Tobermory Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, and accommodations in Tobermory, Ontario, in Canada. Plan your visit with our comprehensive travel guide today.


Introduction to Tobermory

Located in Bruce County, in Southwestern Ontario, Tobermory is a small town that attracts travelers from all over the world for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Nestled on the shores of Lake Huron, Tobermory is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, shipwrecks, and marine life. With plenty of attractions, outdoor adventures, and great food, Tobermory offers something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll show you the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat and stay in Tobermory.

List of Places to Visit in Tobermory

Tobermory has a wide variety of attractions that range from museums and galleries to outdoor activities. Here are some of the top spots that you should include in your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bruce Peninsula National Park

One of the jewels of the Bruce Peninsula, the Bruce Peninsula National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park offers a plethora of hiking trails, including the famous ‘Grotto’ with its beautiful teal water and beautiful limestone formations.

Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre

This museum houses a collection of exhibits that tell the story of the people of Bruce County. From the area’s early indigenous inhabitants to its European settlers, you’ll learn about the history of the region.

Natural Attractions of Tobermory: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Flowerpot Island

Flowerpot Island boasts some of the most beautiful natural scenery in all of Ontario. The island is named for its unique rock formations that resemble flower pots when viewed from a distance. There are plenty of hiking trails, in addition to boating and kayaking opportunities.

Fathom Five National Marine Park

A protected natural area, the Fathom Five National Marine Park is home to over 20 shipwrecks, making it a diver’s paradise. Visitors can take a glass-bottom boat tour to view the wrecks or experience some of the world-renowned freshwater diving on one of the park’s guided scuba tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tobermory

The Bruce Peninsula boasts an extensive network of hiking trails and cycling routes that offer a variety of levels of difficulty and scenery. Here are the top hikes/rides to add to your list:

  • The Bruce Trail: This 890km trail spans the length of the Bruce Peninsula and offers some of the most spectacular scenery in Ontario. For a challenging hike, check out the section that takes you from Tobermory to Cyprus Lake.

  • The Georgian Bay Coastal Route: This moderately difficult cycling route takes you along the shores of Georgian Bay and past some of the most stunning beaches in the province. With a mix of paved and unpaved sections, this route is perfect for cycling enthusiasts of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Tobermory: Activities and Tours

In addition to the natural attractions and hiking/biking trails, Tobermory also has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Here are a few ideas:

  • Glass-bottom boat tours: Experience the beauty of the underwater world off the shores of Tobermory with a glass-bottom boat tour. From viewing shipwrecks to spotting rare species of fish and other marine life, these tours are a must-see.

  • Fishing: With the Great Lakes right on its doorstep, Tobermory offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the region. Rent a charter boat and try your luck catching salmon or trout.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tobermory

To help you plan out your trip, here is a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Tobermory:

Day Activity
1 Explore downtown Tobermory and check out the local shops.
2 Take a glass-bottom boat tour to see some of the shipwrecks.
3 Hike to the Grotto in the Bruce Peninsula National Park.
4 Go cycling along the Georgian Bay Coastal route.
5 Take a diving tour of the Fathom Five National Marine Park.
6 Visit Flowerpot Island and hike the trails.
7 Have a relaxing day on the beach or take a fishing charter.

Food and Drink Scene of Tobermory

From lobster rolls to local craft beers, there are plenty of gourmet delights to try in Tobermory. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster rolls: Fresh catch, from the Great Lakes to your plate, at the Tobermory waterfront restaurants.
  • Fish and Chips: Enjoy crispy fish and chips from one of the many local seafood restaurants in town.
  • Butter Tarts: A staple of Ontario cuisine, Butter Tarts offer a sweet finish to any meal!

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Tobermory Brewing Company offers a range of craft beers, from stouts to IPAs, that pair perfectly with any meal.
  • Wine: Near to Tobermory, the Pelee Island Winery offers a range of wines that showcase the terroir of Southwestern Ontario.

