Visit Elora & Fergus - Grand and Gorgeous (2023)

There's a cultural vibe that radiates through Elora and Fergus: historic buildings whispering tales of yesteryear, natural surroundings offering beauty second to none, dynamic festivals and events, charming downtowns, and local produce with fantastic flavours. Find ways to explore #EloraFergus by visiting elorafergus.ca

Grand experiences. Gorgeous views. Good times.

Grand & Gorgeous is your quintessential guide to exploring Fergus and Elora – two distinctly different towns that together, make one great destination.

Elora and Fergus have a vibe all their own. We’ve got something for everyone. Nature lovers. Adventure seekers. Kilt wearers. Fish finders. Serious shoppers. Fine diners. Patio dwellers. Picnic packers. Festival goers. Hikers and bikers. Paddlers and peddlers. Art aficionados. Cultural connoisseurs. History buffs. Wanderers and wonderers. Everyone is welcome here.

The question is, what to do first?

Take your time. We’re open all year.

WELCOME TO FERGUS & ELORA

Photo by Me Photography

Wellington County

From backroads to small towns, uncover the treasures and adventures that await, right on your doorstep.

Bring your bathing suit or put on your hiking boots and explore the Wellington County’s stunning conservation areas, parks, and trails.

Find local food, go on farm and food adventures and savour local eats and drinks with Taste Real.

Find your next adventure at www.experiencewellington.ca

Experiences

Paddles Please

Paddlers are invited to explore the Grand River in a canoe or kayak. The rest of the world seems to fall away as you become one with nature.

The experienced team at Elora Paddle Company provide simple instructions to set your course on this gentle stretch of river in the heart of Elora. Explore beautiful Bissell Park, reach out and touch the rock cliffs, or paddle up to a waterfall.

The Elora Paddle Company has created an authentic family-friendly experience. Book online and get into the water. elorapaddlecompany.ca

Elora Rapid Rides

Book inflatable tubes and gear online and select the route best suited for you. If you’re up for the rush of the river, you can rent your equipment and venture into the park’s tube launch site.

If you prefer a more relaxed river experience, the Elora Rapid Rides will drop you off upstream, to meander along the expanse of the Grand River. Enjoy the views along the shorelines to the Trestle Bridge beneath the Aboyne Trail.

Or take a River Bug from the Elora Raft Rides. These one-person catamaran rafts put you in the driver’s seat. eloraraftrides.com

Two Towns, Two Quarries

The Elora Quarry is known for its deep, emerald green waters and sandy beach. It is one of the most popular destinations in town to enjoy on a summer day. You may recognize the quarry from Stephen King’s horror film “It” or Adam Sandler’s new film “You are SO not invited to my bat mitzvah!” Advanced reservations are required, so book ahead at grandriver.ca

If you want to get out of town, Belwood Lake is just minutes out of Fergus. The wide-open basin offers a spot to launch a boat, cast your line or take a dip. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic views at Belwood Quarry. This one-acre springfed quarry features deep water with a sectioned off area for shallow water play.

Both quarries are operated by the Grand River Conservation Authority and offer unique landscapes. Soak up the sun or beat the heat in the cool crystal waters.

Elora Raft Rides

Sit back, relax, and take in the natural beauty of the Grand River with Elora Raft Rides. Their unique watercrafts will take you on a pleasure cruise in the comfort of their locally fabricated classic punts.

Create a memorable experience all your own with Elora Raft Rides. eloraraftrides.com

Tubing on the Grand

Fast, fun and unforgettable. Make a big splash on a self-guided journey that moves fast over rapids and slows in the calm pools inside the Elora Gorge Conservation Area.

Brave your way into the river rapids for a twisting, turning journey. Book online at grandriver.ca.

Stop to Shop

Both Fergus and Elora have historic downtown cores. Rich in character, the businesses here work together to create a unique vibe. Independently owned and operated, these shops are the heart of Centre Wellington.

Shopkeepers take great pride in curating everything from fashion and home decor to upcycled vintage treasures.

