One area that I often recommend to friends isn't far from Toronto - Georgian Bay and the Penetanguishene and Midland area. First, the Georgian Bay area is very attractive. There are the usual outdoor sports possibilities, marinas, camping, etc. but the reason I recommend the area is because of the museums, in particular the living history museums.

Ste. Marie Among the Hurons is a recreation of a 17th century fortress and headquarters for the French Jesuit mission to the Huron nation and was Ontario's first European community. It includes a reproduction of a Huron longhouse. Interesting museum too. Discovery Harbour is the site of a British naval and military base built as a result of the War of 1812 to safeguard access to Upper Canada.

Both of these have staff recreating the lifestyle of the times and lots of activities.

In the town of Midland, there is another recreated Huron village, complete with sweat lodge. You can also visit the Martyrs' Shrine dedicated to the Jesuits, Brebeuf and Lalement, and the Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre

All of this in a very beautiful area!

http://parkscanada.pch.gc.ca/parks/ontario/georgian_bay/georgian_bay_e.htm http://www.saintemarieamongthehurons.on.ca/english/ http://www.discoveryharbour.on.ca/english/

Frances