River Fun, Unique Artisans and Rich History: Top things to do in Elora and Fergus, Ontario
Nestled along the Grand River, Elora and Fergus are two small Ontario towns with tons of personality. Located in Centre Wellington, they are just a short drive north of Guelph, and only 1.5 hours from Toronto. These historic towns are beautiful communities with two distinct personalities, however both pack a punch when it comes to outdoor adventure, creative artisans, and a cool culinary scene. Venture into their historic downtowns and explore amazing public art, lively restaurants, and wallet-emptying shops, or dive into nature and tube down the epic Elora Gorge, go for a hike, or take a dip in the stunning Elora quarry.
Nature and Outdoor Adventure
Elora Conservation Area
Elora is a mecca for the outdoor enthusiast, and one of the top highlights is stunning the Elora Gorge Conservation area. Hike one of the many scenic trails along giant limestone cliffs, and stop at scenic lookout points revealing amazing views deep into the gorge and the mighty Grand River below. Don’t miss is the "Hole in the rock", a unique rock formation which leads through a cliff face to a scenic riverside lookout surrounded by giant tree roots.
One of the most popular activities at the Elora Gorge Conservation area, and certainly the most adventurous, is tubing down the Grand River. Rent a tube and helmet from the park, and self navigate your way through natural lazy rivers, sections of flat water, and even mini white water! Tubing adventure down the river is the perfect way to get an appreciation for the majesty of the Elora Gorge, and a great way to cool off in the summer months.
Elora Quarry
Emerald green waters, white limestone cliffs and a soft sandy beach are what make the Elora Quarry a hidden gem in Southwestern Ontario. Known as the "old swimming hole", this former limestone quarry is encircled by 40-metre sheer limestone cliffs, and is the perfect spot for a beach day. Don’t miss the 1 km hiking trail around the quarry which will give you spectacular views into the crystal clear waters, as well as several picnic spots for relaxing along the way.
Victoria Park and Irvine Creek
Flowing through the center of Elora, Irvine Creek is a slow moving shallow river flowing into the nearby Grand River. Hike to the Elora Gorge Viewpoint in Victoria Park for cliff-side views down into the ravine, and learn about the creation of the gorge, and the geological formations that characterize the area. If you’re seeking more adventure, follow the winding path through the cedar forest, and descend the steep rock staircase down to Irvine Creek. From the creek bed you can really appreciate the immensity of the gorge, and you’ll have some pretty spectacular views of the David St. bridge to the north, and the convergence of the creek and the Grand River to the south. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, as great blue herons often roam the shallow waters in search of insects and small fish.
Trestle Bridge Trail
Connecting Fergus and Elora, the 4 km Trestle Bridge Trail is a popular trail showcasing amazing views over the Grand River. This historic rail bridge (which ceased operation in 1989), is characterized by it's giant grand piers which rest on two of the original cut stone foundations built by the Canadian National Railway in 1869. The bird’s eye view from the bridge are second to none, and you’ll often spot birds of prey circling the skies above. Join the trail from the parking lot off Country Road 18, or follow the Centre Wellington Museum trails which snake through the countryside to connect the trail at the Wellington County Graveyard.
Templin Gardens
Along the beautiful Riverwalk in Fergus you'll find one of town's most enchanting hidden gems, the Templin Gardens. This beautiful collection of tiered landscaped gardens was once a large private garden designed and built by the Templin family from 1920-1934. John Charles Templin commissioned Scottish master mason Roger Bricker to create these gardens for his wife Annie, who was an avid gardener. The beautiful stone staircases and curvy archways cascading down to the river edge give you a peek into Fergus' historic past. Snap some pics and then relax in the small park near the entrance of the gardens which provides the perfect tribute to the historic gardens that once bloomed on the grounds almost a century ago.