Their genuine desire to create unique experiences with customer service top of mind will keep you coming back.

Embrace the Scottish ambiance of downtown Fergus and stroll the streets of Elora taking in its artistic vibe. downtownfergus.com elora.info

Cheers

Our pubs and lounges bring people together to "raise their spirits". From dazzling decks to cozy corners, local taverns serve up some of the finest traditional beverages and creative cocktails.

Home of the Elora Distilling Company and Elora Brewing Company, you'll find award-winning craft beers and spirits inspired by locally-sourced flavours.

Gather your friends, put your phone away, and stir up quality time by sharing a laugh, a story or conversation that begins and ends with “Cheers!”

Grand Gourmets

Fergus and Elora pride themselves on diverse dining. Every restaurant, café and bakery contributes to the flavours of the community.

Whether it's traditional British or Scottish hearty pub fare, authentic Italian dishes, Indian cuisine or some of the best sushi you'll fine outside of Toronto, you'll find it all.

From fresh vegetarian and vegan locales to Chinese delicacies, dining here is always a grand experience. For a complete list of restaurants, visit us online at grandandgorgeous.com.

Photo by Bill Longshaw

Experiences Continued

Art is our Heart Art has always been the heart of our community. Not only do we have a thriving arts community, but we also believe in making it a part of our landscape. Artistic expression is everywhere in our historic towns.

The Elora Sculpture Project

Adding character and beauty to downtown streets and walkways, pieces can be found throughout the downtown core, encouraging art lovers to tour beyond the main streets. elorasculpture.ca

Artisan Shops

Featuring hand-crafted pottery, jewellery, blown glass, wood working, quilts, photography and more. You'll often get to meet the artists and talk about their inspiration.

The Elora Centre for the Arts

A hub of creativity located just a few blocks from downtown, this historic landmark is a celebration of the local arts community. The grounds include outdoor art pieces, sculptures, and a new outdoor pavilion. eloracentreforthearts.ca

Historical Haven

The Wellington County Museum and Archives isn’t just another landmark building – it's one of the most historically significant buildings in our area, stoically perched on a hill between Fergus and Elora.

Built in 1877, the Poor House and Industrial Farm offered lodging for the homeless in Wellington County. It is the oldest remaining House of Industry and Refuge in Canada, earning the status of a National Historic Site.

Tour the exhibit halls and step back in time in the meticulously restored heritage barn. Wander through the fragrant blooms of the gardens that bring the flora and fauna of the past into the present. wellington.ca

Bet on Fun

If you’ve never experienced the thrill of being up-close to the finish line, or hearing the thundering hooves on the track, then the Grand River Raceway is a must. From June to September, every Monday, Wednesday and Friday night, you can experience the sport of harness racing. Admission is free. grandriverraceway.com

The excitement doesn’t end there. Grand River Raceway is also home to the newly expanded Elements Casino. With more than 500 slot machines and the most popular electronic video tables, it's a win-

Elements Casino Grand River is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and parking is always free. elementscasinograndriver.com

Photo by Dave Landry

The Elora Vintage and Antique Show

SENSATIONAL Spring

IONAL

Mark your calendar for a special spring weekend in Elora that will bring out the treasure hunter in you. Stop by the Elora Community Centre where you’ll discover a trove of unique finds including vintage fashion items, art pieces, collectibles and much more. antiqueshowscanada.com

Fergus Fibre Festival

Attention all knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers, and anyone interested in Ontario wool and fleece. This years event will take place in downtown Fergus and will feature food trucks, vendors, exhibitors, pipers and a scavenger hunt new this year. Sponsored by the Fergus BIA, the event will take place on the last Saturday in May.

The Elora Farmers’ Market

Fergus and Elora come to life in spring and are beautiful destinations to warm up to. With breathtaking views and familiar downtown destinations, it’s hard to imagine a more inviting place to step into spring. Whether it’s cozying up with a good book in a sunny space, climbing down into the gorge or casting a line into the river, you're sure to be inspired.

