Need to Unwind? Visit the Collingwood Labyrinth
Until Collingwood got it’s own labyrinth, I’ll admit I didn’t really know what they were. Now I do and it’s become another one of my special places in town.
Located in Harbourview Park near the Arboretum at the north end of Hickory Street, the Labyrinth was the creation of a dedicated and passionate group of volunteers who got together back in 2014. It was built in 2015 at a cost about $165,000 with money raised through donations. The land was donated by the Town of Collingwood and volunteers continue to maintain it and the surrounding gardens.
What Is a Labyrinth?
According to this site, “A Labyrinth is a single path or unicursal tool that is used to enhance brain activity by promoting personal, psychological and spiritual transformation. A Labyrinth is a clearly defined pathway that finds the centre and returns to the beginning but is very different from a maze. Unlike a Labyrinth which is set up for relaxation and meditation, a maze is full of dead ends and can lead you to become disoriented. A Labyrinth can be accessed by and is beneficial for all ages and stages in life. “
The Collingwood one is an 11-circuit design based on the floor in the famous Chartres Cathedral labyrinth in France. It was built using bricks that were salvaged from Collingwood’s Downtown Heritage Conservation District. The site is a powerful symbol of community and offers a peaceful stop along the trails. There is an interpretive site at the site that explains how to walk it in a beneficial manner and I can attest to the truth that a gentle and contemplative walk through the circuits helps to calm the mind and soul.
While you are there, be sure to note the beautiful snapping turtle sculpture that was generously donated by John McCaffrey, a local metal artist. The snapping turtle is the symbol for the Collingwood Labyrinth.
