Come Wander with Ontario’s Highlands Tourism Organization

It’s no secret to anyone who lives, works, or has ever stepped foot in Ontario’s Highlands that this region is a special place to live, work, and visit.  Untouched natural landscapes, pristine waterways, and the rich rural culture and history of our small towns underpin the character and vibrancy of the Ontario's Highlands experience.

When it comes to tourism, the Ontario's Highlands Tourism Organization's (OHTO) mandate is simple - OHTO exists so communities in the region are strengthened through responsible tourism. 

We aim to build a tourism industry community, one where we can all rely on one another and promote our mutual agenda: to create the very best, most successful and vibrant tourism region in Ontario through sustainable best practices in marketing, product and destination development, investment attraction and skills development.

OHTO's purpose is anchored in our commitment to Wander Sustainably, which is grounded in three values and principles in which we can have the greatest impact: Inclusivity, Sustainability, and Community Alignment.  This commitment to a responsible tourism approach is apparent in all that we do with both our visitor and industry-facing initiatives.

If you are involved in the tourism industry in the Ontario’s Highlands region, you are eligible for OHTO membership!  A fully free and accessible membership, join us on this journey of strengthening the region through responsible tourism.  Learn about the benefits of membership and come wander sustainably with us!

How Can We Help?

“As an OHTO member, I was eligible for financial support through the TRIP - Skills Development funding program. As a new business, this helped immensely with the support that I wouldn’t otherwise have afforded at this stage of development. This has resulted in feeling more confident, organized, and professional moving into the year ahead and having a clear understanding of where to focus my time and attention in order to be successful in my business endeavours.”

Courtney, OHTO Member
@CourtOutdoors

Wander Sustainably with OHTO

At OHTO, we work with our partners in tourism to support a responsible tourism approach that will actively engage our thriving industry and build a stronger, resilient future for our communities.

Learn more about our Wander Sustainbly Approach

Inclusivity
Community Alignment
Sustainability

An OHTO Success Story

Featuring member and regional success stories in Ontario's Highlands.

Passion Breeds Success: How a Lanark Couple Built a Top 1% Airbnb Business

What began as a simple idea during a stay at an Airbnb out west has grown into a thriving business for Alison and James, owners of Closs Crossing in Lanark County. Their success is rooted in passion, persistence, and a belief that it’s the little things—like a warm welcome and a slice of homemade cake—that leave the biggest impression.

Inspired by their B.C. host’s laid-back lifestyle and genuine hospitality, the couple returned home wondering how they could create a similar experience. With James’s carpentry skills, Alison’s love for interior design, and her background in marketing, they decided to take a chance and dive into the short-term rental market.

Their first Airbnb guest arrived at Closs Crossing in November 2019. “We staged our house, moved out, and...