Thousand Islands Region Sightseeing and Discovery Tour

Discover the Thousand Islands region, an incredible archipelago on the St. Lawrence River that forms, in Ontario, a natural border between Canada and the United States. 

Consult the interactive map to discover the points of interest that correspond to the main attractions and local history without delay!

UNESCO HERITAGE

As a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, these 1,865 islands are the result of the erosion of an ancient mountain range over 10,000 years ago. 

THE ISLANDS

Sometimes very large, sometimes tiny, with as their only inhabitants, migratory seabirds, they are a veritable paradise for biodiversity and for visitors searching for a change of scenery. A perfect stopover between Montreal and Toronto, or a dream destination for a few days' getaway, discover these islands that the indigenous called the "Garden of the Great Spirit". 

COLONIZATION

The region was inhabited long before French and English settlers arrived. But then imagine Samuel de Champlain or the Comte de Frontenac sailing through these islands from 1610 onwards, setting up the first French colonies, trading with the Iroquois and building the first fur trading posts... 

This francophone presence is still very much alive today in Ontario, home to the largest French-speaking minority community in Canada, and the largest francophone community of any province except Quebec. In the Thousand Islands, this community is alive and well. You'll discover this heritage legacy and some fascinating places. 

ON-SITE

Drive along the scenic route to admire these unique landscapes and picturesque coastal villages, take a cruise to observe the typical wildlife and marvel at the impressive homes of personalities who came to settle on these islands as early as 1870, discover the Thousand Islands National Park, the smallest international bridge and the towns of Gananoque and Kingston, which are the starting point for many activities!

Discover castles, shipwrecks, millionaires homes, eccentric cottages, historic sites (some dating back to the War of 1812), restaurants and festivals - all at your own pace, depending on what interests you. The interactive map lets you find your way around, locate the main points of interest and see your position in real time, with access to each story on demand. It also includes a suggested itinerary, but depending on where you arrive, you can explore the region in the order that suits you best. 

Some independent visits (museum, historic site, nature park, farm, vineyard, etc.) are also offered. Their names and access links are usually indicated.

PRACTICAL OPTIONS

The BaladoDiscovery mobile application allows you to access the map and the content of the interactive guide without an Internet network if you use its "Preload" option before starting your visit.

The use of headphones also provides a better quality of experience on the premises.

Happy hunting!

CREDITS

Produced by the Société Économique de l'Ontario (SEO), with financial support from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. 

Special thanks to Laurianne Montpetit, General Manager of ACFOMI, and André Soucy, Director of Visitor Services and Customer Experience at Tourism Kingston, for their suggestions of must-see sites whose tours are available in French.