Where to Stay in Tobermory: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

To accommodate the influx of tourists each year, Tobermory has a variety of accommodation options. Here are some of the best:

  • Anchor Inn: This waterfront hotel offers comfortable rooms and great views of the harbor.
  • Tobermory Lodge: With cozy cabins nestled in the trees, this lodge is the perfect place to unwind after a day of outdoor activities.
  • Hostelling International Tobermory: For budget travelers, this hostel offers affordable accommodation in a prime location.

What to Buy in Tobermory: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Tobermory would be complete without taking home a few souvenirs. Here are some ideas on what to buy:

  • Local art and handicrafts: Tobermory is home to many talented artists and artisans. Check out the local galleries to find unique gifts to bring home.
  • Maple syrup: Ontario is known for its maple syrup and you can find plenty of local producers in the area.
  • Fresh fish: If you’re a fish lover, pick up some fresh catch from one of the many seafood markets in town.

Local Culture and Customs of Tobermory

Tobermory has a strong Scottish heritage, which is reflected in its name. The town was named after a village on the Scottish island of Mull. Visitors can learn more about the local culture and customs by visiting the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre.

Best Time to Visit Tobermory

The best time to visit Tobermory is from May to October when the weather is warm and most attractions are open. However, the summer months can be busy, so plan ahead and book accommodations and tours well in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tobermory

Do:

  • Do bring warm clothes and rain gear as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Do respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles when hiking, biking, or camping.
  • Do try the local seafood and craft beer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the local wildlife.
  • Don’t remove any plants or rocks from the natural environment.
  • Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Safety and Health

Safety in Tobermory

Tobermory is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always a smart idea to take precautions to avoid accidents. Some measures to consider include:

  • Wearing appropriate clothing for the weather and activities you plan on doing.
  • Tell someone where you’re going before heading out on a hike.
  • Wear a helmet when cycling.

Health in Tobermory

Tobermory has a small health clinic. However, visitors with serious medical issues may need to travel to Owen Sound, about one hour’s drive away.

Getting to Tobermory: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tobermory

The closest airport to Tobermory is the Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. There are no direct flights to Tobermory, so visitors will need to rent a car or take public transportation from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Tobermory

Greyhound Bus Line offers service to nearby Owen Sound, a 1 hour drive from Tobermory. From Owen Sound, visitors can take a car or taxi to Tobermory.

Other Options

Tobermory is also accessible by car or bicycle via Highway 6, which runs north-south along the Bruce Peninsula.

How to Get Around in Tobermory

Visitors can easily get around town on foot or by bicycle. For visitors who want to explore the surrounding area, renting a car or taking a guided tour is the best option.

Where to Go Next from Tobermory: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Tobermory, there are plenty of other nearby destinations and excursions to continue your adventure in Ontario. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Niagara Falls: A three-hour drive from Tobermory, Niagara Falls is one of Canada’s most iconic natural wonders.

  • Toronto: With a vibrant cultural scene and numerous attractions, Toronto is a must-visit destination for any traveler to Ontario.

  • Algonquin Provincial Park: A five-hour drive from Tobermory, Algonquin Provincial Park is a haven for nature lovers.

Conclusion

Tobermory is a travel destination that needs to be on everyone’s list. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone in this small town on the shores of Lake Huron. From outdoor adventures to museum visits, there are plenty of attractions to keep travelers entertained. By following our travel guide, you can plan your perfect trip to Tobermory, Ontario today!

Big Tub Harbour Big Tub Harbour Map of Southern Ontario showing Bruce Peninsula in red. Tobermory is at the northern tip of this peninsula. Map of Southern Ontario showing Bruce Peninsula in red. Tobermory is at the northern tip of this peninsula. MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry docking in Tobermory MS Chi-Cheemaun ferry docking in Tobermory Indian Head Cove Indian Head Cove Arch Rock, Bruce Peninsula National Park Arch Rock, Bruce Peninsula National Park Tobermory Brewing Co & Grill Tobermory Brewing Co & Grill