
If you’re seeking an eclectic mix of old-world charm and vibrant city life, topped up with a visit to some of Canada’s most spectacular national parks, our Great Parks of the East self drive is a must for you. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of unmissable experiences as you explore the stunning provinces of Ontario and Quebec.
Your journey will begin in the metropolis of entertainment that is Toronto before you head off to skim stones on Lake Ontario. From there you’ll be whisked to some of the most spectacular East Canada national parks, where you can relax and unwind in serene, exquisite surroundings. History and culture fans will enjoy soaking up the sights and French society in Montreal and Quebec, before transferring to the Canadian capital of Ottawa where you’ll find fascinating museums, iconic parliament buildings, and a delightful winter wonderland.
From there, you will need cameras at the ready for a unique holiday experience of a lifetime at the majestic Niagara Falls. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of this thundering splendour and an unforgettable holiday experience.
Discover some of the best national parks in Eastern Canada, as well as a wealth of Canada’s jewels in its crown. Effortlessly combining bustling city life, impressive local wildlife, authentic culture and wild adventure, there really is something for everyone on our Great Parks of the East tour.

Trip Highlights
- Discover moose, bears, beavers and deer in Ontario’s magnificent Algonquin Provincial Park
- Immerse yourself in serene village culture in Quebec’s picturesque Lanaudière region
- Sample the charming French culture of Montreal and Quebec City
- Discover Ontario and Quebec’s stunning national parks and indulge in breath-taking scenery, spellbinding culture, and mesmerising nature
Start your Journey
Arrive Toronto
Arrive at Toronto Pearson International Airport and head independently to your downtown hotel. The rest of your day can be spent at leisure. Rest in the comfort of your hotel room, or Explore the vibrant city of Toronto. You could head to the iconic CN Tower, the impressive Art Gallery of Ontario, and the contemporary Toronto City Hall. Sample fine cuisine at the array of restaurants or pick out a souvenir at the fabulous Eaton Centre.
Toronto - Midland
Departing Toronto in the morning, enjoy a scenic 99 mile-long drive to beautiful Huron County. Stop off en route at authentic Penetanguishene and step back in time in this old native village. Take time to discover the inspiring Jesuit Mission at Sainte Marie, or take a visit to Georgian Bay’s stunning ‘30,000 Islands’. Your day will end with an overnight stay in Midland.
Midland - Huntsville
Leaving Midland, drive 85 miles northeast to the traditional century-old Algonquin Provincial Park and Canada’s picturesque Muskoka region. Here, you’ll see spectacular mountainous landscapes, shimmering lakes and thick fragrant forests, home to a variety of fascinating local birds. Stay overnight near Huntsville, nestled in the hilly terrain of the Canadian Shield.
Huntsville
Immerse yourself in beautiful Huntsville, where you can spend your day entirely at leisure. Choose from golf, tennis and boat cruises. Adventurers might wish to discover the local horse riding and hiking trails or you could take a stroll around the pretty lakes. You might wish to head out on a fun day trip to Lion’s Lookout Park, where you’ll find the best views of the town and its pretty, aptly-named Fairy Lake. Muskoka Pioneer Village is also well worth a visit, where you can get a flavour of Canada’s rural life in the 1800s. Return to your hotel in the evening to spend the night once again near Huntsville.
Huntsville - Gatineau Park / Ottawa
This morning it’s time to head to cultural Quebec and its stunning Gatineau Park. In this spectacular landscape you can discover miles of cycle paths and trails through exquisite scenery. Stop off for panoramic views over the river from various lookouts. For a quieter day, take a stroll around the park, or you might like to try out cross-country skiing. If you appreciate architecture then we recommend you visit the impressive MacKenzie King Estate, which was once the home of Canada’s former Prime Minister. After a delightful day, it’s time to head to your hotel in Ottawa, where you can settle down for some well-deserved rest.
Ottawa - Tremblant
Today, you can explore the exciting city of Ottawa, which is home to the picturesque Rideau Canal and historic Parliament Hill. Discover the city’s grand Victorian architecture and a wealth of fascinating museums during your visit.
In the afternoon, it’s time to depart for a short drive into the spectacular Laurentian Mountains, before spending overnight in Tremblant.
Tremblant
Today will be spent at your leisure in the majestic Laurentian Mountains. Take a trip out to the beautiful St Jovite or the stunning Mont Tremblant Park, which is Quebec’s oldest provincial park. Spend another night at you hotel in Tremblant.
