Tobermory and the Bruce Peninsula

The Bruce Peninsula rides the Niagara Escarpment into Lake Huron, ending at the harbour village of Tobermory. Two national parks meet here: Bruce Peninsula National Park on land and Fathom Five National Marine Park in the water. Summer weekends are very busy, and Parks Canada requires advance parking reservations for the Grotto area at Cyprus Lake in peak season, so book ahead and arrive early.

1. Day 1 · The Grotto and Cyprus LakeUse your reserved Cyprus Lake parking slot to hike the Georgian Bay Trail to Indian Head Cove, the natural arch and the Grotto, a sea cave in the escarpment cliffs. The shoreline is rough cobble and rock, so wear proper footwear, and note that swimming conditions near the Grotto can be dangerous. Cool off afterwards at Cyprus Lake, then climb the visitor centre's lookout tower near Tobermory.
2. Day 2 · Flowerpot Island and the harbourTake a tour boat from Tobermory harbour to Flowerpot Island in Fathom Five, named for its sea stacks; many boats pass over shipwrecks in Big Tub Harbour on the way, some through glass-bottom hulls. Check return times carefully, as the last boat back is not to be missed. On the drive south, stop at Singing Sands, a shallow Lake Huron beach with boardwalks, or detour to Lion's Head for the escarpment lookout.