You Can Road Trip From Montreal To A Hidden Grotto Surrounded By Sparkly Turquoise Water

It's totally worth the drive!
Senior Writer

The Quebec-Ontario border reopening is even more exciting when you start fantasizing about all the gorgeous places within driving distance of Montreal. The grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park will make you feel like you've not only left Quebec but like you've travelled out of Canada too.

The grotto is a large natural sea cave surrounded by clear turquoise waters, reminiscent of something you might see in Italy or the Caribbean. And you can even jump in for a refreshing — yes, that's code for cold — swimming experience.

Editor's Choice: Montreal Has A New Beach But You Can't Swim There Because Of 'Contaminated Sediments'

Although Bruce Peninsula National Park is around 8.5 hours away from Montreal by car, it's totally worth the drive and there are many other things you can do at the park once you're there.

For instance, there are several hikes that allow you to explore diverse landscapes including forests, wetlands, cliffs and white cobblestone beaches. You can also go camping.

Visiting the grotto requires a confirmed reservation for a four-hour time slot between June 3 and October 31. 

The Grotto at Bruce Peninsula National Park

Price: Admission to the park is $7.90 per adult

Address: 469 Cyprus Lake Rd., Tobermory, ON

Why You Need To Go: The turquoise pool of water and intricate natural cave will fool you into thinking you've travelled to Italy or the Caribbean. 

Before you get going, check our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your trip.

  • Ilana Belfer
  • Editor

    Ilana Belfer (she/her) was an editor for MTL Blog. She's obsessed with great storytelling in all its forms having worked in print, radio, television, theatre, and digital media over the past decade. A graduate of Carleton University’s journalism program, her words have appeared in The Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, The Kit, VICE, Salon, Foodism TO & more — covering everything from cam girls to COVID-19. Ilana can usually be found with her dog André, tracking down Montreal’s prettiest ruelles vertes and tastiest treats.

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