COUPLES GETAWAY EDITION
canada
niagara TRAVEL
Wine Country Wonderful Sip, Swirl and Savour
the falls
48 Hours of Fabulous
PLUS
DOZENS OF INSIDER TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
be wonderstruck.
Experience the big wonders and small pleasures of Niagara, Canada. The thunder of the Falls, casino excitement, acclaimed local cuisine and over 70 world-class wineries along our scenic wine route - they’re all here. Whatever wonders you choose, Niagara is your getaway destination.
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Images courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership (OTMPC) and Niagara Tourism Partners. niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
a place of wonders...big and small www.visitniagaracanada.com
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niagara TRAVE L
Published by The Tourism Partnership of Niagara 5881 Dunn Street Niagara Falls, ON Canada L2G 2N9 Design & Production Loud+Clear For general information and advertising sales contact: 289-477-5344 info@niagarasrto.com
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Choose Your Own Adventure
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Five-Minute Golf Guide
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Wine Country Event Guide
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Fresh Finds
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Been There, Haven't Done That
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Niagara Falls, A Trip for Two
Printed in Canada Niagara Canada Travel © 2014. Niagara Canada Travel is published once a year by The Tourism Partnership of Niagara with funding provided by the Government of Ontario. All rights reserved. Reproduction without permissions is prohibited. All information is current at press time. At the time of publishing, we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible, but details may change. The publisher cannot and does not guarantee the accuracy of all information and will not be responsible for errors, changes or omissions. We ask that you refer to visitniagaracanada.com for the most up-to-date information. Special thanks to Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership (OTMPC) and Niagara tourism partners for allowing us to use their photos throughout this publication.
Take our quiz and create a custom-fit Niagara escape.
Fore! Plan your next Niagara golf game.
Your next wine country getaway, planned in mere minutes.
Join Cobi Ladner for some Niagara retail therapy.
Shake things up on your next trip to the Falls.
Heat up the romance with 48 hours in the Falls that will make lasting memories. By Betty Zyvatkauskas
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@visit_niagara
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visitniagara
Images courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership (OTMPC), Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) and Niagara Tourism Partners including, City of St. Catharines Tourism, The Good Earth Food and Wine Co., Illuminaqua, Niagara Parks Commission, Twenty Valley Tourism, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Photographer Dwayne Coon, Brian Youngblut, Hornblower Niagara Cruises, Inn on the Twenty, Niagara Helicopters, Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, Whilpool Jet Boat, Strutt, Twenty Valley Tourism, Wine Council of Ontario, Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Winter Festival of Lights.
Hitched-hiking Tag along with a new bride and groom as they explore Niagara's Highway 8. By Micah Toub
VisitNiagaraCanada
The Tourism Partnership of Niagara (TPN) was established in 2010 as one of Ontario’s 13 Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs). Representing all of the municipalities within the Regional Municipality of Niagara, the TPN is an independent, industry-led, not-for-profit organization responsible for working with tourism partners to enhance and grow Niagara’s tourism products and marketing activities. For more information on TPN go to www.niagarasrto.com
Grab your sunglasses and hit the road for some of the country's best top-down cruising. By Garry Sowerby and Lisa Calvi
www.visitniagaracanada.com Follow us online for Niagara travel info 'on the go.'
Convertible Country
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Going in Circles
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A Weekend in Niagara Wine Country
Pedal your way through Niagara on the Greater Niagara Circle Route.
Sip and savour along Niagara's Wine Route. By Margaret Swaine
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Getting to Niagara You'll be enjoying your Niagara getaway before you know it.
visitniagaracanada.com
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choose your own adventure ANSWER A few easy questions FOR an amazing Niagara adventure aligned with your unique personality.
1.
relax ing at the spa
With nothing else on your to-do list, how do you prefer to spend your free time? Resting and Relaxing
ycle morning c
If you’re craving some chill time, Niagara’s collection of worldclass spas is a wonderful place to start. One Hundred Fountain Spa, Secret Garden Spa, Spa at White Oaks, Shaw Club Spa, OSpa and Sanctuary International Day Spa are great choices in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara Falls favourites are Five Lake Spa AVEDA, Senses Spa and The Spa at Sterling Inn. Spa on the Twenty is another popular destination in Jordan Village.
www.visitniagaracanada.com/experiences/spas
Fresh Air Fun When nature calls, Niagara’s great cycling trails are a natural choice. The Greater Niagara Circle Route boasts over 140 kilometres of mostly off-road, paved trails that are a cyclist’s dream. Cycle and Stay Niagara, a network of "cycle-friendly" Bed & Breakfasts throughout Niagara, is a great resource for cyclists planning their next trip. Visit us online for some cycle-friendly accommodation suggestions: www.visitniagaracanada.com/we-love-cyclists
Cooking If you love making dinner even more than eating it, consider taking a cooking class on your next trip to Niagara. Beamsville’s The Good Earth Food and Wine Company offers a range of demonstration cooking classes around their huge kitchen island. Strewn’s Wine Country Cooking School in Niagara-onthe-Lake offers hands-on cooking classes designed to tempt your palate while increasing your culinary knowledge and appreciation of the relationship between food and wine. www.goodearthfoodandwine.com www.winecountrycooking.com
a cooking class
afternoon golf 4
niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Golfing
Home to over 40 courses, Niagara has the greatest concentration of golf courses in Canada. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned pro, you’ll discover beautifully designed courses with challenges for all levels of play. Visit us online for some suggestions: www.visitniagaracanada.com/experiences/ outdoor-activities/golf
the need f or
2.
speed
Which tool do you use to prepare your favourite beverage? Cocktail Shaker Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers in Beamsville produces vodka and gin using local grapes and white rye made from 100 per cent Ontario rye grain. Their Sipping Room is a great place to sample and see how their products are made. Stock up on their unique line of bitters to create your very own signature cocktail at home. www.dillons.ca
Corkscrew Ontario wine takes centre stage each March at the annual Cuvée festivities. Mingle with the stars of Ontario's wine industry at the Cuvée Grand Tasting Gala while sampling the personal favourites of Ontario's winemakers and enjoying signature dishes. Spend the rest of the weekend tasting your way along the Niagara Wine Route with your Cuvée en Route touring passport. www.cuvee.ca
Bottle Opener Beer lover? You have plenty of tasting to look forward to on your next trip to Niagara, including Oast House Brewers and Silversmith Brewing Company in Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Merchant Ale House in St. Catharines. www.oasthousebrewers.ca, www.silversmithbrewing.com, www.merchantalehouse.ca
old-school arcade fun
3.
