Get ready to START your engines and mark your calendars! This year, PCA UCR is thrilled to unveil a spectacular lineup of driving tours, designed to bring our community together on the open road. From the scenic vistas of Muskoka, to the exhilarating twists and turns south of the Grand River, to the serene beauty of Prince Edward County’s winery region, each tour is crafted to delight, challenge, and bond. With special events like the Nomi Resort Drive, and the chance to break altitude records, 2024 promises to be a year of unforgettable journeys and camaraderie. Dive into the details of each tour, from kick-off dates to registration info, and prepare for a year of Porsche-powered excitement!
Sat May 25th
Spring Muskoka Driving Tour
Saturday May 25th the Muskoka Driving Tour season kicks off with a perennial favourite: our annual Spring Muskoka Driving Tour. This is a chance to see Muskoka before the trees are in full leaf, allowing for better visuals into the woods and waterways we travel past. Our lunch destination is in the works. Then we will finish in the afternoon for drinks and story-swapping at a local venue.
Registration opens Sunday April 28th at 9:00pm
Sat May 25th
Grand River South Driving Tour (Porsches, PASM & Planes)
The fall Grand River Driving Tour follows the Grand north of the 401, but there are some incredible roads and views along the Grand River south of the 401 also! Join us as we explore some fun twists, curves and straights on some less well-known roads this May. An exciting route has been planned, departing from west Kitchener and culminating at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, where we’ll park on the tarmac for photos with planes and the hangar as a backdrop! A catered lunch, guided museum tour and a chance to win a gift certificate for a flight on one of the museum’s vintage aircraft are included.
Please note, to offer maximum availability participation will be limited to either the Grand River South or the Grand River North tour.
Registration opens Sunday April 28th at 9:00pm.
Sat June 1stÂ
Southwest Counties Driving Tour (aka I’ve been everywhere man)
Join PCA/UCR members on Saturday June 1 for a rural driving tour, touching on some of Southwestern Ontario’s beautiful rural counties.
After gathering for registration at 10:00am at the Brant Sports Complex adjacent to the 403 near Paris, we will head out by 10:30 and tour some of the delightful back-country roads of Brant County and North Dumfries Township. Our first stop will be a local brew-pub in Ayr for a gourmet lunch. Some of the locally-made libations are available for purchase at the small shop in the pub.
After lunch we will head out for Port Rowan on Lake Erie, passing through parts of Brant, Oxford and Norfolk counties and a number of small towns along the way.
Our stop in Port Rowan will start with an afternoon snack and drink at a local independent café. Port Rowan affords views of the lake at the pier and a few interesting local shops. Tour participants are encouraged to spend some time enjoying Port Rowan, where the official driving tour completes.
For those heading back to 403 or 401 at the completion of the tour, Paris is an excellent destination for visiting boutique shops and marketplace and take in one of the wonderful restaurants in Paris for your evening meal. A list of suggested spots to visit in Paris after the tour will be provided. There is ample downtown parking in Paris in the generous lots just off the main street.
Registration opens Sunday April 28th at 9:00pm
Fri June 7 – Sun June 9
Prince Edward County Driving Tour – Rennsport Event
Mark your calendars as more details will follow. This is a 3-day tour but you can make it as many as you want including just coming for the Saturday. We will tour wineries, distilleries, breweries, cheese makers, and more. Hotel/BnB will take priority and will be done on an individual basis but needs to be done within the next few weeks as this takes place at a busy time. I am finalizing some details in an attempt to having offerings at different price points. As per last year, this event will be a UCR/Rennsport event and some meals and activities will be prepaid so expect a fee of about $200 for the weekend which will require registration and payment on ClubReg once set up. There will be an organized drive from Ottawa on the Friday with a lunch stop at the Opinicon. If enough people from Montreal plan to attend, we also organize a drive from there. Perhaps a brewery stop before registering at our accommodations and an organized dinner for Friday night. Alternatively, meet us for dinner or at our accommodations for a drink before ending the day. Saturday will begin with an amazing breakfast at the Royal Hotel in Picton and from there a driving tour will begin with many sites to visit. Dinner will probably be takeout pizza, BYOB in front of bonfire at our hotel/bnb. Sunday morning will start with a breakfast and a tour of more sites and finish with a lunch before everyone heads home. Hope you will join us!
Registration opens – Sunday April 7th at 9:00pm
Sat June 8 – Sun June 9th
Kawartha North Tour with Nomi Resorts (with overnight stay)
Embark on the Ultimate Driving Adventure:
The Nomi Resort Drive 2024
This June, prepare for a journey that combines thrilling driving experiences with the serene beauty of Muskoka’s landscapes. The Nomi Resort Drive is a curated adventure, featuring the most beloved roads from our past tours. It’s an opportunity for both seasoned participants and newcomers to explore unforgettable routes and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow driving enthusiasts.
Day 1: The Journey Begins
Our adventure kicks off in the morning at the familiar Webber’s parking lot, north of Orilla. As we venture northward, get ready for the thrilling bends of Southwood Road, Muskoka’s driving paradise. Our carefully planned route takes us through picturesque landscapes, detouring around South Portage Road and onto the quaint town of Dorset for a brief exploration.
