We at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes are big fans of the brews. Our guide shows you the best ways to enjoy a glass of the cold one, as well as several notable breweries that you must visit during your stay with us.
Ace the Beer Flight
Even though you have your favorites—lagers, blondes, IPAs—it’s never a bad idea to try out new styles, especially when visiting a brewery for the first time. When you’re feeling adventurous, order a beer flight: two-ounce pours of what’s on tap. Here are three tips to make the most out of your tasting.
Challenge your palate. Start with a beer with a low IBU (international bitterness unit) such as cream or golden ales, and American lagers. Then slowly move to mids, like pale ales and stouts. End with IPAs and imperial stouts, as they have the highest bitterness.
Take sips. Even if the beers come in sampler shot glasses, you don’t have to down everything in one go. Sip and savor!
Get paired. If you’re doing a flight with a friend or a group, share a few appetizers. It helps to know which food complements the flavor of each beer.
Lagerita. Combine one ounce of tequila, 0.5 ounces of Cointreau, a squeeze of lime in a tall glass. Add ice and top with lager.
Radler/Shandy. Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour equal amounts of mixer (lemonade, ginger beer, grapefruit, cola) and beer (Hefeweizen, wheat, Tripel).
Black velvet. Chill a highball glass and the liquids beforehand. Fill it halfway through with a stout or an imperial stout. Top with sparkling wine.
Espresso stout. Shake 0.75 ounces of cold espresso and 0.75 ounces of coffee liqueur until frothy. Fill a martini glass almost all the way with a stout and top with the espresso-liqueur mixture.
Before you pack your wool coats, snow boots, and insulated gloves, go for one more joyous romp this winter season at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes—and in nearby towns—this February.
Ice Fishing, Snow Sports, Cold Plunges, and more!
At Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, we have something for everyone, including a way to say au revoir to the season! The lake is frozen, which means you can cross-country ski, skate, snowshoe, snowmobile, and even play ice hockey!
If you like long moments of introspection, how about going for a long soak at one of our hot tubs overlooking Bobs Lake—the otherworldly calm can’t be beat.
Spirits of Winter
Photo: downtownkingston.ca
Downtown Kingston has been transformed to a winter wonderland with its Spirits of Winter celebration. Marvel at the captivating images projected onto historic limestone buildings, work up a sweat at the ice skating rink, wander through the Enchanted Forest of twinkling lights, and hear indigenous tales told in English, French, Cree, and Ojibwe. This one-of-a-kind experience concludes on February 17 with specialty dining and drinking at select restaurants.
Head to the town of Perth on February 15 for their annual Frost & Fire Winter Festival! This family day weekend, enjoy a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including axe throwing, bingo, and public swimming. Younger guests can participate in cookie decorating, outdoor laser tag, and roasting marshmallows over a campfire.
Shane Murphy is a Montreal-based artist that channels a variety of influences in his music. Visit The Cove Inn at Westport on the 21st of February and see Shane play rock, blues, funk, and reggae-infused music.
Up for a good ol’ holiday music party? Head on out to The Cove Inn on Saturday, February 22, for a Adam Knapp-led hoedown. A well-known artist in Kingston area since winning the Country Music Showdown, Adam has written and produced two of his own albums, and has opened up for Gord Bamford, Chad Brownlee, and Kira Isabella.
During the party, Adam will offer a show full of your favorite country cover songs along with his original music.
Yes, we can’t believe it either, but 2024 is coming to an end!
To get you in a festive mood, we’ve collected five events a short drive from Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, and an extra-special way to ring in 2025 in style! As always, call or email before attending. We don’t want you to leave your cushy cottage for an event that’s canceled!
Festival of Lights
The town of Perth will kick off the festivities this Friday, December 6. Highlights of the celebration include a Drone light show at 6:15 p.m. and a viewing of the Christmas trees in the Crystal Palace.
Join the Young Petty Stones, a four-piece music group, at The Cove Inn on Friday, December 13, for a musical show that pays homage to Neil Young, Tom Petty, and the Rolling Stones. Each member shares a deep respect for the greats of rock ‘n roll, and their bona fides include “The Night is Young: The Music of Neil Young,” “Four Petty: The Music of Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers,” and “The Rolling Stones Rock & Roll Revue.”
Tickets cost CA$85 and include access to the show, a dinner buffet, and a donation to Westport Food Bank. Call 613-273-3636 or email thecoveinnwestport@gmail.com to book your spot!
Doors open at 6:00 p.m., dinner starts at 7:00 p.m., and the show is from 8:30 – 11:00 p.m.
Let Canada’s oldest town band fill the evening with joyous Christmas music at their annual Christmas concert—now on its 30th year!—at the Perth Legion.
Tickets are CA$10 each or CA$20 for a family. Call 613-256-4221 to purchase.
Wings ‘n Tunes + Open Mic with Shawn McCullough + Friends
We’ve talked about The Cove Inn in our Westport, ON day trip blog, and here’s another reason to visit this charming town while you’re staying at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes. Every Wednesday, master guitar player/singer/alternative lyricist/showman/songwriter Shawn McCullough provides live music at the inn. On the 18th, get a chance to bring home an acoustic electric guitar if you get up on stage and perform!
Welcome the new year with this uniquely Canadian tradition: a plunge at the Tay River on January 1, 2025! This annual event has been raising funds for the local community since 1994.
