Travel Blog
Tips, stories and local adventures around Hartley Bay Cottages.
Local History
The Municipality of Killarney
A small harbour town on Georgian Bay's North Channel, with white quartzite peaks, pink granite shoreline, and a history all its own.
August 24, 2026 · 3 views
Local Adventures
Hiking The Crack in Killarney Provincial Park
The Crack is one of Ontario's most rewarding day hikes — a steep quartzite scramble in Killarney Provincial Park that rewards fit, prepared hikers with panoramic views of the La Cloche Mountains.
August 24, 2026 · 6 views
Local Adventures
The Big Nickel: Sudbury's Giant Roadside Landmark
The Big Nickel is the world's largest coin and one of Northern Ontario's most famous roadside attractions — a 9-metre stainless steel monument towering over Sudbury since 1964.
August 24, 2026 · 6 views
Travel Tips
Grocery, Beer & Liquor Stops Near Hartley Bay Cottages
A full guide to grocery, beer and liquor stops near Hartley Bay Cottages — from the closest local spots to Parry Sound and Sudbury supermarkets for a bigger haul, each with a tap-to-navigate address.
August 24, 2026 · 4 views
Travel Tips
The Ultimate Toronto to Hartley Bay Cottages Road Trip Itinerary
The full Hwy 400/69 route from Toronto to Hartley Bay Cottages — must-stop spots in Barrie, Parry Sound and at the French River Trading Post, plus what to know about cottage-country traffic before you go.
August 24, 2026 · 3 views
Local Adventures
Top 5 Easy to Moderate Hiking Trails Near French River & Killarney
Five easy-to-moderate hikes near Hartley Bay Cottages, French River and Killarney — distance, difficulty, and drive times for Recollet Falls, Mashkinonje's trails, Restoule's Fire Tower Trail, and The Crack.
August 24, 2026 · 4 views
Fishing
A Guide to Fishing the French River
What to expect when fishing the French River near Hartley Bay Cottages — species, seasons, and where to launch a boat.
August 22, 2026 · 8 views
Travel Tips
Pet-Friendly Travel Tips for Your Northern Ontario Cottage Trip
Well-behaved pets are always welcome at Hartley Bay Cottages — here's how to plan a smooth stay for your dog in cottage country.
August 22, 2026 · 6 views
Local Adventures
Canoeing and Kayaking Near Hartley Bay Cottages
From a quiet paddle on Badger Lake to the historic French River and Killarney's canoe routes — the best ways to get on the water near Hartley Bay Cottages.
August 22, 2026 · 2 views
Local History
The History of the French River & Hartley Bay
Long before cottage country, the French River was one of the most important travel corridors in what's now Ontario — a look at the region's Indigenous, fur-trade and logging history.
August 22, 2026 · 8 views
Travel Tips
What to Pack for a Northern Ontario Cottage Weekend
A practical packing list for Hartley Bay Cottages, from grocery planning to bug spray to fire pit essentials.
August 22, 2026 · 6 views
Fishing spots
Best fishing spots near Hartley Bay Cottages
A guide to the best water around Hartley Bay for smallmouth bass, walleye, muskie and pike.
July 28, 2026 · 71 views
Local Adventures
Day Trips from Hartley Bay Cottages
The best day trips within reach of Hartley Bay, from provincial parks to charming river towns.
July 28, 2026 · 62 views
Trip Planning
What to Pack for a Hartley Bay Cottages Stay
A practical packing checklist so you don't forget anything for your Hartley Bay Cottages getaway.
July 28, 2026 · 70 views
French River
Exploring the French River Visitor Centre
Discover Canada's first Heritage Waterway — the French River marks the transition to the Canadian Shield and inspired generations of explorers and artists.
June 16, 2026 · 121 views
Local Adventures
Hiking to Recollet Falls
The well-worn trail to Recollet Falls in French River Provincial Park is one of the most scenic day trips near Hartley Bay.
June 11, 2026 · 410 views
Local Adventures
A Visit to the French River Trading Post
For over 50 years, the French River Trading Post has been a beloved stop on Highway 69 — famous for fudge, moccasins, and hospitality.
June 06, 2026 · 174 views
Local Adventures
Killarney Provincial Park: A Must-See Day Trip
From La Cloche Mountains to pink granite cliffs on Georgian Bay — Killarney Provincial Park is an unforgettable excursion from Hartley Bay.
June 01, 2026 · 407 views
Cottage Life
Choosing Between The Aspen, Birch & Cedar
Each of our three lakefront cottages offers something unique — from hot tubs and gazebos to bunkies and the best lake views.
May 27, 2026 · 185 views
Travel Tips
Planning Your Trip to Hartley Bay Cottages
Tips for getting here, what to pack, and making the most of your week in the Killarney / French River area.
May 22, 2026 · 199 views