying local, national, and international artists while offering monthly exhibitions and workshops. Through the years, it has expanded to include the induction of an impressive Manly MacDonald oil painting collection, a gift shop featuring local handcrafted giftware, and other community-defining features.

254 Pinnacle St, Belleville, 613-968-6731, bellevillelibrary.ca

On May 22, 1784, Mohawk ancestors arrived on the shores of the Bay of Quinte at what is now known as Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. Each year, keeping its rich history alive, the community celebrates the Landing of the Mohawks with a re-enactment and thanksgiving at 9:00 a.m. on the Sunday closest to May 22. Across from 353 Bayshore Rd, mbq-tmt.org

 NOW  THEN

Stirling-Rawdon’s motto “Embracing Our Future While Remembering Our Past” is evident all throughout the community.

 NOW  THEN

Before settling into the new Belleville Public Library in 2006, the gallery and library were located at the Merchants Bank of Canada property nearby.

 NOW  THEN

Commemoration ceremonies have been performed for generations, with

Photos: Landing of the Mohawks 1957 ceremony courtesy of Kanhiote Library;

2016 marking the 232nd anniversary of the landing.

Doors Open is a province-wide initiative designed to create access, awareness, and excitement about Ontario’s unique heritage. In Quinte West, the October 1st event offers citizens a rare opportunity to experience the sometimes-hidden yet always-interesting sites throughout the community, including behind the scene tours of some places that are not always accessible to the public. bit.ly/doors-open-qw

Discover the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan at the National Air Force Museum of Canada. This massive multi-nation aircrew training plan was implemented during the Second World War and has become the cornerstone of today’s Royal Canadian Air Force. The Museum brings to life the history of Canada’s Air Force, from inception to current day. 220 RCAF Rd, 8 Wing/CFB Trenton, 1-866-701-7223, airforcemuseum.ca

 NOW  THEN

Tour The Montrose Inn, an "ante bellum" style mansion that was built in 1916 and has maintained many of its original elements.

 NOW  THEN

Discover the largest static aircraft collection in Canada.

REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 53

ARTS, CULTURE & EVENTS

Touring the Arts Route

Culturally textured, the Bay of Quinte region is rich in artistic endeavour and achievement. Here, Anita Jansman explores the beauty of the landscape as seen by the artists and artisans of Hastings County through watercolour and oil paintings, elegant carvings, pencil illustrations, hand-carved bowls, and dainty jewelry.

See, learn and buy when artists let you into their space on the Hastings County Arts Route

By Anita Jansman

The Hastings County Arts Route will direct you

SAGA SABIN

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to artisans, galleries, and theatres throughout the region from Trenton to Deseronto, and as

Saga Sabin is best known for her fibre art in which she blends exotic fibers such as llama and cashmere into felted artworks. She also paints with acrylics and watercolours in an impressionistic style.

Her work can be seen at the Tweed Heritage Centre, at Irene’s Restaurant in Belleville, and at her studio in Plainfield. sabinsart.com

far north as Bancroft. It links you to painters, potters, jewelry makers, and photographers, and even to performing arts venues. En route, you can satisfy your creative side by buying a keepsake directly from the artist who made it.

Just a few of the galleries are mentioned here. Take the time to find an artist’s studio or gallery along the route, or visit the website for more details: artsroute.ca.

GALLERY 121

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TIMBERWOLF GALLERY ART & CUSTOM FRAMING

Gallery 121, in Belleville, is a not-for-profit cooperative art gallery founded in 1991 by Quinte-area visual artists. It provides exhibition space for its members to show their work in two galleries: a main gallery, which changes its exhibitions every six weeks, and a smaller gallery where—one at a time— members can show a larger body of their own work. Often, an invited guest-member’s artwork is included in the exhibitions. Featured styles range from realism to abstract in a wide variety of media: oil, acrylic, watercolour, crayon, graphite, pastel, fibre, clay, bronze, wood, stone, and silver with semi-precious stones. gallery121artists.com

Artist and gallery owner Doug Comeau is a professional realist and expert conservation custom framer. His strikingly real, well-respected illustrations are created using graphite and colour pencil.

Considered one of Canada’s top pencil realists, Comeau was selected by the Royal Canadian Mint to design a silver coin collector series celebrating the largest land mammal in North America: the bison. His studio, Timberwolf Gallery, opened in 2001 and is now located in Frankford. timberwolfgallery.com

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ARTS, CULTURE & EVENTS

MAUREEN WALTON MURALS

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Maureen Walton welcomes you to her magical studio—located in the tiny village of Marysville—where she creates colourful and expressive custom murals for businesses, museums, senior homes, children’s rooms, and more. Whether you’re interested in a mural for a private home or for a larger community space, Maureen’s work will surely distinguish any room or outside surface. maureenwalton.com

THE ART GALLERY OF BANCROFT

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The motto “Celebrating the Arts in Rural Ontario” comes to life at the Art Gallery of Bancroft (AGB), which presents a mixture

of local and regional art throughout the year. Early 2016 exhibits include the Annual Invitational Exhibition, the popular Portraits of Nature exhibit by artist Tracey Lee Green, the unique Algonquin First Nations Artists exhibit, and the Fibre Arts Show in the fall. artgallerybancroft.ca

media, this year’s exhibition theme is Verdant. Throughout the season, from June until the end of September, exhibits include the works of Jerry Albert, Valerie Kent, and Marilyn Coulter. bellevillelibrary.ca

JOHN M. PARROTT ART GALLERY

TINHOUSE WOODWORKING SHOWROOM

The only public art gallery of the Quinte region, the John M. Parrott Art Gallery, located in the Belleville Public Library, provides exhibition space for local, national, and international artists and is a social and educational venue as well.

This season, beginning in May with its eleventh juried exhibition, the Gallery offers an exciting array of exhibits.

Showcasing the talents of our regional artists in a variety of

Located in the Hamlet of Coe Hill, this unique building, complete with an original blacksmith’s shop, has been totally restored to showcase the work of many talented, local artisans. It’s filled with locally made goods and gift items including in-house-made wood furniture and products, stained glass, jewelry, carvings, wood bowls, greeting cards, holistic healing products, quartz pieces, and photography. tinhousewoodworking.com

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REGIONAL TOURISM GUIDE / 55

LAST LOOK

We're Almost Instagram Famous

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The #bayofquinte tag on Instagram is the place to find local hot spots. ï„… @bayofquintetourism

56 / BAY OF QUINTE 2016-2017

@GTA_STEVESMITH

asks

HOW’S RUSH HOUR? WE’RE NOT TOO SURE. WHEN’S RUSH HOUR?

Have you considered locating your business in the Bay of Quinte Region? Our region offers ample development-ready land, access to a skilled workforce and a low-cost of living with an exceptional quality of life. All this with an average daily commute time of less than 10 minutes. It truly is the perfect balance of urban and rural living.

KEY BENEFITS OF LOCATING YOUR BUSINESS IN THE BAY OF QUINTE REGION INCLUDE:

 Strategically located to serve the North American markets  Convenient access to all major transportation routes  Some of the best value and lowest cost homes in Ontario  Fully serviced, inexpensive and development-ready land  Lower operating and staffing costs compared to larger centres

PHOTO: PATRICK BISSON

 Access to over 100,000 skilled workers that are loyal to the region

Ask us about doing business in the Bay of Quinte.

1 866 961 7990

QUINTEDEVELOPMENT.COM

@QUINTEECDEV

Apply now for Culinary

Loyalist College

RE LOY SI AL D IS EN T CE

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