When the spring air warms the ground, head to Bissell Park for fresh locally grown produce, meats and sweet treats. Bring your own bags and be a part of the community every Saturday morning until late October. elorafarmersmarket.ca

The Elora Gorge Conservation Area

Opening in May with 450 seasonal campsites, this campground features the thrill of tubing down the rapids of the Grand River or taking the kids to the splash pad to cool off. Grab your camping gear and get ready for an unforgettable experience. grandriver.ca

Annual Pike and Walleye Derby

There’s no such thing as a bad day when you’re fishing. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’re welcome to cast off in the Belwood Lions annual event. It’s a great way to spend time outdoors, with prizes to be won and tall tales to be shared. belwoodlions.org

As the melting snow flows into the rushing waters of the Grand River, there is a sense of renewal in Centre Wellington.

Photo by Drew Mochrie

Insights 2023

As the longest running regional juried art show remaining in Ontario, this exhibit will amaze and inspire. Don’t miss what is sure to be another fantastic show, hosted by the Welllington County Museum. insightsart.ca

Wellington County Writers Festival

Held at the Wellington County Museum and Archives. Be captivated with readings from emerging and established local authors, meet book vendors, and enjoy storytelling and activities for young readers.

Giant Book Sale

Book lovers, bargain hunters and collectors never miss the Elora Festival’s annual giant book sale. Stumble upon rare finds, or treasures in the collector’s corner. From books of all kinds to CDs and DVDs, this sale has it all. Book worms from all over gather for the annual event at the Elora Curling Club. elorafestival.com

Elora en Plein Air

Watch the inspiration unfold right on the canvass. You’ll find artists at beautiful locales around town and scattered around our beautiful landscapes. www.elorapleinair.ca

National Tartan Day

Tartan lovers take note – this annual event leaves your average pub crawl in the dust. Whether you bring your favourite tartan cap, scarf or kilt, it’s bottoms up as you make your way from pub to pub with your pals. downtownfergus.com

Hanscomb Glass

Summer STUNNING

Beat the heat in a tube on the white waters of the Grand River or try your hand at fly fishing in the sun-kissed streams. Cruise along the Cataract trail on a rental bike, paddle a kayak up to your favourite waterfall or book a gondola if you prefer to pass on the paddling. Summers here are full of possibilities, so plan ahead to experience all that we have to offer.

The patios are bustling. The lakes are calm. The water is cold and the dance floors are hot. If shopping is your thing, we’ve got you covered. There’s something here for everyone.

Sunset Concerts

Take a break from the heat of summer and find a seat at the museum for live weekly performances. Thursdays evenings all summer long at the Wellington County Museum and Archives. wellington.ca

Riverfest Elora

Text your besties and head down to the river for three epic days of concerts. It’s not your typical music festival because this isn’t your typical venue. The stage is steps from the river and there's sure to be good vibes all around. riverfestelora.com

There’s nothing like summer in Fergus and Elora.

Industry Day

The hallmark event of Grand River Raceway’s racing season is Industry Day, held on the Civic Holiday Monday in August. The event is highlighted by two prestigious races. The Battle of Waterloo is Grand River Raceway’s signature race, featuring Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing colts, and the Battle of the Belles is a companion race contested by Ontario-sired two-year-old pacing fillies. Make a day of it. The action is thrilling. grandriverraceway.com

Twilight at Templin Concerts

Enjoy live music by the river every Wednesday night, all summer long. Take a break and head down with the family for a night spent relaxing with great music under a late summer sun. downtownfergus.com

Leap of Faith

Feeling adventurous? Glide down a 200-foot zipline above the river in the Elora Gorge with One Axe Pursuits. From May until October, this is a surefire way to get your adrenaline pumping. Or try an 80-foot. repel directly into the Grand River. There’s no experience needed so book now for the upcoming season. oneaxepursuits.com

