Georgian Bay Lighthouses and Harbours Tour

The Georgian Bay shoreline near Blue Mountain is dotted with historic lighthouses, charming harbours, and waterfront communities that tell the story of the region's maritime heritage. A lighthouse and harbour tour makes for a wonderful day trip that combines history, scenery, and the unique charm of small-town Ontario.

Collingwood Harbour

History

Collingwood's harbour was once one of the busiest on the Great Lakes, supporting a major shipbuilding industry that lasted over a century. The town launched ships sideways into the harbour due to the narrow waterway, a technique that became a local tradition and the namesake of Side Launch Brewing Company.

What to See

• **The Collingwood Terminals** — These massive grain terminals are iconic landmarks visible from across the harbour. Originally built to handle grain from western Canada, they are currently being redeveloped.
• **The harbour breakwall** — Walk along the breakwall for views of the harbour, the marina, and the bay.
• **The marina** — Collingwood's marina fills with sailboats and powerboats during summer, creating a lively waterfront atmosphere.
• **Collingwood Museum** — Located near the harbour, the museum tells the shipbuilding story in detail.

Thornbury Harbour

A Charming Village Harbour

Thornbury's small harbour is one of the most charming waterfront settings in the area. The harbour is framed by the town's historic main street on one side and Georgian Bay on the other.

What to See

• **The harbour breakwall and lighthouse** — Walk to the end of the breakwall for bay views
• **The Beaver River** — The river flows through Thornbury and into the harbour, with a fishway that allows salmon to migrate upstream in fall
• **Downtown Thornbury** — Browse the shops and galleries along Bruce Street, then walk to the harbour
• **Thornbury Cidery** — Visit the cidery near the harbour for tastings

Meaford Harbour

A Working Harbour

Meaford's harbour is less touristy than Thornbury or Collingwood but has its own appeal. It is a working harbour with fishing boats, pleasure craft, and a public beach nearby.

What to See

• **The harbour lighthouse** — A picturesque lighthouse at the harbour entrance
• **Beautiful Joe Heritage Park** — Named after a famous Canadian dog, this park near the harbour is pleasant for walking
• **Downtown Meaford** — A quiet, authentic small town with shops, restaurants, and galleries
• **The Meaford Museum** — Local history exhibits in a heritage building

Nottawasaga Lighthouse

An Iconic Georgian Bay Landmark

The Nottawasaga Lighthouse is located on a small island off the coast near Collingwood. While not accessible by foot, it is visible from the shoreline and is one of the most photographed lighthouses on Georgian Bay.

How to See It

• **From shore** — The lighthouse is visible from various points along the Collingwood waterfront
• **By boat** — Charter boats or kayak tours can bring you closer to the lighthouse
• **Photography** — A telephoto lens captures the lighthouse beautifully from the Collingwood breakwall

Planning Your Lighthouse and Harbour Tour

Suggested Route

Duration: Half day to full day, depending on how long you linger

1. <strong>Start in Collingwood</strong>: &mdash; Visit the harbour, walk the breakwall, stop at the museum
2. <strong>Drive to Thornbury</strong>: (20 minutes) &mdash; Explore the harbour, walk the town, visit the cidery
3. <strong>Continue to Meaford</strong>: (20 minutes) &mdash; Visit the harbour and lighthouse, explore downtown
4. <strong>Return to Collingwood</strong>: via County Road 2, enjoying the shoreline views

Best Time to Visit

• **Summer** &mdash; Harbours are most active with boats, restaurants, and events
• **Fall** &mdash; Quieter and more atmospheric, with fall colours along the shoreline
• **Spring** &mdash; Salmon runs in Thornbury are fascinating to watch
• **Winter** &mdash; Dramatic ice formations on the breakwalls and frozen harbour views

Photography Tips

• **Golden hour** (early morning or late afternoon) provides the best light for lighthouse photos
• **Storm clouds** create dramatic backdrops for harbour and lighthouse shots
• **Reflections** in calm harbour water add depth to compositions
• **Include context** &mdash; boats, breakwalls, and people add scale and interest

Combining with Other Activities

A lighthouse tour pairs naturally with:

• **Wine or cider tasting** in Thornbury
• **Lunch at a waterfront restaurant** in any of the three towns
• **Beach time** at Collingwood or nearby shoreline parks
• **Fall colour driving** along the Georgian Bay shoreline

Your Touring Base at Blue View Chalets

Blue View Chalets is ideally positioned for a Georgian Bay lighthouse and harbour tour. All three harbours are within a 30-minute drive, making a leisurely day tour comfortable and convenient. Return to your chalet after a day of exploring the coastline and enjoy the evening in comfort.