Chosen for its fertile soil and nearby forests, Gimli (originally called New Iceland) was founded over a century ago by an extraordinarily tough and determined group of Icelandic settlers. It still contains the largest community of people of Icelandic descent outside the home country.
Situated on the western shores of Lake Winnipeg, 75 km north of the capital city, it is now a favourite of holiday-makers. People come to the lakeside community for its wealth of lovely beaches, water based activities, cottages and resort-style atmosphere.
There are many lodges in the Gimli area, some equipped for large conferences, as well as a wealth of B&B’s, RV parks and campgrounds.
Sailing and fishing are popular pastimes on the enormous lake (Lake Winnipeg is 436 kilometers in length and 111 kilometers across). At the Harbour Stage, the summer months are packed with live entertainment and evening concerts for the whole family. The New Iceland Heritage Museum is a great place to stop to experience the rich cultural heritage of the region. Since 1932 the Icelandic Festival of Manitoba, Íslendingadagurinn, has been held in Gimli in August.
Racing enthusiasts will head for the Gimli Motorsports Park for car, motorcycle and snowmobile events. Cross country skiing, skating, snowmobiling and ice-fishing are popular winter pastimes. Whiskey lovers can thank the distillery in Gimli for producing the revered Crown Royal brand.
Gimli Industrial Park Airport is a former military field located 3.7 km west of Gimli. The airfield served during World War II as the home of Service Flying Training School #18 under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Today, the field is operated as a civilian Airport. Flying-related activities include use by Manitoba Provincial Government\'s water bomber squadron, two private flying schools and the Regional Gliding School (Prairie).
Fiber Art Studio & Heritage Craft Gallery - Visit Creature Comforts Cottage and see the live animals, live butterflies, Tessie bears...