the grotto

I absolutely loved going to the grotto, the view was amazing and there were a lot of people there. It was an amazing outdoor lake party! The water was extremely cold but that added to the fun, and the walk there was very peaceful and gorgeous. I would definitely recommend going here if you want a nice relaxing beautiful getaway.

The view is breath taking. the water is alot colder then i would of thought it was. A must see. Lots of trails all with different views. Worth all the walking

We had heard some really good reviews of The Grotto and suggestions that, although it was "a hike", it would "be worth it in the end". Now, I'm no extreme mountaineer, but after a leisurely 30 minute stroll along a pretty flat series of boardwalks, we came upon a craggy outcrop on Lake Ontario where a large volume of people seem to have gathered....for some reason. We were advised we should try to "climb the rocks to the top", but, to be honest, I climbed harder things the last time I went up the stairs to bed.Having visited many other beautiful parts of Canada I'm surprised this is hyped as much as it appears to be.I can only assume it's because we are spoilt back home as we live near a long stretch of coastline that is marked as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, sprinkled with thousand-year old castles. I guess if, as a tourist, you've lived your life in a land locked country you might consider this to be some sort of maritime utopia, but if your homeland happens to have a coastline you'll have seen it all before.

My son and i went to this.....it was so busy full of people.Instead of crawling through the hole we actually swam around holding onto the wall of the cliff. It was amazing. Didn't swim inside because someone was getting ready to swim under the cave. Next time we will. A must do!!

I have always loved the bruce peninsula. Small fee to park your car, then many different hikes to the grotto. Always found it best during the week--a lot quieter. Beautiful clear water, but the water is very cold. Georgian bay--what can i say? Excellent!

But, plunged in the clear, clean water anyways! Lots of fun!Great rock scenery and hiking. Incredible amount of visitors here, didn't realize how popular it was.

The walk, the trek and finally the view.. It is one of the best place I have ever been... The view of the cave from the top and as well as from bottom are simply amazing. The deep blue lake add a special flavor to it...

Our second time to the Grotto. We stayed in a yurt in the park so it was only a 35 minute hike. Watch out for rattle snakes on your hike.One of the most beautiful places in Ontario. The water is cold but it's worth a dip so you can experience the smooth rocks under your feet. Spectacular beauty and very busy. Don't expect tranquility but go for the experience.

This is a one of a kind view, peering down into the water is just spectacular. The walk out to The Grotto is beautiful also. Worth seeing again and again!

Visiting the Grotto at any age and anytime of the year is a truly amazing experience. Late spring, summer, and early fall can be very busy times at the Grotto so if you have the chance to visit during the off-season, November to April we highly recommend you do so. The Bruce Peninsula National Park is free to enter before the middle of May and after Canadian Thanksgiving in mid October (check http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/on/bruce/visit/visit2.aspx for actual dates)...so it's cheaper and virtually empty so you feel like you have it all to yourself. I've attached a link to a map of the area (http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/on/bruce/visit/visit6/visit6d.aspx) so as you can see there's plenty of places to hike and several spots to sit, relax, picnic, and enjoy the picturesque views. ***Please keep in mind that there are very few businesses open in Tobermory and surrounding area during the months of November to April so please do your homework (internet) and prepare accordingly (weather, clothing, shoes) so you can fully enjoy your visit to the Grotto. If you are in the Tobermory area during the spring, summer, and early fall we can personally recommend eating at Ancient Cedars Cafe (located at the golf course) and The Crowsnest Pub & Restaurant...keep an eye for the Tobermory Brewing Co. & Grill due to open in April 2015. Tobermory is a great place to live & visit, I get to do both.

The Grotto, part of the Bruce Peninsula National Park, just south of Tobermory, is a place you must visit. Give yourself a full day, and don't forget your camera and good, sturdy hiking shoes. The sights are beautiful and breathtaking...we had no idea what we were in for. If you are daring, there are some great descents and ascents to be made. You can even go swimming in Georgian Bay...and jump in from a considerable height, if you dare! There was so much more to see, and not enough time to see and do it all. We plan on going back!

Beatifull place. The water is almost ice cold, and crystal clear. And everyone is swimming and diving.But if you are planning to go there in the summer come before 8 a.m.Otherwise the park will be full and they won't let you in.

The Grotto, oh my!This is the first time while writing a review I just don't know how to begin, Grotto does that to you, leaves you speechless. *Sigh*It is the best place to go, one of the most beautiful places I have seen so far. It brings out the adventurer in you and forces you to explore the glory of this place with all your strength. There, I said it!We visited this place in October, so it was chilly already but still this place is worth it.Scenic value: 10/10Beautiful clean blue water so blue that it hurts your eyes. Restrooms: I noticed 2 toilets there which look almost like little cottages.Adventure: 10/10You need to walk for about 20-30 mins to get to the Grotto, the walk is good depending on the season. (Should carry water)The Beach: When you go to the Grotto you first see the beach, do stop by to enjoy it and just relax as it is worth it.The Cove: You continue climbing upwards and will see a rocky hill on your right, follow the trail on the left and you will come to some rocks and the water at the back. To get to the cave you can either climb down through the rocks (not for the fainthearted). the other way is to squeeze through the small hole. At first glance it seems dangerous, impossible and risky but once you get in you will realise that the formation of rocks help you in getting down to the bottom and the cave on your right. The cave itself seems something out of a movie, the crystal clear water and if you notice once inside the cave there are underwater caves. So the light passes through them and it looks stunning. Explore the place thoroughly as this place is breathtakingly beautiful and once you're back to your city you will be missing it for a long time.

Absolutely stunning views after the hike. Hubby and I were there just after labour day weekend. We thought we stepped somewhere in the carribean. Crystal clear water but very cold. Hubby enjoyed swimming and said it was refreshing. Went down to the cave, don't forget good hiking shoes and take food for a picnic.

Besides a bathing suit, make sure to bring running shoes to climb up and down the grotto! Beautiful view.