Experiential tourism is a form of travel in which the visitor goes beyond the usual mass tourism draws and participates in activities that enable them to experience a place by directly connecting to its history, people and culture. Visitors can learn new skills, participate in local projects, or work with local masters to create their own masterpiece. By engaging with the locals, visitors experience the authentic hands-on dimensions of a place and its people through storytelling, delicious food and sights that turn to memories that last a lifetime.
The Carden Alvar Nature Photography Experience
In this nature photography experience you will learn how to capture the rare birds, wildflowers, and unique landscape of the Carden Alvar. Located northeast of Lake Simcoe, the Carden Alvar is a crucial habitat for the survival of globally rare birds and has an incredible diversity of wildlife, unique grasslands, shrub lands, forests and wetlands. Explore the Carden Alvar and acquire expert photographic instruction with award-winning photographer Arni Stinnissen. Aspiring photographers will hone their photography skills through formal instruction and one-on-one direction in the field.
"I had no idea that there are so many rare birds and unusual plants in the Carden Alvar. I learned a huge amount about the Alvar bird species and their songs and received instruction that has elevated my photography to a whole new level. Arni is a very knowledgable instructor about the area and about wildlife photography - he made the experience memorable for me. I now look for and listen for birds in a whole new way. And Quaker Oaks farm and food was incredible!" Steve. S
The Carden Alvar Nature Photography Experience
2021 SPRING DATES CANCELLED - for more information contact tourism@kawarthalakes.com
The Balsam Lake Dry Stone Wall Experience
The historic three-kilometer-long dry stone walls along the south shore of Balsam Lake were commisioned by George Laidlaw in 1880 for his Fort Ranch property, where he raised sheep and cattle imported from Scotland and they Jersey and Guernsey Islands. The Laidlaw homestead and the walls that surround it are the focus of this experience. Vistors will learn about the George Laidlaw legacy from his great, great grandson, and under the instruction of dry stone waller, John Shaw Rimmington, will learn the art of dry stone walling and help to restore a section of the wall that has fallen under disrepair. Local food and a sheep herding demonstration help to recreate the essence of the era in which these walls were originally built.
"Doug's passion for his family history is infectious - his openness to share the stories and allow guests to take part in family traditions made me feel I am a part of this and that I've contributed to the legacy by laying down stones that will stand for decades." L.Freisen
The Balsam Lake Dry Stone Wall Experience
2021 DATES CANCELLED - for more information contact tourism@kawarthalakes.com
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