St. Lawrence Islands National Park – Everybody takes the “1000 Islands Boat Tour”, but how about spending a night camping on one of our national park islands!? Comprised of over 20 island properties available for public use, St. Lawrence Islands Park is a tiny jewel conceived in the 1870’s. While most of the park islands have docks, privies, delineated walking trails and shelters, 12 offer campsites. Note: campsites can not be reserved, so plan for mid-week when sites are more readily available - McDonald Island is a good bet). Pack camping gear and plan to arrive at Spencer’s Boat Rentals early in the day to make the most of swimming, exploring and relaxing on the Island. Spencer’s will provide transportation to a nearby Island campsite, and return the following afternoon. Don’t feel like a culinary island adventure? Pick-up gourmet takeout fare from the Casa Bella restaurant in Gananoque to heat up on the Coleman – now that’s fine dining in the Islands!
Contact Spencer’s Boat Rentals or Andress Boat Works in Rockport to arrange water taxi service, rent a boat or even book a fishing charter! For more information about the islands click here. (Tip: The A&P grocery store located on King Street in Gananoque caters to campers with cut fruit trays, packaged salads, etc.)
Victoria Rose Inn – Now for the pampering part… after returning from the islands, check-in and relax in the authentic elegance of this historic and romantic landmark Inn, restored to its original state when built in 1873. Choose from 12 exquisite air-conditioned rooms, all with deluxe amenities, ensuite bathrooms and unique décor - many offer whirlpool tubs and working fireplaces. A complimentary Island Breakfast of fresh fruits and juice, home baked pastries, cereals, yogurts and gourmet coffee and tea is offered daily from 8:00 – 9:30 am.
The Victoria Rose Inn is located at 279 King Street West in Gananoque, just 4 km east of Spencer’s Boat Rentals on Highway #2, or 19 km west of Andress Boat Works in Rockport . More information: www.victoriaroseinn.com
Casa Bella Restaurant – And now for the dinner…. just a few blocks from the hotel, prepare to experience 1000 Island summer dining at it’s very best. Casa Bella serves fresh, imaginative cuisine drawing on local and seasonal ingredients. The main floor of this warm and welcoming century home is dedicated to a 40 seat restaurant. The following review sums it up, “The margaritas are made with real lime juice - a rarity nowadays! The food was fresh and delicious. Everything was very unique - a cold pea soup, caribou filets, etc. The desserts were TO DIE FOR! One of our party is an Australian who said the pavlova here was better than in Australia (Aussies call pavlova one of their native national dishes). We are definitely going back!”
The Casa Bella is located at 110 Clarence Street, just two blocks from the Thousand Islands Cruise docks, the Historic Village and the Gananoque Municipal Marina. Reservations recommended to avoid disappointment. More information: www.eatatbella.com
