8 min read

8 Hidden Gems & Adventures in Norfolk County

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on Jul 15, 2022 12:58:26 PM

Are your summer plans missing a little exploration and adventure? Then you need to plan a day trip or overnight glamping vacation in Norfolk County this season!

This lakeside county is full of lush Carolinian Forest, diverse Conservation Areas, vast beaches and marshlands to explore. Being only a short, two hour drive from Toronto, the unique landscape and food scene that Norfolk offers visitors makes it a top spot to visit in Southwestern Ontario. Keep reading to find out more about some of the fun tours, restaurants and nature excursions you can discover in Norfolk County. 

Keep adventuring,
The Long Point Eco-Adventures Team

Long Point Eco-Adventures, Turkey Point ON. 

1. Zip-line & Canopy Tour 

Address: 1730 Front Rd. St. Williams, ON.

Ready for the thrill of a lifetime? Join the team at Long Point Eco-Adventures for a 2.5 hour ride through the treetops, overlooking the Turkey Point Marsh. The tour consists of 8 different zip-lines, 2 suspension bridges & a 70 ft. rappel at the end of the course. Learn all about old Norfolk tales & fascinating wildlife facts from your guides along the way - it's an adventure you won't forget. 

Follow this link this link to book tour before spots fill up!

2. Big Creek Paddle 

Launch point: 42°35'43.2"N 80°29'06.9"W, Lakeshore Rd / Norfolk 42, Port Rowan, N0E 1M0

Looking to book a tour with the pros? Join Josh and his team for a serene paddle up and down Big Creek National Wildlife Area this summer! This internationally recognized marsh and wetland boasts towering Sycamore and Black Walnut trees,  and is covered with grape and Virginia Creeper vines to lend Big Creek its nick-name, the “Canadian Amazon". You just may catch a glimpse of a soaring Bald Eagle, one of the rivers resident beavers, or a white-tailed deer.

This 9 km, 3.5 to 4 hour excursion is perfect for first time paddlers, and includes a few challenges to hold the interest of those with more kayaking experience. You will be paddling like an expert by time you reach your destination in historic Port Royal. Josh's team of veteran guides look forward to sharing with you the most unique, interesting, and beautiful paddle southwestern Ontario has to offer.

To book a Big Creek Kayak tour for this season, follow this link. It's an adventure the whole group can enjoy! 

PhotoCredit: GoPaddleTv @paddletales
Topics: Glamping Ontario Staycations Local Tips Sustainable Travel Kayak Adventures Zip-line
5 min read

8 Ways to Make Your Spring Cleaning More Eco-Friendly

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on Mar 25, 2022 1:18:08 PM

It's that time of the year again! Many of us are diving into in a spring cleaning frenzy, hoping to scrub every nook and cranny before the warm weather hits (and let's be honest, nothing feels better than reducing clutter & junk)! Here at Eco-Adventures, there's a lot of clean-up that happens after the winter season in preparation for the guests' return, every spring; it's very important to us that re-opening is done in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner. Along the way, we've learned a few ways to maintain a 'green' cleaning routine, and we want to share that with you.

Below are a few helpful tips & tricks that you can use to transform your cleaning routine into a 'green & eco-friendly' process. Although spring cleaning is satisfying, it's not always so great for our planet. We have also included a few links, so it's even easier for you to find eco-friendly cleaning supplies & materials that will help you along the way.

Stay eco-friendly and we hope you find this inspiring. Let us know if you tried any of our tips by emailing info@lpfun.ca

1. Ditch the Paper Towels 

If you don't know it already, single use cleaning supplies are big no-no when it comes to conservation. More than 5 billion pounds of paper towel is disposed of in Canada annually (that's roughly 50 rolls per person). Producing all that paper consumes a lot of natural resources, including 110 million trees per year, and 130 billion gallons of water (source: loveyourplanet.ca).

Make the simple switch to a reusable cloth, old sheet, towel or clothing, Norwex product, or an eco-friendly wipe like this, and you'll make a difference in a big way.

