Colpoy's Bay Adventures

Colpoy's Bay: A Natural Retreat

by Sandra J. Howe

Winter sun shimmers across the expanse of Colpoy's Bay. The limestone bluffs of the Niagara Escarpment rise along the far shore, topped by ancient white cedars. Solitary cottages and the hamlet of Oxenden populate that south shore. Here on the north shore, the sleepy village of Colpoy's Bay breathes with the relaxed contentment of retirement. It is a peaceful place, soothed by the flowing music of Colpoys Creek and the gentle waves lapping on cobble beaches.

Nature and history are powerful presences in this remote community. The bay, in all its moods, is ever-present. Watersports are popular in other seasons but in winter, people are more cautious of the the clear, frigid waters. The storms that can rage suddenly. The fierce, chilling winds that can blow. Still the fishermen gather predawn to cast for luck from Gleason's Wharf. Occasionally the old fishing boat leaves the dock. Colpoy's Bay forever shapes its namesake village.

The old mixes seamlessly with the new in Colpoys, historic homesteads and modern cottages mingling in a friendly way. People wave as they drive by. I am housesitting for a month, and a neighbour dropped by to invite me up for wine. A lovely gesture! She described her home at the top of Whicher's Hill near the cemetery. I snowshoed along the Bruce Trail near there recently, exploring an orchard of heritage apple trees frequented by deer. The rugged farm fields are returning to forest. From the hilltop, the vistas west up the bay to Wiarton or east to Skinner's Bluff and the outer islands on Georgian Bay are superb.

Sitting in a cozy window seat with a woodfire crackling in the fireplace, Colpoy's Bay feels like a timeless place. The land and water remember many generations who have come and gone from these shores. Fishing, forestry, farming, and now tourism continue to mold this landscape but it will always hold true to its own wild form. Colpoy's Bay will remain a place to step back, slow down, and catch up with yourself. I am grateful for the opportunity to unwind in this natural retreat!