Haliburton

Welcome to Haliburton

An Artistic Haven with Endless Natural Splendour

In the midst of Ontario's enchanting Cottage Country, Haliburton is a gem for those who cherish scenic landscapes and an engaging community spirit. Also known as Haliburton Highlands, this area is a retreat for artists, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking tranquility amidst the stunning terrain.

Haliburton combines the serene beauty of dense forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes with an active community atmosphere characterized by numerous local festivals, markets, and a thriving arts scene. The town of Haliburton, within Haliburton County, exemplifies small-town charm with its friendly residents and array of artistic and outdoor pursuits. The sunlit lakes and expansive forests provide a mesmerizing backdrop for relaxation and recreation, inspiring the creative community that calls Haliburton home.

What to Love

Incredible Natural Settings: Lush landscapes with a host of stunning lakes and forests, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts planning their next adventures throughout the changing seasons.
A Thriving Arts Community: Home to artists’ studios, galleries, and the Haliburton School of Art and Design.
Engaged Community Spirit: A warm, welcoming atmosphere with a strong sense of local pride and togetherness. Frequent local events foster strong community bonds.
Recreational Paradise: From water sports in the summer to snow adventures in the winter, the options for staying active are endless.
An Alluring Housing Landscape: A more private and affordable option compared to bustling tourist destinations.
A Change of Pace Amidst Stunning Landscapes: An excellent fit for those looking for a closer connection to scenic natural surroundings and a more refreshing way of living.

Local Lifestyle

The local lifestyle in Haliburton is characterized by a relaxed pace and a community-oriented atmosphere. Residents often spend their days fishing, boating, hiking, and participating in community-organized events. This harmonious blend of lifestyle options, ranging from enjoying the serenity of the natural surroundings to engaging in the active arts and creative scene, makes Haliburton an inviting place for both permanent residents and seasonal visitors.

Dining & Shopping

Haliburton offers a variety of dining and shopping experiences that highlight its local charm, artistic roots and culinary creativity.

Rhubarb Restaurant: Found right on the shores of Mirror Lake in Minden, ON, with a fantastic menu of locally sourced ingredients to provide flavors as fresh as the surroundings. Rhubarb Restaurant promises a delightful lakeside dining experience.
Maple Avenue Tap & Grill: In the town of Haliburton, head to Maple Avenue Tap & Grill on Highland Street, a social hub where locals gather to enjoy traditional dishes in a friendly setting. Don’t miss the tasty poutine or chicken souvlaki.
Hook Line & Sinker: Hook Line & Sinker presents a distinctive culinary adventure in Haliburton with a wonderful menu known for its creative dishes, from fish and chips to calamari and sweet coconut shrimp. The inviting atmosphere truly captures the amazing essence of lakeside dining on Head Lake.
Boshkung Smokehouse: Known for its exceptional smoked meats and authentic local dishes that capture the essence of Haliburton's rustic charm.
Ted's Burger Wagon: This family owned food truck offers a casual, down-to-earth dining experience with its homemade burgers and fries.
The Mill Pond: Providing a cozy atmosphere in Minden where patrons can enjoy hearty favorites like the breakfast burger, chicken quesadilla, and baby back ribs with honey garlic sauce.
Rebel Elixir Coffee Roastery: Near Spruce Lake in Dysart, the Roastery adds to the local flavor, serving meticulously crafted, fresh coffee in a cozy environment that invites conversation and relaxation.
Up River Trading Co.: This charming shop offers a collection of handcrafted gifts, art pieces, and cottage-inspired home decor that embody the spirit of the community.

Entertainment & Things to Do

Haliburton is not just a visual feast for the eyes but also a hub of engaging activities and events that capture the heart and imagination of its residents.

