Local Activities & Weekend Attractions Around Marmora
Adventures beyond the Retreat
When you stay at Marmora Retreat, you’re not just booking a getaway, you’re stepping into one of Eastern Ontario’s most interesting corners. Nestled in the heart of Hastings County, Marmora and Lake combine small-town friendliness with an abundance of natural beauty, all just two hours from Toronto. From its mining roots to its serene conservation areas, this region invites you to explore far beyond our 24-acre property.
Guests often tell us they’re surprised by how much there is to see and do here. Sharing our favourite local spots is one of the best parts of hosting – it’s what makes staying with us feel personal, not just another weekend away.
Local Culture
Step into Marmora’s past through historic landmarks, mining sites, and cultural touchpoints that share the story of this small town with deep roots.
☀︎ seasonality: year-round
Skiing & Snowshoeing
Wander scenic forest paths, riverside routes, and quiet conservation trails—ideal for everything from a gentle stroll to a refreshing nature hike.
❅ seasonality: winter
Trails & Hiking
Wander scenic forest paths, riverside routes, and quiet conservation trails—ideal for everything from a gentle stroll to a refreshing nature hike.
☀︎ seasonality: spring - fall
Historic Marmora:
Mining Heritage & Cultural Attractions
Long before Marmora became a peaceful lakeside community, it was a thriving mining town. In fact, back in 1820, it was Upper Canada’s first mining site, a legacy still visible today.
The Marmora Mine, just east of town, stretches 75 acres wide and drops 635 feet deep. For a self-guided history tour, follow the Miners’ Loop, which connects Millside Park, Hastings Trail, Deloro Mine Site, and Marmoraton Mine. Each stop tells part of the story of the iron, gold, copper, and silver that once came from this land.
Stop by the Municipality of Marmora and Lake Tourism Centre downtown for maps and local tips. Memorial Park at 9 Matthew Street is also worth a visit – it features a gazebo, cenotaph, splash pad (open daily in summer), and picnic spots along the Crowe River, all cared for by the Crowe Valley Lions Club.
And if you’re into art or photography, don’t miss Ron Plaizier’s wildlife gallery on Marble Point Road – his work beautifully captures how nature has reclaimed the area’s old industrial spaces.
Parks, Trails & Conservation Areas
The natural environment around Marmora keeps people coming back. Crowe Lake, Crowe River, and Beaver Creek create a network of waterways perfect for kayaking, fishing, or watching sunsets. Iron Conservation Area and Callaghan's Rapids Conservation Area offer different experiences – the rapids provide dramatic photo opportunities while conservation area trails let you hike through forest paths spotting local wildlife.
The Hastings Heritage Trail system connects multiple local trails with options ranging from gentle walks to challenging terrain. Nayler's Common Trail is another favourite. Most trails are pet-friendly, and we've learned our four-legged guests appreciate a good hike as much as their humans do.
Our farmhouse guests have direct access to the bay on Crowe River with use of our watercraft. Water sports enthusiasts will appreciate the access to Crowe Lake for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and fishing.
Local Dining & Day Trips
Marmora's downtown embraces a strong "Buy Local" movement. Theo's Pizzeria is a local favourite (we can arrange delivery to the property). Tap & Tonic Pub & Bistro offers upscale dining. The Miners Restaurant operates in a historic building with old mining tools and photographs lining the walls – it's like eating inside Marmora's history.
For day trips, Bancroft (45 minutes north) is known for gemstone mining. Greensides Farm (3 km east on Highway 7) draws year-round visitors. You're also positioned between Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park and Algonquin Provincial Park for more extensive nature experiences. Several golf courses operate within an hour's drive, offering everything from casual layouts to challenging championship greens.
Explore Our Interactive Map
Click on the map to explore all the amazing local activities we recommend around Marmora. Simply click on any marked location to view more details and easily navigate your way to each place during your stay.
Why Explore From Marmora Retreat
What makes a stay at Marmora Retreat different is simple: we’re not just pointing you toward tourist stops, we’re sharing the places we love most.
This is our home, and helping guests experience it fully is something we take personally. Whether it’s recommending a fishing spot or us suggesting an afternoon plan based on the weather, you’ll get the kind of local insight no guidebook can match.
Many guests arrive planning to stay entirely on the property, and honestly, with 24 acres, alpacas, hot tubs, and peaceful scenery, it’s easy to see why. But once curiosity kicks in, we’re always ready to say, “There’s a great trail just ten minutes from here.”
At Marmora Retreat, exploring the local area isn’t separate from relaxing — it’s part of the whole experience. Whether you’re hiking through forest paths, uncovering mining history, or sitting quietly by the Crowe River, you’re reconnecting with what really matters.
Your Marmora Escape Starts Here.
Whether you’re planning a cozy couples’ weekend, a family adventure, or a relaxing group retreat, we’ll make sure it’s one to remember.
Join us at Marmora Retreat – open year-round and always ready to welcome you.