When the kids finally let you choose, which video game are you most likely to pick? Mario Karts Niagara Go-Karts is one of North America’s fastest go-kart tracks. Their Formula 1 karts handle like a professional race car, with quick acceleration and super handling. www.gokartsniagara.com
Pac-man Niagara Falls has amazing arcades if you’re looking for a fun gaming experience that takes you back to the video games of your youth. You’ll find old-school favourites like Skee-Ball and Roll-a-Ball as well as all the latest and greatest interactive video games. www.piratescoveniagarafalls.com
Just Dance If you’re looking to dance the night away, head straight to the red-hot nightclubs of Niagara Falls. Once the sun sets, follow the beat and you’re bound to find a dance floor, or head to perennial favourites like Club Seven Nightclub, R5, Club Mardi Gras Bar and Patio, Hard Rock Night Club and Rumours Night Club. www.niagarafallstourism.com/play/nightlife
3 cheers
for beer
m wine gala gla our oc cktail h CUVÉE GALA, NIAGARA FALLSVIEW CASINO (ROBERT NOWELL)
dance, dance, dance visitniagaracanada.com
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4.
Which high school subject did you enjoy the most? Physics
adrenalin rush
re love live theat
Brush up on the study of motion, energy and force on a Whirlpool Jet Boat ride on the Niagara River's thrilling whitewater playground. Choose the Jet Dome Tour if you prefer a dry ride, or prepare to get soaked by the Class 5 rapids on the Wet Jet Tour. www.whirlpooljet.com
Drama In addition to plays by the acclaimed playwright, George Bernard Shaw, The Shaw Festival features plays from and about his era, along with contemporary plays that share his provocative exploration of society and celebration of humanity. www.shawfest.com
History
t musketiq mys ue
Experience the sights and sounds of a historic military fort at Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Fort George or Old Fort Erie in the town of Fort Erie. Time your visit with one of the special events or re-enactments that take place. www.friendsoffortgeorge.ca, www.oldforterie.com
Art
Historic Rodman Hall in St. Catharines maintains a permanent collection of over 850 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings. While the primary focus of the collection is Canadian artists, 19th and 20th century American and European artists are also represented in the collection. www.brocku.ca/rodman-hall
creative e scape
RODMAN HALL, ST. CATHARINES (Michelle Nicholls)
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
FIVE- MINUTE GOLF GUIDE
Having trouble deciding where to book a tee time? We can help with that.
With over 40 courses, Niagara has the greatest single concentration of golf facilities in one region, anywhere in Canada. Photo Credit: Thundering Waters Golf Club
tight on time
up for a challenge
the niagara bucket list
Niagara Parks Oak Hall Golf Course Niagara Falls • niagaraparksgolf.com You can hear the roar of Niagara Falls from this great little course that takes only about an hour to play.
Grand Niagara Golf Club Niagara Falls • grandniagaragolf.com This classic Rees Jones course showcases the designer’s signature fairway angles, positioning of hazards and exquisitely contoured greens.
Play North America’s Oldest Course With a proud history that began in 1875, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club has stood the test of time, and the view of the lake from the patio on the 19th hole is breathtaking. notlgolf.com
Royal Niagara Golf Club Niagara-on-the-Lake • royalniagara.com Three nine-hole courses nestled between the Welland Canal, the Bruce Trail, and the Niagara Escarpment feature sculpted fairways, undulating greens, cavernous bunkers, and an abundance of water.
Play the toughest hole in Niagara Some say that hole four of Fenwick’s Peninsula Lakes Golf Club’s Hillside course holds the title of Niagara’s most challenging hole. Take a swing for yourself and see if you agree. penlakes.com
St. Davids Golf Club Niagara-on-the-Lake • worldgolf.com This par-70 course with multiple tee boxes caters to players of all abilities. Eagle Valley Golf Club Niagara Falls • golfeaglevalley.com The leafy front nine of this par-63 course is a great place to work on your short game. Sawmill Golf Course Fenwick • sawmillgolf.com Situated in the centre of Niagara, this course is just a short drive from wherever you’re staying in the region.
Play Ontario’s longest 400-yard hole Put your long game to the test at Welland’s Hunter’s Pointe Golf Course. The fourth hole on this modern links course measures 440 yards from the back tee. hpgolf.ca
Legends on the Niagara Niagara Falls • niagaraparksgolf.com With two 18-hole championship courses, a nine-hole short course, and an incredible 45-acre, 360-degree, driving range, this Play your way through Niagara’s Golf Trail The Niagara Golf Trail features six great area facility has something for everyone. courses open for public play that are known Thundering Waters for their beautiful views, challenging courses Niagara Falls • thunderingwaters.com and fabulous food at the club houses. John Daly’s first “Signature” golf niagaragolftrail.com course in Canada highlights his high risk-reward style. Playing as long as 7322 yards Go to visitniagaracanada.com from the championship tees, to plan your next this par-72 course will challenge Niagara golf getaway even the best players.
Pack
your
clubs!
visitniagaracanada.com
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wine country event guide Niagara’s wine festivals and touring programs
Having trouble deciding which Niagara wine event is right for you? We can help with that.
experience a broad selection of wines
delve into a specific variety of wine
Niagara New Vintage Festival In June, over 35 Niagara wineries celebrate the start of the new vintage with special events, tastings and a touring program. Don’t miss the New Vintage Niagara Tailgate Party for an evening of acclaimed wines, fresh produce and skillful vineyard grilling in a casual vineyard setting.
International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration In July, wineries from around the world descend upon Niagara during this threeday celebration of all things Chardonnay that features great events, tastings, seminars, and even a Sommelier Boot Camp.
Niagara Wine Festival In September, the 61st annual Wine Country celebration features 100+ events including tastings, a touring program, concerts and one of Canada’s largest street parades. Twenty Valley Winter WineFest In January, Icewine, sparkling wine and premium VQA wine all share centre stage on Jordan Village’s Main Street during this outdoor festival. The event also includes a touring program at local wineries. Cuvée March’s Cuvée Gala has earned a reputation as one of the wine industry’s hottest events, where hundreds of food and wine enthusiasts savour Ontario’s best alongside winemakers and industry insiders. The fun continues throughout the weekend with the en Route touring program.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
The Niagara Icewine Festival In January, join in on Niagara’s celebration of one of Canada’s most iconic products. Activities include an Icewine Gala, and a winery touring program throughout the region. Niagara-ON-THE-LAKE Icewine Festival Throughout January, Niagara-on-theLake heats things up in a celebration of Canada’s liquid gold that includes an Icewine Village, a cocktail competition, and dozens of events at area wineries and restaurants.