Photo by Kelly Waterhouse

Stunning Summer

Outdoor Theatre

Kick back, stretch out, and relax in Bissell Park when the weather’s at its best. Put down a blanket and enjoy live theatre with Shakespeare in the Park. Whether you’ve never been or never missed a show, this is definitely worth marking on the calendar. eloracommunitytheatre.com

The Elora Festival

Fergus Medieval Faire

Step back in time as you walk through downtown Fergus for the Fergus Medieval Faire. Lords and ladies, knights and maidens, performers and entertainers all vie to impress the King and Queen. Come for the vendors, the feasts and the tradition.

fergusmedievalfaire.ca

This event brings world-class music right to our doorstep over three weekends each summer, celebrating the best of choral, classical, and jazz performances, including the renowned Elora Singers. elorafestival.ca

Highland Games It doesn’t get any more Scottish outside of Scotland than at the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games. And you don’t have to be a Scot to enjoy this celebration of cultural heritage. Three full days of fun and festivities. Come for a day or stay for the weekend. fergusscottishfestival.com

Travel Light

Rent a bike or canoe in downtown Elora, and venture out onto the trailways and riversides to Fergus. Nature lovers and adventure seekers alike will get a fresh perspective on this beautiful part of Ontario. elorapaddlecompany.ca

The Fieldstone Barn

Bright yellow sunflowers in bloom, tall stalks of corn rustling in the breeze, and rich orange sunsets on the horizon make for beautiful views at The Fieldstone Barn. Tour the corn maze or glamp in style, spending the night under the stars. Check out all the events planned for this unique destination. thefieldstonebarn.com

Attention Car Lovers

The annual Wellington County Museum and Archives’ Antique and Classic Car Show is polished and raring to go for summer. Seeing rows of classic cars, muscle machines, and vintage trucks lined up across the expansive lawn is worth getting revved up for. wellington.ca

Photo by Devlin Macpherson

Photo by Bill Longshaw

The Fieldstone Barn submitted photo

POINTS OF ATTRACTION IN FERGUS

Find your Perfect Handcrafted Gift with Kitras

FABULOUS Fall

As the leaves transform from green to vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow, the landscape changes into a sea of warm, inviting colours. The crisp air and cool breeze invigorate the senses, and the days are just right to appreciate the spectacular views along our trails, riverbanks and the caverns of the Elora Gorge.

As we celebrate the harvest season, from apples to pumpkins, it’s also a time of hometown traditions and community celebrations. The Fergus Fall Fair is a great way to get the kids out of the house to learn about their rural roots and be surrounded by nature’s stunning autumn display. Share in the bounty of the season.

The Fergus Fall Fair

Celebrating its 186th year, this is a tradition of festive experiences for the whole family. Celebrate agriculture, community, and the bounty of the harvest season. fergusfallfair.ca

The Elora Fergus Studio Tour

We’re renowned for our artist collectives. The Studio Tour is free of charge and is your chance to get inside the creative spaces of our local artists, in a self-guided tour that takes place annually over two weekends. Start at the Elora Centre for the Arts, with their exhibit featuring the artists on tour, and then head off to be inspired. elorafergusstudiotour.com

Fergus Car show

Ready? Set? Show! Rev your engines and head to the Downtown Fergus Antique and Classic Car Show, when the main drag is shut down for car enthusiasts of all kinds to enjoy. downtownfergus.com

The Wellington Rural Romp

Wander down the back roads for some hands-on experiences and a chance to see our rural borders. This self-guided farm and food tour highlights the best that farms, markets, and nurseries in Centre Wellington have to offer. Bring your fall flavours map and learn about local food and agriculture. wellington.ca

Fall is a magical time of year.

