Things to Do in North Frontenac
North Frontenac is the kind of place that rewards slowing down. No theme parks, no boardwalks — just lakes, trails, wildlife, and the Canadian Shield. Here's how to spend your time.
Hike the Crotch Lake Trail
This 20 km trail is one of the best-kept hiking secrets in Eastern Ontario. Winding through old-growth Canadian Shield forest, over granite ridges, and past pristine lakes, it offers everything from easy day hikes to full-day adventures. The trail is well-marked and rarely crowded — you might have the whole thing to yourself on a weekday.
Fish Big Gull Lake
Big Gull Lake is 21 km long with 75 km of shoreline and 30+ islands — and it's home to walleye, smallmouth and largemouth bass, northern pike, perch, and lake whitefish. Whether you're casting from the dock, paddling a kayak into a quiet bay, or renting a boat from Camp's Bay Marina next door, the fishing here is outstanding.
Explore 30+ Islands
Big Gull Lake has over 30 islands to explore by canoe, kayak, or rental boat. Pack a lunch, pick an island, and spend the afternoon swimming off a rocky point. Some islands have natural landing spots perfect for a picnic. Island View Retreat includes 2 canoes and 2 paddleboards for exploring.
Swim at a Private Sandy Beach
Island View Retreat has a private sandy beach with a gentle slope into the water — ideal for families with young children. The water is crystal-clear and spring-fed. On a hot July day, you won't want to leave. For stronger swimmers, the dock is perfect for jumping and diving.
Stargaze Under Dark Skies
North Frontenac is far enough from city light pollution that the night sky is genuinely spectacular. On clear nights, the Milky Way is visible to the naked eye. Bring a blanket down to the beach, light the fire pit, and look up. Late July and August offer the best conditions for meteor showers.
Watch Wildlife
The North Frontenac region is rich with wildlife. From the cottage, you'll regularly see loons on the lake, great blue herons along the shore, and bald eagles circling overhead. Deer visit the property at dusk. If you're lucky (and quiet), you might spot a moose at the water's edge early in the morning.
Visit Local Towns
The nearby towns of Sharbot Lake and Cloyne offer basic supplies, restaurants, and local charm. Sharbot Lake has a grocery store, LCBO, and gas station. For a bigger shopping trip, the town of Perth (about an hour away) has a beautiful main street with cafes, bakeries, and antique shops.
Campfire Evenings
The lakeside fire pit at Island View Retreat is where most evenings end. S'mores, ghost stories, cold drinks, and the sound of loons across the water. For bug-free socializing, the screened porch is the perfect backup — protected from mosquitoes with a full view of the lake.
Experience North Frontenac
Island View Retreat is the perfect home base for exploring everything North Frontenac has to offer. Sleeps 16, private sandy beach, all gear included.