Hastings County

Hearken back to a simpler time in Hastings County with its salt-of-the-earth farming roots and relaxed pace of life.

Known for its geological richness and significance, Hastings County covers a broad geographic landscape, steeped in history. Explore ancient rocks and minerals from one of the richest geological sites in Canada. Or dig for more contemporary treasure in a local antique shop, filled with their own stories to tell. The more you explore, the more you will fall in love with Hastings County.

To learn more about all there is to see and do in Hastings County, scroll down or visit the area’s tourism website.

Where is Hastings County?

Hastings County is found in Eastern Ontario. It stretches from Belleville on the Bay of Quinte in the south to the edge of Algonquin Provincial Park in the north.

Belleville provides a great starting point for your travels in Hastings County. You can fly to Toronto or Ottawa and travel by train to Belleville in less than 2 hours. From Belleville, you can reach many townships by car via a few major roads and highways. The 401 corridor passes through Belleville and the TransCanada Highway #7 through Madoc, while Ontario Highway 62 travels North-South right down the middle of the county.

Things to Do in Hastings County

The secret to Hastings County is to take it easy. Enjoy it. Soak it up. Relax and embrace the natural goodness of the rural lifestyle.

Hastings County is rich in farmlands and matching farmhouse bed-and-breakfasts. The southern region is surrounded by rich farmland and many small towns. Here there is a balance between urban and rural living, giving you wide open spaces with the option of artisan and antique shopping in nearby townships. Wind your way along the backroads and discover gorgeous cafes for your own Hot Beverage Tour.

If and when you want to stretch your legs, there are many outdoor trails to explore at your own pace. You wouldn’t want to miss the spectacular waterfalls hidden away in Egan Chutes, about 15 km east of Bancroft.

Madawaska Kanu Centre

World-renowned paddle school with leading whitewater instruction; inclusive to everyone!

Visit siteMadawaska Kanu Centre

Stirling Festival Theatre

Come for stand-up comedy, dinner theatre, tribute shows or their thriving program for young people.

Visit siteStirling Festival Theatre

Grail Springs Retreat

Unplug and unwind with natural spa therapies, yoga classes, guided meditations and special transformational events to rejuvenate your body and...

Visit siteGrail Springs Retreat

Hastings County Neighbourhoods & Districts

Hastings County includes seven member municipalities. It’s the perfect getaway for those looking for a ‘little break’ from their busy lives. As the rugged north slowly blends into the rural and urban south, you can see the change from town to town. Our favourite highlights include:

Bancroft

The mineral capital of Canada is a hidden gem for ‘rockhounding’ enthusiasts.

Carlow/Mayo Township

Has some of the most pristine lakes in the county, making it very popular for swimming, fishing and nature photography.

Faraday Township

Nearby Faraday Lake is a popular fishing spot for lake trout and small-mouth bass. So good, you can almost guarantee dinner.

Hastings Highlands

A natural wonderland with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you warm. From fishing to snowmobiling, there is something for everyone.

Limerick Township

Surrounded by dense forests, the township is made of smaller villages and hamlets, making an enjoyable bike-ride through the area.

Tudor & Cashel Township

To the east of the township is Weslemkoon Lake, a favourite place to get away from it all and famous for the little lighthouse in the northern end.

Wollaston Township

If you are looking for a hiking trail without the motorized participants, check out Nellie Lunn Park. A beautiful 40 hectare park approximately 4 km south of the township.

Marmora and Lake

An expansive outdoor playground awaits. Explore adventurous ATV terrain with ATV Tours, beautiful horse trails with Horsin Around Riding Ranch, or paddle pristine waters with Riverview Board and Paddle.

Tyendinaga Township

Located east of Belleville, Tyendinaga is home to Tyendinaga Cavern & Caves, Ontario’s largest natural cavern.

Stirling-Rawdon

Known for its proud agricultural heritage, this township is home to a farmers’ market where you can purchase fresh produce, baked goods and more from June to October.

Madoc Township

Tour the original buildings and explore the trails and grounds at O’Hara Mill Conservation Area and Homestead in this rural community.

Centre Hastings

Centre Hastings Park in Centre Hastings has skate parks for skaters of all levels.

Tweed

Enjoy nature’s finest in and around Tweed, including paddling, fishing and hiking at Vanderwater Conservation Area.

Deseronto

Deseronto boasts exciting fishing derbies and water activities and nature lovers can explore the picturesque Rathburn Park and its extensive Waterfront Trail.

Things to Know About Visiting Hastings County

Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Hastings County, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the area.

Little-known fact

Almost 90% of all types of minerals found on earth are located in Bancroft, known as “The Mineral Capital of Canada” and is a major destination for recreational rockhounding enthusiasts.

Great place for winter activities

Limerick Lake Lodge offers easy ride-in, ride-out access to snowmobiling and ATV Trails and caters to riders with a large parking log for and loading and unloading.

Where to snap a great Instagram pic

McGeachie Conservation Area comprises over 200 hectares of natural wilderness for you to explore. Take a hike around Steenburg Lake or get a glimpse of the homestead that’s been on the property for 150 years.

Where to get a great cup of coffee

Freshly brewed coffee at Hidden Goldmine Bakery perfectly complements the pies, tarts, cakes and other delectable baked goods made from scratch.

Where to shop local

Jillian’s Antiques and Things is filled with all sorts of unique discoveries if you are looking for antiques or the perfect home décor.

Where to go for a drink

Take a seat on the scenic patio of Kings Mill Cider and quench your thirst with a signature apple cider. You may also wish to order a delicious woodfire pizza topped with fresh ingredients grown from the cidery garden.

Last updated: November 25, 2022