The community of Lake on the Mountain revolves around, you guessed it, the Lake on the Mountain.
This freshwater lake is one of Ontario’s natural wonders. Measuring just over one square kilometre, it rises 60 metres above the Bay of Quinte.
For generations, the Lake on the Mountain has been shrouded in mystery. Was it created by a volcano or a meteoric collision? Is it the result of glacial whirlpools? With no apparent water source, how does the water continue to flow? Is the Lake on the Mountain bottomless?
Geologists today believe the lake is the result of a collapsed doline or sinkhole, a phenomenon common in areas where limestone is prevalent. Believed to be fed by two small streams, the most credible measurement pegs the lake at 37 metres deep.
Surrounding the lake is The Lake on the Mountain Provincial Park, one of 3 provincial parks in the County. With sweeping views above Picton Bay and of the countryside, this 104 hectare park is perfect for a romantic picnic or walk on the boardwalk. Looking for the perfect picnic spot? Check out Eat, Play, Love PEC for top-secret spots.
The Lake on the Mountain Resort offers two dining options, both serving local fare, including many fresh organic products from their own gardens. Dine on the patio overlooking the Bay of Quinte or eat by the fireplace in the circa 1796 stone dining room.
Originally located at the resort, the Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company has been brewing small-batch craft beer long before it became the hip thing to do; they have recently expanded and now operate the brewery and tasting room out of a separate location just down the road from the Glenora ferry. If the weather is nice, the picnic tables overlooking a wooded pond behind the brewery make an idyllic spot to enjoy your beer flight.
Also of note: the Glenora Ferry is near here, shuttling passengers to and from the County.
Real Estate in Lake of the Mountain
There aren’t a lot of housing options in the Lake on the Mountain area. With a large conservation area and a huge portion of the lakefront land owned by one mystery owner, lakefront homes are rarely available. So if you see something you like, be ready to move quickly.
Must Do and See in Lake on the Mountain
- Stand on the main road and take in the view: on one side, you’ll see the Bay of Quinte; on the other, the Lake on the Mountain, 60 metres above the Bay
- Ride horses on the trails at Diamond J Ranch
- Enjoy a flight of beer at the Lake on the Mountain Brewing Company
- Dine al fresco on the patio at the Miller House restaurant