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Kawartha Lakes Experiences

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Kawartha Lakes Knapsack Signature Experiences Program

Explore our curated collection of Signature Experiences, showcasing what makes this region special. Get up close and personal with farm animals by trying your hand at horse whispering or hitting the trails for a thrilling alpaca walk. Dive into local arts and culture with hands-on workshops led by talented artisans to create your own soap or help with a wooden canoe revival.

From farm-to-table dining to exploring our charming communities, each experience is a chance to discover the unique charm of Kawartha Lakes firsthand. There's always something fun to try!

Explore our Signature Experiences:

Lady pulling a horse's tail
Looking at a horse's feet
Lady feeding a Highlands Cattle
Picnic food displayed on a table
Lady pulling a horse's tongue
Ears, Tongues & Tails

Ears, Tongues & Tails is a hands-on, up close experience to enlighten beginners and deepen the knowledge of those wanting to learn more from horses. The focus is on “listen and feel”. 

You will learn and practice how to speak and understand horse language, the basics of horse energy and touch as well as grooming, tacking up, and for those interested, personalized direction about how you can ride in a balanced and safe manner.

This experience goes into horse whispering, with more in-depth learning that includes- understanding horse language and horse relaxation techniques (Touch, aromatherapy, and equine massage/stretching)

The whole experience is packed with tips, tricks and opportunities for learning and the best part, picture taking! This is suitable for first time participants or those who have already tried riding and are ready for more.

Location: Sky Haven Equestrian Centre, Bethany, ON
Timing: Available Year-Round

Couple enjoying a picnic outside at Hollowbrook Highlands
Luxury Picnics on the Farm

Indulge in a luxury on-farm picnic at Hollowbrook Highlands, where every moment is a picturesque escape. Take in the sweeping views of rolling fields and tranquil ponds, or wander through the winding forested trails that crisscross the landscape.

Meet the charming highland cows, always ready for a photo op, or be entertained by the playful antics of friendly resident goats. Nestled among the idyllic hills of Kawartha Lakes, this 70-acre Farmstead on the Oak Ridges Moraine sets the stage for a truly enchanting experience. Amidst stunning flower gardens and the gentle presence of free-range chickens, goats, and majestic Highland cattle, guests are immersed in the rhythms of rural farm life.

Capture countless memories against the backdrop of the scenic pond or along their wooded trails, where even the farm animals are eager participants in your photos. With its timeless beauty and unforgettable ambiance, this picnic will be a romantic experience to remember.

Location: Hollowbrook Highlands, Pontypool, ON
Timing: Spring, Summer, Fall

Pouring soap into a mold
Group learning how to cut soap blocks
Two men working on restoring a wooden canoe
man under a canoe restoring it
Soapmaking workshop
Gridley's Herb to Home Garden Soapmaking Workshop

Embark on a hands-on artisan soap-making experience that will awaken your senses and ignite your creativity. Join us as we delve into the age-old craft of soap making, where each bar is a work of art infused with natural ingredients and botanical fragrances.

Enjoy a summer afternoon making soap in a private herb garden in the Kawartha Lakes countryside. This half-day experience for 4-8 adults begins with a tour of the herb garden and harvesting process where you will gather and prepare your herbs to make your own batch of soap to take home with you. 

Under the guidance of skilled artisans, you'll learn the soap-making process, demonstrate how soap is made, and guide you to make your own batch. Immerse yourself in the aromas of essential oils and herbs as you mix, pour, and mold your own custom creations.

Whether you're a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to escape the ordinary and craft something truly special. Take home your handcrafted treasures and elevate your daily routine with the luxurious indulgence of artisanal soap, crafted by you!

Location: Gridley's Creative Bath & Body, Woodville & Lindsay, ON
Timing: Year-round

Canoe restoration
Wooden Canoe Revival Workshop

Embark on a journey of craftsmanship and tradition with our canoe revival workshop, where the timeless beauty of wooden canoes meets the art of restoration. Join us for a hands-on experience unlike any other, as skilled artisan, Dick Persson, founder of the Buckhorn Canoe Company, guides you through the process of reviving these majestic vessels to their former glory.

Learn the intricacies of wooden canoe restoration through live demonstrations and personalized instruction, from evaluating the condition of your own canoe to implementing techniques for repair and refinishing. Immerse yourself in the rich history and craftsmanship of wooden canoes as you work alongside fellow enthusiasts, sharing stories and insights along the way.

Whether you're a seasoned paddler or new to the world of wooden boats, our workshop offers a unique opportunity to connect with the heritage of canoeing while preserving these cherished artifacts for generations to come.

Location: Sky Haven Farm, Bethany, ON
Timing: Year-round

Roost Farm Cabin for Maple Weekend Experiences
People gathered around a fire learning how to make maple syrup
Lady with an alpaca
group photo at alpaca walk
Roost Maple Syrup Bottle with fire in the background
Maple Magic Weekend DIY Maple Syrup

Step into the sweet world of maple syrup making with this immersive weekend experience, where visitors become part of the time-honoured tradition from tap to bottle. Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of our maple grove, guests embark on a hands-on journey through the maple syrup production process, guided by seasoned syrup makers every step of the way.

From tapping the trees to collecting sap, boiling it down to perfection, and finally bottling your own golden elixir, you'll learn the art and science of maple syrup making firsthand. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of the sugar shack as you work alongside your friends or family, sharing stories and laughter throughout the weekend. Stay two nights in their newly built "bunkie-chic" off-grid cabin. 

Embrace this opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature in a truly meaningful way. Leave with not only a newfound appreciation for the magic of maple syrup but also with bottles of your own handcrafted creation to savour and share with loved ones for months to come.

Location: The Roost Farm, Kirkfield, ON
Timing: Spring

Child hugging an alpaca
Woodland Alpaca Walk

Experience the charm of a Woodland Alpaca Walk, where you'll be paired with a delightful alpaca for a serene hour-long trek through forested woodlands, perfect for photos and learning about alpaca life.

This unique adventure begins with a brief handling demonstration and an introduction to these charming alpacas. After getting to know the quirky creatures, you'll be paired with an alpaca who will be your furry companion for the next hour. Together, we will embark on a serene walk through the forested woodlands along a winding stone path.

Upon reaching a picturesque clearing, the alpacas will graze, giving you the perfect opportunity for photos and selfies with your new friend. During this time, you'll also hear a bit about the Windmill Point Alpaca Farm story and have the chance to ask questions about the alpacas' way of life before we head back to the barn along the forest path.

*Please note that this experience is not suitable for children under 16 years old. 

Location: Windmill Point Alpaca Farm, Coboconk, ON
Timing: Year-round, except January and February


Explore Kawartha Lakes by Season:

Bird sitting on a branch in spring
Spring
Farmers' market in summertime
Summer
Overhead shot of fall colours and waterways
Fall
Person snowshoeing
Winter
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Contact Us

  • Arts and Heritage Trail
  • Cross-Country Skiing
  • Farms and Agritainment
  • Fishing and Hunting
  • International Plowing Match 2024
  • Maple Syrup
  • Snowmobiling
  • Snowshoeing
  • Trails
  • Trail Cycling
  • Winter in Kawartha Lakes

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180 Kent Street West 
Lindsay, Ontario, K9V 2Y6
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