The Haliburton Sculpture Forest: An enchanting destination that combines the beauty of art with the tranquility of nature. Situated in Glebe Park, this outdoor art gallery features over 40 sculptures by Canadian and international artists, creatively displayed along scenic walking trails. It’s an ideal place for those who appreciate art in all its forms, offering a unique way to experience creative works in a natural setting.
Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve: As a major year-round adventure destination, the Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve covers over 100,000 acres of pristine forests. In the summer, visitors can enjoy extensive hiking and mountain biking trails, while in the winter, the reserve offers snowmobiling and dog-sledding. The highlight of the reserve is the Wolf Centre, where guests have the unique opportunity to learn about and observe a pack of wolves in their natural environment through one-way glass, providing a rare and unforgettable wildlife experience.
Sir Sam's Ski Resort: Haliburton provides a range of adventurous excursions for all seasons. In the winter, the resort is a popular destination for skiing and snowboarding, featuring well-groomed runs suitable for all skill levels. When the snow melts, the resort transforms into a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts, with trails that offer challenging rides and spectacular views.
Furnace Falls: In Kinmount Furnace Falls offers a serene getaway, ideal for tranquil picnics, light hiking, and enjoying the peaceful sounds of the cascading waters in a lush setting.
Highlands Summer Festival: This long running festival is a cornerstone of Haliburton’s community lifestyle. A local theater festival it showcases a diverse lineup of performances, including plays, musicals, and operas, performed by talented local and regional artists.
Hike Haliburton Festival: Held in the fall, the hike festival offers an immersive natural experience as Canada’s largest hiking festival. Each year, thousands participate in guided hikes that traverse the breathtaking landscapes of the Haliburton Highlands, exploring the rich history and stunning scenery all around.

Popular Lakes

Haliburton County in Ontario is a haven for cottage seekers, offering a diverse range of lakes that cater to every preference. Whether you crave the excitement of water sports, the tranquility of peaceful shores, or the charm of a close-knit community, the Haliburton Highlands has it all.

Kashagawigamog Lake: Nestled between the towns of Minden and Haliburton, Kashagawigamog Lake is a true gem known for its crystal-clear waters and magnificent sunsets. Spanning over 5,400 acres, this lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and water sports enthusiasts. Imagine waking up to breathtaking views every morning and spending leisurely afternoons exploring the picturesque shorelines. With its proximity to charming local communities, Kashagawigamog Lake provides the perfect balance between convenience and serenity.
Kennisis Lake: Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Haliburton Highlands, Kennisis Lake is renowned for its pristine waters and picturesque setting. The lake spans over 3,400 acres, providing ample opportunities for boating, swimming, and fishing. The area also offers access to hiking trails, ATV routes, and snowmobile trails, ensuring year-round enjoyment for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a place that harmonizes serenity with adventure, Kennisis Lake is the perfect choice.
Redstone Lake: Redstone Lake, situated southwest of Haliburton, is a hidden paradise that combines natural beauty with a sense of community. Known for its clear waters and sandy shorelines, this lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The surrounding area offers ample opportunities for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. With its tight-knit community and serene ambiance, Redstone Lake is an excellent choice for those seeking a cottage that feels like home.
Drag Lake: For those seeking a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush forests and pristine waters, Drag Lake is an ideal choice. This picturesque lake spans approximately 3,200 acres and offers an array of recreational activities, including fishing for smallmouth bass, lake trout, and muskie. The peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas make Drag Lake a haven for nature lovers and those who crave a slower pace of life.
Haliburton Lake: Haliburton Lake, one of the largest lakes in the region, boasts a diverse and vibrant landscape that captures the essence of cottage living. With its expansive size and numerous bays, this lake is a playground for water-based activities such as boating, fishing, and water skiing. The surrounding area features stunning cliffs, dense forests, and hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the lake and its surroundings.

Notable Schools

Haliburton School of Art and Design: Fleming College's school of the arts offers unique and flexible programs providing one-of-a kind, hands-on studio experiences.
Haliburton Highlands Secondary School: The main high school serving the area, offering a range of academic and extracurricular programs.
J.D. Hodgson Elementary School: A well-regarded elementary school providing education from kindergarten through grade 8.
Stuart Baker Elementary School: Another key elementary school in the region, known for its supportive learning environment.