travelmanitoba

Lake Winnipeg Manitoba's largest lake and the 10th largest freshwater body of water in the world. In fact, water covers 16% of the whole province! With stats like these, it's no surprise Manitoba is home to over 100,000 lakes and waterways ready to be explored. Lake Winnipeg projects a maritime atmosphere with its cozy coastal villages where fishing was the way of life and long white sandy beaches with excellent options for water sports. Head to Hecla Island, which is connected to the mainland by a causeway or watch sailboats and yachts launch from the marina in Gimli. Enjoy a beach day and the soft white sand found at many beaches, including Grand Beach, Patricia Beach and Victoria Beach along the lake's east side. Hecla / Grindstone Provincial Park Located on the western shore of Lake Winnipeg is a rugged island with picturesque limestone shorelines. It was once the home of a small Icelandic community, whose cultural heritage can still be seen in many places on the island. The diverse landscapes of the provincial park are home to numerous animal species, including a large colony of pelicans. Enjoy the show when the mighty wings of these majestic birds power them up into the air! Icelandic for "peace", Salka Spa on the shores of Lake Winnipeg at the Lakeview Hecla Resort is a soothing retreat. Spa treatments embrace fire and ice elements, including a range of skincare and body treatments. Your heart rate will only rise when you step into the Nordic Plunge mineral pool. Or explore the greens at Lakeview Hecla Golf Course. As you tee off at hole 12, try not to be distracted by the beautiful sight of this massive inland body of water. The lake will happily steal your ball and a stroke from your score. Gull Harbour Marina is your gateway to year-round activities. Known as a hot spot for fishing, this local area about two hours north of Winnipeg boasts a wide variety of options for any devoted angler. The land of greenbacks will not disappoint as you search for your mammoth catch of the day! For outdoor enthusiasts, there is so much to do both on and off the water. From boat tours to hiking trails on Hecla Island, you'll discover hidden island treasures, a rich local history and unique floral and fauna. The quiet surroundings are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. The Lighthouse Inn restaurant is a favourite on the island. Built as a hatchery in the 1900s, curl up by the stone fireplace with a warm beverage or wind down from a busy day of exploring in the three-season sunroom with lakeside views. The recently renovated restaurants serves up dishes made with locally grown ingredients, including pickerel fresh from the lake. heclatourism.mb.ca lakeviewhotels.com Gimli The oldest operating store in Manitoba is H.P. Tergesen & Sons in Gimli. This historic site, still owned and operated by the Tergesen family, carries unique giftware, local fashions and jewelry with TRAVELMANITOBA .COM 15 a nod to the area's Icelandic roots. While in town, stop by Beach Boy Restaurant or Ship and Plough for some local Lake Winnipeg pickerel (the Manitoban name for walleye). If you just need a quick refuelling, stop by Flatland Coffee Roasters for their flagship coffee, Rogue Wave Espresso. H EC L A- G R I N D STO N E P ROVI N C IAL PAR K G I M L I P H OTO : L I Z TR AN

• Cover