The Thousand Islands —
Gananoque’s crown jewel has become one of our favourite places to photograph over the years. It’s a true gem: friendly locals, warm hospitality, and the kind of town where someone might hand you a glass of wine and a story within minutes of saying hello.
We love exploring this region on foot, wandering past historic homes, gardens, churches, and waterfront views. Every corner feels like a scene waiting to be photographed, and every visit reveals something new.
Getting Here Is Easy
FlixBus
~$20 each way, stopping beside City Hall in downtown Gananoque — just minutes from the Comfort Inn. (Pilot program until Jan 2026.)
By Car
1 hr from Ottawa
< 3 hrs from Toronto
Hotels usually include guest parking.
1 – Heart Island & Boldt Castle Boat Tour
Do:
City Cruises Gananoque → Heart Island or the full 3-hour 1000 Islands cruise.
Sail for 3–5 hours through the archipelago to reach Boldt Castle, the iconic fairytale castle built by George C. Boldt of the Waldorf Astoria. The narration adds depth, but the real magic is the love story behind the island — a monument carved into the shape of a heart.
Don’t miss:
The Powerhouse & Clock Tower — the most photographed viewpoint on the island.
📸 Photo Tip:
Shoot from the bridge toward the Powerhouse on a calm day for a symmetrical reflection.
Photos and captions stay as-is — your images make this section shine.
Arriving at Boldt Castle, the closer you get, the more majestic the building becomes. One of my favourite shots is of the Powerhouse and Clock Tower, perched right on the water, with the walking bridge leading up to it. It’s arguably the most photographed part of the castle, and for good reason—it perfectly captures the charm and grandeur of the island.
2 – An Evening at Gananoque’s Historic Theatre
Few towns this size offer such a vibrant theatre culture. We caught Drawer Boy, a three-actor production that filled the room with laughter and emotion. Gananoque’s two historic theatres run on pure community passion — local volunteers have even fixed plumbing minutes before opening night. That’s the spirit here.
3 – Thousand Islands Boat Museum
On the waterfront sits a museum dedicated to preserving the region’s nautical heritage.
Inside:
• 36 classic boats — including Windswept III (1935)
• Student-built St. Lawrence skiff (2013)
Outside:
• Wooden hulls shining under late-day light
• A dock that feels like stepping into a vintage postcard
The current exhibit highlights master boatbuilder Charlie Cliffe (2,500+ boats), with more craftsmen featured in upcoming exhibitions.
📸 Photo Tip:
Visit near sunset — the reflections off the St. Lawrence are incredible.
4 – 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
To truly understand the Thousand Islands, you need to see them from the sky.
The team at 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours offers exceptional flights over Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, the 1000 Islands Bridge, and hidden pockets you can only appreciate from above. Their four-seat helicopter is ideal for photography thanks to wide-angle windows.
Friendly, professional, and occasionally offering a bottle of locally-famous dressing — this team is a gem.
📸 Photo Tip:
Use a polarizer to remove glare and boost the emerald-gold tones of the islands.
5 – Food, Glorious Food (My Favourite Adventure!)
Let’s be honest — eating your way through Gananoque might be the best adventure of all.
RIVA Restaurant
Stylish Italian cuisine with patios, wine, and exceptional service. A must.
Lavern’s Eatery
Beloved breakfast spot. Expect a line. Worth every minute.
Maple Leaf Restaurant
A surprising Czech comfort food haven — dumplings, pierogi, goulash, schnitzels.
The Purple Door Pizza & Café
Wood-fired pizzas, outdoor cooking, and a cozy vibe.
The Gananoque Inn
Known for many dishes, but the butter chicken (family recipe!) is the sleeper hit.
Food Crawl Tip:
Breakfast at Lavern’s → pizza at Purple Door → dumplings at Maple Leaf → dinner at RIVA or the Gananoque Inn.
Perfect day.
Where to stay
Two favourites I return to:
The Gananoque Inn & Spa – Riverside rooms with sunset views over the St. Lawrence.
Comfort Inn Gananoque – Seasonal, breakfast included, great value.
New builds are appearing near the Casino — promising even more variety for future visits.
Seasonal Note – Fall Colours
By late September, colours reach ~40% and peak throughout October. Helicopter flights this time of year show islands bursting in reds, golds, and deep greens. A true photographer’s dream.
Check out spring in the 1000 Islands
Why I Love the Thousand Islands
It’s impossible not to fall for this region. Nature, history, architecture, food, and community all blend together in a way that feels timeless. The beauty is in both the grand landscapes and the quiet moments — a shared story, a calm dock, a glass of wine with someone you just met but feel like you’ve known forever.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: FlixBus offers direct routes from Ottawa and Toronto for ~$20 each way, stopping beside City Hall.
A: A City Cruises tour to Heart Island + an aerial flight from 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours.
A: Late spring through fall. Summer is lively, autumn is stunning and peaceful.
A: Most operate May–October. Winter offers quiet charm, though tours slow down.
About the Author
Written and photographed by Roland Bast, Canadian travel photographer & visual storyteller based in Ottawa. TMAC member, partnering with tourism boards and brands to capture authentic stories that connect people with place.
Keep exploring:
36 Hours in Halifax · Halifax Waterfront: The New Wave · 4-Day Guide in Moncton · Kelowna Lakeside Luxury & Local Flavours · Weekend in Montreal
Some of the colours will be popping up over the next few weeks.
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