Picturesque Lake Simcoe is a very popular boating and beach destination. As you wind your way through the large farmlands on the way up to a cottage destination, you will happen upon the city of Barrie, located right on Lake Simcoe.

Barrie acts as the gateway between the hustle bustle of its Torontonian southern neighbors and the life of hammocks and cozy fires in the north. The city of 100,000 is brimming with activity and excitement to meet the needs of any traveler. Their waterfront offers transient docking, sandy beaches, walking and biking trails, public boat launches, children's play areas and exciting special events. The winter boasts terrific ice fishing on Lake Simcoe.

Just north of Barrie is the smaller but equally enjoyable town of Orillia. Also located on Lake Simcoe, Orillia boasts a 9.5 km paved link in the Trans Canada Trail which winds through the City, connecting its parks, the Port of Orillia, heritage sites and horticultural delights. For the more artistically inclined, the Sunshine Festival Theatre Company plays from a 106-year old Opera House year round.

Around Lake Simcoe, there are many more small communities which deserve a visit.