Known as a secluded escape into untouched wilderness, the striking beauty of the Haliburton Highlands is just a few hours beyond Ottawa and Toronto. Explore a wonderland of rivers, lakes, and dense woodlands for a pastoral escape that peaks in the shoulder season.
By Anna Cipollone
With ample lakes, awe-inspiring rocky cliffs, and captivating forests, Haliburton invites you to replenish your inner resources within a tranquil natural habitat rich in wildlife reserves.
As the bugs reach a minimum and the sun’s rays taper down for the cold weather to come, take refuge in outdoor adventure treks, elevated dining, and luxe retreats that shine brightest as the seasonal pace begins to slow.
LIVE WELL
Winterdance Dogsled Tours
From moonlit husky tours to a full-day out on the trails with a fireside lunch break, your guides begin with a 20-minute lesson on dogsledding basics.
For 25 years, this family-run business has offered this unique active adventure, touted for both its physical benefits and the mental perks of time spent mindfully in the safe haven of the wilderness alongside lovable animals.
Local Tip: Pair a guided dogsled ride with a maple syrup sugar shack tour for a winter ritual that’s truly Canadian.
Yours Outdoors
From a wild edible mushroom tour amid fall’s changing colours to ice climbing and skijoring in a winter wonderland (think cross-country skiing meets dog sledding), professional guides promise an authentic wilderness adventure.
With a roster of local artisans, nature enthusiasts, and skilled hobbyists, these off-the-beaten-path tours celebrate the area’s unique heritage within the serenity of private woodlands.
Local Tip: Trek across the treetops in the 4-hour Canopy Tour for an elevated experience available from spring to fall.
Haliburton Sculpture Forest
Connect with a rare art gallery amid Mother Nature on this winding forest trail within Glebe Park. This unique outdoor collection of 40 sculptures can be enjoyed in every season—on foot, bike, skis, or snowshoes.
As fall gives way to winter, and spring becomes summer, the collection of Canadian and international artists’ installations looks different amid a changing seasonal backdrop.
Local Tip: Head next door to the Haliburton Highlands Museum to borrow a pair of snowshoes at no cost.
EAT WELL
Rhubarb
A casual fine dining restaurant just north of Minden overlooking Mirror Lake, seasonal dishes hone in on the local bounty with every item prepared in-house.
Chef Christoph Carl brings his German roots to a delightfully finessed schnitzel, while the Duck Poutine is a constant crowdpleaser. Dine outdoors in all four seasons with the option of both a lakeside patio and covered front porch.
Local Tip: Skip the weekend warrior grocery rush and opt for fresh prepared food, wine, and beer to go from their gourmet market.
Juna
An upscale Italian restaurant in the heart of downtown Haliburton, traditional favourites like artisanal pizza are prepared with reverence for local producers and farmers.
The distinct lustre of the local environment is echoed in this alluring space that strikes a balance between contemporary modern and rural country charm, offering an elevated dining experience well beyond the city hustle.
Local Tip: Make a dinner reservation to secure a table at this intimate eatery, or visit for a cozy lunch when the secluded patio is also on offer.
Lands 8FIFTY at Nomi Resort
A luxury wellness club hugging 850 acres of woodland with 1,800 feet of waterfront, dining at the delicious urban eatery Lands 8FIFTY serves up elegance at every angle.
With global cuisine featuring prominent local ingredients, Chef Hugo Saenz’s culinary philosophy is rooted in respect to the finer details, excellence in service, and a variety of cuisines, from Mexico to the Mediterranean.
Local Tip: Try the sizzling Miami-style kalbi beef short ribs or duck confit set against an atmosphere where rustic extravagance and sublime natural beauty coexist in harmony.
TRAVEL WELL
The Haliburton Post House
Feel time slow down amid a serene setting designed to inspire rest and connection to nature. Escape to a historic lakeside cabin with sweeping views that’s been amplified by refined, contemporary aesthetics for the perfect balance between boutique luxury and cottage comfort.
Unplug instantly as you immerse yourself in the peaceful rhythm of the Highlands in an ambience of understated extravagance that’s truly inviting.
Local Tip: The new arrival of the covered patio elevates your culinary experience with the option to dine al fresco at the main lodge’s farm-to-table restaurant.
Heather Lodge
Enjoy a much-needed reprieve as you reconnect at this wellness retreat nestled within the rugged beauty of the Canadian Shield. With 12 studio-style rooms at this historic cabin, spectacular views surround from its vantage point atop the waterfront.
Pack your favourite knits and cozy up at the fireside lodge from fall to winter, or optimize spring and summer with canoes, kayaks and paddleboards begging you to explore the lake.
Local Tip: Take a scenic summer boat ride down Twelve Mile Lake while enjoying a 3-course take-out dinner prepared by Chef James Jennings.
Lakeview Motel’s Geodome
With stunning modern comforts, this safe haven among the trees offers ambient lighting that creates a magical evening glow. Experience an immediate inner peace as you unwind under a starry sky and awaken to morning sun through the panoramic window.
From an insulated snowglobe with indoor fireplace in the winter to the golden sparkle of autumn shades, step into a setting that thrives all year round.
Local Tip: Pack your swimsuit to revitalize upon arrival in your own private hot tub overlooking the lake with a complimentary charcuterie board and wine pairing.