Southwestern Ontario is FULL of adventure, you just need to know where to look. By doing just a little bit of research for local attractions, conservation areas, trails, and unique adventures in your area, you may find something interesting. Explore what Southwestern Ontario has to offer and experience some of the uniqueness of what’s happening in our own backyard
Wine Tasting in Pelee Island
Long a destination for wine lovers, Pelee Island, Ontario’s southernmost point and located on Lake Erie is home to Pelee Island Winery and the Kingsville Winery. Foodies will want to add a cheese and wine tasting or a chocolate and wine-pairing package to a romantic getaway. For families or those travelling with outdoor enthusiasts, the Island also boasts geocaching secrets to be discovered.
Bike the Goderich to Guelph Rail Trail
Following the historical rail line, today the 127-kilometre route connects lakeside Goderich with urban Guelph, a rail line that ceased operation in the 1990s. From the rolling agricultural fields of Huron County to the Kissing Bridge trail near Kitchener, including the covered Bridge in West Montrose, the trail is flat and perfect on two wheels or on foot. On route, we recommend sampling local food and wine including the Mennonite cuisine at Anna Mae’s in Millbank. Or time your visit to coincide with a day at the St. Jacob’s Farmers’ Market, a family favourite full of tasty treats and fine antique treasures.
Explore the beaches in the Bruce
The sandy beaches of Sauble Beach and Port Elgin, waterfalls galore and hiking trails including the Bruce Trail and Flowerpot Island make this a top destination in all seasons. In the warmer months, go glamping at one of the conservations areas and spend your days hiking in between exploring the food and drink scene. Venture north to kayak over or dive around shipwrecks near Tobermory. Enjoy a day café-hopping and browsing the local boutiques of Sauble Beach. Or just find a spot on the sandy beaches and settle in for a Lake Huron beach day! Bruce County is a perfect destination for families or couples.
A unique experience in a unique Huron County village
Home of the Cowbell Brewing Company whose range of beers take inspiration from local folklore, Blyth Ontario is increasing its luxury accommodations, tempting travellers to stay a night or two. It’s said the Cowbell’s Absent Landlord Kolsch refers to landowner Henry Blyth who hailed from England but never made his way across the Atlantic to the land he claimed. Downtown, don’t miss Thursday night Wing Night at the Boot, a local favourite and also the topic of a previous theatre production at the Blyth Festival across the street. This small but mighty theatre produces five live theatre productions each summer, telling local tales that resonate with the audience that tend to flock from nearby towns and villages. The Goderich to Guelph Trail passes through Blyth for cycling or exploring on foot.
Escape to Stratford Ontario
For a weekend filled with theatre, shopping and exploring the great food and wine scene, look no further than nearby Stratford, Ontario. Grab a takeout dish from Sirkel Foods and a seat at one of the picnic tables in Market Square, the heart of the action. Or, grab a sandwich from York Street Kitchen and head down to the Avon River for a picnic followed by some pedal boating along to the Festival Theatre. Lattes from Revel make for the perfect accompaniment while wandering the independent boutiques, meeting the makers in downtown Stratford. Luxury accommodation and dining options make this a top city break destination.
Ready to start exploring in your own backyard? Contact Krista at Tovell Travel to start planning your Southwestern Ontario getaway today!