Point Pelee & Pelee Island

The southernmost tip of mainland Canada is along major bird, bat, dragonfly, and butterfly migration routes. This might explain why Point Pelee National Park (150 km west of St. Thomas on Hwy. 401 or Hwy. 3, near Leamington), which has the smallest dry land area of any Canadian national park, draws more than a half million visitors every year. The park's visitor center has exhibits, slide shows, and a knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions. A tram operates April through October to "the tip." September is the best time to see monarch butterflies resting in Pelee before they head to Mexico's Sierra Madres. The park is among the world's best vantage points for bird-watching, especially during spring and fall migrations. Camping is not permitted. The park is open year-round. For hours and other information, call 519/322-2365, or log on to www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pelee.

Pelee Island (25 km and 90 min by ferry from Point Pelee via Hwy. 33 and Leamington ferry) is a small island at the west end of Lake Erie. This is Canada's southernmost inhabited point, on the same latitude as northern California and northern Spain. The island's permanent population is about 275, but in summer it quadruples as vacationers cram into private cottages, small guest inns, and campsites. A big draw is the island's wine. You can visit Pelee Island Winery's Wine Pavillion (open Mon.-Sat. 9-6, Sun. 11-5) or the ruins of Vin Villa winery, which dates from the mid-1800s. Still, Pelee maintains its island pace. On a day trip you might also experience the beaches and wildlife, picnic at the 1833 Pelee Lighthouse, or cycle around the island. There's no bank or ATM here, so exchange currency prior to visiting. In winter there are scheduled flights from Windsor. For more information go to www.pelee.org.