MANITOULIN ISLAND on Lake Huron is sparsely developed and strikingly beautiful. The North Channel waterway is world renowned for its recreational boating activities. Small towns and rural villages, with their unique pastoral atmosphere, provide a welcome setting for many people who settle here by choice.

Location, Location, Location

Often referred to as "Ontario's best kept secret", Manitoulin Island has attracted international interest as a tourist destination and recreational property retreat. A good deal of the charm is the result of its unique location. The only people I have ever heard say "it's so hard to get to" are those who have not yet made the trip. There is an exceptional quality associated with the Island that is wonderful to experience and difficult to describe. This quality makes the distance seem short and the time worthwhile.

Ground Access

Any method of arriving at Manitoulin is picturesque. If you drive, the year-round route takes you through the LaCloche Mountains to the only bridge onto the Island at Little Current. From April through October you can also take the "Chi-Cheemaun" marine ferry from Tobermory at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula (southern Ontario) to South Baymouth on Manitoulin's south shore.

Air Access

Year-round access is convenient to the two Island airports. The Gore Bay-Manitoulin Airport is located centrally on the Island, only minutes from Nameless Lake and the North Channel waterway. The Gore Bay Airport has a 4900 ft. paved runway, an instrument approach and seasonal Canada Customs service.  The Manitoulin East Municipal Airport is located just south of the Town of Little Current and has a 3500 ft paved runway. Both facilities offer fuel and tie downs and can assist with ground transportation. Flying time from southern Ontario and many northern US states is less than two hours.

Water Access

Manitoulin is the largest fresh water island in the world. Its northern shore is a natural harbour to the North Channel. This world renowned waterway is popular with sailing and powerboat enthusiasts. Many first time visitors arrive by boat from almost any location on the Great Lakes or beyond. Numerous ports are available for mooring and supplies and some also provide Canada Customs service.