MAITLAND - Spring is finally here and with it the launch of this region's 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Garden Trail.
This acclaimed garden trail is part of Canada's Garden Route. It gained national notoriety last year when it was the only trail given the 'Canada 150 Garden Experience Designation'.
"A vision of a must-see destination has been achieved," said David Cybulski, Co-Chair of the 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Garden Trail.
"It is important for us to reflect and celebrate our trail success highlighting our natural beauty within the world-renowned landscapes of the Rideau Canal Corridor, Frontenac Arch Biosphere, 1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River," he said.
In 2015, the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office launched the 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Garden Trail initiative linking private and public gardens and garden centre displays throughout Leeds Grenville.
The trail is now in its fourth season with many unique gardens featuring perennials, shrubs, trees and food production. The gardens showcase a range of plant matter from native plants to the uncommon. Specialty beds include shade, sun, bog, woodland, scree and pollinator gardens. Added experiences include native butterflies, honeybees and birds, monarch butterfly way stations, fountains, ponds, contemporary art exhibits, statuary and so much more.
"Tourism is important to all of our communities in Leeds Grenville," said Robin Jones, Warden for the United Counties of Leeds and Grenville. "The time and commitment each garden has made to the trail is greatly appreciated by Counties Council."
Leeds Grenville has taken a leadership role in facilitating collaboration to develop new tourism products.
"Garden tourism is on-trend as a key travel motivator that results in new revenues being generated in local businesses," said Ann Weir, Economic Development Manager for the United Counties of Leeds Grenville and Co-Chair of the Trail.
"More than 142-million consumers are within a day's drive. Leeds Grenville is part of Regional Tourism Organization 9, which in 2016 saw nearly 8 million visitors that generated over $800 million in direct spending," she said.
Both guided and self-guided tours are available. For garden hours and contact information, visit the website. Garden Trail brochures are available at each site as well as various tourism centres throughout the region.