Surrounded by three Great Lakes, Southwestern Ontario is a tapestry of rolling hills, idyllic farmland, picturesque vineyards and pristine beaches. An area dotted with captivating towns and villages with charming inns, B & Bs, restaurants and shops that combine to make any driving tour of this region extraordinary.

Begin at the tip of the ruggedly beautiful Bruce Peninsula, home of the Bruce Trail, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Heading south along the Lake Huron shoreline, witness some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world from the city of Goderich. Sample summer stock theatre at the nearby Blyth Festival.

Travel to the southernmost tip of mainland Canada at Point Pelee National Park and watch the migration of monarch butterflies and hundreds of bird species. Laze on the sandy shores of Lake Erie. Sip and savour at local wineries. And if you crave a little taste of city life – try Hamilton, London and Windsor for a host of cultural activities including theatre and a number of fascinating museums.

Step into the world of Shakespeare at the renowned Stratford Festival hosted by a city where the cuisine is nearly as famous as the Bard himself. Or step back in time in the Mennonite communities of St. Jacobs and Elmira, home to the largest maple syrup festival in the world. Browse for a bargain at the famous St. Jacobs Farmers Market. Or hoist a stein in celebration of Kitchener-Waterloo’s German heritage at Oktoberfest – the world’s largest Bavarian festival outside Germany. Stop by Fergus where the bent is definitely Scottish, and visit the Elora Gorge, which is particularly stunning during its spectacular fall display of colour.