Thousand Islands Vacations — Castles, Boating, and Extraordinary Island Beauty
Canada
The Thousand Islands is one of Ontario's most extraordinary travel destinations — an archipelago of 1,864 islands straddling the Canada-USA border on the St. Lawrence River. The extraordinary Boldt Castle, the beautiful island cruises, and the remarkable diversity of the islands (from tiny rock outcroppings to large inhabited islands with grand summer cottages) make the Thousand Islands one of Eastern Canada's most rewarding destinations.
Why Visit Thousand Islands?
- ✓Boldt Castle — the most extraordinary castle in North America, on Heart Island
- ✓Island cruises — the most beautiful way to explore the extraordinary archipelago
- ✓Kingston — the historic limestone city at the gateway to the Thousand Islands
- ✓Gananoque — the most charming town in the Thousand Islands
- ✓1000 Islands National Park — extraordinary camping and kayaking
Things to Do in Thousand Islands
Wendy can arrange any of these experiences as part of your personalised itinerary.
Boldt Castle Tour
Visit the extraordinary Boldt Castle on Heart Island — a 120-room castle built by hotel magnate George Boldt as a gift for his wife, abandoned in 1904.
Island Cruise
Take an island cruise through the extraordinary Thousand Islands — the most beautiful way to see the archipelago, with extraordinary views of the castles and cottages.
Kayaking the Islands
Kayak through the extraordinary Thousand Islands — the most intimate way to explore the archipelago, with extraordinary wildlife and scenery.
Kingston Historic Tour
Explore the extraordinary Kingston — the limestone city with extraordinary 19th-century architecture, Fort Henry, and the Royal Military College.
Singer Castle, Dark Island
Visit the extraordinary Singer Castle on Dark Island — a beautiful castle built by the Singer sewing machine family, with extraordinary secret passages.
Fishing in the St. Lawrence
Fish in the extraordinary St. Lawrence River — world-class bass, pike, and walleye fishing in the Thousand Islands.
Ready to book your Thousand Islands trip?
Wendy handles flights, hotels, transfers, and experiences — all in one place.
Where to Eat in Thousand Islands
Wendy's recommended restaurants — from fine dining to authentic local cuisine.
Canadian Cuisine
Chez Piggy, Kingston
Kingston's most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary Canadian cuisine in a beautiful historic courtyard.
Seafood
Aqua Terra, Gananoque
Gananoque's most celebrated restaurant — extraordinary fresh seafood and local cuisine with St. Lawrence River views.
Fine Dining
The Grist Mill, Elgin
The most celebrated fine dining restaurant in the Thousand Islands region — extraordinary cuisine in a beautiful historic mill.
Where to Stay in Thousand Islands
Wendy has personal relationships with these properties and can often secure upgrades and exclusive rates.
Chez Piggy Inn, Kingston
Mid-RangeKingston's most celebrated boutique inn — extraordinary historic building, exceptional service, and excellent value.
Gananoque Inn & Spa
LuxuryThe most celebrated hotel in the Thousand Islands — extraordinary historic building, exceptional spa, and beautiful St. Lawrence River views.
Delta Hotels Kingston Waterfront
Mid-RangeKingston's most comfortable hotel — excellent waterfront location, good facilities, and excellent value.
Planning Your Thousand Islands Trip
📅 Best Time to Visit
June through September — the best weather for boating, kayaking, and outdoor activities. Fall (October) has extraordinary foliage.
🌤️ Climate
Continental with cold winters (-5 to -15°C) and warm summers (20–28°C).
✈️ Getting There
Connecting flights from Calgary to Kingston (YGK) or drive 2.5 hours from Toronto. Total travel time from Calgary approximately 5–6 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions — Thousand Islands
How many islands are in the Thousand Islands?
There are actually 1,864 islands in the Thousand Islands — an island is defined as any piece of land that is above water year-round and supports at least two living trees.
Is Boldt Castle worth visiting?
Absolutely — Boldt Castle is one of the most extraordinary attractions in Eastern Canada, with a fascinating history and beautiful architecture. The boat trip to Heart Island is part of the experience.
Is the Thousand Islands good for families?
The Thousand Islands is excellent for families — the island cruises, the castles, the kayaking, and the extraordinary wildlife are wonderful for children.
More Eastern Canada Destinations
Book Your Thousand Islands Trip with Wendy
As your trusted travel consultant, Wendy handles every detail of your Thousand Islands vacation — from flights and hotels to transfers and experiences. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation quote.
Book Your Thousand Islands Trip with Wendy
Tell Wendy about your Thousand Islands travel plans and she'll respond within 24 hours with personalised options and pricing.