August 2020

A male geologist shows two children a mineral specimen found from the earth.

On the surface, North Hastings is beautiful. Under the surface, it’s even better

Outdoor Activities, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

No matter which way you’re coming from, the road to Bancroft is long and calm. Big trees and clear lakes flank the roads towards this North Hasting County town. On the surface, it’s cottage country; a place people live in or visit because they love ripple of the water and a breath of fresh air.

But what lies under the surface makes the region even better. Several mineral species, such as graphite, mica, sodalite and even marble, can be found in the soil. Bancroft was once a town that lured workers to toil in small mines. From the past, to the present, there has been great value in this land. It offers an opportunity to discover – or experience – something unique.

Entrance sign for the Municipality of Centre Hastings, located in Ontario.

End of Summer Family Fun

Outdoor Activities, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

I think it’s safe to say that 2020 hasn’t exactly gone the way any of us had planned. None of us could have ever predicted what these last few months have thrown at us. So, if you’re trying to squeeze in a few more family days before summer ends, I think a day trip close to home is just what you need!
Take a day to explore the little village in the heart of Centre Hastings, that you are sure to love exploring with your family.

Angie Smith is the owner of Oats and Honey Bulk Foods on Russell Street in downtown Madoc, Ontario

Meet Angie Smith, Owner of Oats and Honey Bulk Foods

Inspiring Entrepreneurs, Investment Blogs / By Hastings Insider

A few years ago, Angie Smith found inspiration on a trip to New Brunswick. While visiting the rural community of St. Andrews, she stumbled upon an old-fashioned candy store. It reminded her of her childhood in Madoc when the community had a thriving bulk food store.

Two woman are side-by-side in a lake with their arms folded on top of a dock, smiling at each other.

5 Cottage Getaways in Hastings County

Accommodations, Campgrounds & Resorts, Places to stay, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

Mention the word “cottage” to most Ontarians and you’re likely to instantly conjure images of rustic cabins, crackling fires, and sunsets dropping on calm, tree-lined lakes.
The cottage is part of our provincial lore; it’s our oasis in a world moving way too fast. And here in Hastings County, where secluded lakes, dense forests, and sparse populations are the norm, it’s easy to find your cottage sanctuary.

Three people participating yoga with an instructor demonstrating in front of them.

Yoga and the River

Accommodations, Campgrounds & Resorts, Outdoor Activities, Places to stay, Signature Events & Experiences, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

We were all seated comfortably in the yoga pavilion – a simple wooden structure with screens for walls where light and fresh air enter freely. The wind in the trees and the sound of the river hushed any unnecessary mind chatter and the retreat began with the simple sharing of how we found ourselves seated here in the woods. One participant said it well when she shared: “I came to see what the yogis in the forest could teach me”. Learn more about Yoga & The River Retreat at Madawaska Kanu Centre with yogis, Jessica & Nathan Rogers of Creekside Yoga.

Hastings Trailblazer | Grail Springs Retreat

Inspiring Entrepreneurs, Investment Blogs / By Hastings Insider

Located just south of Bancroft, Grail Springs Retreat is quietly hidden among the trees, known as a place where guests experience holistic wellness getaways in the serenity and calm of nature.

“It was never in my wildest dreams to ever create something like this,” said Grail Springs founder Madeleine Marentette, adding she originally attended college with an eye for design – a passion that is quite obvious in the unique architecture of the buildings at Grail Springs.

Over time, however, Marentette’s interest in wellness and holistic healing grew. She began a journey learning about yoga, meditation and self-awareness. It was from those experiences that her retreat was cultivated.

The Hella Hastings Tour

Outdoor Activities, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

I found myself in the saddle, too far in to turn around on a Friday afternoon in October 2018. We had planned a cycling route that would push our limits, but that was still close enough to civilization that we could call for backup if we needed it. That’s how the route – which we dubbed “Hella Hastings” was born. Right in our own back yard.

I’m Laura, part of the team at The Brake Room in Belleville, and I’m sharing the story of my first bikepacking trip, some tips I learned, and our Ride With GPS route.

The Perfect Off-grid Weekend in Hastings

Outdoor Activities, Places to stay, Tourism Blogs / By A Local Wanderer

Find a quaint cabin; invite good company; pack a cozy sweater; power down. Outside all weekend? YES. Off-grid cabin? COOL! Lake swimming? Sign me up! This spur-of-the-moment plan my husband, Andrew, and I decided on was shaping up to be the perfect getaway.”

The beginning of Paige Wentworth’s off-the-grid cottage getaway in northern Hastings County, in the summer of 2019. Be inspired to have a cottage getaway of your own!