Go to visitniagaracanada.com for details on wine country events
enjoy unique wine and food pairings Get Fresh! In April and May, celebrate spring in Niagara’s Twenty Valley region by sampling new vintage aromatic wines paired with fresh spring flavours from some of the area’s top chefs. SIP & SIZZLE Explore the Wineries of Niagara-on-theLake in May as they feature food pairings matched to premium VQA wine. Wrapped Up in the Valley In November, let the wineries and chefs of Twenty Valley inspire your tastebuds with three weekends of exceptional wine and food pairings at twenty-four premium wineries. Taste the Season Take the chill off November and enjoy unique pairings of premium VQA wines with delectable bites at twenty-eight distinctive wineries in Niagara-onthe-Lake. Days of Wine and Chocolate Wrap up winter on a sweet note with the Days of Wine and Chocolate touring program. On weekends in February the Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake feature decadent wine and chocolate pairings with a few unexpected twists.
FRESH FINDS Tag along with Canadian design authority, Cobi Ladner, as she discovers a whole new Niagara.
It’s a good thing that Cobi Ladner loves her work, because even when she slips away from the office for a few days, her keen eye for design and signature sense of style never goes on vacation. Cobi, who is credited with transforming Canadian House and Home magazine into the country’s bible of decorating and home inspiration during her 18 years there, now sits at the helm of her own design empire. Cobistyle, her line of home décor products that includes upholstered furniture, fabric, draperies, accessories and lighting, can be found in stores across the country. Whether she’s scoring vintage finds at an antique market, chatting with shop owners at the region’s eclectic mix of stores and galleries, or soaking in vineyard views from a sunny patio, a few days exploring Niagara provides Cobi with endless inspiration and a trunk full of treasures. Come along for the ride and pick up a few pointers for your next trip to Niagara from one of Canada’s most beloved design gurus.
visitniagaracanada.com
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GREAT DRIVES
“I feel like I’m in Sonoma! Let me get a picture I can’t believe I didn’t know about this!” marvels Cobi as she makes her way through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s busy Wednesday evening Supper Market enjoying delicious treats from the diverse range of food trucks and vendors. It’s not the first surprise of her trip. Cobi has been making regular pilgrimages to Niagara over the past thirty years, but this trip has been different. “There’s
a new energy here, it’s hard to describe, but it just feels like there’s been a shift.”
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BEE MODERN FABRICS and YARNS, virgil
niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your shopping trip. Shop Class While Cobi may have trouble finding just the right words to describe Niagara’s new vibe, she certainly doesn’t have any problem capturing it in her shopping basket. Combing through the quaint shops of Jordan Village and Niagara-on-the-Lake, she repeatedly uncovers one-of-a-kind finds that surprise and delight. In Jordan Village’s Beauty Safari, a bottle of Blenheim Bouquet, Penhaligon’s signature fragrance that’s been on the market since 1902 and was a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill, makes the perfect gift for her husband. A stylish fedora from Niagara-on-the-Lake’s BeauChapeau Hat Shop is packaged up in a beautiful box to take home to her teenage daughter. A handcrafted necklace made by an artisan in Crystal Beach is wrapped up from Virgil’s Modern Bee as a lovely memento of her trip. A beautiful vintage kimono scooped up from Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures in Niagaraon-the-Lake will make a perfect addition to Cobi’s colourful wardrobe of interesting statement pieces.
beauchapeau hat shop, niagara-on-the-lake
beauty safari, jordan village
visitniagaracanada.com visitniagaracanada.com
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ABOVe clockwise: doug forsythe gallery, niagara-on-the-lake; the garrison house, niagara-on-the-lake; s&b antique gallery, jordan village; ninavik native arts, jordan village; beauty safari, jordan village and s&b antique gallery, jordan village.
PErSONALITY PLUS “What an incredibly talented family,” Cobi sighs after touring Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Doug Forsythe Gallery. In addition to showcasing the works of its namesake, the gallery displays pieces by his wife Marsha, a painter and printmaker; his son Jonathan, a photographer; and his daughter Stephanie and her husband, Todd MacAllen, two architects whose innovative, collapsible furniture can also be found at The Museum of Modern Art in New York City. It’s not just the plethora of interesting finds in Niagara that captivate Cobi; it’s the people behind them. As Cobi makes her way through the region’s shops and galleries, the friendly, casual conversations she has make it feel more like a high school reunion than a shopping trip. Shop, winery and gallery staff are proud of their treasures and happy to help customers find just the right thing to take home as a memento of their time in Niagara. “I’ve always felt strongly that your home should showcase your unique journey through life. Bringing back a few pieces from Niagara that will always remind you of the great fun you had here is such a perfect way to do that,” says Cobi.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Bring home beautiful memories of your Niagara getaway with some of Cobi’s favourite finds:
Antique barware, like this liqueur set from S & B Antique Gallery in Jordan Village, is a fun way to remember a day spent sipping your way through the Niagara Wine Route.
Frame vintage Niagara Falls postcards like this one from Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures.
queen street, niagara-on-the-lake
This serving tray, made from a reclaimed wine barrel, found at Refuge in Niagara-on-the-Lake is fabulous and functional. visitniagaracanada.com
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Can’t-miss Niagara wineries for architectural design enthusiasts • Jackson-Triggs Winery • Stratus • Southbrook Vineyards
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• Tawse Winery • Flat Rock Cellars • Fielding Estate Winery
niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
OPPOSITE PAGE: WHITE WATER WALK, NIAGARA FALLS.