Photo by Me Photography

Monster Month

The Monsters take over Elora every October. Elora is transformed into a spooky village filled with creatures of all kinds just in time for Halloween. Put together your scariest costume and join an army of goblins, ghouls and spirits for the annual Monster March Parade. Don’t be haunted by the thought of missing out! monstermonth.ca

Halloween Haunt

Fergus gets into the spirit of Halloween with their downtown Halloween Haunt Walk for the kids, and by night, the Fergus Ghost Walks. Ghost stories in real time! downtownfergus.com

Poor House Spirit Walk

Think you’re brave enough to step into the most haunted house in town? This dark and eerie haunt at the Wellington County Museum will send a chill down your spine. Join in the October Spooktacular festivities and enter if you dare. wellington.ca

Photo by Michael Chapman

Photo by Me Photography

The OWOW Magic Festival

Take part in a Festival that brings wonder to Fergus and Elora. Immerse yourself in a world of illusion, prestidigitation, and enchantment. Returning this October with a slate of internationally renowned magicians performing mind-boggling tricks and sleight-of-hand illusions. magicfestival.ca

Sensational Pumpkin Day

Held every October at the Elora Farmers’ Market, this event celebrates all things pumpkin. From carving and decorating to finding fun ways to eat them. sensationalelora.com

The Enchanted Forest of Fergus Step into a magical world of handmade art, music and magic and embark on a whimsical adventure this fall. Their September Symphony show features a concert by the Toronto String Quartet, amongst others. Guests are invited to dress as a fairytale suggests and dance beneath the stars for an unforgettable night of magical entertainment. The forest awaits you... fergusenchantedforest.com

Photo by Robyn Louise Photography

The Fieldstone Barn submitted photo

past. wellington.ca

From the twinkling lights of holiday decorations to the warmth of a roaring fire, there’s something special about this time of year.

With fresh snowfall and ice forming long, sharp teeth against the limestone rocks that envelope the Grand River, the view is spectacular.

The myriad of trails are a picture perfect setting for hiking, skiing and snowshoeing. Get active, get outdoors, and see what makes winter in Fergus and Elora worthwhile.

Tribute to Robert Burns

Celebrate the life of the Scottish bard Robbie Burns in Fergus with an annual celebration where haggis is the heart of the meal. It’s a memorable event and a fabulous party. Entertainment like no other. Kilt up and get down there. burnsnight.ca

The Elora Festival Singers

Nothing sounds more like Christmas than the world-class voices of The Elora Festival Singers. Now in its 44th season, the Elora Festival has established a reputation as Canada’s international choral festival. With a Juno nomination this year for best (large ensemble) classical album, the Elora Singers are sure to delight. elorafestival.ca

Holiday Shopping

Shopkeepers are friendly and the selection is dvine. Be unique and shop unique. Elora hosts two nights of Starlight Shopping and Fergus rolls out the specials with their annual Late Night Sip and Shop event.

Winter Wonderland

Nothing says winter quite like outdoor ice skating and tobogganing. We excel at both. From the free outdoor rinks throughout the community to some excellent steep hills to launch your sled down, there is nothing like getting outdoors here.

Ice Fishing at Belwood Lake

When the ice is thick, Belwood Lake is an awesome winter tradition that everyone should try (weather permitting of course). Head out onto the ice, find your favourite spot, and see if the fish are biting. grandriver.ca

Follow our calendar of events for new and upcoming events. Locations and details at grandandgorgeous.com.

There’s a lot packed in here, because life in Centre Wellington is Grand and Gorgeous all year round.

Photo by Me Photography

Trails

Follow the trail wherever it leads you.

To truly appreciate the beautiful natural landscape in Fergus and Elora all year round, our pathways are the way to go. Whether you hike, ride or let your dog take you for a stroll, we’ve got a route for you.

The Elora Cataract Trailway

A great place to get out and explore. With 47 kilometres of historic trails that follow the original Canadian Pacific Railway bed, it links the Grand and Credit watersheds. Protected by the Grand River Conservation Authority and the Credit Valley Conservation authority, stewardship is provided by the Elora Cataract Trailway Association. Find maps at trailway.org

The Trestle Bridge Trail

Spanning 4km opposite the Wellington County Museum and Archives in Aboyne, between Fergus and Elora, this trail features spectacular views of the Grand River and surrounding area from atop the two bridges found en route. Parking is available at the trail start and at the museum.