Breakfast starts at 8:00 a.m. Safety briefing for the plungers starts at 10:00 a.m. and awards and certificates will be handed out at the Legion Hall an hour later.
Breakfast is free to plungers with a minimum of CA$35 in pledges or CA$10 for those not taking part in the plunge.
(If you’re ringing in the new year at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, you can do a polar plunge on the first day of 2025 right outside your cottage!)
Our enchanting and cozy cottages are open year round (with the exception of the Little House) and offer some of the best accommodations for your family reunion this winter! During your stay with us, enjoy a variety of cold-weather activities such as cross-country skiing, ice hockey, and ice fishing.
Prefer a more serene getaway? How does making s’mores by a campfire?
If you like the idea of taking a polar plunge but do not want to head to Perth, why not do one right at Bobs Lake? After getting out of the lake, run a few feet to one of our outdoor hot tubs and warm yourself back up—and then stay there for the rest of the day, no judgment!
We have Malm fireplaces in our cottages, full kitchens that encourage you to take your time in preparing a hearty meal, and an unbeatable view of the frozen lake!
In the quiet countryside outside of Westport, Ontario, a small, unassuming farm named Stealing the Bloom has become a beacon for a lifestyle that feels more old-fashioned than modern—one that recalls past farming practices with a touch of contemporary wisdom. The farm’s name carries a sense of timeless optimism: “Stealing the Bloom” is derived from an old Victorian farming phrase that means the growing conditions were so favorable that fruit appeared overnight, skipping the bloom stage entirely. For the farmer and his wife, Mathew and Heidi, this reflects their ideal growing conditions and dedication to making the best of their land and resources.
This venture into farming wasn’t always part of Matthew’s plan. He grew up in Brampton, with half of his friends living suburban lives and the other half tied to dairy farms. His wife’s childhood, spent near Christmas tree and dairy farms, hinted at a rural inclination but still kept her within reach of the city. Together, they dreamed of something quieter, simpler, and, most importantly, sustainable. Driven by the high living costs in urban centers like Victoria, they saw a chance to purchase affordable land and transform it into a functional farmstead. But this was not solely an economic decision but also a lifestyle choice.
With their land secured and purpose clear, they filled the farm with animals: ornamental turkeys, miniature sheep, and a protective dog named Peaches. Peaches, a Maremma Great Pyrenees, plays a vital role in farm life, serving as a livestock guardian dog. She grew up with the sheep and, by all appearances, considers herself one of them, barking away any coyotes or predators that might threaten the flock. “Without a dog, you don’t have sheep here,” Matthew explains, recognizing Peaches’ value as more than just a pet; she’s a part of the farm’s defense system.
Walking the fields, Matthew explains his rotational grazing method, which allows them to get the most out of their seven acres. By frequently moving the sheep and cows between paddocks, he maximizes grass regrowth, squeezing the productivity of 20 acres out of just seven. This sustainable approach, what is called regenerative farming, returns nutrients nature and reduces land costs, even if it demands more of his time. With this approach to farming, land, soil, water, and nutrients regenerate themselves. Over time, he plans to build systems that will allow for easier animal movement, freeing up time for further growth and expansion, perhaps even to sell meat eventually.
Feeding the cow was the highlight for this Ontario family vacation
Yet, for now, meat sales remain a distant goal. Matthew’s focus is on building his infrastructure. The costs associated with butchering are prohibitively high, and he finds himself caught in the dilemma faced by many small farmers: the margins are slim, and profits are hard to come by. Until he can raise enough volume to make it viable, he’ll continue offering farm tours and hands-on experiences to share his way of life with others.
The tours are a highlight, a chance for people to see what he does daily without costing him precious work time. For $10, visitors get a firsthand look at a way of life that, as Matthew jokes, is closer to his grandparents’ than to today’s industrial agriculture. For an hour or more, they can pet Lurkey, the friendly ornamental turkey, meet the miniature sheep, and marvel at the rustic simplicity that defines Stealing the Bloom.
While others in the area charge $25 or more for similar experiences, he keeps his prices low, driven by a desire to make farming knowledge accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford it.
Matthew hopes that his farm can spark a new generation’s interest in sustainable agriculture. He dreams of one day offering workshops to teach others how to cultivate their land. “A lot of what I learned, I picked up on YouTube,” he laughs, explaining how he would even stop by roadside farms to inspect their setups. With a curious mind and a passion for learning, he’d ask himself, “How did they do this, and can I do it better?”
For now, Stealing the Bloom may be a bit of an oddity—a farm that looks more like it belongs to the 1800s than the 21st century. But as food costs rise and quality declines, Matthew predicts more people will embrace this model, opting to grow their food and build self-reliant lives. In a world where large-scale agriculture dominates, Stealing the Bloom reminds of simpler, more connected ways of living.
“We’re in this for the long haul,” Matthew says, gazing out over his land. And as he envisions a future where he’s still here, tending the soil, he knows he’s not just cultivating crops—he’s cultivating a legacy.
You can read all about Stealing the Bloom on Matthew and Heidi’s webpage here. Please be sure to book a tour and say hello to Peaches, the dog who thinks she’s a sheep—or that sheep are dogs. And if you are staying at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, we can arrange for a petting experience for your children, right at your cottage. It’s a very special occasion for family reunions with young children.