“If people think they know Niagara wineries because they did a tour back in the 90’s, they really need to come back and see how things have evolved.”
fill your trunk “Oh, let’s pull over and check this place out,” exclaims Cobi as she spots a hand-painted roadside sign advertising plants. She quickly discovers that veering off the highway to explore
OPPOSITE PAGe: stratus, niagara-on-the-lake. above CLOCKWISE: stratus, niagara-on-the-lake; a niagara fruit stand and greaves JAMS, niagara-on-the-lake
BOTTLE SHOCK
some of Niagara’s side roads can really pay off. Beautiful perennials and shrubs including Shasta daisies, boxwoods and mile-high ornamental grasses can often be found at a fraction of the cost of their big-city cousins at Niagara’s
“This space is just absolutely stunning.” It’s not the first time
roadside stands and garden centres. Mori Gardens and
that the staff at Stratus has heard that remark made about their
Regal Florist and Garden Centre are fan favourites among
boutique and tasting room, but it’s clear to see they’re pleased
Niagara-on-the-Lake green thumbs. In Twenty Valley, The
that Cobi shares their sense of appreciation for the beautiful
Watering Can’s Vineland Garden Centre offers a custom
winery. Designed by noted interior designer, Diego Burdi of
planting program in the spring so patrons can drop off
Burdifilek, Stratus’ tasting room and boutique have a cozy but
planters, window boxes and baskets and return later in the
cool aesthetic that encourages guests to linger as they sip and
day to pick up beautifully designed solutions tailored to
sample and browse through an interesting collection of books
their unique growing zone.
and distinctive wine accessories.
Niagara’s many produce stands also offer another opportunity
“If people think they know Niagara wineries because they did a
to stock up on the fresh and fragrant flavours for which the
tour back in the 90’s, they really need to come back and see how
region is famous. Gourmet jams, jellies and preserves are
things have evolved,” comments Cobi. “From a design perspective
another great thing to take home to brighten up winter meals
alone, there is just so much to see.”
with the flavours of Niagara. visitniagaracanada.com
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the call
of the mall
In addition to unique shopping districts, Niagara’s also got a dynamite collection of shopping malls.
The Outlet Collection Niagara-on-the-Lake
This outlet centre right off the QEW features 100 irresistible outlet retailers, including Banana Republic, Bench, Brooks Brothers, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Gap, Izod, Michael Kors, Osh Kosh, Tommy Hilfiger and more. www.outletcollectionatniagara.com
The Pen Centre St. Catharines
You’ll find over a million square feet of shopping including popular national stores and brands here. There’s also a 10-screen movie theatre in above: supper market, niagara-on-the-lake
case your travelling companion isn’t as excited about shopping as you are.
MANY HAPPY RETURNS “Wow, I’ve really done well, haven’t I?” laughs Cobi as she inspects the various treasures that have accumulated in the trunk of her car over the course of her day in Niagara. But thoughtful gifts and personal mementos aren’t the only things that Cobi’s taking home from her trip. She’s returning to the city with a brand new outlook on one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. And a promise to return with a much larger trunk.
www.thepencentre.com
Canada One Factory Outlets Niagara Falls
Hit 40 brand name stores including Coach, Escada, Roots, and Nike right in the heart of Niagara Falls’ tourist district. www.canadaoneoutlets.com
For more information, please visit: Jordan Village: www.20valley.ca/page/shopping Niagara-on-the-Lake: www.niagaraonthelake.com/page/tripplanning/Shopping Beauty Safari: www.beautysafari.com Beau Chapeau: www.beauchapeau.com Modern Bee: www.beefabrics.ca Lakeshore Antiques and Treasures: www.lakeshoreantiques.net Landmark Shops of Niagara-on-the-Lake: www.landmarkshopsofniagaraonthelake.com Doug Forsythe Gallery: www.dougforsythegallery.com Refuge Antiques and Giftery: www.refugeniagara.com Mori Gardens: www.morigardens.com Regal Florist and Garden Centre: www.regalflorist.com The Watering Can: www.thewateringcan.ca Stratus: www.stratuswines.com Cobi Ladner: www.cobistyle.com
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
The view from the Falls Looking for unique finds in the heart of Niagara Falls? In addition to great gaming and entertainment, Fallsview Casino Resort is a fabulous destination for shopping. The glamourous Galleria offers dozens of interesting boutiques filled with the latest styles, accessories, gifts and collectibles, toys, specialty foods and fine art. www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com/amenities/shopping
Haven’t ^
Been There, Done That With so many things to do, there really is no excuse for Niagara Falls déjà vu. The next time you’re playing tour guide, shake things up with an itinerary that’s a treat for you too.
YOUR GUESTS WANT: Knockout views of Niagara Falls
To play tourist
A one-of-a-kind Niagara experience
To shop ‘til they drop
To connect with nature
An out-of-this-world culinary experience
To score some great designer deals
Drop guests off for some time on their own to explore Clifton Hill while you take a hike at Niagara Parks’ Niagara Glen. Although it’s just eight kilometres from the Falls, you’ll feel like you’re in a different world as you explore paths that wind through the Niagara Gorge. This pristine pocket of Carolinian Forest is home to unique plant species including tulip trees, sassafras and paw paw. www.niagaraparks.com
Niagara-on-the-Lake is just a quick drive from Niagara Falls, and offers dazzling vineyard views to wow your guests and a range of signature dining experiences that will make for an unforgettable meal for everyone. Rated by Trip Advisor as Canada’s #1 Food and Wine Destination, choose from Barrel Cellar dinners, unique tasting menus, meals hosted by winemakers and more. wineriesofniagaraonthelake.com
With 40 brand name stores, Canada One Factory Outlets is sure to please. Guests from afar can stock up on Canadiana at the Roots outlet while you update your wardrobe with designer duds from Coach, Escada, Michael Kors and more. www.canadaoneoutlets.com
YOU WANT: Some time to unwind
THE WIN/WIN SOLUTION: Pamper tired tourist and tour guide toes while enjoying a pedicure with a view. Christienne Fallsview Spa is the only spa in the world that features treatment areas and a relaxation lounge directly overlooking the majesty of Niagara Falls and the only spa in Canada with a Hydrotherapy Infinity Tub. www.sheratononthefalls.com
visitniagaracanada.com
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niagara falls A TRIP FOR TWO
BY betty zyvatkauskas
Heat up the romance with 48 hours in the Falls that will make lasting memories.
Brink of the Horseshoe Falls, Niagara Falls. Photo credit: Christopher Meder/Bigstock.com
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Go to visitniagaracanada.com for more itinerary ideas
Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls
going glam Our hearts pound louder than the chopper blades as we bank into the turn where the helicopter hovers over the Horseshoe Falls and rainbows rise through the mist. No wonder this is such a popular spot to pop the question. Thankfully Niagara Helicopters’ headsets make marriage proposals audible over the chop of the blades and the thundering water.
