Jun 8, 2021
5 min. read
This summer, head out on a road trip to soak up the bucolic surroundings of Kingsville and Pelee Island where there’s an abundance of things to do this summer, including birdwatching, kayaking, cycling and visiting local wineries.
Once you’ve arrived, all you need is a good pair of walking shoes and a sense of adventure. And be sure to take note of public health guidelines, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance and travelling only if permitted.
Kingsville is Canada’s southernmost town
Take in the quaint architecture as you stroll down Main Street. Grab a cup of coffee from Bean15 Café—a favourite of CAA associates—where each cup is brewed with locally roasted beans, or stop in at Momma Bear’s Bakery for one of their swirly frosted cupcakes. Beer lovers can sip a craft beer at Grove Brew House while oenophiles can hike west to the Pelee Island Winery for the “Vine to wine” interactive tour. Rest for the night at one of the town’s boutique hotels, or reap the benefits of your CAA Membership with a Rewards partner, like the Best Western in nearby Leamington, where CAA Members can save up to 15% and earn 10% bonus Best Western Rewards® points when they book online.
Connect with nature in Point Pelee National Park
Head to the Marsh Boardwalk, a one-kilometre loop where you might spot red-winged blackbirds and painted turtles. Be sure to have your camera ready on the Botham Tree Trail to capture the lush Carolinian trees, which are indigenous to the Carolinian Zone that’s home to one-third of the rare and endangered species found across Canada. Book a kayak or canoe in advance to meander through the marsh and for a photo op of lively carp and frogs. There’s a free shuttle you can take to The Tip—mainland Canada’s southernmost part—where you can enjoy a picnic on the beach or go for a swim.
Indulge in quiet solace on Pelee Island
To get to Pelee Island, hop on the ferry—but be sure to book early—from Leamington or Kingsville. Head to the top deck to enjoy the fresh air. Rent a bike at Comfortech Bicycle Rental, and ride over to Fish Point Provincial Nature Reserve, where you can then follow the 28-kilometre scenic Pelee Island Waterfront Trail north. Grab a snack at The Bakery to recharge before stepping back in time on a tour of Vin Villa, Canada’s first commercial estate winery. Cap off the day with a Lake Erie perch sandwich at The Westview Tavern, which is conveniently located near the ferry terminal. Back in Kingsville, stop by Cindy’s Home & Garden, a vast 12,000 square-foot gift shop.
Travel Inspiration
For more summer adventure suggestions, visit Hidden Gems.
When you’re ready to travel again, speak with a CAA Travel Consultant who can help you plan your ideal trip. Visit CAA Travel or call 1-855-660-2295 to start planning.
Image credit: Angie Taylor, HFS Co. @healthyfittstrong