Westport Fine Meats has made a name for itself as purveyors of exotic meats in Westport, Ontario, less than a year after they opened.
In the small rural town of Westport is a modest but bustling butcher shop called Westport Fine Meats. Its owners, Joe, a seasoned chef and butcher, and his wife Shelly, also a chef, decided to open the shop with a simple but powerful mission: to bring quality, not quantity, to the community. Their journey to this business wasn’t just a career choice—it was a homecoming.
After years spent catering, cutting, and cooking in different places, Joe and Shelly opted to balance work with life, to be close to their boys, who could bike to the shop after school. The shop, conveniently located in the heart of town, became an extension of their home and lifestyle. As Joe often says, “We’re close to home, and that’s what makes all the difference.”
The philosophy behind Westport Fine Meats is refreshingly simple: offer the best, every time. The shop doesn’t just stock meat—it curates it. From Joe’s years in the food industry, he knows that not all meats are created equal. His discerning eye only accepts the highest grade: AAA Angus or Hereford beef, hung for at least 35 days and sourced from Canadian farms. “I won’t accept anything less than that,” he insists. It’s about cutting out the middleman, rejecting the mass-market approach, and delivering quality products that people have been craving but couldn’t find elsewhere.
Walking into their shop, customers are greeted with cuts of meat they’d never see in a typical butcher’s display. “If you’re looking for the best, you’ve got to go with the Delmonico, Joe proudly declares. But in their shop, the Delmonico is more than just a cut of steak. The butcher has perfected his own version of the Holy Grail: the spinalis dorsi, a tender piece of meat carefully rolled into a pinwheel and served as the pinnacle of what the shop has to offer.
For those who want something a bit more extravagant, there’s always the center cut from the Chateaubriand, a tenderloin filet mignon so exceptional that the butcher claims it would bring tears to even Gordon Ramsey’s eyes. “He wouldn’t know what to do with it,” Joe chuckles, knowing full well that his expertly cut meats speak for themselves.
But Westport Fine Meats isn’t just about beef. The shop offers an array of fowl, from pheasant to quail, and occasionally, lamb, though that’s harder to come by. “When I get lamb, it goes out the door as fast as I can get it,” Joe says. “There’s just not enough around here.” Their meats are in such high demand that people come from miles away to stock up before heading off to their summer cottages. Customers from as far as Pennsylvania and Tennessee have made the pilgrimage to Westport to taste what the shop has to offer.
Westport Fine Meats owners Joe and Shelly
Even though their reputation extends beyond the borders of Westport, Joe and Shelly’s hearts remain firmly rooted in his community. Joe’s faith, which he quietly mentions at the end of conversations, guides his life and his business. “Go with God,” he often says, leaving his customers with not just fine meats, but a sense of peace and purpose.
Westport Fine Meats isn’t just a butcher shop—it’s a testament to what happens when you take pride in your work, stay true to your roots, and deliver the best of what you know to your community.
A lot goes into family reunion planning – but it’s all simple at Bobs Lake.
The idea of a multigenerational vacation or gathering your kin from across the country for an epic family reunion at cottages in Ontario sounds good.
You’re imagining the family barbeques, the downtime playing lawn games by the lake, the time spent fishing and boating, the ooey gooey smores at your nightly bonfires, and the moments that inspire bonding like competitive pickleball tournaments and one-on-one basketball.
But the truth is, there’s a lot that goes into family reunion planning. At Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, we’ve hosted tons of unforgettable family reunions over the years. So we’ve compiled our best advice on how to organize a family reunion. And we hope that if you’re looking for family reunion cottage rentals in Ontario, you’ll put us at the top of your list.
Choosing the Perfect Dates
When you’re coordinating travel plans for a large group, it can be challenging to find a time that works for everyone. You’ll need to consider your budget (high season is so much fun, but will come with a heftier price tag than low season), school holidays, and work schedules.
First, pick a general time that you’d like to plan your family reunion (for example, August 2024). Then, we recommend using a platform like Doodle to coordinate dates with everyone, or choosing a few options that work for you and sharing them with the rest of the group.At the end of the day, the dates you choose might not work for everyone. Sometimes it’s not possible for everyone to have the same availability. Choose the dates that work best for the majority of your party, or those whose presence you prioritize.
Coordinating Accommodations
Once you’ve picked your dates, it’s time to peruse family reunion locations in Ontario. Depending on your goals for the trip, you might want to pick a spot with built-in options for entertainment so you’re not forced to plan lots of activities for everyone. (That’s why we love family reunions at Bobs Lake!)
Once you have a location, you’ll want to look for large family reunion rentals – either one home large enough to accommodate everyone or several smaller cottages close together.
The space you need will depend on your party size and travel preferences. Some families are happy to have all the kids bunk together, while others want their own space and privacy.
At Bobs Lake, we have four modern cottages (all steps from one another and steps from the lake) that make the perfect large group cottage rentals for your family reunion. So it’s easy to accommodate up to 30 guests with tons of space and privacy. We also have a beautiful and unique island retreat (Badour Island), for the ultimate mix of glamping and cottaging.
Meal Planning Made Easy
When you’re planning a vacation for a large group, it’s important to make sure everyone is fed. Your family reunion will go much more smoothly if you think about meal planning in advance.