The Cottontail Road Trail

Part of the Trans Canada Trail, adjacent to the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, the County of Wellington Trail provides a natural link to the Kissing Bridge Trailway that leads to the Waterloo Region. wellington.ca

The Irvine River Gorge Staircase Hike down to the cool waters where you can leap from rock to rock, and look up at the David Street Bridge. If you prefer the view from above, the Irvine Promenade trail winds along the top edge of the Gorge.

Bissell Park

This short 1.8 km loop boasts a riverside boardwalk and paved path that offers a beautiful view of the Grand River. Stroll to the bridge that overlooks the waterfall as the water makes its way from Fergus to downtown Elora.

The Aboyne Trail

Take a scenic tour around the grounds of the Wellington County Museum and Archives, leading to several outdoor exhibits including the House of Industry Cemetery.

The Riverwalk Loop

In the heart of downtown Fergus, you can take a pedestrian-friendly tour of the Grand River and waterfall. It’s a short tour, but great view in every season.

The Upper Gorge Trailway

Elora offers a self-guided historic tour overlooking the Gorge. Beginning in Victoria Park, you'll see the Elora Mill and the rushing water cascading around the Tooth of Time. Enjoy the views from Lover’s Leap, where the Irvine and Grand Rivers meet.

Photo by Kelly Waterhouse

Festivals

We put the ‘festive’ in Festivals.

From internationally renowned musicians and performers, to kilt-clad Highlander athletes, to the people who travel from far and wide, it is known that we put the “festive” in festivals.

Riverfest Elora

Gather your friends and head down to the river for three awesome days and three epic nights of live music, with an eclectic lineup of more than 50 bands and solo artists on multiple stages all inside Bissell Park, in the heart of Elora.

Riverfest turns up the amps and gathers the masses to dance beneath the summer sun until the stars blanket the night skies and the stage lights cascade over the crowds of thousands.

This festival is anything but small-town. Year after year, Canadian bands, international headliners, indie acts and many others show up. To name a few of the acts that have rolled into town in past years: Glorious Sons, Alessia Cara, City and Colour, Monster Truck, July Talk, Blue Rodeo, Arkells, Dear Rouge, K-OS, My Son The Hurricane, and many more.

All #RiverFriends welcome. For this year’s lineup, tickets and more visit riverfestelora.com

Riverfest Elora

Photo by Keegan Taylor

The Elora Festival

For over 40 years, the Elora Festival has expanded our musical horizons as Canada’s international choral festival. Celebrating a diverse spectrum of musical genres, including classical, international music, jazz and folk, each year their lineup features artists and dynamic musical experiences. The festival has welcomed renowned Canadian and international talent from the Vancouver Chamber Choir, the Trinity College Choir, Chanticleer, Studio de musique ancienne de Montréal, and the State Choir LATVIJA to name a few.

It has also welcomed lyrical legends like Gordon Lightfoot, Sarah McLachlan, Chantal Kreviazuk, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Sarah Slean and Measha Brueggergosman.

For the full line-up of artists and performances visit elorafestival.ca.

Meadows Festival

Fergus invites you to let your hair down for the inaugural Meadows Festival in the fields behind the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex.

Over two days, Farm League Brewing will be hosting an exciting lineup of live performances by The Sheepdogs, James Barker band, Jade Eagleson, Sloan and the Blue Stones, to name a few.

Kick off the summer with a cold one. The festival will offer an array of local vendors, serving up food and drinks.

All ages are welcome and children under 12 are free with a ticket-holding adult. The entire festival grounds are licensed for attendees 19 and older.

Let the good times roll with music, food and great company. meadowsfest.ca

The Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games

Ya dinnae have to be Scottish to take part in the best celebration this side of the pond. If you love great music, serious athleticism, dancing, and the sound of bagpipes and drums, you’ll never forget the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games.

Organizers call this festival “Scotland without the airfare.”

Celebrating Scottish heritage, culture and sport, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and flavours of Scotland. From the tradition of the Friday night Festival Tattoo, to two full days of events, experiences, and history for everyone in your clan.

