About six years ago, there was this little event called the Global Pandemic (I can’t believe it was that long ago). I’m almost ashamed to admit that we never really road-tripped until the pandemic forced us to. It wasn’t something my family did growing up, so I just didn’t have the exposure.
But if anything, I’m grateful the pandemic forced me to fall in love with my own backyard. Out of that, this very Substack and our Facebook Group were born. I say all this because Elora was the first day trip (outside of Niagara Falls) to a small town that sparked it all.
It is a stunning 19th-century limestone village sitting on the edge of a massive, rushing gorge just 90 minutes from Toronto. One of the famous Group of Seven painters, A.J. Casson, called Elora “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village,” and honestly, he wasn’t wrong. From the picturesque, lantern-lit courtyards to the towering 22-metre cliffs, the beauty is undeniable. Whether you want to throw yourself down a river on a tube, hike the rugged trails, or just drink local lagers on a stone patio, this town is the ultimate quick escape
We loaded up the car—Gordana, my brother, her friend (also named Gordana), and I, and headed out. But before hitting the village, we took a quick side quest to Andrews Scenic Acres in Milton. Walking through their massive sunflower kingdom is wild. Plus, they have a winery on-site to grab a bottle to take home after the day’s events.
Once we got to Elora, the main event was the Elora Gorge. Standing at the Victoria Park lookout, peering down 22 metres at the rushing Grand River while tubers navigated the rapids below, is a truly stunning sight. We even hit the water for some canoeing. After working up a serious appetite, we grabbed lunch at the Elora Mill Restaurant. I had an incredible, mouth-watering lamb burger, Gordana had the salmon, and the view of the gorge right from our table was absolutely perfect.
5 Faves
The Elora Gorge Conservation Area: The absolute highlight of the area. You can hike the riverside trails, camp, kayak, or ride an inner tube through the rapids of the Grand River.
The Elora Quarry: A two-acre limestone quarry surrounded by magnificent cliffs up to 12 meters high. It is a massive, tree-covered swimming hole, but they cap the capacity at 1,300 guests to protect the environment, so get there early.
👉🏾 More Details Here
Elora Mill Restaurant: A fantastic spot serving delicious regional Ontarian cuisine. and the seasonal menu is incredible! I should mention that they even filmed Top Chef Canada here and the view of the gorge right from your table is absolutely unbeatable.
Elora Brewing Company: An authentic local craft microbrewery with a beautiful stone facade and exposed beams. Grab a flight of their blondes, lagers, and pilsners, and pair it with their modern takes on classic comfort food.
The Lost and Found Cafe: Tucked away in the Elora Mews, this cafe is your classic small town Ontario vibe. They serve some of the best coffee in the province, and their smoked salmon bagel is highly recommended.
👉🏾 Things To Do In Elora Ontario On A Day Trip: 34 Attractions, Inns & Restaurants
👉🏾 Elora Gorge Conservation Area: Visit Ontario’s Grand River Playground
👉🏾 Amazing Places To Stay in Elora
👉🏾 Our favourite Car Rental Service: Discover Cars
Road Trip Shop New Arrival
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There is a reason A.J. Casson called Elora the most beautiful village in Ontario. It is not every day you find 19th-century architecture, towering 22-metre limestone cliffs, and rushing river rapids all packed into one spot just 90 minutes from the concrete jungle of Toronto.
— Keep Calm & Road Trip ON (Christopher & Gordana)
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