With a large group, it’s hard to go out to eat. So having a fully equipped kitchen is a must. If you stay at Bobs Lake for your family reunion, you’ll have access to four fully-equipped kitchens. In fact, the Great House has a full, modern catering kitchen! We use it for weddings and events, and it makes meal planning for large-group family reunions a breeze. The catering kitchen also makes it easy for private chefs and caterers, should you choose to go that route. We’re happy to help make arrangements.
Creating an Itinerary of Fun
It’s one thing to be together – it’s another to plan what to do. Some of our favorite things to do for a family reunion here at Bobs Lake?
Fishing from the dock
Relaxing by the lake
Moonlight boat rides
Big family bonfires
Kayaking and canoeing
Stand-up paddleboarding
Zip-lining
Pickleball tournaments
Basketball games
Karaoke at the Tiki bar
Soaking in the hot tub
Watching the tiny tots on the playground
Biking down the A&P Trail
We also love planning unforgettable, personalized experiences for our guests. We’ll help you arrange winery, brewery, and distillery tours, pontoon boat cruises, art workshops, farm tours, and more.
Whether you host your family reunion at Bobs Lake or not, we hope the ideas above will inspire an itinerary of fun for your entire family.
Safety and Accessibility Considerations
When you’re planning a multigenerational vacation, it’s important to consider safety and accessibility for all your guests, from the babies to the grandparents.
Do you have small kids in your group? Select a place that has safety precautions in place (like gates and door locks), especially if you’re staying near water. Consider whether the place you’re staying has baby gear like cribs and high chairs, or if you’ll need to bring them. Also make sure there will be entertainment for them, like toys (or the playground at Bobs Lake).
If you have anyone in your group who needs an accessible bedroom or bathroom, that can be hard to come by, so be sure to include that in your search. (We have accessible accommodations at Bobs Lake.)
Communication and Coordination
A successful family reunion requires effective communication and coordination among everyone in your group. First, decide how you’ll communicate with everyone. Creating a private Facebook group, WhatsApp chat, or email thread dedicated to the reunion makes it easy for everyone to share updates, exchange ideas, and address questions or concerns. It’ll also get everyone really excited leading up to your trip!
We also recommend shared calendars to help coordinate schedules and activities, and Google Docs to organize important documents like itineraries and accommodation details.
And you’ll want to be sure everyone’s on the same page as far as planning responsibilities so nothing is missed. You can assign specific tasks to different family members or groups, or designate a go-to person for different planning aspects. If you delegate some of the workload to others in the group, it’ll ensure you don’t get overwhelmed while planning.
Last pieces of advice? Schedule regular check-ins to make sure everyone is on the same page and is excited about your event, and be flexible. Unexpected circumstances can arise, and last-minute adjustments to the plan are almost always a given. So go with the flow, be ready to adapt, and remember that the point of your family reunion is for everyone to enjoy this time together. The smaller details don’t matter.
The Ultimate Family Reunion
By following the advice in this guide, we hope you plan a truly memorable and meaningful experience for your family. As you consider the possibilities for your Ontario family reunion, we hope you’ll consider our beautiful lakeside setting to relax, reconnect, and rejoice in each other’s company.
We’re here to support you every step of the way, from assisting with accommodations and activity planning to offering guidance on logistics and communication. We’re dedicated to ensuring that your family reunion exceeds expectations and leaves a lasting impression on everyone who attends. Reach out to start planning your family reunion at Bobs Lake. We’d love to host you!
The charming village of Westport, ON is only a 20-minute drive from Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, making it a perfect day trip during your stay with us.
What to DO
Discover the Village’s history
A primer on how Westport came to be should be the first thing on any itinerary. Visit the Rideau District Museum (29 Bedford St., website) for a look at the village’s history, through the many artifacts—dolls, looms, canoes, even farming tools—its citizens have collected and preserved for the past 60 years.
Send a Canadian Hello
Looking for an inexpensive souvenir that has a lot of character? Mail a postcard from Westport to friends and family back home. Pick up a few at Pinecone of Westport (29 Church St.) and, once you’ve added your messages, head to Canada Post (39 Main St.) to have them sent.
Stock up on groceries
The closest supermarket to Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes is Kudrinko’s (22 Main St.). This family-owned, independent grocer has offered the community the freshest quality food since 1990.
take a walk around the lake
Sometimes, all you need to have a good time is a leisurely stroll next to a calming body of water. Head up to Westport Harbour to admire the view of Foley mountain (it gets even better during the fall!), watch boats dock at the marina, and stop for a picnic at Goat Island.
Unwind with live music
After a day’s worth of touring, relax with patio music from The Cove Inn (2 Bedford St.). With artists filling Westport’s air with jazz, rock, folk, country, or Bluegrass, there’s no shortage of entertainment that will cap your getaway from your Bobs Lake getaway. View their schedule here: https://coveinn.com/music
Where to Eat and Drink
Westport Brewing Company
Must order: A flight. This consists of five or six 4-ounce pours of this craft brewery’s creations.
Must order: The Usual. Available only during breakfast hours on the weekend, The Usual consists of two eggs, toast, home fries, coffee, and your choice of bacon, ham, or sausage.
When it’s hot outside and life is busy, escape to the beautiful Ontario wilderness for a fun-filled summer getaway.
Hello, summer! We’ve been anxiously waiting for you to arrive!