2. DIY Natural Stain Removers

If you're trying to remove tough stains that accumulated over the winter, we have 4 natural ingredients with cleaning power that you should definitely know about:

A) Lemon - this bright fruit will leave everything sparkling with its acidic nature. Just add some juice to a misting bottle (we want to ensure we're conserving water) and spray it directly on the surfaces you want to clean. For extra tough stains, lose the misting bottle and rub a cut lemon right on top of the grime. Make sure you compost your lemon rind, or place it in a container with vinegar - it makes a great smelling natural cleaner if you let it sit for a few weeks.

B) White Vinegar - this powerful cleaning agent always gets the job done. It's great for: descaling coffee machines; brightening brass; copper or pewter; unclogging shower heads & more!

C) Baking Soda -  also known as the ultimate odour & mildew remover. Keep your fridge smelling fresh by placing a small dish of baking soda inside. You can also use it to scrub tough stains, water, mildew and more. Here's 10 ways you can use baking soda to clean your home. 

D) Coffee Grounds - pour your coffee grounds on your countertop in spots you have dried on food, and wipe with a reusable cloth. You can also put leftover grinds in the bottom of your garbage can to help kill odours. 

3. The Newspaper Reinvented: From Reading to Cleaning

Did you know you can use your old newspapers to clean your windows or mirrors, streak free?! It won't leave any lint or dust behind, and is a great alternative to single-use paper towels. 

Topics: Virtual Experiences Local Tips Living Green Tips Sustainability Tips
4 min read

Creating The Perfect May 2-4 Backyard Party

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on May 20, 2021 9:39:21 AM

May 2-4 weekend will have a much different tone this year. Annual traditions that involve celebrating, barbecuing and gathering with friends & family are no longer viable options. In knowing the Victoria Day weekend festivities cannot proceed as usual, we have prepared a few ways that you can still enjoy the holiday without breaking social distancing rules.

Below are some helpful tips & tricks that you can use to transform your backyard space into a May 2-4 glamping vacation. We have also included a local drink recipe, meal ideas and fun activities that you can do with your family to complete the experience. 

Please stay safe, and remember...the forest is awaiting your return.

1. Grab Yourself a Tent & Decorate

The first step in creating the ultimate glamping space is to start with a tent. All you need is two trees, some rope and a sheet, and you've got yourself a DIY glamping tent. If you're not feeling crafty, you can always opt to purchase something online. 

Now it's time to decorate. Grab throw pillows & blankets, rugs, side tables and fun furnishings like fairy lights to create a cozy atmosphere; the more plush cushions and blankets the better. You might even catch yourself using your tent as a fun reading nook after your May 2-4 camping adventure is complete.

2. Build a Campfire

No camping experience is complete without an authentic, wood-burning campfire. Load up on dry logs and old newspaper for kindling, and don't forget to grab marshmallows, chocolate & graham crackers for s'mores. Spend some time on google looking up fun campfire stories you can share with your family or housemates to make it a memorable experience.

If you're a true adventurist, consider cooking your dinner over the campfire, too. There's plenty of local meat suppliers who have specialty BBQ packs that are perfect for your May 2-4 weekend. 

3. Get Local Beverages

There are several local wineries & breweries offering beer & wine delivery for this weekend, including: Burning Kiln Winery, Hometown Brew Co. & Frisky Beaver Wines. 

If you're looking for a fun frozen drink recipe to liven up the drink menu this weekend, here's a fun recipe for the 'Hometown' Margarita.
All you need is:
-12 oz of Hometown Brew Co. Wild Wheat beer

-12 oz of your favourite tequila
-12 oz water
-1-2 cups of ice (start with one)
-1 12oz can of frozen limeade 
-lime wedges

Mix all of the above ingredients in a blender. Pour your mixed drink into a fancy glass, and add some salt & a few limes to the rim to make it pretty.

