City breaks and great escapes in Ontario, Canada

Whether you’re into intrepid urban adventures or getting to grips with the great outdoors, Ontario is one of those big-hitting destinations that has a universal appeal. From the country’s capital, Ottawa, to the provincial capital and Canada’s largest city, Toronto, and everything in between, the cities that speckle this stretch of land are testament to the diversity and culture on offer.

Urban adventurers seeking out experiences to spark their curiosity will delight at the offerings across these metropolises. Meanwhile, the natural diversity showcases the true beauty of this part of Canada. With over 250,000 lakes, dense forests, sparse hinterlands and rolling hills, these big spaces are waiting to be explored.

There’s a reason why this province has lured almost 40% of Canada’s population to call it home. So whether you’re after fly-drive and motorhome holidays or cool city breaks, Ontario is perfectly placed to cater to all types of adventure.

Want to get the best of Eastern Canada? Set out on this fly-drive adventure to take in some of the standout showcases of the natural world and rich heritage of this region. The cities are living maps of history and culture, while nature puts on an unforgettable show at Niagara Falls. Nearby Toronto and the world-famous waterfalls are a duo to catch. The falls – and in particular the Canadian Horseshoe Falls, the biggest of the collection – are a mighty testament to the natural power of the province. The falls also function as a roaring introduction to both Canada and the US, straddling the international border.

The Great Lakes are aptly named and awe inspiring, and this itinerary journeys to those open waters and beyond. From the native northern highlands and cities of Sault Ste Maire to an Indigenous-led wilderness retreat on the intriguing Manitoulin Island, this is an itinerary to make you feel intrepid in your explorations. Long stretches of boreal forest and sweeping lakeside vistas will accompany you on the open road as you hop from nature reserve to national park.

Hitting the road is one way to experience the vast beauty of Ontario. Taking in the highlights in a circular loop from Toronto will showcase a small, but varied section of this vast place. Lakeside Kingston is a live music hotspot with antique and culinary highlights to match, while the nearby Thousand Islands are as numerous (there are more than 1,000) as they are impressive. Tree-covered and scattered across the blue bay, this archipelago is best enjoyed as part of a cruise. Further along, Algonquin Provincial Park takes you through the storied native lands while showing off superlative natural splendour.

Not all cities know how to help you relax but Ottawa makes it easy to slip into a chilled explorer state of mind. Though filled with lofty establishments and seats of power as the country’s capital, it is distinctly calm. This six-day exploration will immerse you in the city and its environs. Ottawa is the longstanding territory of the Anishinabe Algonquin Nation and the city’s urban identity has been crafted on the confluence of cultural influences.

The river acted as a huge transportation corridor and still holds a position of great importance to the city and its people as it flows majestically for hundreds of miles, eventually ending in Georgian Bay. These days you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal speckled with boats in the summer months and with ice skaters in the winter.

Elsewhere, ByWard Market is a humming vibrant hub of farmers’ markets, restaurants, cafes and more. Whether you want to look for artisan crafts or sample a classic Beavertails pastry, the market neighbourhood has it all. The historic market hall itself, one of the oldest in Canada, is well worth a visit, as are the grand edifice of The House of Commons and surrounding neo-Gothic Parliament Buildings. Tours will take you through the fascinating history of the Parliament of Canada through artworks, architecture and expert guides (please check availability prior to arrival, the Parliament is undergoing a 10 year refurbishment that will have an impact on tours).