Gimli & Hecla - Interlake North

A short drive north of Winnipeg gets you to the sandy beaches of Matlock, Whytewold and Ponemah where you can venture onto iconic piers that stretch into the lake. Winnipeg Beach is a historic favourite with its boardwalk and sandy shoreline, and further north is Gimli which is known as the Heart of New Iceland. Take a photo with the stoic Viking statue, get a history lesson at the New Iceland Heritage Museum, then stroll past beautifully painted murals of the boardwalk.

Further north on Highway 8 is Hecla-Grindstone Provincial Park. Learn more about the historic buildings and monuments on the self-guided Hecla Village Trail, follow the Lighthouse Trail or hike to Grassy Narrows Marsh, which features floating boardwalks and a lookout tower.

Location: Gimli | Photo credit: This Battered Suitcase, Breena Holeman/Travel Manitoba

Winnipeg Beach boasts a delicious array of seasonal dining options like Casa Bianca Café & Deli serving Italian meals for dinner. Enjoy burgers and fries at The Boardwalk and Salty’s Restaurant. Delight in Chinese-Canadian favourites at New Sing Fei Restaurant. Both Hecla and Gimli Lakeview Resorts feature Seagulls Restaurant and Lounge serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Have a casual shore lunch of fish and chips in Gimli at Kris’ Fish & Chips. Stop in at the Ship and Plough Tavern for pub fare or sample Greek dishes at Europa Restaurant & Deli. Pick up treats for the drive home and the classic Icelandic dessert vinertarta at Arborg Bakery.

Location: Gimli | Photo Credit: Liz Tran/Travel Manitoba.