On Bobs Lake in South Frontenac, Ontario, summer is our high season.
We have so many visitors in the summer months because – you guessed it – the weather is perfect for outdoor recreational activities and spending time on and near the water.
We can’t contain our excitement about summer in Southeastern Ontario, so we’re sharing our favorite summer events and activities near Bobs Lake in hopes of getting you just as excited as we are.
Planning a trip to Frontenac County this summer? Use this go-to guide to help plan your getaway and make your 2024 summer vacation the best one yet.
Summer Weather in Ontario
When you visit Ontario in summer, you’ll experience such pleasant weather that you won’t want to leave. Clear blue skies with little rain accompany temperatures that range from 20º to 30ºC (68º to 86ºF) during the day and average around 10ºC (50ºF) at night.
It’s the ideal weather to spend lots of time outdoors exploring the Land O’ Lakes region. (Did you know that Ontario has over 250,000 lakes including Bobs Lake, obviously our personal favorite?)
The daily temperatures in June, July, and August are perfect for swimming, boating, kayaking, and all sorts of other aquatic activities. Plus, nighttime temperatures are amazing for sitting by the fire or taking a moonlit boat ride.
If you haven’t visited the Ontario wilderness in the summer, what are you waiting for?
Summer 2024 Events in Ontario
If you’re planning a summer vacation to Ontario and you’ll be near Frontenac County, see if you can check out one or more of these fun events.
Frontenac Farmer’s Market, Summer Fridays
The Frontenac Farmer’s Market at Centennial Park in Harrowsmith holds Summer Fridays from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. all summer long (through October 25). No matter which summer week you’re visiting, you can pop over to the market to grab some fresh produce and chat with locals.
There are several fun events planned for this summer as well. Check them out below and find more information on their website.
Summer Solstice Party June 21, 2024 – onsite food, beer garden, over 40 vendors
Growing Mushrooms with Mark July 5, 2024 – workshop on how to grow Blue Oyster mushrooms
Microgreens 101 August 2, 2024 – a fun free workshop all about how to grow microgreens
Open Farm Days Kick Off Party August 16, 2024 – live music, onsite food, beer garden
Tomato Tasting August 23, 2024 – learn about and taste a variety of tomatoes
Storytime at Sydenham Point, June 21, 2024 (Multiple Dates)
If you’re traveling with littles, there’s nothing like an outdoor storytime to keep them entertained. When you need a break from days of exploration and adventure, a low-key, kid-friendly event like this is just the ticket.
Grab a blanket and some sunscreen, pop the kids in the car, and head over to Sydenham Point for Storytime at 10:30 a.m. on any of the following dates: June 21, July 5, July 19, and August 2. Find more info athttps://calendar.kfpl.ca/event/10041319.
More Sydenham Library events include Drag Queen Storytime on August 17 and the Puppet Show Tour (perfect for ages six and under) on August 12. Both require (free) registration beforehand.
2024 Music in the Park Series, June 22, 2024
June 22nd kicks off the 2024 Music in the Park Series, hosted at McMullen Park in Verona. It’s a family-friendly event where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy live music on the shores of Verona Lake. From 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., enjoy live music, food vendors, disc golf, and even skills and drills on the tennis courts. So gather the crew, pack a picnic blanket and some lawn chairs, and head over to the lake.
Each month, the series moves to a different beach, so be sure to check out South Frontenac’s website for information on July and August’s events.
Celebrating Solstice, June 22-23, 2024
To celebrate the Summer Solstice and the full moon, Wintergreen Studios, an environmental retreat center in South Frontenac, Ontario, is hosting a weekend of workshops, music, and celebration.
Some of the activities during this weekend include a free Summer Solstice Labyrinth Walk and a Full Moon Festival on Saturday from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with five musical acts, a light meal, and dancing.
Wintergreen Studios offers many events throughout the year, so be sure to check out what they’re offering while you’re in town.
Canada Day, July 1, 2024
Oh, Canada! If you’re visiting on July 1, celebrate Canada Day in South Frontenac. There are events and activities in various locations, all culminating in an incredible fireworks show at 9:45 p.m. at Gerald Ball Park in Sunbury with free shuttle service from various locations.
Last year’s Canada Day saw a full schedule of events at Centennial Park in Harrowsmith. Activities included live music, a dog show, inflatables, kids’ games and crafts, horseshoes, scavenger hunts, slip and slide, a beer garden, a vendors market, and more.
In Sydenham, festivities began with a parade from the firehall, then continued at The Point Park, with live music, food vendors, antique cars, face painting, inflatables, a bike decorating contest, a kids fishing derby, cookie decorating, a waterslide, and more.
Check the event schedule on South Frontenac’s website closer to the big day to see the activities for Canada Day 2024.
Happy Trails Hike & Paint, July 19, 2024
When you visit Southeastern Ontario in the summer, be sure to explore popular Frontenac Provincial Park. It’s open year-round, but summer is an especially prime time to visit the park and hike its 100 kilometers of trails, go canoeing or swimming in 22 lakes, enjoy excellent fishing, and view lots of wildlife.
Frontenac Provincial Park also hosts events throughout the year, including the Happy Trails Hike & Paint event this summer. Join local artist Lisa Leskien on a three-kilometer hike to gather inspiration before creating your own 12 x 16 painting to take home. All painting supplies are included, and Lisa will guide you through her process using acrylic paints and oil. You can learn more and sign up for the event at www.lisaontheloose.com.
