When you hear 'Thousand Islands,' you might think of a jar of salad dressing, but behind that creamy condiment is one of North America's most enchanting regions. The Thousand Islands is an archipelago in the St. Lawrence River, spanning the province of Ontario, Canada and the state of New York in the United States. It is made up of more than 1,800 islands. Some of these islands have fairytale castles; others are barely big enough for a hammock. There's also Just Room Enough Island, which lives up to its name with a single house and a lone tree.

The region is perfect for slow-paced exploration. Boat tours take you past grand estates and historic lighthouses, often stopping at landmarks like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. Kayakers are drawn to the region's clear waters and serene coves. Thanks to a unique microclimate, local winemakers craft award-winning wines that are well worth sampling. Oh, and the dressing? Legend says a local fishing guide's wife first created it for dinner guests, including actress May Irwin, who enjoyed it so much that she asked for the recipe. The rest, as they say, is delicious history.