Places To Discover

Visit stunning beaches, scenic hikes, and charming towns nearby

Sauble Beach:
One of Canada’s longest freshwater beaches, stretching over 11 km. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. ​

Port Elgin Main Beach:
Known for its expansive sandy shoreline, family-friendly atmosphere, and beautiful sunsets. 

Southampton Beach:
Offers a quieter experience with a historic boardwalk and views of Chantry Island. ​

Oliphant Beach:
Features shallow waters and sandbars, making it ideal for families with young children. ​

Lion’s Head Beach:
A mix of sand and rock beach with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, offering stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment.

Paisley (Approx. 15 km west)
Known for its artistic community and the confluence of the Saugeen and Teeswater Rivers. ​Homepage

 Hanover (Approx. 17 km south)
Offers shopping, dining, and the Hanover Raceway. ​

 Walkerton (Approx. 19 km southwest)
Features the Saugeen River, parks, and a historic downtown. ​

Port Elgin & Southampton (Approx. 40-45 minutes northwest)
These neighboring towns boast beautiful beaches, harbors, and vibrant communities along Lake Huron. ​

Wiarton (Approx. 1 hour north)
Known for Wiarton Willie, the famous groundhog, and as a gateway to the Bruce Peninsula. ​

Tobermory (Approx. 1.5 hours north)
A picturesque harbor village at the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, offering boat tours, diving, and access to national parks.

The Grotto at Bruce Peninsula National Park (Approx. 1.5 hours north)
A stunning cave with crystal-clear turquoise waters, accessible via a scenic hike. Reservations are required during peak season. ​

MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry (Departs from Tobermory, or Owensound)
A car and passenger ferry connecting Tobermory to South Baymouth on Manitoulin Island, offering a unique travel experience across Georgian Bay. ​

Bruce County Brant Tract Trails (Approx. 20 minutes south)
Offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and nature observation.

Saugeen Bluffs Conservation Area (Approx. 25 minutes southwest)
Features camping, hiking trails, and scenic views of the Saugeen River. ​

Inglis Falls Conservation Area (Approx. 1 hour northeast)
Boasts a stunning 18-meter waterfall and numerous trails near Owen Sound. ​

Hanover Drive-In Theatre (Approx. 25 minutes south)
A classic drive-in movie experience under the stars. ​

Chesley Heritage Trail (In Chesley)
A scenic trail following the North Saugeen River, connecting historical sites with picturesque views.

Bruce Trail: Little Cove to the Grotto

  • Distance: Approx. 14.9 km (9.3 miles)

  • Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

  • Highlights: This is one of the most iconic sections of the Bruce Trail, offering dramatic views of cliffs and shoreline. It leads to the famous Grotto, a stunning cave with crystal-clear water.

  • Why it’s popular: It’s a must-do for hikers seeking a more rugged, scenic adventure in the Bruce Peninsula National Park.

The Grotto Trail (Bruce Peninsula National Park)

  • Distance: Approx. 1.6 km (1 mile) one-way

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

  • Highlights: This relatively short trail leads you directly to the Grotto, one of the most photographed locations in Ontario. The clear blue water and sea cave make it a bucket-list hike.

  • Why it’s popular: The Grotto is a famous natural wonder, and the short hike makes it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

Colpoy’s Bay Nature Reserve

  • Distance: Approx. 3.5 km (2.2 miles)

  • Difficulty: Moderate

  • Highlights: Offers a great view of Colpoy’s Bay and the Niagara Escarpment. The reserve includes an observation tower, perfect for panoramic views of the bay.

  • Why it’s popular: Beautiful views and a relatively short hike make this a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

Dunks Bay Trail

  • Distance: Approx. 1 km (0.6 miles)

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Highlights: A short but scenic trail that provides access to a secluded beach and stunning rock formations. The clear waters of Georgian Bay make this a peaceful spot.

  • Why it’s popular: The accessibility and peaceful atmosphere make it an easy, relaxing choice for visitors.

Tobermory Harbour Loop

  • Distance: Approx. 2 km (1.2 miles)

  • Difficulty: Easy

  • Highlights: A short, easy loop around the Tobermory Harbour with views of boats, the shoreline, and nearby town attractions.

  • Why it’s popular: Perfect for those looking for a quick, picturesque walk in the heart of Tobermory.

Saugeen Bluffs Conservation Area

  • Distance: Approx. 4.5 km (2.8 miles)

  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate

  • Highlights: A peaceful, forested area with scenic views of the Saugeen River, perfect for a relaxing hike with opportunities for birdwatching.

  • Why it’s popular: It’s a local favorite for its tranquility and beauty, making it ideal for families and casual hikers.

Saugeen Golf Club (Port Elgin)

  • Distance: Approx. 40 minutes northwest of Chesley

  • Course Type: 18-hole, public course

  • Highlights: A beautiful, traditional layout offering stunning views of Lake Huron. The course is known for its friendly atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

  • Why it’s popular: It offers a fun challenge for all skill levels and is located near beautiful beaches and the town of Port Elgin.

Southampton Golf & Country Club

  • Distance: Approx. 45 minutes northwest of Chesley

  • Course Type: 18-hole, public course

  • Highlights: A historic, tree-lined course with a beautiful setting overlooking the Saugeen River. The course is known for its well-maintained greens and challenging holes.

  • Why it’s popular: It offers a mix of challenging holes and relaxed play, along with a charming clubhouse.

Walkerton Golf Club

  • Distance: Approx. 20 minutes southwest of Chesley

  • Course Type: 18-hole, public course

  • Highlights: Walkerton Golf Club is a challenging 18-hole course that blends scenic beauty with a variety of layouts. It’s known for its excellent course maintenance.

  • Why it’s popular: A great value for both beginner and experienced golfers, with an affordable price and beautiful rural setting.

Wiarton Golf Club

  • Distance: Approx. 1 hour north of Chesley

  • Course Type: 9-hole, public course

  • Highlights: A friendly and welcoming course, perfect for a more relaxed round of golf. It’s nestled in a beautiful part of the Bruce Peninsula.

  • Why it’s popular: It’s an affordable, low-key course with a great community atmosphere. Perfect for casual golfers looking to enjoy a round without the pressure of a larger course.

Tobermory Golf Club

  • Distance: Approx. 1.5 hours north of Chesley

  • Course Type: 9-hole, public course

  • Highlights: A charming and laid-back 9-hole course with lovely views of the surrounding landscape. It’s a great spot for golfers who enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.

  • Why it’s popular: It’s a fun and scenic course in Tobermory, perfect for visitors looking for a low-key round while taking in the beauty of the area.

Brucedale Conservation Area (Hanover)

  • Distance: Approx. 17 km south of Chesley

  • Course Type: 9-hole, public course

  • Highlights: Brucedale offers a nice layout in a peaceful setting with a variety of challenges on the course. It’s perfect for a quick round in a more rural environment.

  • Why it’s popular: A peaceful environment with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking to escape to nature while enjoying a round of golf.

Peninsula Lakes Golf Club (near Owen Sound)

  • Distance: Approx. 1 hour and 15 minutes southeast of Chesley

  • Course Type: 18-hole, public course

  • Highlights: A well-established course with rolling hills, lakes, and challenging holes. It’s popular among golfers looking for a more elevated golfing experience.

  • Why it’s popular: Its stunning layout and welcoming atmosphere make it a great choice for golfers of all levels.