Souris Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Souris, Manitoba with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Souris

Nestled in the scenic beauty of Prairie Mountain, Souris is a charming town in Manitoba, Canada. With its unique blend of natural and cultural attractions, Souris is a traveler’s paradise. This small town has something to offer for everyone, from quaint historical landmarks to beautiful outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Souris

If you are planning a trip to Souris, here are some of the must-visit attractions in the town:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Souris & District Heritage Museum: Dive deep into Souris’ history by visiting this museum, which features exhibits on early settlement, agriculture, and the town’s evolution.
  • Souris Swinging Bridge: One of the iconic attractions of Souris, the Swinging Bridge was constructed in 1904 and restored in 2005. It spans the Souris River, offering scenic views of the town.
  • Souris Railway Museum: Explore the town’s railway history and learn about the daily lives of early railway workers at this fascinating museum.

Natural Attractions of Souris: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Souris River: Whether you prefer kayaking, fishing, or canoeing, the Souris River offers plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. It also features a beautiful river walkway for casual walks.
  • Plains Bison Interpretive Centre: Get up close and personal with majestic bison at this conservation facility dedicated to reintroducing bison back into the prairies.
  • Tilston Trolley bed nature trail: A scenic trail that is ideal for wildlife viewing, this trail provides an excellent opportunity to see various birds, reptiles, and small mammals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Souris

Souris has plenty of hiking and biking trails that offer scenic views and challenging terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the popular routes include the Souris Valley Trail, which offers a 10 km hike through beautiful scenery, and the Tilston Trolley bed nature trail mentioned above.

Best Things to Do in Souris: Activities and Tours

  • Golfing: Souris boasts a picturesque golf course, featuring scenic views and challenging terrain.
  • Horseback Riding: Enjoy an afternoon of horseback riding on the beautiful Prairies.
  • Souris Wildlife Tours: Go on a wildlife tour and experience the beauty of the Canadian wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Souris

Creating an itinerary for a week-long trip to Souris:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Souris & District Heritage Museum
2 Explore the nature trails
3 Go on the Tilston Trolley bed nature trail
4 Take a wildlife tour
5 Play a round of golf
6 Visit the Souris Railway Museum
7 Enjoy a day of horseback riding on the prairies.

Food and Drink Scene of Souris

Souris offers a wide range of flavorsome local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks in Souris:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Perogies: a traditional Eastern European dish made with boiled dough stuffed with potatoes or meat and cheese.
  • Bannock: a Native American flatbread made from flour, water, and baking powder.
  • Corn on the Cob: a quintessential summer food dish grilled on outdoor BBQs.

Local Beverages

  • Souris Mainline: a refreshing local beer, infused with the taste of Souris
  • Crown Royal: a local Canadian whiskey with a smooth finish.

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

Souris provides a variety of options for accommodation, depending on your budget and preferences. Some of the accommodations include:

  • Souris Hotel & Bar - Historic spot which offers a modern clientele comfort amenities while preserving the classic ambiance.
  • The Homestead: A quiet and cozy guesthouse showcasing local character and furnished with antiques.
  • Campgrounds: The Prairie Mountain Trail and Tilston Campgrounds provide spots for tents and RVs.

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

Don’t forget to take home some of Souris’s local products when you leave. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Souris Honey: Delicious golden honey produced by Souris bees
  • Local Art: From paintings to pottery, Souris is home to plenty of skilled artists who create unique works of art.
  • Handmade Gifts: Various shops feature handcrafted items, including knitted goods, quilts, and soaps.

Local Culture and Customs of Souris

Souris celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including Souris Ukrainian Dance Festival and the Canada Day celebrations. The locals are known for their warm and welcoming nature and are always eager to share their culture and traditions with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Souris

The best time to visit Souris is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, the fall months can be equally as beautiful, as they present a changing of foliage making for picturesque nature walks and wildlife viewing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Souris

Do:

  • Do keep Canada’s COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines in mind: Make sure to check the travel restrictions to ensure a safe and seamless experience.
  • Do experience the nature trails: Take a stroll or pack a picnic & appreciate the area’s natural beauty.
  • Do respect local culture: Learn about the customs and traditions of the town and respect them during your stay

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter: Keep Souris clean by disposing of waste responsibly.
  • Don’t disturb wildlife: Keep a safe distance and respect wildlife when exploring the outdoors.
  • Don’t forget the bug spray: Although the area is stunning, it’s important to keep mosquito repellant handy to avoid bites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Souris

Souris is a very safe place to visit, with a low crime rate. However, travelers should still take precautions to protect their belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight in their cars.

Health in Souris

It is important to bring any required medications and first aid supplies, including insect repellants for mosquitoes. If you have any medical concerns during your stay, there is a local hospital on hand.

Getting to Souris: Transportation Options and Logistics

Souris can be reached by road or train. Here are the transportation options and logistics to Souris:

Airports Near Souris

The closest airport to Souris, Manitoba, is Brandon Municipal Airport, which is around 40 minutes west of Souris. Major Canadian airports such as the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport are also feasible.

Bus Stations Near Souris

Unfortunately, there are no bus stations in Souris, however, with the proximity of larger surrounding towns, guests can utilize buses, taxis or rent a car.

Other Options

Travelers can also travel by train to Souris and enjoy the scenic views of the Canadian Prairies. The Souris Railway Museum also provides visitors an insight into town’s rich railway history.

How to Get Around in Souris

The town is small enough to walk to most of the attractions. Private transport, however is encouraged as it allows visitors to explore the nifty tourist spots and enjoy the perks of the Canadian countryside.

Where to Go Next from Souris: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

In addition to Souris’ elegant appeal, the area offers surrounding attractions worth a visit, such as Brandon’s historical landmarks & Manitoba’s capital city of Winnipeg.

Conclusion

Souris is a hidden gem of Manitoba, Canada, with its natural and cultural attractions that make it an ideal destination for travelers. From exploring the town’s history to experiencing farm-to-table dining, Souris is an excellent option for vacationers looking for a calm and comfortable escape. With the information provided above, you should be able to build your itinerary and thoroughly enjoy your stay in Souris, Manitoba.