Summer Activities in Ontario
You may not be visiting for a specific event, but there are always things to do in South Frontenac and the surrounding area!
Water Activities
As you know, Southeastern Ontario is covered in lakes (including Bobs Lake, Ontario’s largest wilderness lake). Whether you’re staying with us or enjoying accommodations elsewhere, you’d definitely be missing out if you skipped the water activities. Even if you just hike the trails near the lake, you’ll be wowed by the beauty of the waterways in this region.
What water activities do we recommend? All of them! On Bobs Lake, for example, you can swim, fish, kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle board. You can even rent a motorized boat from our on-site boat rental.
Hiking, Biking & Exploring
Summertime is a great time to explore the popular K&P trail. Not far from Bobs Lake (about 40 minutes), it’s the perfect spot to go hiking, biking, or ATVing. You’ll love this scenic trail, which travels all the way from South Frontenac (entrance at Orser Road) to historic Kingston, with natural open landscapes, rock cuts, and wetlands along the way.
Another wonderful trail to explore is Cataraqui Trail. A 39-kilometer multi-use recreational trail whose surface is mostly stone dust and loose gravel, it’s perfect for walking, biking, or horseback riding. The wildlife is plentiful along this trail, with opportunities to see everything from herons and ospreys to turtles, snakes, otters, foxes, and deer.
Wineries & Breweries
There’s nothing more refreshing on a hot summer day than a cold drink. Here are some of our favorite wineries and breweries in the Frontenac area:
What better way to celebrate summer than to indulge in an ice cream cone? Why not visit one or more ice cream shops and sample until you find your favorite flavor?
At Limestone Creamery in Elginburg, they make their own farm-fresh ice cream onsite. Their farm store also sells organic dairy products, eggs, meat, produce, and more.
Next up is Cafe Tenango in Marysville. They source their decadent ice creams from Tracy’s Dairy. Grab a cone and then stroll down to the Wolfe Island ferry dock to enjoy the views. Cafe Tenango also has great coffee, including lattes, espressos, and more.
And last but not least, Vanilla Beans in Westport is our personal favorite. (Plus it’s the closest to Bobs Lake!) There you’ll enjoy coffee and espresso, grilled sandwiches, and bagels in addition to their Kawartha Dairy Ice Cream.
Things to Do in Summer in South Frontenac
If you’re not relaxing by the lake or enjoying time out on the water, you’ll have plenty of other things to do this summer in Southeastern Ontario. Whether it’s strolling through a quaint town with an ice cream cone, enjoying live music at the park, hiking the trails, or attending a family-friendly event, there’s something for everyone.
And if you really want to experience the best of summer in Ontario, stay with us at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, where there are endless complimentary summer activities right onsite.
We can’t wait to host you! Contact us to start planning your summer 2024 trip to South Frontenac, Ontario today!
A wedding at Bobs Lake is memorable beyond just the vows.
When you’re choosing an Ontario wedding venue, the intimate feel of a destination wedding may feel impossible. But it doesn’t have to be.
Imagine your ideal destination wedding.
Unlike conventional weddings, which can feel like a whirr, you have the time and the setting to celebrate and spend time with the people who care most about you and whom you love the most.
There’s the breakfast meeting with parents, aunts, and uncles, the midnight skinny dip with your closest college friends, the basketball game with the guys (older fellas invited of course), the picnic with the children, and the barbecue with the entire guest list.
The setting becomes an important part of your experience. Long after you have forgotten your vows, you’ll remember:
the moonlight boat ride
the sunset on the lake
the bike ride before breakfast
the pickleball game pitting guys against gals
the marshmallow roast at night
And the most precious thing of all – unrushed time. A time for private walks, quiet get-togethers, and that wonderful unprogrammed moment when you sit on the dock, watching the kids play in the water while you do a crossword puzzle.
If this kind of wedding appeals to you – if a conventional wedding feels too rushed, pressured, and programmed – consider Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes as your venue.
We’re your ideal Ontario wedding venue for a destination wedding in your own backyard. With our natural setting, activities, lodging, and friendly staff, we’ll ensure that what you imagine can come true.
Before I Do: Stay in Our Modern Lakeside Cottages
Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes isn’t solely a wedding venue, of course – it’s a destination for weekends away, family reunions, corporate events, and more. With four lakeside cottages and an island retreat, we love to invite couples to come visit us beforehand so you can see for yourself what makes Bobs Lake so special.
One of the best ways to experience this magical setting for yourself before the big day? Plan your bachelor or bachelorette party here. We’ve done everything from ice fishing for the guys to in-home massages and cooking classes for the girls. We can really cater to anything you dream of, so let your imagination run wild.
Crafting Your Lakeside Wedding Weekend Itinerary
Your wedding is more than the vows. It’s a celebration of your love and commitment with those closest to you. When you plan a wedding weekend rather than just a wedding, you’re inviting your guests to come together for an experience none of you will ever forget.
Filling your weekend with the perfect mix of activities and downtime creates the opportunity for real memory-making. And a beautiful lakeside setting provides endless chances for fun. For one bride’s perspective on her Bobs Lake wedding experience, from the small lakefront ceremony to the quiet moments with friends and family to the big party with a live band, dancing, and s’mores, take a look at this article from Dancing with Her.
