September, 2019
One of my all-time favourite day trips from London is Bayfield – only one hour away, but it feels like it’s a world away. Bayfield is nestled along the shores of Lake Huron commonly referred to as Ontario’s West Coast. If you love the beach, the best time to visit is between June and September. I would lean toward September after the kids have gone back to school, less tourists lining the streets, but still allowing warm temperatures.
Although there are plenty of charming small towns along the shores of Lake Huron, my favourite is Bayfield. It is quaint with historic buildings, great restaurants, ice cream shoppes, bakeries, and boutique stylish clothing stores. The prices are geared toward tourists in the clothing shops, but it is fun to browse and window shop. I will be the first to say it – what do you really need anyway?
I would suggest strolling along the main street wandering in and out of the shops eventually making your way to Pioneer Park where you will find stunning views of the lake with the most picturesque sunsets. You will want to make your way back here to view the sunset before heading back to the city. This park also makes a perfect location for a picnic if you have packed your own food!
A quick drive from here is Windmill Lake and Eco Park – a great way to spend part of the day. From paddle boarding, kayaking, pedal boating, canoeing, wake boarding or jumping around in the aqua park there is something for the entire family. We spent an afternoon paddle boarding – the lake was still, quiet and peaceful. Pack your swimsuit – you won’t regret it! It’s a great workout justifying the beer at the local brewery later!
You will want to make your way to the Bayfield Brewing Company and Public House – Bayfield’s first craft brewery. There is a small brewery attached to the main restaurant. You can opt to just grab a pint at the Brewery or grab a table for lunch on the restaurant side. The Public House serves the local brews and also recommends pairing options – especially for pints and pizza! They have an amazing arugula and poached pear salad drizzled with goat cheese. It is a delicious explosion of summer.
One of favourite restaurants for dinner is the Black Dog – a popular dog-friendly spot with a great patio and a selection of microbrews and bistro fare. Of course, save room for ice cream from Rosie’s Ice Cream shoppe just down the way. Grab your favourite hard scoop flavour, mint chocolate chip for D and cookies & cream for me, and wander your way back to the Pioneer Park to soak in the sunset!
Looking for Italian and a sweet little patio check out Olio Too. It is a wine bar serving home made pizza, pasta, and a variety of appetizers. As the sign says it also makes the perfect ‘spouse’ day care while the ladies explore the local shops!
The Lake House is another venue that has an Inn and restaurant onsite. It’s an ideal place to grab lunch after paddle boarding or hanging on the beach. It offers a great tapas menu which pairs nicely with summer sangria.
Looking to make this a weekend away? Then grab a room at the Little Inn of Bayfield or the Lake House of Bayfield. Who doesn’t love an escape from the city with a little R&R? Both offer weekend packages and it is best to book in advance.