Landscaping in Gananoque and the Thousand Islands
Natural stone steps, armour stone walls, patios and paths built for granite, slopes and the waterfront, from Gananoque to Ivy Lea.
Your Local Landscaping Team
Outdoor Spaces That Belong on the River
Properties along the St. Lawrence are some of the most beautiful in Ontario, and some of the most demanding to build on. Granite outcrops, steep grades and shoreline erosion mean a landscape has to be planned around the land, not forced onto it.
Mark of Excellence Landscaping has been owner-operated since 2014. Mark is a Humber College trained Landscape Technician with ICPI certification, and he is happy to answer your questions at every stage of the project. Year-round homes and seasonal cottages get the same care.
Contact Us- Design and build under one roof
- Natural stone and armour stone work
- Safe access to the water on sloped lots
- ICPI-certified interlock installation
- Low-maintenance plans for cottages
What We Do
Our Services in the Thousand Islands
Stone Steps and Paths
Natural stone steps and paths that make sloped lots and water access safe and easy.
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Armour Stone Walls
Retaining walls and terraces that hold back slopes, control erosion and add level space.
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Gardens and Planting
Native and low-maintenance planting that softens stone and suits cottage life.
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Landscape Design
A plan that works with the rock, the grade and the view rather than against them.
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Excavation and Grading
Site preparation and drainage that move water away from the home and protect the shoreline.
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Outdoor Lighting
Path, step and accent lighting for safe evenings and a warm welcome after dark.
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Built for the Land
We Plan for Rock, Slope and Shoreline
Granite and shallow soil. The Frontenac Arch brings bedrock right to the surface. We design around outcrops and use natural stone that looks like it has always been there.
Steep grades. Many river lots drop sharply toward the water. Terraced walls and stone steps turn a hard climb into usable, safe outdoor space.
Shoreline care. Runoff and wave action wear away banks over time. Thoughtful grading, planting and stonework help protect the shoreline. Work close to the water may need a permit from the local conservation authority, and we can help you understand what applies.
Cottage living. Seasonal owners want a property that looks after itself. We favour durable materials and low-maintenance planting so you spend summers enjoying the place, not working on it.
Where We Work
Communities We Serve in Leeds and the Thousand Islands
We regularly work along the river and inland, including:
Not sure if you are in our area? Send us your address and we will let you know.
What Our Clients Say
"Over the last 4 years Mark has worked with us to improve our lakeside property, and with each project we were thrilled with the results. ... His design ideas were creative and effective, making our access to the lake safer and more convenient. Mark and his team do excellent work; focused on quality, flexible to design changes and conscious of budget."Doug Pfeiffer
FAQ
Thousand Islands Landscaping Questions
Do you work in Gananoque, Rockport and Ivy Lea?
Yes. Gananoque and Leeds and the Thousand Islands are part of our regular service area. Every quote starts with a visit to your property.
Can you build steps down to the water on a steep lot?
Yes. Natural stone steps, landings and terraced walls are some of the most common projects on river properties. We design them for safe footing and long-term stability.
Do I need a permit for work near the shoreline?
Work close to the water can require approval from the local conservation authority or municipality. Requirements depend on your property, so we recommend checking early. We can help you understand what may apply before work begins.
Can you work on a seasonal cottage while I am away?
Yes. We plan the project with you, keep you updated with photos and messages during the work, and walk you through the finished result when you are back.
How much will my project cost?
Cost depends on access, the size of the project, the materials you choose and the site conditions. We provide a personalized quote after an on-site consultation. Our guide to landscaping costs in the Kingston area explains what drives pricing.
Ready to Plan Your River Property?
Tell us about your home or cottage and how you want to use it. We will visit, listen, and put together a plan that suits the land and your budget.
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