Off The Radar and Out Of The Ordinary: A Two-Day Tour Through Middlesex, Sarnia, and Lambton

Off The Radar and Out Of The Ordinary: A Two-Day Tour Through Middlesex, Sarnia, and Lambton

Exploring the road less travelled can be a tall order for those with limited vacation days. Fortunately, with a little advance planning, it’s possible to pack a whole lot of fun into just two days. It starts with picking a destination that doesn’t take too long to reach. This two-day itinerary showcases a scenic spot that’s just a short drive from Toronto that will make you feel like you’ve escaped to another world.

DAY ONE

DAY ONE MORNING ACTIVITY

Middlesex County is home to several friendly farms and greenhouses that welcome guests with open arms. Best-bet picks to give you a taste of country life include:

• A cuter-than-words can describe alpaca or goat experience at Sylvan Alpacas, S.A.M.Y.’s Alpaca Farm or Laughing Goat Yoga.

• Berry, sunflower or pumpkin picking at Kusterman’s Berry Farm in the early fall months.

• Apple picking with a slice of swoon-worthy apple pie on the side at Apple Land Station.

• Strolling through row after row of all things green and gorgeous at Heeman’s, a massive indoor-outdoor garden centre with thousands of plants, great shopping, an on-site coffee bar, and its own cidery and meadery.

DAY ONE MID-DAY MEAL

Farm fun in the morning calls for a hearty fuel-up to help you power through the afternoon. Restaurants to put on your radar include:

• Rusty Wrench Brewing Company, where you can enjoy a delicious selection of pub fare favourites in addition to tasty craft beer.

• Fat Olive, for a scrumptious assortment of authentic Italian paninis and pasta dishes.

• Union Pub Company, where you’ll find excellent gastropub fare, including salads, bowls, pizza, and sandwiches.

DAY ONE AFTERNOON ACTIVITY

Middlesex County has several gorgeous parks and conservation areas that make it easy and fun to sneak in some after-lunch exercise:

• A leisurely paddle at Fanshawe Conservation Area, where canoes and kayaks are available for rent on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until mid-October.

• An afternoon stroll along the Thames River at Komoka Provincial Park. The Komoka White Trail is a nine-kilometre loop suitable for all skill levels with picture-perfect river views.

• A hike through the Carolinian arboretum at Longwoods Road Conservation Area. This conservation area is also home to the Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum, an interactive museum that preserves and interprets Haudenosaunee culture.

NIGHT ONE ACCOMMODATIONS

Leave some time in the afternoon to book in promptly at check in to enjoy the amazing amenities at these one-of-a-kind places to stay:

• Laughing Goat Yoga Studio has an adorable on-site cottage that offers easy access to nearby hiking and biking trails.

• The Clocktower Inn has beautiful rooms and suites steeped in history that are just steps away from the shops of downtown Strathroy.

• Texas Longhorn Ranch offers gorgeous glamping in covered wagons, but that’s not all. You can also explore the shorelines of the Sydenham River on a horseback trail ride.

• A stay in the light-filled loft or cozy tiny cabin at Fernwood Hills will put you smack-dab in the middle of the gorgeous fall foliage.

• Glamping at Jireh Hills Homestead provides access to fun on-site activities like watching goats and alpacas play and exploring their Blue Heron Lagoon by paddleboat.

DAY ONE DINNER

Settle in for a delicious dinner that will give you a true taste of the place you’ve been exploring all day.

• Tia’s Place uses an ever-changing selection of local produce in authentic Portuguese favourites.

• Chef Mark Graham makes locally sourced produce and proteins in his outstanding menu at the Clocktower Inn Bistro.

DAY ONE EVENING ACTIVITY

Discover just how much bigger and better movies are when enjoyed under the stars. The Mustang Drive-In, just outside London, is a local icon.

S.A.M.Y.’S ALPACA FARM © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST

DAY TWO

DAY TWO MORNING ACTIVITY

Start your second day with a scenic drive toward Sarnia’s stunning shorelines. When you arrive, grab a fresh cup of coffee to fuel a stroll around this beautiful city. Alternate Grounds’ Dockside location at Sarnia Bay Marina or Blackwater Coffee Co. are both perfect places to start.

Exploring a new city is a great time to try a new-to-you experience. Fun activities for the remainder of your morning include:

• A look at the beautiful art exhibits at the Judith and Norman Alix Art Gallery.

• Spotting warblers, sandpipers and falcons at Canatara Park, which also happens to be home to a best-in-class beach.

DAY TWO MID-DAY MEAL

You can’t visit Sarnia without making a stop at Original Alberts for some of their legendary fries. This beloved fry business has been going strong for 90 years. If the lineup is longer than you’re willing to brave, head to Burger Rebellion for your burger and fry fix.

DAY TWO AFTERNOON ACTIVITY

If you’re travelling in early fall, you’ll definitely want to spend some time enjoying Lake Huron and the St. Clair River on a scenic boat tour with Huron Lady Cruises and Duc d’Orléans.

NIGHT TWO ACCOMMODATIONS

Sarnia is home to several excellent hotel options, including Insignia Hotel, Hampton Inn by Hilton and Holiday Inn Express. If you’d prefer something that’s close enough to the beach to hear the waves crashing, Point Perfect in Point Edward has four gorgeous two-bedroom condos.

DAY TWO DINNER

For your evening meal, follow the Sarnia Lambton locals to one of the restaurants they love.

• Lola’s Lounge is famous for its Oysters Rockefeller and maple-glazed rack of lamb.

• For fine Mexican cuisine, Mexican and craft beer, and delicious margaritas, head to Point Edward’s Los Puntos Cantina.

• Sarnia’s Café Mexico is another excellent option for tasty tacos, delicious mole chicken and outof-this-world tequila mussels.

DAY TWO EVENING ACTIVITY

With Sarnia’s friendly, welcoming vibe, you’ll want to spend a few hours living it up like a local. Fun things to keep you busy after the sun sets include:

• Axe throwing at Valley Axe.

• District Beta’s blast-from-the-past Arcade Bar featuring retro and current video games, virtual reality fun, and a fully stocked bar.

• Rock climbing or laser tag at The Arena.

• The wide assortment of entertainment offered at Refined Fool Brewing Co.’s three locations, including live music, trivia and bingo nights, and at their newest location ‘Sports’, fun games like Bocce ball, cornhole, shuffleboard and more.

LOLA’S LOUNGE © COURTESY OF ONTARIO’S SOUTHWEST

Once you have decided what you want to do, you’ll want to take a moment to plan out the most efficient driving route in advance. The distance between activities will vary depending on what activities you choose, but you’re in for a relaxing rural drive with plenty of pretty scenery along the way, no matter which way you’re headed.

We can’t wait to see your adventures. Include #OntSouthwest in your social posts so we can follow along! Check out Ontariossouthwest.com for more trip ideas.