River Fun, Unique Artisans and Rich History: Top things to do in Elora and Fergus, Ontario
Just a short drive north of Guelph, and only an hour and a half from Toronto, the historic towns of Elora and Fergus in Centre Wellington Township are a pair of hidden gems in rural Ontario. Nestled along the Grand River, these beautiful communities have two distinct personalities both full of outdoor adventure, innovative artisans, a lively culinary scene, and rich history.
Nature and Outdoor Adventure
Elora Conservation Area
For those seeking outdoor adventure, Elora is a mecca for the outdoor enthusiast. One of the highlights is stunning the Elora Gorge Conservation area. With kilometres of scenic outdoor hiking trails along giant limestone cliffs, the scenic lookout points reveal views deep into the gorge and the surging Grand River below. Not to miss is the "Hole in the rock" , a unique rock formation which allows you to climb down through the cliff face to a lower lookout point with scenic views, surrounded by giant exposed tree roots.
One of the most popular adventure activities at the Elora Gorge Conservation area, and certainly the most fun in the summer months is tubing down the Grand River. Rent a tube and helmet from the park, and self navigate your way through flat water, natural lazy rivers, and even mini white water! A tubing adventure down the river is the perfect way to get an appreciation for the majesty of the Elora Gorge, while enjoying the serenity of nature.
Elora Quarry
Emerald green waters, white limestone cliffs and a soft sandy beach are what make the Elora Quarry a hidden gem in southwestern Ontario. Known as the "old swimming hole", this former limestone quarry encircled by 40 m sheer limestone cliffs is a popular spot to cool off during the summer months. A 1 km hiking trail around the quarry provides spectacular views into the crystal clear waters, and areas for picnicking make it the perfect spot to enjoy a day out in nature.
Victoria Park and Irvine Creek
Flowing through the center of Elora, Irvine Creek is a slow moving shallow river flowing into the nearby Grand River. Hike to the Elora Gorge Viewpoint in Victoria Park for cliff-side views down into the ravine, and learn about the creation of the gorge, as well as the geological formations that characterize the area. Follow the winding path through a bright cedar forest, and descend a steep rock staircase down to Irvine Creek. From the creek bed enjoy the tranquility of the slow flowing river, with spectacular views of the David St. bridge to the north and the convergence of the creek and the Grand River to the south. Be sure to keep our eyes peeled for wildlife, as great blue herons are known to roam the shallow waters in search of insects and small fish.
Trestle Bridge Trail
Connecting Fergus and Elora, the 4 km Trestle Bridge Trail is a popular trail showcasing amazing views over the Grand River from a historic rail bridge. The Trestle bridge, which ceased operation in 1989, is characterized by it's giant grand piers which rest on two of the original cut stone foundations built by the Canadian National Railway in 1869. Views from the bridge are second to none, providing a bird's eye view of the Grand River, teeming with wildlife from birds of prey to Great Blue Herons. Join the trail from the parking lot off Country Road 18, or follow the Centre Wellington Museum trails which snake through the countryside to connect the trail at the Wellington County Graveyard.
Templin Gardens
Along the beautiful Riverwalk in Fergus you'll find one of town's most enchanting hidden gems, the Templin Gardens. This beautiful collection of tiered landscaped gardens was once a large private garden designed and built by the Templin family from 1920-1934. John Charles Templin commissioned Scottish master mason Roger Bricker to create the gardens for his wife Annie who was an avid gardener. The beautiful stone staircases and curvy archways cascading down to the river edge give you a peek into Fergus' historic past. A lush colourful garden and small park near the entrance of the Templin Gardens provide the perfect tribute to the historic gardens that once bloomed on the grounds almost a century ago.
Relax at Unwind
Elora Mill Spa
The Elora Mill Spa is a luxurious retreat on the banks of the Grand River, and is the perfect place for a day of relaxation and pampering. Perched on the edge of majestic limestone cliffs with jaw dropping river views, the spa is one of the best in the region, offering an array of treatments from massage and manicures, to facials and heavenly body treatments. Indulge in a Mimosa Scrub, rehydrate and rejunevate tired skin with a Lemon Verbena Hydrating Body Treatment, or refresh your nails in a one-of-a-kind mani-pedi room with a view. Spa guests can also take advantage of the stunning infinity pool and relaxation rooms overlooking the Grand River, as well as luxurious steam rooms where you can detox to your favourite aromatherapy scent.
