10 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario

As Canada’s second-largest province, Ontario holds a vast canvas of photographic opportunities, presenting an array of captivating landscapes and iconic destinations. Having dedicated a considerable part of my life to exploring these remarkable locales, the challenge lay not in discovering places to showcase, but in narrowing down the selection from the multitude available.

The richness of Ontario’s scenery makes every corner a potential masterpiece. While we’ve carefully curated a collection of must-visit spots, it’s inevitable that we’ve omitted numerous other equally iconic locations. Rest assured, our journey continues, with plans to delve into even more breathtaking destinations this summer. Your input is invaluable, so please do share your preferences in the comment section, and together, we’ll shape the narrative of our future blogs. Hope you enjoy the journey!

This photo was taken with a 16-35mm lens; in AV mode; at f/11 with an ISO setting of 320; shutter speed of 1/40sec.

Cheltenham Badlands

Situated a mere 45 minutes north of Toronto, the Cheltenham Badlands stand as a captivating geological wonder. Spanning a significant expanse, this site showcases exposed Queenston Shale adorned with delicate layers of siltstone and sandstone, a spectacle crafted over the course of 450 million years. The term “Badlands” in geology characterizes an area where soft rock dominates, stripped of vegetation and soil cover, resulting in a distinctive terrain of hills and gullies. Cheltenham Badlands’ picturesque beauty lies in its stark and rugged landscape, inviting photographers to capture the timeless allure of this ancient geological marvel.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens; in AV mode; at f/16 with an ISO setting of 160; shutter speed of 1/30 sec.

Elora Village

Nestled in the heart of Ontario, the village of Elora emerges as a true charmer, renowned for its timeless appeal. While the spectacular Elora Gorge along the Grand River steals the spotlight, the village itself maintains an undeniably charismatic atmosphere that has stood the test of time. Elora’s quaint streets and picturesque surroundings seem to defy the passage of years, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into a bygone era. This unique blend of natural beauty and historic allure makes Elora a must-visit destination, where the enchantment of the village is as enduring as the breathtaking landscapes that surround it.

This photo was taken with a 16-35mm lens; in AV mode; at f/11 with an ISO setting of 100; shutter speed of 1/80 sec.

Flowerpot Island

Located in the scenic expanse of Georgian Bay, Flowerpot Island stands as a captivating jewel within the embrace of Fathom Five National Marine Park. Named after two distinct rock pillars gracing its eastern shores, the island offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and geological wonders. The intriguing formations, resembling flowerpots, add a unique allure to the landscape. Exploring Flowerpot Island provides an opportunity to witness the harmonious dance of land and water, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking both tranquility and the thrill of discovering nature’s artistry.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens; in AV mode; at f/14 with an ISO setting of 640; exposure was 1/125 sec.

Scarborough Bluffs

Affectionately known as “the Bluffs” among locals, the Scarborough Bluffs form a majestic escarpment stretching 15 kilometers along Toronto’s eastern waterfront. These towering cliffs offer a breathtaking panorama of nature’s grandeur, a dramatic juxtaposition to the urban landscape. The relentless power of the waves, coupled with the towering cliffs, creates a photographic wonder that is impossible to resist.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens; in AV mode; at f/10 with an ISO setting of 1600; exposure was 1/100 sec.

Bruce Peninsula – Tobermory

Tobermory and its surrounding area have earned the title of the 8th Wonder of Canada, and a visit quickly reveals why. The landscape is adorned with 1,000-year-old pine trees, standing sentinel over pristine, clear turquoise waters that seem almost otherworldly. The sheer wonder of this natural spectacle makes it a must-see destination. It’s from here that you can catch the ferry that takes you to Manitoulin Island.

This photo was taken with a 11-24mm lens; in AV mode; at f/9 with an ISO setting of 400; exposure was 1/85sec.

Manitoulin Island

Nestled in the embrace of Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island emerges as a serene haven accessible from mainland Ontario via a northern swing bridge or a scenic ferry ride from Tobermory, allowing for a seamless and picturesque journey. As you traverse its landscapes, Manitoulin Island unveils a captivating tapestry of pristine waters, creating a perfect harmony between tranquil lakes and the rugged beauty of the surrounding shores.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens; in manual mode; at f/14 with an ISO setting of 100; shutter speed of 2.5 sec.; using a 10-stop neutral density filter with camera on tripod.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls stands as an iconic symbol of natural splendor, drawing visitors from around the globe to witness its majestic beauty. Straddling the border between the United States and Canada, this legendary waterfall offers unparalleled photo opportunities on both sides. The thundering power of the falls, the misty veils rising from the cascading waters, and the surrounding landscapes create an ever-changing environment, ensuring that every photograph captured becomes a testament to the timeless allure of Niagara Falls.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens, in AV mode, at 1/250sec., f9, ISO 100

Niagara-on-the-Lake

While visiting Niagara Falls, be sure to head down the road to explore Ontario’s wine region of Niagara on the Lake. Beyond its lush vineyards, the historic downtown of Niagara-on-the-Lake beckons with its timeless charm, offering a picturesque backdrop for capturing iconic photographs. Wander through its quaint streets lined with historic buildings, charming shops, and inviting cafes, immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of this idyllic town.

This photo was taken with a 24-105mm lens; in AV mode; at f/9 with an ISO setting of 100; exposure was 1/160 sec.

Blue Mountain – Collingwood

Perched on the shores of Southern Georgian Bay and spanning the majestic Niagara Escarpment, Blue Mountain stands as Ontario’s largest mountain village resort. Blue Mountain has evolved into a four-season destination, making it a photographer’s delight year-round. Whether adorned in the vibrant hues of the autumn colours or blanketed in the pristine snows of winter, Blue Mountain offers a captivating canvas for photography enthusiasts.

This photo was taken with a 18-200 mm lens; in AV mode; at f/7.1 with an ISO setting of 400; exposure was 1/20sec.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Located to the northeast of Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park stands as a sprawling natural haven and proudly holds the distinction of being the oldest provincial park in Canada. Encompassing a vast expanse of pristine wilderness, Algonquin is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, ancient forests, and shimmering lakes. As a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts and budding photographers, the park offers a tapestry of landscapes that evolve with the seasons, from the vibrant foliage of fall to the glistening snowscapes of winter.

The Finishing Touch

For this series of prints I wanted to try something organic, so I chose the Hahnemühle Natural Line Sample Pack. This pack contains two sheets of each paper Type: Hemp Paper, Bamboo Paper, and Agave Paper. Hahnemüehle’s main purpose for producing this line of papers relates to environmental conservation. Good print results can be had with more environmentally-friendly materials offering a “high age resistance of over 100 years.” And I loved the results!

Happy Shooting & Printing!

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