Finding the Group of Seven Jackson sites

Wawa, Canada

Experience hosted by Johanna

  1. 90 mins
  2. Hosted in English

What you'll do

We will be exploring the exact spots where A.Y. Jackson sat and created 10 paintings of the Sandy Beach area. This truly unique Air BnB experience begins at the Sandy Beach Pavillion. You will be met by your tour guide and local historian Johanna Rowe. Walking along the spectacular shoreline you will be encouraged to pinpoint the exact locations where Jackson sat and painted a collection of images collected by Johanna. We have permission to view the cottage property A.Y. shared with the family of Harry and Jennie Ross. Wear comfortable footwear for sandy, wet, rocky terrain...and wear appropriate clothing for the potential for a sudden change in weather next to Lake Superior. Hike is approximately 1.5 km's in length and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.
Other things to note
Weather is normally a bit cooler along the lake....bring a sweater especially if it is earlier or later in the day. Most days there are no bugs but just in case you don't like these pesty critters, bring bug dope.
We will be exploring the exact spots where A.Y. Jackson sat and created 10 paintings of the Sandy Beach area. This truly unique Air BnB experience begins at the Sandy Beach Pavillion. You will be met by your tour guide and local historian Johanna Rowe. Walking along the spectacular shoreline you will be encouraged to pinpoint the exact locations where Jackson sat and painted a collection of images collected by Johanna. We have permission to…

Meet your host, Johanna

Host on Airbnb since 2019
  • 12 Reviews
  • Identity verified
I am a life-time resident of the Wawa area and passionate about our vibrant, rich and diverse history. I have written a number of books on the history of the Wawa and Superior East region including a work-in-progress on the Group of 7, A.Y. Jackson and his time sketching and painting in the Wawa area. I am a member of the Canadian Association of Heritage Professionals and provide presentations and tours to groups of all interests.
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From $30/person

Sat., Jan. 22
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
$30 per person
Sun., Jan. 23
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
$30 per person
Sat., Jan. 29
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
$30 per person
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Where you'll be

The tour takes place at Sandy Beach which locals consider their secret beach site on Superior. The sand is fine, the water is shallow and warm (during July & August) and often we are the only ones on site. If we time it right, we may just have to go for a dip in the lake or capture photos of the one-of-a-kind Superior sunsets.

Rated 4.92 out of 5 from 12 reviews.

Sonya
August 2021
We had such a great experience! Johanna is very knowledgeable and so much fun. I highly recommend doing the tour in the evening, the sunsets are breathtaking.
Fiona
August 2021
This is one of our vacation experiences that will truly linger. The stories and the setting that Johanna shared with us were not only memorable but magical. I thought I knew the Group of Seven... but we learned so much more on this unique tour. What could be nicer than a sunset walk on a gorgeous beach being drawn into an engaging history with such a knowledgeable guide?! Such a unique and well-researched presentation that really brought these artists (and especially AY Jackson) to life. Would highly recommend.
Andrea
July 2021
This was the perfect ending to our Moments of Algoma Group of Seven Touring Route road trip. It was a thoughtful and interesting tour in the beautiful location that inspired A.Y. Jackson. The Vinyl Cafe recording gave me goose bumps.
Jessica
October 2020
Johanna is a real expert on the topic of the group of seven and has a passion for the history surrounding their art and the places where they painted. She has done lots of research and has some special insights into the community that welcomed these painters from Toronto. This was a very special experience.
Mark
September 2020
The A. Y. Jackson historical tour was a very nice part of our time in the Wawa area. Johanna really knows her topic, and she uses the Sandy Beach location as well as audio and visual aids to make the art works of this incredible Canadian come to life.
Brandy
August 2020
This was a wonderful experience. Johanna’s love and passion for the area and it’s history was evident in the way she spoke. It ignited a spark in me to explore more of The Group of Seven locations. I had a great time and got to see some breathtaking views. Totally recommend this experience. I will be back to take in those views again. Thank you! ❤️
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Things to know

Guest requirements

Guests aged 5 and up can attend, up to 10 guests total.
All participants must wear a protective face covering and practise social distancing.

What to bring

Bring a bathing suit and towel if you and the Lake are in the right mood for a swim.
If you are a shutterbug, bring your camera - the view is amazing.
Good idea to bring warm clothes or a jacket as the temperature is cooler next to Superior.
Pack some bug dope in case the mosquitoes find us (rare).

Cancellation policy

Cancel up to 7 days before the Experience start time for a full refund, or within 24 hours of booking as long as the booking is made more than 48 hours before the start time.
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