Table Rock, close enough to the Falls to be within spraying distance. But it’s not just about the view. Celebrity chefs have recently spiced up the local dining scene. Massimo Capra has revamped the Rainbow Room in the Crowne Plaza and Jamie Kennedy lends his expertise to Windows on the 14th floor of the Sheraton on the Falls.
Whether it’s your first date or fiftieth wedding anniversary, there’s plenty of romance to be found in North America’s perennial honeymoon capital. Start with a hotel room that boasts a view of the Falls or the raging Niagara River and you have a hypnotic scene to enjoy while indulging in chocolates or the in-room Jacuzzi. Yes, we could join the throngs gathering at the brink of the Falls, but we prefer the elevated view for two.
The night is young. After dinner we take in the Vegas vibe at the casino’s 1500-seat theatre and try our luck on the gaming floor – one of the world’s largest. Even if we lose, it’s been a winning weekend.
Later, we’ll dress up for a stylish meal at the Sterling Inn & Spa where the retro red banquettes evoke 1950s glamour, but chef Cory Linkson’s innovative menu is very contemporary. We won’t soon forget the sea scallops with steamed clams, fennel bee pollen salad and chorizo. We might linger in the Sterling’s lounge listening to live music, but get back to the room well before midnight to watch the mesmerizing illumination of the Falls.
For more information visit www.niagarahelicopters.com www.sterlingniagara.com www.niagaraparksgolf.com www.fallsviewrainbowroom.com www.windowsbyjamiekennedy.com www.fallsviewcasinoresort.com www.mystniagara.com
We ease into day two with a leisurely room service breakfast in bed. But the day is too lovely to spend indoors, so we book a round of golf at Legends on the Niagara where we can opt for 18 challenging holes at Ussher’s Creek or, if we are feeling less ambitious, nine holes at the very walkable Chippawa course. Niagara is all about the view and there’s no shortage of restaurants where we can enjoy the spectacular scenery in comfort. Maybe cocktails at Myst Lounge, the chic bar on the 33rd floor of the Hilton’s south tower, then bison steaks grilled over open flame at Elements on the Falls, the stylish dining room at
Legends on the Niagara, Niagara Falls
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country Come along for the ride as Canada’s Indiana Jones of adventure driving and his favourite co-pilot discover the joys of top-down motoring in Niagara.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
by Garry SowerBY & Lisa Calvi
visitniagaracanada.com
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Niagara-on-the-lake
Cruising through the twists and turns of Niagara’s back roads is a pretty enjoyable way to spend the day.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
It’s quiet, like the inside of a church. We are outside though and the late afternoon sun is dappling through the trees. We turn off the engine of our Audi Cabriolet to appreciate the stillness.
What better way to immerse oneself in the charm and history of Niagara than with a roofless car? The blue sky is our ceiling. Singing birds and chirruping crickets are our soundtrack.
Stepping out of the vehicle, I tiptoe across the grass, compelled by a feeling of reverence in the air, to have a look at the memorial cairn in the middle of the circle.
We are lucky enough to have found a few days of freedom to cruise. As we tool around this fertile section of land between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie that’s speckled with vineyards, fruit orchards and tree-lined back roads, we quickly discover we’ve landed smack dab in the middle of some of the nation’s best convertible country.
A tiny enclave of cottages around the circle in Grimsby Beach on the south shore of Lake Ontario has drawn us to this spot. With their whimsical colours and wooden scrollwork, the cottages look like they are made of gingerbread and belong in a fairy tale. We feel as if we’ve stepped into one. In the mid-1800s, a group of Methodists held religious revival summer camps here. The camps became so popular that in 1888, the group built a large auditorium in the centre of the circle that could hold 7,000 people. Campers who were tired of sleeping in tents during the weeks-long festival constructed the cute cottages. Today, a memorial cairn marks the spot where the auditorium once stood.
Nature’s perfumes and visual delights lend themselves to the lightness in spirit we are both feeling. A roofless car makes one have only loving thoughts for everything and everyone on Earth. Lake Ontario waves at us with gentle whitecaps. Roadside produce stands roll out a red-carpet welcome of colourful produce. We shift gears and smile. There’s no place we’d rather be right now. Although cruising through the twists and turns of Niagara’s back roads is a pretty enjoyable way to spend the day, there are a few other things we want to do while we’re here. While this is obviously one of the best places in Canada to do some serious winery hopping, we’ve chosen a different path for today. Well, maybe just one winery after we are all done with our driving for the day.
Forget the drive-thru! A road trip in Niagara means slowing down to fuel up on fresh, local cuisine.
OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE: A spot of shade in Niagara; One of the charming painted cottages in Grimsby; Niagara peaches; The vineyard view at Ravine, (PHOTOGRAPHED BY Stephen Elphick); Stratus Winery's retail gallery; A guided tasting of Stratus wines; A Niagara orchard; Vineyard Restaurant at Ravine and aN Heirloom beet salad from Treadwell Farm-to-table Cuisine in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
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Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your next great road trip.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
OPPOSITE PAGE: LOCK 3 WELLAND CANAL, st. catharines. ABOVE: WELLAND CANALs CEntre, st. catharines; lake erie beach fuN
One of the top items on our list of things to do is to witness a lift lock in action. We are sure many people coming to this area forget about the wonder of the Welland Canal, a humanmade system of locks that uses water and gravity to lift and lower massive ships in a watertight chamber. Each year, 3,000 massive vessels ply the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes. With the simply brilliant engineering marvel of a lock, these enormous ships can get up and down the Niagara Escarpment with relative ease and bypass Niagara Falls. We choose Lock 3 in St. Catharines as our destination and arrive just in time to see the colossal Maccoa, a 185-metre long vessel, approach the lock on the northern side. With our ragtop lowered, we’re able to enjoy a big view from the comfort of the cockpit. Despite the fact that a crowd of people has gathered to watch the huge ship get through the lock, it is strangely quiet. As at Auditorium Circle, there is a feeling of awe in the air, even though this ship-in-a-lock thing is a common occurrence. The gargantuan ship sits far below us, barely whispering as it glides to the end of the lock. The water then silently rises with astonishing speed and before we know it the ship is towering above us, ready to be released at the other end. With no set route or schedule to follow, we decide to loosely follow the ship’s path to Lake Erie at the southern end of the Welland Canal. We aren’t quite sure where we are going but this is actually another item on our ‘to do’ list in this relaxing road trip region. We have a mandate to just ‘putter’ and
maintain a fly-by-the-seat-of-our-pants attitude. This means we don’t always see what is on the must-see list. We’re not looking for vacation à la checklist, and it seems that Niagara is a wonderful place to do just that. We are looking for spontaneity and serendipity, a philosophy with which driving a convertible goes hand-in-hand. In the 15 seconds it takes to lower the top, voilà, instant vacation! It really doesn’t matter where we are going or what route we use to get us there. Before long, we find ourselves at Port Colborne’s Elco Beach. We stride up the dune and breathe deeply, wiggling our toes in the warm sand. The wind is whipping Lake Erie into a furious ocean. Nature is alive and well in Niagara and deserving of reverence, not for its peace and calm here but for its show of enthralling power and undisputable authority. A day that’s unrolled with neither a map nor a plan has helped us remember how great it can feel to get lost on your own terms. Our tranquil puttering in the fairy tale world of the Niagara Peninsula reminds us of the joy that can be found in these spontaneous kinds of days. The wind in our hair may have helped a bit too.