As you walk the grounds, take in the competitions in Highland Dance and the Pipes and Drums. The sounds are alive with the beating of drums and the haunting melodies of the bagpipes.

If you’ve never seen someone toss a caber, a hammer or a sheaf, get ready. This year, the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games is home to the World Heavy Events Championship. Come cheer on some of the biggest and strongest athletes you’ve ever seen, (in a kilt, no less) set to the task of serious international Highland Games competition.

Come and join the celebration, Scottish or nae! (Tartans optional) fergusscottishfestival.com

Submitted photo

Views GORGEOUS

The Tooth of Time

There is simply no place like this. These are some must-see views, lookouts and hidden gems.

One of Elora’s most famous landmarks - this impressive mass of jagged rock and trees sits in the middle of a rushing waterfall. This bedrock of beauty remains steadfast - a testament to the power of the natural world around us. The view is stunning from the balcony of the Elora Mill’s dining room, but if you prefer to look on from a forest pathway, take the trail through Elora’s Victoria Park.

The David Street Bridge

Take in this spectacular view of the Irvine River as it flows from the hamlet of Salem. While impressive from the top of the bridge, another great view is from the shores of the Irvine River. Take the steps down in Victoria Park to see this beautifully restored bridge.

The Jack R. MacDonald

Pedestrian Bridge

This favourite feature of Elora’s downtown, offers an incredible view of the Grand River, the Elora Mill and the downtown shops. It connects people and shops on both sides of the river.

We come by the name Grand and Gorgeous naturally.

Find them, then share your Gorgeous Views with us:

#visitelorafergus

#bythegrand

Aboyne Trail – Trestle Bridge

From atop the bridge, this unique vantage point provides a scenic perspective of the sweet spot between Elora and Fergus, known as Aboyne. The former railway bridge crosses the Grand River, giving a beautiful view of the Wellington County Museum and Archives. Whether you're an early riser, or a evening adventurer, sunrise and sunset here are near perfection.

The Milligan Footbridge

Spanning the Grand River in downtown Fergus this bridge is the perfect place for photos and views of the limestone cliffs. Waterfalls flow into a whirlpool basin before heading downstream toward Elora. At night, bright lights turn the rush of the water into a mesmerizing scene.

Photos by Me Photography

Gorgeous Views Continued

Confederation Park

With footpaths leading through the forest to various hideouts, and the sound of rushing water with the historic Fergus Mill residences as a backdrop, this is the perfect place to picnic, cast your fishing line, or just stop and be present.

Elora Quarry

Turquoise waters, steep limestone cliffs and evergreen trees make a spectacular summer view. You may drive right past on your way through town, as it's hidden behind a wall of trees, but in the summer a line-up of cars gives our secret away.

Lover's Leap

You’ll fall for this vantage point in Elora’s Victoria Park. The outlook is perched high above where the Irvine and Grand Rivers meet. It’s a symbolic spot shrouded in legend of a romantic, yet tragic tale. Still, it's a popular spot for engagements and even the exchange of wedding vows.

Templin Gardens

This secret garden is tucked behind the shops of Fergus' downtown, where the Milligan Footbridge stretches across the Grand. The limestone walls, and iron gates open to a stone stairway leading down to the water’s edge. Through the seasons, it's a picturesque view –whether standing in it or admiring the view from the bridge above.

Photo by Me Photography

Photo by Me Photography

Bissell Park

Take a stroll riverside along the boardwalk and let the path lead you to the red steel pedestrian bridge overlooking the waterfall. It’s a picture-perfect spot to appreciate the view.

Elora Gorge Conservation Area

You don’t have to camp to enjoy the beauty here. From paved roads to marked forest pathways, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the natural environment. With thick forest, steep rugged cliffs, and the rushing rapids of the Grand River, there's adventure at every turn.

Caves and Enclaves

When the water is low, take the steps down to the shoreline of the Irvine River. See small caves and natural inlets carved into the limestone cliffs of the Elora Gorge. These are are precious places, so remember to take only pictures and leave only footsteps.

