The Thousands Islands are a network of in fact nearly 1,800 islands that span the American-Canadian border in the Saint Lawrence River. Some, like Wolfe Island, the largest at 124 sq km have significant year-round populations, while others are merely rocky outcrops visited by migrating birds. The whole area is hugely popular as a holiday destination, particularly for sailing – so much so that it’s sometimes called the ‘fresh water boating capital of the world’. Photo by: hermez

Around twenty of these islands form the Saint Lawrence Islands National Park, the smallest of Canada’s national parks. The Thousand Islands Frontenac Arch region was designated a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 2002. The US islands include numerous New York State parks, most notably Robert Moses State Park. Photo by: Guddemischi

The area is often traversed by freighters on their way into and out of the Great Lakes shipping lanes, but is so dotted with barely rocks that local navigators are hired to help the vessels travel through the hazardous waterway. This is unwise to travel the waters at night, except in the main channels and with good charts. It’s a popular place for experienced divers as the waters mostly so clear and the sea bed is littered with many shipwrecks for them to explore. Photo by: baalands

The area is also famous for its wealthy up state New Yorkers and many of the islands are privately owned. A plethora of ‘No Landing’ signs reminds potential visitors that they can look, but not to touch, so the best way to enjoy the area is by boat. Photo by: JasonB3

When to Go: The shoulder seasons of late April to May and September to early October are less crowded and can have good weather. Population: 22,450. How to get there: Via The Thousands Islands bridge from New York state or tour the area by boat from Gananoque.