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.
Wendy's Take on Thousand Islands
35+ years of travel expertise
The Thousand Islands region, a breathtaking archipelago straddling the Canada-US border, truly offers a unique escape that I've been recommending to clients for over 35 years. It's a place where natural beauty meets intriguing history, creating an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. With 1,864 islands, each with its own charm, it’s a destination that captivates visitors from every corner of the globe, whether they're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful retreat. The sheer scale and diversity of the islands mean there's always something new to discover, from grand castles to secluded coves, making it a truly world-class destination.
When planning your visit, I always tell people that the warmer months, particularly from late spring through early autumn, are ideal for experiencing the Thousand Islands. This is when boat tours are in full swing, allowing you to cruise past opulent Gilded Age mansions and iconic landmarks like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. Exploring these historic sites offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's past. Beyond the castles, consider kayaking or paddleboarding through the calmer channels, or even fishing for muskie and bass. The charming waterfront towns on both sides of the border, such as Gananoque and Clayton, provide delightful opportunities for dining, local shopping, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss trying some fresh local produce or the famous Thousand Island dressing, which, as you might guess, originated right here.
For accommodations, you'll find everything from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts and private cottage rentals, catering to all preferences and budgets. My clients often ask about the best way to truly immerse themselves, and I always suggest taking a multi-day boat cruise or even renting a houseboat for a unique perspective of the waterways. The tranquility of waking up surrounded by water and lush islands is unparalleled. Remember to bring your camera, as the scenic vistas are simply stunning, especially during sunset. The Thousand Islands is more than just a collection of islands; it's an experience that stays with you long after you've returned home, a testament to its enduring appeal and the countless memories it helps create.
Insider Tips — Thousand Islands
Book your boat cruise tickets online in advance, especially for popular tours like those visiting Boldt Castle, to avoid long queues and ensure your preferred time slot.
Consider staying in Gananoque, Ontario, or Clayton, New York, as both offer excellent access to boat tours, charming accommodations, and local dining, often with a more authentic feel than larger towns.
While summer is popular, consider a fall visit (late September to early October) for breathtaking foliage views during your cruise, though some attractions might have reduced hours.
Pack layers, even in summer, as temperatures on the water can be cooler than on land, especially during evening cruises.
Don't forget your passport! Many boat tours cross into U.S. waters, and visiting Boldt Castle requires clearing U.S. customs, so ensure everyone in your party has the necessary documentation.
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.
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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.