Photo by Bill Longshaw

Fish ON

Grab the tackle, tie the fly.

However you bait the hook you’ll find world-class recreational fishing on the Grand River. There is nothing like the serenity of fly fishing for brown trout in the cool waters that flow from the Shand Dam down through to Elora.

We’ve gathered a few hot spots from the fish enthusiasts who know these waters well. The Grand River is a habitat to many species of fish in Ontario, and conservation and respect for the environment is vital to our community.

Shand Dam

As the waters flow from Belwood Lake, this is one of the most sought-after fishing spots. Here you’ll find a bounty of brown trout, pike, perch, walleye and bullhead.

Blair Park and the Grand Arboretum Trail

Perfect for fly or cast fishing, the waters here are shallow enough to wade in with many spots along the trail to drop a lure.

Pierpoint Park

It's hard to find a more tranquil spot, but this is one the locals know well. The river is wide, the waters are shallow and the fly fishing is exceptional.

Photo by Bill Longshaw

Belwood Lake

An ideal fishing spot. It’s a small, quiet lake perfect for the sport. The reservoir is ideal for pike, walleye, smallmouth bass and perch in the warm season, and great for perch and northern pike in winter. Operated by the Grand River Conservation Authority, the park includes two ponds stocked with trout, great for younger fishers.

Wilson Flats

Located on the outskirts of Elora, as the Grand River emerges from the gorge heading westward, this is another awesome spot for fly fishing. It's shallow, but rod and reel fishermen like the challenge. Plus it's just minutes from downtown Elora.

Bissell Park

Known for cast fishing as the water gains speed, the park is lined with footpaths along the waters edge that provide several

Confederation Park

Fish fill the pools below the waterfall here before the river gains speed heading towards downtown Fergus. The quiet stretch before the waterfall is also an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts to try their luck.

Templin Gardens

Somewhat surprisingly, this is an excelllent fishing destination steps from downtown Fergus. Cast off the limestone stairs where the water is deeper and the rapid flow creates a whirlpool.

Gow Park

A popular spot in Fergus, right on Union Street. This small inlet is a great place for cast fishing as the flow river slows.

Aboyne Trail

The fish love it under the Trestle brige as much as fishermen do. Perfect for fly fishing, but also known to be lucky for the rod and

Sleepovers

Rooms for Rent

The Best Western in Fergus offers a great location on the north end of town. bestwestern.com

In Elora, The Village Inn is an affordable and walkable motel steps from downtown.villageinnelora.com

Shipping Container Sleepover

Have you ever slept in a renovated shipping container complete with an outdoor hot tub on the banks of the Grand River? You can. innerjoygetaways.com

Glamp On

Take a night off and try glamping in a forest or in the middle of a farm field with friends or family. We have two farms that offer this experience. Visit thefieldstonebarn.com or irvinesidefarm.ca

Luxurious Living

For something a bit more upscale, the Elora Mill Hotel and Spa is Elora’s premier destination with unparalleled views and sophisticated comforts. Visit eloramill.ca

Simple Tastes

If you’d rather stay in a historic home with antique charm, or a modern apartment with minimalist style, visit airbnb.ca or febba.ca

Photo by Me Photography

Pack your pjs.

Camper's Paradise

If you prefer an authentic camping experience, the Elora Gorge Conservation Area is set on 200 hectares, and offers more than 200 unmaintained sites, for those who want to rough it. They also have 150 sites with hydro and water. From RVs and tents to inflatable mats and sleeping bags, this campground is incredible. Book in advance at grandriver.ca.

Highland Pines Campground

Another family-friendly option for overnight camping in Belwood. It features 120 campsites with water and electricity, and offers access to the park’s full seasonal amenities. This is a popular destination for tent campers, trailers, or RVs. Close to everything you need, but far enough away to feel like a getaway. highlandpines.com

The only thing better than a sleepover is another day of adventure in Elora & Fergus.

Sleepovers are awesome here. Come for the day, but stay for the night.

Photo by Me Photography