Manitou lies in the south central area of Manitoba, only a few short kilometres north of the United States border. Most of the area is high producing agricultural land, with many grain farms and livestock operations. The area's landscape was shaped thousands of years ago by the glaciers of the last ice age and the prehistoric Glacial Lake Agassiz that followed. Sediment deposited from the now extinct lake is what makes the area's soils so fertile and rich, and so well suited to crop production.
History
The Town of Manitou has the quality of life in which many people can only fantasize about. Fresh, clean air and the benefits of country friendliness and hospitality are just a few of the things this progressive rural community has to offer. Recreation activities abound through both the summer and winter months in Manitou and the surrounding areas, with a little something for everyone to enjoy.
Economic Base
Manitou is largely a farming community and much of the local business community is geared toward supporting agriculture and the local farmers. Services to the farming community range from elevators and seed plants, to equipment sales and service and crop inputs. Many small local businesses and services cater to the town's population of almost 800 residents. Like many areas of the province, Manitou and the surrounding area support a strong business based in the tourism sector. The beauty of the Pembina Valley provides the backdrop for many recreational activities, and many types of wildlife flourish.
Major Attractions
One of the largest attractions to the area is the Holiday Mountain Winter Park, located just minutes south of Manitou. This downhill ski facility developed on the steep banks of the valley, is one of the most popular winter recreation facilities in the province. The groomed runs provide a challenge to all caliber of skiers with slopes ranging from gentle to experienced-only. In the summertime, the Winter Park converts to a nine-hole public golf course, and the slopes of the valley offer some unique and challenging terrain. New in the year 2000, an outdoor theatre has been developed and an annual "Passion Play" draws large crowds from miles around. This outdoor theatre is only minutes from Manitou, west on Highway 3.
Facilities - Recreation, Parks, Culture
Manitou boasts a host of recreational activities. In winter, the local arena and curling rinks (equipped with artificial ice plants) are home to local minor hockey and Canskate programs, as well as, public skating. The curling rink is alive from October to April with local and hosted curling events.
For the golfer, Manitou offers a challenging nine-hole golf course where no tee times are required. The local park, located on the northeast corner of town is equipped with 20+ serviced campsites and numerous non-serviced sites. Picnic shelters and modern bathroom and shower facilities are available.
Manitou is also the home of a beautiful Opera House. The building built in 1930 has been designated a Provincial Heritage Site. The building boasts of excellent acoustics and the balcony and original woods seats have been preserved. This venue is the home for Oak Valley Productions Inc. (Theatre group), Borderline Choir and The Coffee House Musicians.
Other Information
Manitou has the distinction of being home to one of Manitoba's most well known female heroes and early pioneer in the movement toward women's rights. Nellie McClung worked, lived and raised her family in and around the town. Ms.McClung led the women of Manitoba in their successful fight for the right to vote, setting the pace for other provinces and women across Canada. Today, Manitou is a friendly, peaceful community, perfect for those wishing to enjoy an active lifestyle, or simply to enjoy the serenity of a small rural community.
