Gananoque, Ont., is a relatively undiscovered tourist destination. Three hours east of Toronto, home to a UNESCO biosphere reserve, War of 1812 shipwrecks and a national park, the area has the gentility of Muskoka, without the crowds. The region is well known to the rich and powerful of nearby Ottawa, Quebec and New York state – multimillion dollar cottages dot Thousand Islands.
“Gananoque and the Thousand Islands remain a hidden gem,” custom builder Joe Brennan, the owner of Brennan Custom Homes, says. “The scenery is sublime, and the lifestyle even better.”
He’s made the area his summer home with an island of his own, and shares his favourite sophisticated haunts in this small town.
Arthur Child Heritage Museum of the 1,000 Islands
This historic museum is located on the riverbank and has permanent displays and artifacts explaining why the Thousand Islands exist geologically and why it exists from a cultural point of view, from its origins as First Nations settlement through to the Battle of 1812. Guided tours are available by appointment, and I recommend them. They are very informative. 125 Water St., 1000islandsheritagemuseum.com
Riva
They make the best Negroni. It’s an Italian restaurant with a great bar and great bar food located in a restored century-old building with exposed brick in the bar area and two fireplaces. I love the vibe. 45 King St. W., rivarestaurant.ca
The Socialist Pig
I think the Socialist Pig for lunch is incredible. It’s fun! Get the fish tacos. They are out of this world. Also get an iced coffee, made with espresso. It’s the house special. Located in a restored building, it features a lot of homemade design, from a laminated magazine countertop held up by books to wallpaper made from old social history text books. You feed off the inspirational quotes as much as the great food. 21 King St. E., thesocialist21pig.com
Steel Style Garage
This funky boutique has brand-name clothing for men and women on two levels as well as locally made jewellery and accessories like hats, boots and belts. I have brought lots of friends there, and they all come walking out laden with bags. It is owned by the same people who run the Socialist Pig and is located right next door; in fact, the buildings are attached. 21 King St. E., steelstylegarage.com
Victoria Rose Inn
This is an old Victorian building that has been wonderfully restored on an exceptional expanse of beautifully landscaped grounds. Because the building is old, the ceilings are high and the rooms all have ample proportion. It’s all so relaxing. You really feel as though you are in a country setting. 279 King St. W., victoriaroseinn.com
This interview has been condensed and edited.