The view from the Falls If you’re staying in Niagara Falls, there are plenty of great options for scenic cruising, including the Niagara Parkway, which meanders along the Niagara River from Niagara Falls to Fort Erie. Learn more about this great route at www.visitniagaracanada.com/freewheeling-niagara
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Niagara River
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
BY Micah Toub
Newlywed Micah Toub shares some snapshots from the first road trip of his marriage along Niagara’s Highway 8.
Picking the right one Duncan Smith pulled apart a tender Red Haven peach with
Left alone, we wandered through the rows of trees and filled
his thumbs, split it into two and handed one half to my wife
up our basket as rain began to sprinkle. Bryony’s wellies sunk
Bryony and one half to me. “This type is good for freezing,”
into the softening dirt while I, in my sneakers, hopped around
he told us.
from one dry patch to another. “Picking fruit is so sensual,”
Two Century Farm, on the outskirts of Grimsby, Ontario, where
Bryony said, and planted a kiss on my tart lips.
Mr. Smith’s family has been growing fruit for six generations,
When the rain started to pour, we made a run for the car.
was the first stop of our road trip east along Highway 8. Also,
I flipped on the windshield wipers, and we headed east on
it was the first stop of our first road trip as a married couple
the two-lane highway, the Niagara Escarpment rising gently
just six weeks after our wedding. As we devoured our halves,
off to our right.
I imagined a future freezer filled with the fruit and the many peach cobblers that would bring our future children the same smiles we wore. “Pull the peach off with your whole palm, not with your fingers,” Mr. Smith instructed us, pointing out the approximate size of a peach that is ready to pick. He cheerfully plucked two for himself and dug into one of them with his teeth. “I’m headed home,” he said as he trotted away. “I know it’s hard to believe I have to go elsewhere for lunch, but I do need some variety in my diet!”
Setting down strong roots When I first moved into Bryony’s tiny one-bedroom apartment in Toronto, we celebrated with a nice dinner out. We shared a Fielding Estate Riesling that night and, a year later on the road between Grimsby and Beamsville, found ourselves standing on a deck overlooking the vineyard where that bottle had been born.
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CLOCKWISE FROm top left: BALL'S FALLS, HIGHWAY 8, FIELDING ESTATE WINERY, a niagara vineyard.
Keep exploring and keep perspective Fielding Estate Winery is a relatively young winery, started by
Ms. Doran had told us the rain that day was a welcome
Ken and Marg Fielding from Haliburton in 2001. Kim Doran, the
change from a dry week, but we were happy it cleared up by
wine club coordinator and our tour guide, explained that they
the afternoon. We wanted to get a better view of the region
cut the Riesling vines short for the first few years in order to
so we took a random exit off the highway and up the steep
grow strong roots. “We can grow Rieslings this high up because
incline. Cresting the escarpment just as Etta James sang
it’s a hardy grape,” she added. “It can handle the frost.”
At Last on the radio, we found ourselves circling and then
We tasted a Riesling that was only available on site – it was
heading straight into the middle of Megalomaniac’s rows of
light and sweet like a lemon drop – and I worked up a suitable metaphor in my mind. “Our marriage will be just like this grape – resilient,” I said. “Totally,” Bryony agreed. “And it’s good we’ve stayed in our small apartment for now, because that way we can send all the nutrients to our roots.”
vines. The black stone road that leads to the winery is spare and cinematic, taking you right to the ridge of the escarpment before depositing you at the parking lot. From there, Bryony and I viewed miles and miles of misty green to the soundtrack of crickets. We called up my niece to sing her Happy Birthday, and it wasn’t hard to imagine we could see her all the way down in Colorado.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
CLOCKWISE FRom left: HISTORIC CABIN AT BALL'S FALLS, THE GOOD EARTH FOOD AND WINE CO.
At dusk, we were back down the hill and in the vegetable garden
cliff layered with geological history. It was a sunnier day, and
at The Good Earth Food and Wine Co., watching the sunset turn
at the end of the trail, at the lower falls, camp children milled
the willow trees in the near distance orange. Our stomachs
about in an old barn. Inside sat one of those cross-sections of
were pleasantly full from a shared salmon plate and I spotted
an enormous tree that show all the famous dates that it lived
the heirloom tomatoes that had gone into our Caprese salad.
through. “This tree was cut down the year you were born,”
An empty chicken coop at our feet made us wonder where the
Bryony pointed out, and I thought about all the rings of years
chickens had gone off to. Perhaps they had made their way into
that were inside of us, and all the events that might happen.
the building behind the restaurant, where Good Earth has been running cooking classes since 1998. Or, if they’d run off into that sunset beyond the vineyard, I couldn’t blame them. Those two views were rounded out by the hike we took the next day through Ball’s Falls Conservation Area. In late summer, the water is low, so we sat at the edge of the riverbed of the upper falls and watched the Twenty Mile Creek trickle down a
“...if they’d run off into that sunset beyond the vineyard, I couldn’t blame them.” visitniagaracanada.com
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Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your next couples getaway.
