monarch point

Ontario just got a new nature preserve and it's 5 times the size of the Toronto Islands

If you're searching for a new place to get away from the concrete jungle and fully immerse yourself in the stunning nature that you can only find in Southern Ontario, the province has just created another conservation reserve for the first time in more than a decade.

The newly-designated space at Monarch Point is nestled along the south shores of picturesque Prince Edward County and is the perfect addition to your bucket list of things to do during a day or weekend trip to the region, which is renowned for its wineries and natural beauty, among other things.

Almost five times the size of the Toronto Islands, the enormous 4,000-acre green space will now have its wide array of wildlife, vegetation and complex ecosystems formally protected under the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act.

The legislation encourages research, education, and ecologically sustainable land uses and activities, driving tourism to the area while still preserving the sensitive habitats and biodiversity that make this part of the province so special.

Residents can come hike, meditate, birdwatch, learn, and, of course, catch a glimpse of the endangered monarch butterfly in its natural habitat — all mindfully and with the utmost consideration for the environment, of course.

"This new protected area will not only safeguard important habitat for the iconic monarch butterfly, but also for countless other species that call this area home," Ontario's Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks said in a release about the reserve yesterday.

"I'm proud that this new protected area will ensure future generations can enjoy the natural beauty of our province."

The dreamy beaches, adorable accommodations, charming small towns with their historic architecture, and alluring nature like that found in the new Monarch Point Conservation Reserve are what have made PEC such a trendy getaway spot for people in Toronto in recent years.

Lead photo by

Maxime Laterreur


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

Lineups for the ferry from the Toronto Islands are already packed and chaotic

Someone tried to help at scene of Ontario crash and had their car stolen immediately

This race proves whether it's faster to 'ride the loop' on TTC subway or walk

Ontario is home to a second venomous snake species you may not know about

There's a new worst road in Ontario but Toronto's nightmare street is still up there

People are complaining about another feature of Toronto's declining waterfront attraction

Canada Child Benefit increasing soon and you could get nearly $7,800 per kid

A Toronto park is about to be totally transformed and here's what it will look like