The Wedding
One of the top 10 Airbnb wedding venues in Ontario, Canada in 2024, Bobs Lake hosts weddings for up to 150 guests in May, June, September, and October. We’ll host your wedding ceremony on a deck overlooking the gorgeous lake, then party under the stars in a beautiful tent.
The ceremony can be tailored to your preferences, whether that’s your furry family members walking down the aisle (we love dogs!) or a post-ceremony send-off on our pontoon boat.
For your reception, we have everything from cocktail hour at the Tiki Bar and upscale table settings under a tent to big barbecues by the lake and dancing on the screened-in porch.
The best part of hosting a wedding at Bobs Lake is that it doesn’t last only a few hours. Once the wedding has ended, the party continues! Up to 50 guests can stay for a long weekend in our modern lakefront cottages and enjoy all sorts of activities in one another’s company. We can also happily arrange accommodations at a neighboring campsite or shuttle service into downtown Westport for additional guests.
Daytime Activities
Beyond “I do,” our guests are wowed by the variety of activities we offer during their wedding weekend. Obviously, the lake itself is the main attraction. You’ll love swimming in the crystal clear waters of Bobs Lake, sunning on the swimming platform, kayaking or canoeing, fishing off the dock, and renting our motorized boats to explore the nooks and crannies of Ontario’s largest wilderness lake.
If you’d rather stay dry, challenge your guests or your brand-new spouse to a game of pickleball or basketball, or borrow a bike to ride down the A&P Trail.
Nightly Entertainment
After your wedding, roast marshmallows at our bonfire, dance the night away on the screened-in porch, enjoy a moonlight boat ride on the lake, indulge in cocktails at the Tiki Bar, or laugh until you cry as your guests sing Karaoke.
Quiet Moments of Downtime
In the downtime of your wedding weekend, that’s when it’ll really sink in. You’ll be relaxing lakeside, soaking in the hot tub, hearing laughter from the children’s playground, shooting pool, or playing a game of ping pong – and you’ll realize that all your dreams have come true.
That you’re with your favorite people creating cherished memories…all in honor of your love. That the wedding you were hoping for – one that’s relaxed and full of the little moments that make it so memorable – has actually happened. And that the rest of your life awaits, with this precious weekend as its anchor.
Exclusive Use of the Property for Your Wedding
There’s nothing quite like having exclusive access and unparalleled privacy during your wedding weekend. You don’t have to share amenities or worry about anyone else impacting your big day.
At Bobs Lake, you’ll reserve the entire property for a three-day weekend or full week. That means there’s no one but you and your nearest and dearest staying with us.
You’ll have exclusive access to our accommodations, amenities, and activities, and you’ll have tons of privacy to celebrate your way. Whatever your preferences, you’ll have the flexibility to customize your wedding experience to your taste and create a wedding weekend itinerary that’s just what you envision.
Want to learn more about the logistics of a wedding at Bobs Lake? Check out this video, where we’ll walk you through the booking process, the cost, the planning, and all the nitty-gritty details of planning your dream wedding. Spoiler alert: it can be as DIY or done-for-you as you want it to be.
Choosing Bobs Lake as Your Wedding Venue
You don’t need to go far to have all the benefits of a destination wedding. When you select Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes as your lakeside wedding venue, you’re choosing a customized experience that’s exclusively for you and your guests. A memorable and stress-free experience awaits at Bobs Lake.
Escaping from the hustle and bustle doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do!
Looking to escape the city this spring and immerse yourself in nature?
Maybe you want to relax by the lake, but your friends or family want a little more action and adventure. Well, even when you’re staying in the wilderness, there’s plenty to do!
Here are our favorite things to do in the Ontario wilderness in Spring 2024. And if you’re staying with us at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, you’ll have easy access to it all.
Spring Weather in Ontario
After a winter of frigid temperatures and snow, spring brings milder temperatures and sunny blue skies to Southern Ontario. Though still cool at night, the days become warmer and longer, so it’s a great time to explore the region. With the snow melting and the abundant spring rain, it can be quite muddy, so pack your umbrellas and boots to stay dry.
With everything in bloom and wildlife returning, it’s such a wonderful time to visit.
2024 Spring Events in Ontario
Here are just some of the things happening in the area around Bobs Lake this spring. Plan your trip around one of these fun events!
Spring Events at Frontenac Provincial Park
A favorite in the area, Frontenac Provincial Park is open year-round for back-country recreation. Whenever you’re visiting Bobs Lake and the surrounding area, you can hike through 100 km of trails, canoe through 22 lakes, and enjoy excellent fishing and wildlife viewing. In the summer, swimming is a must, while the winter brings opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing adventures.
But in the spring, you’ll enjoy the beauty of the park as you hike its trails, or visit for a scheduled program, like wilderness navigation and survival, guided nature walks, kayaking courses, and more. Here are a few of the events planned for Spring 2024 in Frontenac Provincial Park.
April 20, 2024: Survival Techniques
Attend a workshop on planning for survival, including what should be in a survival kit, types of shelter, fire-starting techniques, and more.
April 27, 2024: Spring Nature Walk
Head out on a leisurely guided walk along the 3 km Doe Lake trail to enjoy the plant and animal life along the way.