Topics: Ontario Staycations Local Tips Sustainable Travel
5 min read

The Best Kayaking Routes in Norfolk County

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on May 19, 2021 2:46:18 PM

Who's ready to add kayaking in Norfolk County to their adventure bucket list?! It's going to be the summer of the staycation, and it's important that we offer you plenty of local kayaking hotspots to explore this upcoming season. Maybe you've always wanted to try something like kayaking, but you aren't sure where to begin? We're here to help!

Whether you're a first time paddler or a seasoned pro, there's plenty of waterways, creeks & open water adventures to tackle in Norfolk County. Our diverse landscape offers kayak enthusiasts a taste of nature that's worth exploring. Summer is just around the corner, and we want to make sure we keep helping you find safe, fun adventures to keep your inner traveller alive. Keep reading to learn about the top four spots to kayak in Norfolk County!

Keep adventuring,
The Long Point Eco-Adventures Team

Photo Credit: Conservation Ontario website, Photographer Kevin Babbey. 

1. Deer Creek Conservation Area 

Address: 1267 Norfolk County Rd. 45, Langton N0E 1G0

Deer Creek Conservation area is best known for its 80 acre reservoir at the centre of a conservation area, just North of Long Point. This beautiful & scenic landscape captures a Northern lakeside feel without having to leave Norfolk County. The reservoir is easily accessible to kayakers, includes a boat launch, fishing docks and a small swimming beach. There's also campsites available on site (if you wanted to consider staying overnight (post-lockdown pending, of course). Enjoy a day paddling and exploring the reservoir and its many inlets with your family; make a romantic day of it and bring along a picnic lunch & a few lawn games.

For more information on launch points, rentals & campground openings, visit their website here!

2. Big Creek Paddle 

Launch point: 42°35'43.2"N 80°29'06.9"W, Lakeshore Rd / Norfolk 42, Port Rowan, N0E 1M0

Looking to book a tour with the pros? Join Brian Craig for a serene paddle up and down Big Creek National Wildlife Area this summer! This internationally recognized marsh and wetland boasts towering Sycamore and Black Walnut trees,  covered with grape and Virginia Creeper vines that lend Big Creek its nick-name, the “Canadian Amazon". You just may catch a glimpse of a soaring Bald Eagle, one of the rivers resident beavers or white-tailed deer.

This 9 km, 3.5 to 4 hour excursion is perfect for first time paddlers, and includes a few challenges to hold the interest of those with more kayaking experience. You will be paddling like an expert by time you reach your destination in historic Port Royal. Brian's team of veteran guides look forward to sharing with you the most unique, interesting, and beautiful paddle southwestern Ontario has to offer.

To book a Big Creek Kayak tour for this upcoming summer season, follow this link. It's an adventure the whole family can enjoy! 

Topics: Ontario Staycations Local Tips Sustainable Travel Kayak Adventures
5 min read

7 Ways to Stay Environmentally Friendly in COVID-19

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on May 19, 2021 2:23:53 PM

 

It's an unpredictable time. Many of us are experiencing changes in our day-to-day lives that shift our focus from environmentally sustainable practices, to proper health & safety precautions. We must actively remind ourselves that there is a continued need to reduce our carbon footprint, while maintaining effective cleaning and sanitation routines during the current health pandemic. 

Below are some helpful tips & tricks that you can use to transform wasteful tasks into  'green-safe' & sustainable practices during social isolation. We have also included a few resources where you can uncover fun & creative home projects that will help convert your living space into a more nature-friendly atmosphere; it's time to bring the outside indoors!

Please stay safe, and remember...the forest is awaiting your return.

1. Wildlife Sanctuary at Home

Have you always had a green thumb and you're looking for new ways to experience  wildlife from home? Whether you're cooped up in an apartment or you have a ranch in the countryside, you can turn even the smallest of spaces into a flourishing habitat. Plant flowers, vegetables, and herbs to attract and nourish pollinators and other insects. Bird feeders are another easy addition that will help bring more nature to your balcony and helps mask the sound of obnoxious city traffic.

For those who are feeling a little more adventurous, visit 15 budget friendly ways to build your own garden pond. You can learn how to re-purpose household items (like a plastic tote) to create your dream water feature. Ponds are fairly easy to maintain and are a cost effective way to bring wildlife into your backyard. 