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
OPPOSITE PAGe: jordan village, twenty valley. CLOCKWISE from left: INN ON THE TWENTY patio, relaxing at the SPA, a twenty valley vineyard, CAVE SPRING CeLLARS IN JORDAN VILLAGE.
Romance is an art form “That’s my pseudo-sciatica,” Bryony told her masseuse and
continued reading to the part where Amelia is struck by
I laughed because I thought she was making it up. “It’s a real
lightning. “Don’t worry, it’s just a metaphor for the summer
thing!” she said. Other than that light moment, we mostly
ending!” I told her.
just made pleasant humming sounds during our side-by-side
We had better luck at the Jordan Art Gallery next door, where
massage at the Spa on the Twenty in Jordan. When the onehour massage was over, the spa’s staff led us down to the living room where they finished off the experience with a plate of fresh fruit and a Cave Spring Chardonnay.
a group of seven local artists exhibit their work. Mori McCrae showed us around, including her sculptures in the shape of translucent books, which incorporated short poetic phrases. I leaned in to read one that said, “I’m stuck on you, unless I melt
Blissed out, we strolled through the shops across the street. At
into liquid and turn into love, too.”
the S&B Antique Gallery, an enormous room filled primarily with
I showed Bryony. “That’s so romantic” she crooned. And then
fine European furniture and jewellery, Bryony asked the man behind the counter to hand her a ring with a tiny Victorian head sculpted on it. She asked who it was, but the manager said it
we headed to the car, back onto Highway 8 and back to our apartment in the city, with plans to return.
was “just a Victorian head.” Secretly, I planned to buy her one
For more information visit:
for our first anniversary (I hope she forgets after reading this!).
www.twocenturyfarm.com
I dragged her over to the bookshelf to see something: Character
www.fieldingwines.com
Sketches of Romance Fiction and the Drama, a two-volume
www.megalomaniacwine.com
illustrated encyclopedia of fictional lovers published a long, long
www.goodearthfoodandwine.com
time ago. I read a random entry out loud, about Caladin
www.ballsfalls.ca
and Amelia from a little known story about a couple caught in
www.innonthetwenty.com/spa
a thunderstorm. “Tis safety to be near thee,” I proclaimed in my
www.sbantiquegallery.com
best impression of an English romantic bard, then unfortunately
www.jordanartgallery.com visitniagaracanada.com
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Foot to pedal. Wheels to trail. The Greater Niagara Circle Route is a wonderful way to get to know Niagara. It started out as a well kept secret. As word got out, an increasing number of cars en route to Niagara started sporting bike racks. Today, the Bike Train whistles its way through Niagara during the spring, summer and fall sending the message loud and clear that Niagara has become one of Ontario’s premier cycling destinations. The Greater Niagara Circle Route boasts over 140 kilometres of mostly off-road, paved trails that form a circle connecting seven municipalities, two Great Lakes and the Niagara River. The trails pass by charming towns, wineries, waterways and shorelines, agricultural areas and the Niagara Escarpment. Motorized vehicles are not permitted on the majority of the route, making it a safe haven for cyclists, walkers, runners and rollerbladers. While cycling the entire Circle Route is a great option for those looking for a multi-day trip, those looking for a shorter pedal can hop on and off the route to create a trip that matches their interests and schedule.
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CLOCKWISE from left: NIAGARA RIVER, WHIRLPOOL AERO CAR, WELLAND CANAlS PARKWAY TRAIL.
Anchors Away
Breezing By Beaches
The north section of the Greater Niagara Circle Route makes
In Port Colborne, the Circle Route connects with the Friendship
use of the Welland Canal Parkway Trail, which stretches from
Trail, which follows the north shore of Lake Erie for 16 kilometres
Lake Ontario in St. Catharines to Lake Erie in Port Colborne.
and through the town of Fort Erie. Thanks to its first life as a rail
As cyclists make their way along this 20-kilometre section
line, the majority of the trail is quite level and smooth, making
they enjoy a front row seat to watch ships making their way
for a leisurely pedal as you soak in the beach breezes and
through the canal’s eight locks.
beautiful views. History buffs will want to plan a stop at Old Fort Erie, the first fort built in Ontario by the British in 1764.
BORROW A BIKE Niagara is home to a number of great bicycle touring companies and many offer individual bike rentals for those that prefer to explore on their own.
Zoom Leisure Bikes’ Niagara-on-the-Lake location has direct
access to the Circle Route and its Niagara Falls location is just one block from the Circle Route. If you’d prefer to explore a different section of the Circle Route, ask about their delivery service. www.zoomleisure.com
Mac’s Bikes in Niagara Falls makes it easy for folks
travelling by GoTrain to add a bike excursion to their itinerary. Mac’s will bring your bike to you when you arrive, and at the end of the day you can leave it in a bike rack at the GO Train station. www.macsbikesniagara.com
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Renting a bike from Canal City Cycle in downtown Thorold is a great choice for those looking to cycle the Welland Canal Parkway section of the Circle Route. www.canalcitycycle.com
iPhone users can download a GPS app to take the Greater Niagara Circle Route bike map on the go at www.niagararegion.ca/ exploring/cycle
CLOCKWISE from left: NIAGARA-ON-THe-Lake FRUIT STAND, AERIAL view OF OLD FORT ERIE AND WELLAND CANALs PARKWAY TRAIL (PHOTO CREDIT: Joe and Carol Ursano).
Gorgeous Gorge Views
Farm Stand Fresh
From Fort Erie, the Circle Route connects with the Niagara
In Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Circle Route showcases
River Recreational Trail, a paved path that stretches 53
the Waterfront Trail, meandering along the Lake Ontario
kilometres along the Niagara River. For those looking for
shoreline. Farm stands abound, offering the perfect
a shorter route, this section of the trail is divided into four
place for a roadside snack of just-picked seasonal
sections that range from quick, 30-minute cruises to
produce or a freshly baked treat. Just west of Port Weller,
longer two-hour rides:
the circle is completed when the Circle Route reconnects
• Fort Erie to Black Creek
with the Welland Canal Parkway Trail.
• Black Creek to Chippawa • Whirlpool Aero Car to Queenston • Queenston to Niagara-on-the-Lake
The Niagara River Recreational Trail has markings every
Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your next outdoor getaway.
500 metres, making it easy to keep track of your distance. Over 100 monuments and plaques along the way make for an interesting ride that tells the stories of our country’s past.