Following a casual lunch in Minden, we’ll continue east towards the luxurious Nomi Resort.
This day’s drive, covering around 281KM, includes stretches of road that promise both excitement and scenic beauty. Arriving at Nomi Resort by 3:30pm, you’ll have time to unwind, explore the resort’s amenities, or relax by the lake.
Early Dinner at Land 8FIFTY. At 5:00pm, we’ll gather for an early dinner at the Land 8FIFTY restaurant. This specially arranged three-course meal with wine pairing is a perfect way to cap off the day. Finishing around 7:00pm, those not staying overnight will have ample time to embark on their journey home before it gets dark, ensuring a safe and pleasant return.
Day 2: The Adventure Continues (Optional)
For those extending their stay, Day 2 promises more driving pleasure. After a gourmet breakfast at the resort, we’ll head out at 9:30am. The route encompasses an amazing stretch of roads up to Madawaska, then Barry’s Bay, and back down south through Bancroft, finishing with the exhilarating Hwy 507. This optional day, covering about 355KM, concludes at the Foundry Kitchen and Bar for a celebratory wrap-up of our adrenaline-filled weekend.
Details at a Glance:
Day 1: Start at ~9am, Arrive at Nomi ~3:30pm, Dinner
at 5:00pm, End at 7:30pm, Total Distance: ~281KM
Day 2: (Optional): Start at ~9am, End at ~3pm,
Total Distance: ~355KM
Join us for a weekend of remarkable drives, fine dining, and unforgettable memories amidst the stunning landscapes of Muskoka. Space is limited for this exclusive driving experience—secure your spot now for the Nomi Resort Drive 2024.
Registration opens Sunday May 5th at 9:00pm
Thurs June 13 – Fri June 14
Muskoka Overnight Driving Tour
Embark on the Ultimate Driving Adventure:
Join us for the 4th annual Muskoka Overnight Driving Tour. One day is never enough, so we are doing two, with an overnight at a local resort. We will meet for the drive up in Uxbridge, making our way up through some twisty roads and ending at our resort for the night and to enjoy some of the amenities. The next day will feature some even more spectacular roads, with one featuring 153 turns in 22 km! The tour will wind up in Gravenhurst, conveniently located by Highway 11 for easy access to cottage country, the resort, or a trip back to the GTA.
Registration opens Sunday April 28th at 9:00pm
Wed July 10th
Gourmet Niagara Driving TourÂ
Join PCA/UCR members on WEDNESDAY July 10 for the Third Annual Gourmet Niagara Driving Tour. After the success of last year’s event, we decided to try something new this year, a weekday event. This reduces the traffic and gives us better food options. After gathering for registration adjacent to the QEW, our first stop will be one of the best-kept secrets in the Niagara area, the Painted Ladies of Grimsby Beach, a unique historical landmark.
We will then drive through Grimsby, and stop for a private tour of three gorgeous prize-winning local gardens, conveniently located adjacent to one another. Our route features winding back roads, and a number of passes up and down the Niagara escarpment, with fabulous views of Lake Ontario. We will enjoy a quick lunch of excellent grilled cheese sandwiches at Upper Canada Cheese Co., the only cheese maker in the Niagara Peninsula. You may also choose to load up on some gourmet cheeses and baked goods.
Our traditional tour and tasting at an award-winning winery has proved to be popular, so we are planning to repeat that event. After another drive through winding and scenic roads, we will have a gourmet meal at another renowned Niagara winery, where you will have the opportunity for socializing with fellow P-Car owners.
You are encouraged to spend the weekend in the area, there are many excellent scenic, culinary and entertainment options.
Registration opens Sunday June 2nd at 9:00pm
Sat July 13th
North Halton Escarpment drive
A relaxing half day drive featuring stunning Niagara Escarpment scenery. We will visit West Avenue Cidery for a gourmet pizza lunch and cider tasting. After lunch we will conclude with a scenic drive to a craft brewery.
Registration opens Sunday June 2nd at 9:00pm
Sat July 27th
Forks of the Credit Driving Tour
This driving tour is designed for a partial day close to the GTA, for those without a lot of time, while still getting out and enjoying some nice country roads. The group meets up at a Tim Hortons near the 401 and Mississauga Road and makes its way north through some interesting back roads including Forks Of The Credit.
Along Old Base Line Road keep an eye open as we drive past The Cheltenham Badlands, a unique landscape on the left. We will have a short stop in Orangeville, and from there the tour makes its way to the Hockley Valley (keep an eye open for the motel, which we will pass twice, used for Schitt’s Creek and by the Raptor’s 905 Basketball team), before heading south and ending up in Bolton for refreshments on a patio.
Registration opens Sunday June 16th at 9:00pm
Sat Aug 10th
Muskoka Craft Brewery TourÂ
Join your fellow PCA UCR members on the 3rd annual Muskoka Craft Brewery Driving Tour. You will experience driving your Porsche through the beauty and roads of Muskoka cottage country.
