Today we begin a multi-part series on spectacular Manitoulin Island. Yes, Manitoulin Island is nowhere near the GTA. In fact, it's a six-hour drive from Toronto! But it's such a wonderful, unspoiled, somewhat unknown part of Ontario that I thought you would enjoy getting a taste of its beauty and tranquility. Located in the Great Lakes between Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the entire world and is Canada's 31st largest island. Our exploration begins with the North Channel, the strait between mainland Northern Ontario and the island. The beautiful town of Little Current is located right on the water of the North Channel, with a picturesque harbour that is visited by many boats from both Canada and the U.S. We'll also get a first look at the famous Swing Bridge, one of the last remaining swing bridges in North America. Built in 1913, it is now an Ontario Heritage Site and is the only road link for cars and trucks to get onto Manitoulin Island -- we'll see much more of the swing bridge in a future episode. In part 2 we'll get a closer look at the town of Little Current -- stay tuned!