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Go to visitniagaracanada.com to plan your next wine country getaway
Riverbend Inn, Niagara-on-the-Lake
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
a inweekend niagara winecountry BY MARGARET SWAINE
Put your wine glass on a 100-mile diet. The Niagara Wine Route awaits.
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The Niagara Wine Route starts about an hour’s drive from
No visit to the Twenty Valley part of Niagara would be
downtown Toronto and meanders along rural roads from
complete without visiting Flat Rock Cellars, home to
Grimsby to Niagara-on-the-Lake. There are dozens and
great wines with fun names such as Twisted, Rusty Shed
dozens of wineries you can visit on your journey, each
and Riddled. President Ed Madronich offers participatory
offering unique features such as patios to picnic al fresco,
programs such as “In the Winemaker’s Boots,” where you
fine dining tasting menus, wine samplings paired with
can get down and dirty in the vineyards.
tapas and the like. You’ll want a designated driver or be sure to sample and spit. Follow the maps in the Wine
Further along the back roads is the historic Henry of
Country Ontario Year Round Travel Guide or just watch
Pelham winery, housed in the cellar of a former 1842 inn,
for the blue Wine Route signs.
carriage house and horse shed. The three Speck brothers own and run this Pelham winery – try their well priced and
Begin your tour at exit 68 off the QEW at Peninsula Ridge.
juicy Sibling Rivalry wines. Buy some Ontario cheeses and
The wine tasting room in a beautifully restored barn is
charcuterie from their Coach House Café to take home.
large and stocked with goodies. Check out the charming restaurant in a renovated Victorian home on the property
Cave Spring Cellars in tiny historic Jordan Village is one
for future dining plans.
of Niagara’s pioneering wineries. Put your feet up for the day here and check into the Inn on the Twenty, a
Sample the winery’s racy single vineyard Sauvignon
charming property owned by Cave Spring Cellars with
Blancs and plump Syrah, then head to Angel’s Gate on
top notch accommodations. Dine at On the Twenty
Mountainview Road. Picturesque grounds with flowers
restaurant overlooking Twenty Mile Creek and sip on
and fountains lead to the large tasting room overlooking
their renowned wines.
Lake Ontario. The terrace is a perfect place to sip some of their old-vine Chardonnay and have a nibble.
In the morning, drive about 30 minutes to the Niagara-on-the-Lake district to visit Château des Charmes
Next stop: Tawse Winery on Cherry Avenue. The gorgeous
near the teensy town of St. Davids. The winery’s grand
six-tier gravity flow winery specializes in burgundian
French château inspired building is a local landmark and
style Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Now it’s time for lunch at spectacular Vineland Estates up the escarpment
home to many excellent wines. Founder and oenologist Paul Bosc Senior is a viticultural pioneer who isolated
overlooking vineyards and Lake Ontario. Executive Chef
new clones of grapes.
Justin Downes’ in-season approach to cooking focuses on local ingredients.
Peller Estates Winery, Niagara-on-the-Lake
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Pillitteri Estates Winery, Niagara-on-the-Lake
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your chariot awaits There’s no need to draw straws to determine who will drive from winery to winery. In addition to offering pre-set itineraries, companies like Crush on Niagara Wine Tours, Community Transport Group and Grape Escape Wine Tours provide customized shuttle service for small groups.
Need wheels to get to Niagara Wine Country? Niagara Airbus will pick you up from your home or hotel in Toronto and whisk you away for a day of touring.
Nearby Coyote’s Run Estate Winery is a picture in contrast – a small, cute little house-like winery with hand-crafted wines. On the 60-acre property, there are two very distinct soil types: one with a reddish colour and the other black. Wines from the particular soils are called, respectively, Red Paw and Black Paw and are a great way to discover how much difference soil (or “terroir” to the French) makes. Go for lunch in the fancy dining room of Peller Estates where Chef Jason Parsons works magic with local produce. Peller is the largest of the over two dozen wineries in the district of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The restaurant at Peller and sister winery Hillebrand offer haute cuisine of the tastiest kind. After lunch, visit Stratus Winery. The stunning contemporary visuals of Stratus will have you in awe. At this innovative gravity flow and environmentally sustainable winery, winemaker J-L Groux believes in “assembling” wines from a blend of grapes. His very best wines mix a host of varietals to get great complexities. Drive from there to Reif Estate Winery, which has a wine sensory garden where you can sniff herbs invocative of the scents of wines. At the sensory wine bar, Reif offers several wine tasting experiences such as “taste the terroir” and “wine and chocolate.”
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niagara. a place of wonders...big and small.
Don’t miss Inniskillin, the winery which heralded in the new era of Ontario winemaking in 1975 when it was granted the first winery licence in Ontario since 1929. In the Riedel Tasting Room, you can sample wines served in specific crystal glasses designed and shaped for each type of wine. Their outdoor piazza offers picnic tables and the large demo kitchen has wine and food pairings. Call it a day at Riverbend Inn, a stately 1860’s Georgian Mansion that’s been converted into 21 unique guest rooms and a fine dining restaurant with a fabulous view of neighbouring vineyards.
plan your wine country weekend Wineries www.winecountryontario.ca
Accommodations www.riverbendinn.ca www.innonthetwenty.com
Wine Country Tourism Information www.twentyvalley.ca www.niagaraonthelake.com www.tourismstcatharines.ca
Spend time having fun on your vacation, not getting there. With easy access from four international airports, and airport shuttle service offered through the region, getting to Niagara is a breeze. airport
distance to Niagara
Toronto Pearson International Airport
125 km/78 miles
Buffalo niagara usa International Airport
45 km/28 miles
John C Munro Hamilton International Airport
85 km/53 miles
Niagara falls usa International Airport
15 km/9 miles
border crossings Travelers coming via land from the United States have four international bridge crossings in Niagara to choose from: • Rainbow Bridge Niagara Falls • Lewiston-Queenston Bridge Niagara Falls • Peace Bridge Fort Erie • Whirlpool Bridge (Nexus Pass) Niagara Falls.
Montreal
With a valid passport, and in certain cases, a travel visa, border crossing is a seamless process.
Kingston Toronto
Niagara Detroit Chicago Toledo
Boston Buffalo
Cleveland
Cincinnati
Pittsburgh
Albany
New York Philadelphia
Additional details about travel documentation can be found at the Canada Border Services Agency website: www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Circle shows a radius around Niagara, Canada of 650 km or 400 miles.
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