Have a Spa Day
Elora Mill Spa
The Elora Mill Spa is a luxurious retreat on the banks of the Grand River, and is the place to go for a day of relaxation and pampering. Perched on the edge of majestic limestone cliffs with jaw dropping river views, the spa is one of the best in the region, offering an assortment of treatments from massage and manicures, to facials and heavenly body treatments. Indulge in a Mimosa Scrub, rehydrate and rejuvenate tired skin with a Lemon Verbena Hydrating Body Treatment, or refresh your nails in a one-of-a-kind mani-pedi room with a view. Spa guests can also take advantage of the stunning infinity pool and relaxation rooms overlooking the Grand River, as well as luxurious steam rooms where you can detox to your favourite aromatherapy scent.
Local Artisans, Fun Shopping and Cool Public Art
Elora Sculpture Project
Art can be found around every in Elora and Fergus thanks to the Elora Sculpture Project. Started in 2010, this outdoor art exhibition which runs from May through October, showcases a series of rotating art installations in outdoor public spaces. With a juried call for submission each fall, each selected piece is a unique creation by a Canadian artist. If you’re looking for new house decor, each piece is also available for purchase; although not every artwork will fit in your bag! From contemporary creations and classic curvy pieces, you can spot the sculptures along the Grand River in Fergus near the Templin Gardens, and dotted throughout downtown Elora. There is also a map you can download online for those looking for a self-guided art tour.
Blown Away Glass Studio
In the heart of downtown Elora you'll find Blown Away Glass Studio, a cozy arts studio owned by artist duo Tim and Katherine McManus. The couple has been creating hand-blown glass sculptures and artistic creations for over 30 years, and their meticulous attention to detail can be seen in every unique piece.
With patience and expertise, silica sand is heated in a 1500-Celcius oven, then carefully blown into glass creations. Swirls of colour are added to the molten glass throughout the process, then shaped using a series of tweezers and rods, and finally transformed into stunning pieces of art.
Take a stroll around the colourful studio, pick out a cool goblet, elegant vase or unique blown-glass jewelry to take home, and sneak a peek into the glass studio to see glass blowing in progress. If you want to give glass blowing a go, sign up for one of their hands-on studio classes, or get some friends together and learn glass blowing as a group. One other unique service which is worth a mention is Cremation Ash Pieces; a one-of-a-kind tribute to loved ones who have past.
Hanscomb Glass Studio
In a vibrant yellow, century-old building off Church St E in downtown Elora, you'll find a working glass studio specializing in all things glass. Husband and wife team Neil Hanscomb and Gisela Ruehe established Hanscomb Glass in 1983, and while their ornate stained glass pieces are their specialty, visitors to their store can find a variety of unique art. Much of the studio creations are made from upcylced and repurposed float glass, diverted from post-consumer sources, and then creatively designed into one of kind pieces of art. From stunning glass bowls and decorative wind chimes, to curvy flame-blown ornaments and eye-catching pieces of jewelry, there's a keepsake there with your name on it.
Elora Pottery
Established in 1984, the Elora Pottery showcases one-of-a-kind pottery pieces made by owner Stacy Barren. Check out her imaginative designs and stand alone pieces like bendy mugs and colourful ramen bowls. Elora Pottery also offers custom designed pieces and regular pottery classes, perfect for those wanting to get hands on with guidance from a seasoned pro.
Local Food and Drink
The culinary scene in Elora and Fergus will keep even the most seasoned foodie busy, and forks full. Celebrate Fergus's Scottish heritage with a pint at one of many local patios along the town's riverbank, or head to Elora's and revel in artisanal food experiences, from bread to brews .
Lunch and Dinner
For a quick bite, a hearty lunch, or a relaxing riverside dinner in a casual atmosphere, the Goofie Newfie and Brew House on the Grand are mainstays in Fergus. Just down the street at the Breadalbane Inn you'll find two restaurants with large patios serving up delicious Italian cuisine and classic pub fare.