May 11, 2024: “Early Spring” Bird Walk
Along with Dan Derbyshire of Frontenac Bird Studies, set out to explore the park in search of spring migratory birds returning to the area. You may see Warblers, Vireos, Scarlet Tanagers, and more.
Looking to enjoy a lovely event for a good cause while you’re visiting Bobs Lake? Set for May 11, 2024, from 1:00 – 4:00 pm, the Storrington Lions Club’s 4th Annual Community High Tea is in support of Child Life Services at Kingston Health Sciences Centre. The cost of the event is $25 per person and includes delicious homemade food, hot coffee and tea, live music, and a photo area.
Frontenac Farmer’s Market
Opening May 10, 2024, in Centennial Park in Harrowsmith, the Frontenac Farmer’s Market is a wonderful place to meet local vendors and purchase fresh produce to enjoy during your stay. You can visit the market on Fridays from 3 pm – 7 pm. They often have live music, a beer garden, and a variety of events. Some of this spring’s events include a Charity Pickleball Tournament, a seedlings sale, and beer and wine tastings.
If you’re staying with us at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes, grab some veggies from the farmer’s market, enjoy a day of fishing on the lake, and combine your fresh catch with your fresh produce for a wonderful meal prepared in your fully equipped kitchen or on the BBQ grill.
Summer Kickoff Music Festival
Photo Credit: southfrontenac.net
While it means the official kickoff of summer, this event actually happens in the spring! The Summer Kickoff Music Festival is a celebration of local talent, full of live local music, food, and drink. You can expect food trucks, craft beer, a kids’ zone, and, of course, lots of live music.
Running from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm on May 25, 2024, admission to this event is totally free! You’ll find the party happening in Centennial Park in Harrowsmith.
OAR Rowing Event at Bobs Lake
If you’re a serious rowing enthusiast, head to Bobs Lake on May 26, 2024 to join OAR in their exploration of the lovely granite outcroppings, marshlands, and more than 129 islands dotting Bobs Lake.
Join the crew as they row a total of 25-30 km over the course of the day, or watch from the shoreline as they launch from Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes. The event costs $85 per person, including boats, rowing equipment, a picnic lunch, and a full day of adventure. For more information, contact Shelagh at bakertorrance@rogers.com.
Bonus: Stay in one of our modern lakeside cottages at Bobs Lake Cottages & Escapes that weekend and walk just steps to the boat launch when you’re ready for the event. Contact Marla for more information.
Events at Wintergreen Studios
Photo credit: Wintergreen Studios
Located right in South Frontenac, Ontario, Wintergreen Studios is an environmental retreat centre dedicated to inspiring balance with the natural world. They regularly host fun events, like an opportunity to come together to view the solar eclipse and the 10th annual Land Art BioBlitz 2024, a free family event focused on the beauty and diversity of the natural world.
This year’s BioBlitz is on Sunday, May 26, 2024, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm. It includes a series of workshops, like a guided birdwatching hike, a stroll through the property where you’ll forage for fungi, and a walking meditation through a labyrinth.
Spring Activities in Ontario
If you’re not in town during one of the event weekends mentioned above, there is still plenty to discover near Bobs Lake. Visit one of these nearby places while you’re at the cottages.
K&P Trail
Originating in Kingston, the popular K&P trail enters South Frontenac at Orser Road. It merges with the Cataraqui Trail (discussed below) for two kilometers, then goes to Sharbot Lake and points north.
The K&P trail is not far from Bobs Lake (about 40 minutes), and is a great spot for hiking, biking, and ATVs. It’s quite scenic, with natural open landscapes, rock cuts, wetlands, and historic Kingston.
Cataraqui Trail
Photo credit: cataraquitrail.ca
The year-round Cataraqui Trail is a multi-use recreational trail whose surface is mostly stone dust and loose gravel. In the spring, the 39 km trail is suitable for walkers, cyclists, and horseback riders.
As you explore the trail, you may encounter wildlife, from herons, ospreys, and turkeys to turtles, snakes, and numerous mammals such as mice, chipmunks, squirrels, rabbits, otters, foxes, coyotes, and deer.
Wineries & Breweries
Photo credit: Westport Brewing Company
With warmer temperatures in spring, it’s a great time to enjoy the area’s breweries and wineries. For beer, try Kick and Push Brewing Company, a microbrewery located in the heart of Frontenac’s Sharbot Lake, or Weather Head Brew Co. in Perth, Ontario. For something unique, Auralis Botanical Brewing Company in Tichborne produces zero-alcohol drinks that are 100 percent plant-based.
If you’re looking to relax with your drink for a while and maybe enjoy a stroll through town, a wood-fired pizza, or a beautiful view, try Scheuermann Vineyard & Winery or Westport Brewing Company, both located in Westport, close to Bobs Lake.
At Scheuermann Winery, enjoy elegant handcrafted wines while you enjoy the views. Westport Brewing Company’s front door is right on Westport’s historic Main Street, while the back porch overlooks the scenic harbor on Upper Rideau Lake.
Just be sure to check spring hours before visiting.
Things to Do in Spring in South Frontenac, Ontario
There is something to discover every season at Bobs Lake in South Frontenac, Ontario. Whether you’re looking for events to keep you busy or just want to relax by the lake and breathe in the fresh spring air surrounded by nature, we hope you’ll visit us in the spring and see why we love Bobs Lake so much any time of year.