2. Power Preserving at Home

With everyone working from home and virtual education being the new way of life for many Canadian students, we are using more electricity on a day-to-day basis. Of course, most of us are no longer commuting to work, but the surge in personal electricity use is overriding the reduction in fossil fuel consumption.

You can do simple things, such as choosing to work in a bright room to avoid turning lights on and opening up the blinds to take advantage of natural light. Since your children are using their devices more frequently, make sure sleep settings are enabled to preserve power when they're done using them.

3. The Disinfectant Wipe & Plastic Glove Nightmare

In a time where sanitation and disinfecting is more important than ever, disinfectant wipes and plastic single-use gloves have become coveted household items. It is important to properly dispose of these products when you are using them; remember, even wipes that claim to be 'flushable' are not flushable. Disinfectant wipes clog drainage and sewage pipes, creating a bigger problem for essential workers like plumbers and maintenance teams. 

If you can, avoid wipes altogether when you're cleaning your home and disinfecting. Rags, microfibre cloths, or old towels make for excellent cleaning tools; just ensure you are regularly washing and disinfecting them to get rid of bacteria. When it comes to plastic gloves, washing your hands is the most ideal way to combat the spread of the virus. If wearing gloves makes you feel more comfortable, opt for a non-plastic brand like If You Care. Their gloves are reusable and are made from fair trade FSC certified natural rubber.

If you can, use smaller appliances when cooking and re-heating as opposed to turning on the oven. When it comes to the dishwasher, only run it when it is full. Did you know if you open the dishwasher early to let a load of dishes air dry, you cut your energy use by 15% for that load? Test out some of these tricks and you're one step closer to being a more sustainable homeowner. 

Topics: Virtual Experiences Local Tips Living Green Tips Sustainability Tips
4 min read

Kid-Friendly Ways to Enjoy a Spring Break in Lockdown

By Chloe, Marketing Manager on Apr 14, 2021 10:55:47 AM

 

It's official - the residents of Ontario are in another month long lockdown. Many of us have been forced to cancel spring break plans, and the options for entertainment are slim to none. Thankfully, the warm weather is quickly approaching here on Lake Erie, and there's no better time to get outside & explore! Between the Turkey Point trail tract, St. Williams Conservation Area & the Lynn Valley, we are blessed with natural landscapes & trails that city dwellers envy. 

 

Ready to get inspired? Keep reading, and enjoy our list of lockdown friendly activities that will keep the kids entertained, all week long.

1. Family Picnic & Hike

When's the last time you've gone for a family picnic? Spend the morning creating an epic lunch together, with fresh sandwiches, sliced local fruit, and cold beverages (make sure you get the kids to help pack). Consider bringing a few lawn games along for the trip - it makes for an awesome post-lunch activity!

There's a variety of beachfronts & trails to choose from in Norfolk - pick a destination, and go for it . Now is the time to explore the trails; identify different trees & animals; or,  get some much needed fresh air. 

SUPPORT LOCAL TIP: Don't feel like packing a lunch? Now is your opportunity to support a local restaurant! Order take-out, pack it up in your picnic basket, and you've got a hassle free lunch. 

2. Virtual Tour Night

Ready to feel like you're exploring the globe right from your couch? Since vacationing to a magical, foreign destination is off the list for this spring break, virtual tours are the way to go! Did you know 'Google Arts & Culture' has created a library of virtual tours online? Explore places like Kenai Fjords National Park in Alaska, Temple of Juno, and other fascinating places. Explore the whole library, there's plenty of different tours to choose from. 

If you have an HDMI cable, hook-up your laptop to the big screen in the living room our outside, and create a fun activity the whole family can enjoy!

SUPPORT LOCAL TIP: Rather leave the popcorn up to the experts? Pick up some Uncle Bob's for some fresh popcorn, made from Canadian kernels. You can find their popcorn in local grocery stores, Picard's Peanuts, or you can place an online order.

Topics: Virtual Experiences Local Tips