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The Grotto: Bruce Peninsula National Park



As seen in the above photograph you probably thought I was somewhere in the Caribbean. Nope! This would be the beautiful Bruce Peninsula in Ontario, Canada. Yes! Canada. I could not believe how crystal clear the water was, it made you want to just jump in. The Peninsula genuinely took me away. I forgot where I was but then remembered oh so quickly that yes I was in Canada. The water was freezing cold! It probably took about 8 minutes if not more for my body to adjust to bear the cold so that I could stay in the water longer.

Currently, the park entrance is free to celebrate Canada 150. Which means you have to arrive early if wanting to visit the Grotto. Time slots are given for parking access inside the Grotto area know as Cyprus Lake and are given to first come first serve visitors. These parking passes last for 4 hours (be sure not to spend longer to avoid ticketing). 



I arrived at the park exactly at 10 am and ended up getting a 5pm - 9pm parking pass to visit the Grotto. So I had to find things to do in the meantime to keep me busy before 5pm. So be sure to go ahead of time to avoid a later time or no entry.

TIME SLOTS:
7am - 11am
12pm - 4pm
5pm - 9pm 

IMPORTANT:
  • Arrive at the park before or at 7am. I know 7am is early but it will be worth it. 
  • Enter at Cyprus Lake to get time slot access to visit the Grotto. 
  • Coal bbq allowed at the Grotto. Only in the park area close to the parking lot. However if you don't have access to the Grotto there is a community centre a few kilometres down the road from Cyprus Lake that has a small grass area with picnic benches you can use.
  • Be sure to bring Insect Repellant. 

EXPLORE:
  • Visit Emmet Lake and Trail. 
  • Explore the Visiting Centre: The lookouts are absolutely beautiful. 
  • Explore Downtown Tobermory where you can find shops, restaurants and activities to enjoy.

This mini three hour road trip was worth the drive and the 8 minute cold plunge just to experience the Peninsula. The only thing I wish I would have done differently, would have been to spend an entire weekend in Tobermory. Visiting small towns have always been an interest for me and Downtown Tobermory was perfect for wandering and exploring. From water excursions surrounding the Peninsula to family owned businesses, it gave you a homey feel and I wish I had experienced it. So I’m advising you all to spend a weekend in the area but be sure to book in advance.

Be sure to check the FAQ on their website or for any other information you may need.

Date Visited: July 2017 

Hope you enjoyed reading.

Thanks Dolls and Gents.

Love, 
Kissy 


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