Local Artisans, Fun Shopping and Cool Public Art
Elora Sculpture Project
Art can be found around every in Elora and Fergus thanks to the Elora Sculpture Project. Started in 2010, this outdoor art exhibition which runs from May through October, showcases a series of rotating art installations in outdoor public spaces. With a juried call for submission each fall, each selected piece is a unique creation by a Canadian artist, and for those looking for new house decor, each piece is also available for purchase. From contemporary creations and classic curvy pieces, you can spot the diverse array of sculptures along the Grand River in Fergus near the Templin Gardens, and dotted throughout downtown Elora. Download a map online and discover these cool pieces of Canadian art in downtown Fergus and Elora.
Blown Away Glass Studio
In the heart of downtown Elora you'll find Blown Away Glass Studio, a unique glass studio owned by artist duo Tim and Katherine McManus. The couple has been creating hand blow glass sculptures and artistic creations for over 30 years, and their meticulous attention to detail can be seen in every unique piece in their cozy downtown studio. With patience and expertise, silica sand imported from Texas is heated in a 1500 Celcius oven, and then carefully blown into stunning glass creations. Swirls of colour are added to the molten glass throughout the process, and shaped using tweezers and rods, turning every day items like goblets and vases into stunning pieces of art.
One of the most unique items they offer are their Cremation Ash Pieces, a beautiful way to commemorate a loved one. Ashes are gently rolled into blown glass among swirls of colour and textures, creating a one-of-a-kind tribute. The main gallery and shop open into the blowing glass studio, offering a sneak peak into the glass blowing process. If you want to give glass blowing a go, Tim and Katherine also offer regular hands-on studio classes, as well as options for group sessions as part of bachelorette or birthday parties.
Hanscomb Glass
In a vibrant yellow clapboard century-old building off of Church St E in downtown Elora you'll find a unique working glass studio specializing in all things glass. Husband and wife team Neil Hanscomb and Gisela Ruehe established Hanscomb Glass in 1983, and while their ornate stained glass pieces are their specialty, visitors to their store can find an array of unique art. Much of the studio creations are made from upcylced and repurposed float glass, diverted from post-consumer sources and then creatively designed into one of kind pieces of art. From stunning glass bowls and decorative wind chimes, to curvy flame blown ornaments and delicate pieces of jewelry, there's a keepsake there with your name on it.
The Elora Pottery
Established in 1984, the Elora Pottery showcases one of a kind pottery pieces from bendy mugs to colourful ramen bowls. The current owner Stacy Barren made the shop and studio her home in 2004, and her imaginative designs and stand alone pieces are popular all over the country. The Elora Pottery also offers custom designed pieces as well as regular pottery classes where you can design your very own creation with guidance from a seasoned pro.
reFIND Salvage
Located in the shops of the Elora Mews reFIND Salvage is a treasure hunter's paradise! This quirky vintage boutique sells antiques, locally handmade goods as well furniture refinishing supplies including the popular Annie Sloan Chalk Paint line. From bohemian wall hangings and antique lamps, to hand poured candles and delicate wooden jewelry, there's a treasure to be found around every corner at reFIND Salvage.
Local Food and Drink
The culinary scene in Elora and Fergus will keep even the most seasoned foodie busy for days! Celebrate Fergus's Scottish heritage with a pint at one of many local patios doting the town's riverbank, or head to Elora's and revel in artisanal food experiences from bread to brews .
Lunch and Dinner
For a quick bite, a hearty lunch or a relaxing riverside dinner in a casual atmosphere, the Goofie Newfie and Brew House on the Grand are mainstays in Fergus. Just down the street at the Breadalbane Inn you'll find two restaurants with large patios; Scozia serving up delicious Italian cuisine while the Fergusson pub room offers up classic pub fare.
With inventive cuisine, and extensive cocktail list, not to mention a spectacular view into the gorge below, the Elora Mill Restaurant is a perfect spot for lunch with friends or a romantic dinner for two. From lobster and melon salad, to pan roasted hen from local Chassagne Farms, the Elora Mill Restaurant is a foodie's paradise that prides itself on locally sourced ingredients.
Sweets and Baked Goods
For those with a sweet-tooth, look no further than I Love Chocolate in downtown Fergus. This chocolate lover's paradise on Saint Andrew St West produces all their Belgian chocolate onsite, and carries every type of chocolate imaginable. From truffles and chocolate covered espresso beans, to chocolate dipped sour keys and Belgian Chocolate raspberry bark, chocolate lovers will have their hands full deciding what to wrap up for the trip home.
Sweet Distractions in downtown Elora is a must-stop for ice cream during the summer months. With a great selection of tantalizing ice creams and flavourful gelatos, plus an assortment of retro candy to boot, this sweet shop will help you avoid that mid-afternoon energy slump. You'll be able to identify the shop by the long line snaking down the road, and by the happy customers enjoying tasty cones in the small parkette across the street.
