The urge many feel to hibernate at home during the fall and winter months offers incredible advantages to those who would rather get out and explore instead.As others hunker down under blankets with their remote controls in hand, intrepid explorers who make their way to Norfolk County during this tranquil time in Ontario’s Garden reap the rewards of quiet country trails, welcoming wineries and craft breweries where staff have a lot more time to talk visitors through tastings, the best tables at restaurants no longer having to keep pace with the summer travel set, and some really incredible deals.
Should the perks of off-season pique your sense of wanderlust this fall or winter, here are six helpful tips to keep in mind as you plan your Norfolk County adventure.
1. Find A Cozy Place To Call Home For A Few Days
While Norfolk County is a very doable day trip for those living in southern Ontario or just south of the U.S. border, adding a night or two is highly recommended to ramp up your trip’s rest and relaxation quotient. Norfolk County’s diverse collection of accommodation options allows curious explorers to find a place to unwind that really reflects their unique preferences. The range of choices to consider includes:
Long Point Eco-Adventures |
The Dover George |
Cider Keg Farm Market |
Clonmel Castle |
2. Bundle Up and Experience Fall and Winter's Unique Beauty
As temperatures drop across Norfolk County, snow-covered Lake Erie shores, icy grapevines, and frosted rows of lavender offer a picture-perfect reminder that beauty doesn’t only exist when things are in full bloom. Visitors can set out for a few hours on Norfolk County’s extensive trail network to take in the area’s stunning natural landscapes. Whether hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or cycling through the snow on a fat bike, the off-season is an excellent time to explore the region. Borrow some of these favourite hiking and cycling routes to build out your itinerary. When the sun sets, head to Long Point Eco-Adventures’ Stargazing Observatory, where clear, dark winter skies provide some of the year’s best conditions for stargazing.
3. Settle In For Some Self-Care
For those who like to carve out some time during their travels to slow down, find calm, and appreciate life’s simple moments, Norfolk County has some stand-out options. Long Point Eco-Adventures’ new Jōro Outdoor Spa invites guests to relax, recharge, and find inner stillness in the great outdoors, even in the chilliest of winter moments. The hidden oasis allows guests to design a personalized contrast therapy journey cycling between a cedar sauna, ice bath, cold tub, outdoor fire circle, and tented tea lounge. Expect an experience that awakens the senses, boosts circulation, and floods the body with endorphins.
Those who prefer to find stillness during an indoor spa experience will appreciate the pampering treatments offered at The Row. This lakeside spa in Port Dover helps its guests escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life by immersing them in an environment dedicated to health and beauty.
4. Let Your Travels Inspire New Interests and Hobbies
As curious explorers make their way around Norfolk County, the interesting people and places they encounter along the way often fuel a sense of curiosity that inspires soul-filling new interests and hobbies. Here are just a few ways to stoke the fires for a new pursuit on your next trip:
- Intrigued by the world of wine, craft beer, or cider? Book a tasting tour with Ride The Bine, or plan a trip around one of the Toast The Coast Trail’s November and December Spirit of the Season touring weekends.
- Curious about astronomy? Head to Long Point Eco-Adventures’ brand-new planetarium. The indoor dome structure projects breathtaking outer space imagery, accompanied by a narrated journey for each planetary system.
- Eager to find creative new ways to live sustainably? Spend some time at Charlotteville Brewing Company and get inspired by the many ways this craft brewery supports the planet, such as giving spent grains to local farmers for cattle feed and offering cyclists a green discount.
- Feeling inspired to up your herbal tea game? Homegrown Hideaway’s Wildcraft Tea Adventure, an Ontario’s Southwest Signature Experience, is a one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure where participants wander the banks of the Lynn River, learn ethical foraging, and create their own bespoke tea blends.
- Missing the passion you used to feel for live music? Book tickets for one of the incredible tribute shows that take place at Port Dover’s Lighthouse Theatre during the off-season.
- Thinking it might be fun to try your hand at painting, pottery, or jewelry-making? Visit Lynnwood Arts’ Norfolk Studio Tour exhibition through December 13, where the work of 41 different local artists will be on display to inspire you.
- Wish you knew more about Canadian history? Head to the Port Dover Harbour Museum, where you can learn about the shipwrecks of Lake Erie and the acts of heroism that took place along the lakeshore.
5. Enjoy Meals That Celebrate and Showcase Local Ingredients
Norfolk County is home to an amazing assortment of restaurants where chefs passionately showcase local flavours in a tasty array of farm-to-table features. Make time to indulge in a true taste of place courtesy of these can’t-miss kitchens:
- Marshview Patio features a seasonal Feast On-Certified menu built around locally sourced ingredients that guests can enjoy in an indoor dining room or on a weatherized patio overlooking Turkey Point marsh. Heaters and fireplaces make the scene extra cozy.
- David's Restaurant is another excellent Feast On-Certified choice, offering not only delicious Norfolk County cuisine but also unforgettable sunsets and expansive views of the Long Point Biosphere.
- Schofield’s Bistro infuses a love of the land into every one of its carefully crafted brunch, lunch, and dinner dishes.
Ask your server about the vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available at each of these dining destinations to enjoy a meal that reflects your dietary preferences.
6. Indulge In A Beautiful Blend of Experiences
One-Night Fall Wellness Package |
Two-Night Fall Wellness Package |
Are you ready to fuel your sense of wanderlust this fall or winter in Norfolk County? Download the Visit Norfolk app at ExperienceNorfolk.ca to find relaxing activities, nourishing meals, and a picture-perfect place to stay.