Cottaging is often thought to be one of the many summer pastimes that define us as truly Canadian. Whether you are renting a cottage, traveling to your own, setting up a tent, or sleeping in an RV, cottaging can be one of the most relaxing and rewarding experiences.

In honor of Canada’s love for cottaging, and the countdown to cottage season (just 5 months away!), below are some fast facts you might not know about your favourite pastime.

1. We All Have Different Names for it

The term “cottage” is not used by everyone in Canada. Only people from Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island use the term, while those from Newfoundland, British Columbia, and Alberta use “cabin”. Those in Quebec use the term “chalet”, and some people in parts of Ontario even use the word “camp”.

2. The Dreaded Mosquito

A mosquito’s wings beat between 600 and 1,000 times a second! This movement creates the humming sound we get so tired of hearing in early summer.

3. Average Age of a Cottager

The average age of Canada’s recreational property owner is 52. Often these individuals have families and look forward to bringing their children and grandchildren as they age.

4. Moose or a Human?

Baby moose are said to learn to swim within hours of their birth. Human babies usually don’t learn to swim until they are at least 4. Who is the real cottager here?

5. No Need for a Weatherman

The old saying “red sky at night, sailor’s delight” and “red sky in the morning, sailor’s warning” has actually been proven to be a good predictor of weather patterns. So next time you’re contemplating taking that sunset boat cruise, check the colour of the sky!

Facts courtesy of Reader’s Digest.

What other interesting facts do you know about cottaging? Tell us below!

Situated in the Northern part of Ontario, Manitoulin Island is known for its scenic views, breathtaking nature trails, and unique species of plants and animals. A visit to the region is never complete without embarking on an adventure through some of the island’s many scenic hiking trails. For those that are not seasoned climbers, Manitoulin Island is home to many trails that take only a few hours to conquer. For those looking to challenge their fitness level, there are also many trails which take up to a day to complete and demand rigorous levels of endurance.

Bebamikawe Memorial Trail **

The Bebamikawe Memorial Trail is considered an easy to moderate hike along a 14km trail with scenic outlooks and vistas. Catering primarily to those looking to challenge their fitness, the trail consists of an outdoor fitness park with various exercise stations, as well as a lakefront picnic pavilion.

The hiking trail features over 11km of rugged path and is also conducive to mountain biking. Signs are featured along the trail so guests can learn about the unique ecology in the area and the historic creation of the site.

Open all year round, the Bebamikawe Memorial Trail is the only trail maintained throughout all seasons and can be accessed off of Beach Road.

Bridal Veil Falls **

Bridal Veil Falls is one of the most popular areas for family excursions and is considered an easy hike, taking approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete. After hiking to the top of the falls, a picnic area can be enjoyed as guests look down to the basin and across the forest. Embrace a quick dip in the falls or continue your hike through a tour of the old town just minutes away. The trail is located on HWY 540 at the entrance of Kagawong.

Cup & Saucer Cliff & Trails***

Another popular hiking destination catering to more experienced climber, Cup & Saucer features 2km of dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views. Visitors can also enjoy 12km of hiking trails and 2km of adventure trails which are suited to families looking for a calmer hiking excursion.

Cup & Saucer is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Ontario, and is therefore a must-see during a vacation in this region. A full hike can take between 1.5 and 4 hours depending on the trails selected. The trail is located 18kms west of Little Current at the junction of HWY 540 and Bidwell Road.

Gordon’s Park*

Gordon’s Park is one of the closest excursions to The Bear’s Inn and is located on HWY 6 in Tehkummah. Here, guests can enjoy a leisurely hike through a tall hardwood forest, observe nature around the pond, visit the swamp and meadows, and see many species of wildlife. This excursion is well suited to families with young children, and includes a learning centre with displays for animals, fossils, trees, animal tracks, and many more.

M’Chigeeng*

M’Chigeeng features two long trails which run up the escarpment and around the bottom. Two popular destinations in this area are the Bear Caves and Fossil Rock Point which offer spectacular views of the North Channel. This hike is considered to be easy in difficulty and will take approximately 2 to 3 hours to complete. The entrance for the park is located behind the ball park off HWY 551.

Misery Bay Provincial Nature Reserve**

For guests looking to fill an afternoon with a unique nature experience, the Misery Bay Provincial Nature Reserve features 860 hectares of protected land with two 5km trails. While hiking, visitors will experiences a mixed woodland, old beach ridges, and rare alvars. Guests should allow between 2 to 4 hours to complete this excursion. Located on the south shore of Manitoulin Island and is a ten minute drive west of Evansville.

Mississagi Lighthouse*

The Mississagi Lighthouse, though not considered a true “hike”, is surrounded by many short trails along the shoreline over limestone ledges, boulders, and rock fissures. Visitors are guaranteed to see many wildflowers and birds that are native to the area, and will have a breathtaking view of Lake Huron. The lighthouse is located near Meldrum Bay and will take approximately 1 to 2 hours to complete with the family.

Information courtesy of Manitoulin Tourism.