One of Elora's best kept secrets is Elora Bread Trading Co. Tucked away in a small storefront on Metcalfe St, this artisan bread maker produces delicious sour dough breads, crispy baguettes along with a selection of buttermilk scones, granola, and even organic flours for those at-home baking projects. Open only 4 days a week, you'll want to plan your visit in advance to avoid loaf disappointment.
Local Brews and Spirits
Pushing the boundaries of the distilling game, the Elora Distilling Company's hand crafted spirits are both creative and well constructed. Try one-of-a-kind liquors like their Amethysts Spirit (filtered through raw Ontario Amethyst), Komrad Vodka (a pure vodka made from local winter wheat) or flavourful favourites like their Maple Vodka or Experimental Batch Spicy Caesar Vodka. A selection of homemade mixes like strawberry basil cordial are also available for those who want to hone their mixologist skills at home.
What once began as a brewing operation in a garage, is now one of the most popular breweries and restaurants in the region. The Elora Brewing Company combines long lost beer recipes with locally sourced ingredients, to create a selection of craft beers unique to the brewery. Enjoy a pint of their Three Fields Grain Lager, or the Elora Borealis Citra Pale Ale on their outdoor patio, and pair it with their tasty gastropub eats for the perfect afternoon out.
Local History and Heritage: The Wellington County Museum and Archives
The Wellington County Museum and Archives is a National Historic Site and an important part of the history of the Centre Wellington region. The museum is located in the oldest remaining rural House of Industry in Canada, also known as the "Poor House". Built in 1877 it served as a place of refuge for the poor and homeless in Wellington County. It operated as a Poor House and Industrial Farm for over 70 years when it was converted to a County Home for the Aged, and then almost 3 decades later into the current day Wellington County Museum and Archives in 1974.
Exhibitions and Grounds
The museum's permanent collection includes a fascinating exhibition detailing the Poor House's past, with stories highlighting the plight of individuals and families which lived on the grounds throughout the decades.
An important exhibit on the Indigenous culture of the region helps highlight the complex nature of land claims and tribal affiliation in the region over the course of history. Interesting artifacts from arrow heads to various tools are on display, discovered from archaeological digs in the surrounding area.
The Museum's World War 1 exhibit is an important exhibition at the museum and pays tribute to those soldiers from Wellington Country who died in the war. It also traces the historical roots of several soldiers to their present day relatives, showcasing their likeness on the soldiers represented in the exhibition. The museum holds a Remembrance Day ceremony each November and the front lawn of the museum is dotted with poppies leading up to Remembrance Day.
To fully appreciate the size of the the former industral Farm, head outside and take a stroll around the lush grounds. Explore walking trails around the expansive property where you'll find the barn and a small orchard, where generations of poor worked for close to 100 years. A short 15 minute walk from the main building you'll find the Poor House cemetery located in a peaceful pine forest. Numerous residents were buried here over the years, and while the gravestones mark specific burial spots, the individuals remain sadly anonymous.
Other interesting not-to-miss exhibitions in the museum include a small theatre featuring a variety of silent films dating back to the early 1900’s, an intriguing exhibition on canes (from utilitarian to weaponized!) and the museum's rotating exhibition of national and local art.
Where to Stay
Elora Mill
Located in the heart of downtown, the Elora Mill is an iconic building in Elora and the perfect place to lay your head on a weekend getaway. The historic Inn boasts over 30 luxurious guest rooms, all showcasing rustic and modern design elements mixing natural materials including marble, wood and original mill limestone. Many suites have wood burning fireplaces, exposed brick, and private outdoor terraces, perfect for a cozy night in, or a romantic escape for two.
Breadalbane Inn
Just steps away from restaurants, shops and the Grand River, the Breadalbane Inn is a historic bed and breakfast in downtown Fergus. The building was constructed in 1851 by George D. Fergusson, son of Adam Fergusson, a co-founder of Fergus. The building served as a residence followed by a nursing home until it was converted to an Inn in 1975. The Inn's historic charm can be felt throughout the 11 suites featuring cozy fireplaces, exposed brick walls and jacuzzi tubs. Small antique trinkets and paintings line the walls of the Inn, while vintage touches in the suites bring you back to the times of Adam Fergusson.
Find more information to plan your visit to Elora and Fergus visit Elora and Fergus Tourism.
*Some businesses may be closed or have reduced hours due to covid-19. Please check hours of operation before visiting.
Some activities in the above were provided by Elora and Fergus Tourism, although all recommendations are our own.
