Rooted in Tradition, Ready for Adventure in Otonabee-South Monaghan

Part of the “Road Tripping in The Kawarthas” Series

Start: Doo Doo’s Bakery
End: Elmhirst’s Resort
Distance: 75 KM
Time: 6 hours to multiple days

About Otonabee-South Monaghan

Tucked along the north shore of Rice Lake, where fertile farmland meets shimmering waters, the Township of Otonabee-South Monaghan is a township defined by both its natural beauty and its welcoming spirit. Here, generations of families, seasonal visitors, and newcomers alike are drawn to a landscape that offers equal parts relaxation and discovery.

The township is a patchwork of experiences – bustling farms and open-air historic sites, charming shops and family-friendly activities, resorts and a winery – all set against the backdrop of lakeside lookouts and wide-open countryside. Whether you’re wandering through rural markets, sipping local vintages, or simply pausing to watch the sun set over the lake, Otonabee-South Monaghan invites you to bring your friends and family to savour its unique blend of country living and lakeside leisure.

Ready to explore? This itinerary showcases the best of Otonabee-South Monaghan – from its pastoral landscapes to its vibrant local offerings – one scenic stop at a time.

Morning – Sweet Stops and Great Shops

Kick off the day in Bailieboro at Doo Doo’s Bakery, where locals line up for hearty breakfast treats and their famous award-winning butter tarts. With a coffee and pastry to-go, follow County Road 2 into the countryside to Rolling Grape Vineyard, The Kawartha’s first grape-to-glass vineyard experience. Shop in their boutique while soaking up the panoramic views – check their calendar ahead of time and you might catch live music, a maker’s market, and more!

Looking to add something excitingly different to your morning? Book your group a puzzling escape room, a game of laser tag, or a challenging outdoor adventure trail at Escape Maze, located just north of the winery off of Peterborough Regional Road 28. After a more relaxed morning? Lose yourself in the aisles of Nostalgic Journey, a vast antiques market brimming with vintage finds and collectibles, located at the northern reaches of Otonabee-South Monaghan.

No matter which stop you choose, head south to the village of Keene to end your morning with an incredible BBQ lunch at Muddy’s Pit BBQ. This meat-lover’s dream stop, features locally-raised high-quality meats smoked on-site with custom outdoor smokers.

Afternoon – History & Hands-On Adventure

After lunch, head north on Heritage Line to Peterborough County’s most iconic heritage site – Lang Pioneer Village Museum. This award-winning museum brings the 19th century to life with over 30 restored buildings, costumed interpreters, a pre-colonization Michi Saagiig camp, and more. Just up the road, continue your history lesson at The Hope Mill, a restored 19th-century water-powered sawmill. Here, demonstrations of traditional craftsmanship connect you to the area’s industrial and cultural roots.

Only minutes from these two historic sites is Harley Farms. Learn about regenerative agriculture and ethically raising animals on a tour, explore seasonal farm experiences, or stop and shop the farmgate store.

Looking for more excitement in your afternoon? Head to Peterborough Kartway! Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first-timer, the track offers a fun and challenging environment to test your skills, race your friends, and make lasting memories.

Settle in for a Peaceful Evening In Otonabee-South Monaghan

After your adventure across Otonabee-South Monaghan, you might be able to catch some live music at Farmhill Weddings and Events, a working farm and year-round event space, surrounded by rolling fields and home to warm hospitality.

Finally, settle in at Elmhirst’s Resort for a delicious farm-to-table dinner on the shore of Rice Lake. Extend your stay in the comfort of one of their year-round cozy cottages, where an indoor pool, winter lake skating, sightseeing flights, fishing, and more are only steps away.

Another excellent option for a weekend getaway is Bellmere Winds Golf Resort. Starring a 105,000 sq.ft. golf course, this waterfront resort features a sizeable swimming pool, resort activities for all ages, firework displays, and more.

Enrich your journey by planning your visit around a local festival!

Celebrate fall with the Keene Pumpkin Festival, a family tradition filled with autumn fun for all ages! Marvel at giant pumpkins tipping the scales at over 1,000 lbs, stroll past the whimsical pumpkin pyramid, and keep the kids busy with the bale maze, petting zoo, wagon rides.. Enjoy local flavours from food vendors, browse unique shopping, sip a cold drink, and take in live music. With quilt raffles, antique cars and tractors, and a warm country welcome, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the harvest season!

Plan your visit around one of Lang Pioneer Village Museum‘s well-know festivals and events! Cherish the arrival of spring with the elegant Mother’s Day Tea and marvel at heritage machinery in action during the Father’s Day Smoke & Steam Show. Welcome the harvest at Applefest, explore spooky traditions during All Hallow’s Eve, and enjoy festive programming throughout the year that highlights the charm and resilience of 19th-century life.