With inventive cuisine, an extensive cocktail list, not to mention a spectacular tableside view, the Elora Mill Restaurant is a foodie’s paradise. Grab your other half, or a group of friends and enjoy fresh-made pastas, crisp salads and tasty mains like Spatch-cocked Elora Hen and Herb Basted Whole Trout. The Elora Mill Restaurant prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally, and collaborate with local farmers, producers and artisans to create seasonal menus with fabulous local fare.
Sweets and Baked Goods
For those with a sweet-tooth, look no further than I Love Chocolate in downtown Fergus. This chocolate lover's paradise produces all their Belgian chocolate onsite, and carries every type of chocolate imaginable. From truffles and chocolate covered espresso beans, to chocolate dipped sour keys and Belgian Chocolate raspberry bark, chocolate lovers will have their hands full deciding what to wrap up for the trip home.
Sweet Distractions in downtown Elora is a must-stop for ice cream during the summer months. With a great selection of tantalizing ice creams and flavourful gelatos, plus an assortment of cool retro candy, this popular sweet shop will get your blood sugar pumping. Look for the long line of ice-cream hungry folk snaking down the street, grab a double scoop, and enjoy your cone in the quaint parkette across the street.
One of Elora's best kept secrets is Elora Bread Trading Co. Tucked away in a small storefront on Metcalfe St, this artisan bread maker specializes delicious sour dough breads, but also whips up crispy baguettes and tasty buttermilk scones. They also have home-made granola, and even organic flours for those at-home baking projects. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, you'll want to plan your visit in advance to avoid loaf disappointment.
Local Brews and Spirits
Pushing the boundaries of the distilling game, the Elora Distilling Company's hand crafted spirits are both creative and well constructed. Try one-of-a-kind liquors like their Amethysts Spirit (filtered through raw Ontario Amethyst), Komrad Vodka (a pure vodka made from local winter wheat) and flavourful favourites like Maple Vodka or Experimental Batch Spicy Caesar Vodka. A selection of homemade mixes like strawberry basil cordial are also available for those who want to hone their mixologist skills at home.
What once began as a brewing operation in a garage, is now one of the most popular breweries and restaurants in the region. The Elora Brewing Company combines long-lost beer recipes with locally sourced ingredients to create a selection of craft beers unique to the brewery. Enjoy a pint of their Three Fields Grain Lager, or the Elora Borealis Citra Pale Ale on their outdoor patio, and pair it with some tasty gastropub eats for the perfect afternoon out.
Local History and Heritage: The Wellington County Museum and Archives
The Wellington County Museum and Archives is a National Historic Site and an important part of the history of the Centre Wellington region. The museum is located in the oldest remaining rural House of Industry in Canada, also known as a "Poor House". Built in 1877 it served as a place of refuge for the poor and homeless in Wellington County, and operated as a Poor House and Industrial Farm for over 70 years. It was then converted to a County Home for the Aged, and then almost 3 decades later into the current day Wellington County Museum and Archives in 1974.
Exhibitions and Grounds
The museum's permanent collection includes a informative exhibition detailing the Poor House's past, with stories highlighting the plight of individuals and families which lived on the grounds throughout the decades.
An important exhibit on the Indigenous culture of the region helps highlight the complex nature of land claims and tribal affiliation in the region over the course of history. Interesting artifacts from arrow heads to various tools are on display, discovered from archaeological digs in the surrounding area.
The Museum's World War 1 exhibit is an important exhibition at the museum and pays tribute to those soldiers from Wellington Country who died in the war. It also traces the historical roots of several soldiers to their present day relatives, showcasing their likeness on the soldiers represented in the exhibition. The museum holds a Remembrance Day ceremony each November and the front lawn of the museum is dotted with poppies leading up to this important day.
To fully appreciate the size of the the former industral Farm, head outside and take a stroll around the lush grounds. Explore walking trails around the expansive property where you'll find the barn and a small orchard, where generations of poor worked for close to 100 years. A short 15-minute walk from the main building you'll find the Poor House cemetery located in a peaceful pine forest. