In Timmins, Ontario, Being in the Moment is the Destination
The drive to Timmins, about five hours north from Sault Ste. Marie, is a true boreal experience. Seas of wildflowers line the edges of the winding highway, making a perfect grazing spot for resident moose (we saw seven).
A sign said we were entering the wilds of the Arctic watershed. We arrived at Cedar Meadows Resort and Spa for a bucket-list adventure called ‘Sleeping with the Wolves.’ I’ll never forget walking through the door into our glass-encased bedroom jutting out into the wolves’ 10-acre homestead. For hours, we watched the nine adults and four pups interact. I came face-to-face with a white wolf named Kaebai, separated only by glass.
The next morning, we visited a farm-to-table restaurant called Radical Gardens. What started as an organic farmers’ market evolved into an award-winning restaurant known for its inventive menu. My personal rule is that if there is a Cubano sandwich on the menu, I am obligated to try it. It was the best one I have ever had, and I have travelled for this sandwich. It was a rich combination of warm, pressed bread, roasted pork, melting Swiss cheese, pickles and a little swagger. When you go, tell the owner-chef, Brianna Humphreys, I sent you, then eat your way out of this gem.
Fueled and ready for the next adventure, we arrived at Dream Acres Alpaca Farm for the Body & Soul Alpaca Walk, a therapeutic stroll through the trails at the farm. This activity is suitable for most ages and fitness levels. These kind animals saw to it that we left with smiles on our faces, feeling even more renewed. Afterward, co-owner Danielle brought us into the gift shop and demonstrated her weaving abilities, driving home the importance of the sustainability of the soft wool these animals produce.
The next morning, we stopped at Stacked for breakfast before slipping our paddleboards into the Mattagami River. As we drifted, a cheer rose from the shoreline where an angler had just landed a sturgeon, drawing an impromptu crowd.
Whether I was locking eyes with a timber wolf, wandering forest trails with an alpaca, or lingering over an unforgettable meal, there was no room for distraction. That may be Timmins‘ greatest gift.
This article was sponsored by Timmins.
