The Grotto is indeed the jewel of Ontario. This scenic cave, which contains a pool of blue water, is located on the Georgian Bay shoreline in Bruce Peninsula National Park, not far from the town of Tobermory. The cave is hidden in the cliff face and its secluded beauty has been attracting visitors from all over the world.
Best Time to Visit the Grotto
The Grotto Parking is available from late April to late October. The summer months of July and August tend to be very crowded, so your best option is spring or fall. During these seasons, there are fewer crowds, so you can enjoy the beauty of the Grotto waters to the fullest. Prior reservation is recommended due to the high popularity of this natural landmark and limited parking space, so plan accordingly.
Formation of the Grotto
The Grotto was carved from natural stone by wind and water over thousands of years, which resulted in an open cave with stunning turquoise water inside. It's part of the scenic Bruce Trail at Bruce Peninsula National Park. The water of the grotto is so blue, thanks to the light which emanates from an underwater tunnel. The Grotto is not a good place for swimming because the water is always cold, even during the hottest summer months, although some swimmers try it out anyway. Scuba diving is also possible.
Location
The Grotto is located at the Cyprus Lake Road entrance to the Park. It can be reached from the cave mouth at Lake level or after you walk a short 45-minute rocky trail. While there, you can also witness the gorgeous landscapes of Indian Head Cove and the overhanging rock next to it, which is an underrated quaint spot for relaxation and sightseeing. The Grotto is situated approximately 11 miles (17 km) from the town of Tobermory, where you can stay the night and explore the nearby landmarks.
Schedule & Hours
The reservation options for the Grotto include several time slots, four hours each, during which you can fully enjoy the landmark. The Grotto can be visited from 8 am to 12 pm, from 9 am to 1 pm, from 12 pm to 4 pm, from 1 pm to 5 pm, from 4 pm to 8 pm, and from 5 pm to 9 pm.
Tickets & Admission
Admission to the Grotto includes an admission fee, parking fee, and a reservation fee. Admission costs $9 for adults and $7.75 for seniors and is free for children under 17 years old. Online reservation costs $11.50, while reservation by phone costs $13.50. Parking reservation costs $15.75 for a personal vehicle.
Wildlife in the Park
The Bruce Peninsula park is famous not only for The Grotto but also for its population of black bears. So watch out for wild animals during your hike. The bears are usually roaming the woods of the park from early spring until late fall, but they tend to stay away from urban and crowded areas. It's important to follow safety protocols when exploring the park grounds.
Practical info
What is The Grotto and where is it located?
Located in Bruce Peninsula National Park, next to the town of Tobermory in Ontario, Canada, The Grotto is a picturesque cave that has been sculpted by wind and water over thousands of years. This highly sought after tourist destination attracts people from all over the world. Show more
When is the best time to visit The Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park?
The Grotto is open to visitors from April 30 to October 31. The summer months tend to be the busiest, so it's best to plan for the spring or fall if you prefer smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. Though the weather can be colder in these months, the park is still a beautiful place to visit. Show more
How long does it take to reach The Grotto from the Cyprus Lake Road entrance?
Visitors to Bruce Peninsula National Park can ensure a scenic view of The Grotto by accessing it through the cave mouth at lake level or by embarking on a 45-minute rocky hike via the Cyprus Lake Road entrance. With some challenges involved, visitors should tread with caution and have appropriate footwear to avoid any accidents while on the trail. Show more
Can visitors swim in the blue pool at The Grotto?
Despite its inviting blue pool, swimming in The Grotto is not advised as the water is too cold for most. Although, some adventurous swimmers will still take a dip. However, visitors can capture some great pictures of this natural feature that can be part of excellent backdrops for social media posts. Scuba divers have the option of exploring the underwater region around The Grotto if they have the necessary certification. Show more
What kind of wildlife can visitors expect to encounter during the hike at Bruce Peninsula National Park?
The Bruce Peninsula National Park offers visitors the chance to see several wild animals, including bears, deer, coyotes, and raccoons. Hiking enthusiasts should stay alert and take necessary precautions to avoid any contact with these animals. They can also enjoy a diverse plant life, including some rare orchids native to the park's region. Show more
