Tay Township is one of the smaller towns within Simcoe County with only a year-round population of 10 thousand people. It’s made up of a few smaller communities like Port McNicoll, South of Midland, and Victoria Harbour.
Victoria Harbour is located on Georgian Bay just 10 kilometres from Midland and has a permanent population of 2600 residents but doubles in size during the summer months with cottagers. It’s the perfect place for those looking for a slower-paced lifestyle, living by the water, or retirees because of its small-town charm.
Tay Township and Victoria Harbour can be easily accessed from Highway 400 to Highway 12, making it just over an hour’s drive from Toronto.
There are only two schools located within the whole township and that is Tay Shores Public School and St. Antoine Daniel Catholic School in Victoria Harbour. Students in high school are bussed to nearby town Midland where they can attend the Georgian Bay District Secondary School or St. Theresa’s Catholic High School. For families looking for day childcare or after school childcare, there are a couple of options within the community such as YMCA Child Care Victoria Harbour and Marvellous Munchkins.
Victoria Harbour has plenty of access to recreation opportunities making it a great spot for those looking to purchase a cottage property. Mackenzie Park Beach is a popular spot during the summer months for swimming. It also has a playground, volleyball court, and picnic tables. Oakwood Park on the other side of town is a second popular park especially during winter as the town builds an outdoor skating rink for all to enjoy. Kids can also enjoy playing on the playground, baseball diamond or running around the acre of land.
The Oakwood Community Centre is located next to Oakwood Park and the town offers summer day camps here for children. They offer a variety of educational and fun programming for kids all summer long. Other town programs that you will find here are soccer leagues and active living classes for adults.
Victoria Harbour is situated on Georgian Bay making it a prime location for boating. There are a couple of docks within the community one at Albert Street and another at Ellen Street. For those that would rather stay on land, there are a couple of different walking trails throughout the community that are popular amongst residents and visitors. The Sturgeon River Forest Loop Trail is a 3.8-kilometre trail that’s great for hiking and walking. It takes you through forested areas and along wetlands. It’s perfect to bring the kids along as well for a nature trip because there is an abundance of species to see here.
If you’re looking for something to occupy your time with, the Harbour Market happens every Friday evening from 3:30 until 7:30. You can find tons of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisans here. The Village Mercantile is the town’s general store and they always have new and fun items coming in and out of the store.
Victoria Harbour has a couple of dining hot spots, the Queen’s Quay, and Cheeky Mama Bakery. Queen’s Quay provides a relaxed atmosphere with the most beautiful view of Georgian Bay while you enjoy delicious comfort food and time with friends and family. If you’re needing something to satisfy your sweet tooth, Cheeky Mama Bakery is known for their butter tarts, but they also offer a variety of other bakery items like cookies, brownies, and cakes. They do also carry gluten and dairy-free options as well so everyone can enjoy a taste of Cheeky Mama.
Victoria Harbour may be a small community, but it has a lot happening. A perfect blend of a quiet community with plenty of recreational opportunities in town and close by.
-The BDAR Team