We will begin with lunch at the first brewery and then start the driving tour. The drive includes stops at five different Craft Breweries where we can stretch our legs, chat and take some photos. Each car registered on the drive will receive a sealed can of beer at each brewery, two at the final one, to complete a unique six-pack to take home.
At the final destination you can head home or stay and relax a bit and head back on your own schedule.
Registration opens Sunday July 7th at 9:00pm
Sun Aug 18th
Porsche Centre North Toronto Muskoka Drivers ExperienceÂ
Attention Porsche driving enthusiasts, the summer is here and it’s time to drive!
Come join a small group of PCA Porsche members for a guided spirited drive up to Lake Rosseau on a quiet Sunday morning. We’ll kick off the day at Porsche Centre North Toronto at 8am with a private Cars & Coffee before heading north on our day’s adventure.
Our first stop will be at Webers/Starbucks on HWY 11 to stretch our legs before tackling some extremely fun twisties while we make our way to the JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa where they will host our group on their scenic outdoor terrace overlooking Lake Rosseau for a chef inspired gourmet lunch. After we’ve finished our lunch we’ll make our way back down through Muskoka’s windy country roads where we will end the drive at Sawdust Brewing Company for a pint, and kick our feet up to reflect together on our day’s adventure.
Registration opens Sunday June 2nd at 9:00pm
Fri Aug 30th
Simcoe County & OPP Museum
This is a tour, sneaking in just before the Labour Day weekend. Starting out at the Enroute Station in Barrie at 9:00am, we will meander our way from Barrie to Orillia along some beautiful Simcoe County roads. We stop at the new Oro Station Motor Circuit to take a look, before continuing on to Orillia. There in Orillia we stop at the OPP Museum for a private tour followed by lunch in the OPP Steak-Out Cafe (pay your own lunch.)
Fee: $10 per person – which will be donated to the OPP Museum.
Registration opens Sunday July 28th at 9:00pm
Sat Sep 14th
Kawartha Lakes Scenic Roads and Lakeside Lunch
The Kawartha Lakes region has scenic beauty to rival Muskoka, along with some great roads with long straightaways and twisting curves. Mid-September, after the summer tourists have gone, is still warm and an ideal time to explore this area just a few hours from the GTA. This drive will start just outside Bobcaygeon (where the constellations reveal themselves one star at a time). We will meet at a property on the north end of Pigeon Lake for registration with coffee and a light breakfast, then hit the road for a tour through Buckhorn, Burleigh Falls and Stoney Lake. We’ll end back where we began with a catered lakeside lunch and an afternoon of camaraderie.
Registration opens Sunday August 11th at 9:00pm
Sun Sep 22nd
Porsche Centre Downtown Toronto Lakeshore East Driving Tour
This driving tour starts in the early morning in one of the best ways possible — mingling with fellow Porsche enthusiasts and club members, surrounded by the shiniest of the latest and greatest that our favourite automaker has to offer, in the bright inviting showroom of our host, Porsche Centre Downtown Toronto, at its new location at 259 Lake Shore Boulevard East.
If there is a good time to drive in Toronto, it would certainly be early on a Sunday. No worries, however, we aren’t hanging around long — as the heart of the city wakes up and starts beating, we set out east to drive some of the best roads that hug the shores of Lake Ontario, with pit stops into several interesting picturesque areas, opportunities to take in the magnificent scenery and pose for a couple of photo-ops.
Afterwards we wrap up the cruise much the same way as we began, with a delicious meal, compliments of the host, Porsche Centre Downtown Toronto, at a nice east-end eatery.
Registration opens Sunday August 18th at 9:00pm
Sat Sep 28th
Rideau Lakes Driving Tour
Enjoy the fall scenery around the Rideau Lakes region of Eastern Ontario. Drive through historic Chaffey’s Locks, Rideau Ferry and of course the quaint little lakeside town of Westport. Stop at The Opinicon Lodge and enjoy their home made ice cream. In between, there are miles of twisty roads which meander through forests, alongside lakes and cross rivers.
Don’t be surprised to view wildlife such as deer, black bear and wild turkey on your journey. If you are really lucky, you may spot a moose.
Dinner will be served at The River House Winery in Althorpe. Relax on their patio with outstanding views of the countryside while enjoying an ice cold beverage and socializing with fellow participants.
Registration opens Sunday August 25th at 9:00pm
Sat Oct 5th
K-W Grand River North Driving Tour
This popular tour exploring fun, interesting roads of the Kitchener-Waterloo area returns for its fourth year. Join fellow enthusiasts for an inspiring fall drive as we take in the brilliant fall colours while carving twists and turns west, north and east of Waterloo.
The route has been tweaked over the years to keep it fresh, and this iteration will be no exception, with plenty of amazing country views, corners, sweeping turns, dips and straights. The historic West Montrose Covered Bridge, one of the highlights from past years’ drives will return, but expect another less known, equally scenic local landmark to also feature in the tour!
Please note to offer maximum availability, participation will be limited to either the Grand River North or the Grand River South tour.
Registration opens Sunday September 1st at 9:00pm </>
Story By Eric Wang and Matthew Held, Driving Tour Chair
Photography from the UCR Archives