Tremblant - Quebec City
Today you’ll get to take a scenic drive on Canada’s first year-round carriageway, Chemin du Roy. Travel through some of Canada’s most picturesque and historical French Canadian villages. Take in the 18th century-style structures and galleries in Quebec’s second oldest city, Trois-Rivieres. Explore the fascinating Old Prison, before heading to the beautiful Notre Dame du Cap sanctuary and shrine. At the Centre d’exposition Raymond Lasnier you’ll find some exceptional artwork from both local and internationally-renowned artists. Admire the architectural delights of charming Batiscan, including its old stone presbytery and witness historical craft demonstrations. You’ll then spend the night in Quebec City.
Quebec City
Spend the day at your leisure, exploring Canada’s oldest city. You might wish to discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Quebec before visiting Place Royale and a host of impressive fortifications. Take a stroll around the national historic park or venture out to the stunning Montmorency Falls. History lovers will enjoy a visit to the ancient La Citadelle, an active fort with a museum. There is also plenty of shopping and mouth-watering dining experiences to be explored. Spend the night in Quebec City.
Quebec City - St Michel des Saints
This morning you’ll head on a picturesque drive through the rolling hills and patchwork plains of the Mauricie / Bois Francs and Lanaudiere regions. Sit back, relax and admire some spellbinding scenery as you journey to the lush forests and unspoilt Quebec hinterlands. Spend the night in the beautiful rural town of St Michel des Saints.
St Michel des Saints
Spend a leisurely day in beautiful St Michel des Saints. From here you can venture to Reservoir Taureau and Baie du Milieu, where you can select from an array of outdoor pursuits, including mountain biking, canoeing or kayaking. You might wish to take a trip to Mastigouche Wildlife Reserve where you can admire its local residents, including moose, black bears, beavers and loons. Alternatively, compete with the bears and try a spot of fishing in the clear waters of the river. Explorers will enjoy following the hiking trails into the hills. Spend another night in St Michel des Saints.
St Michel des Saints - Montréal
Discover more of the stunning Lanaudiere region and its beautiful lakes. Along the way, stop off in pretty Berthierville, which is nestled on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River. From here you could explore the fascinating Gilles Villeneuve Museum, the perfect option for Formula 1 fans.
From Berthierville, you’ll head onwards to cosmopolitan Montreal where an array of must-see attractions await. Select from the stunning Notre Dame Basilica, the authentic Old Port, the impressive Winter Olympics site, and the Biodome. Culture fans will love the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, while the whole family will enjoy wandering around pretty Mount Royal Park and the picturesque Montreal Botanical Gardens. You can also explore the Casino and Montreal’s underground city before spending the night in your Montreal hotel.
Montreal - Kingston
Today you will cross the border to Ontario, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful and serene Thousand Islands region. Highlights include the Upper Canada Village in Morrisburg, a pretty heritage park, and Old Fort Henry. You could also take a leisurely cruise through the stunning Thousand Islands before returning to your overnight accommodation in Kingston.
Kingston - Niagara Falls
Today it’s time to begin by driving along Lake Ontario, passing Ontario’s capital, Toronto. From there you will travel to your final destination, the magnificent Niagara Falls. Stop off in the charming flower-filled, tree-lined, 19th century village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, which seems to have been untouched by time. From here you will commence your trip-of-a-lifetime aboard the Hornblower Niagara Cruises and enjoy your Voyage to the Falls tour. Discover the thundering American Falls before journeying on past impressive rock formations to the thundering Horseshoe Falls. Put on your rain jacket, battle the waters, and take advantage of ample photo opportunities at this spectacular wonder. After all that excitement, head back to Niagara-on-the-Lake for the night.
Niagara Falls - Toronto
This is the last day of your Great Parks of the East tour. Wake up and head to Pearson International Airport for your onward journey or return flight home.
Includes
- International flights and airfare taxes
- Cost of accommodation (double room based on two people sharing) for a total of 14 nights (alternative but similar accommodation may be used at certain times of the year)
- Board basis: Room only
- Car hire and insurance
- Taxes
Excludes
- Visa arrangements and fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses, such as beverages, telephone calls, laundry, camera fees, spa and business facilities in the hotel
- Gratuities
- Meals
- Attractions and excursions
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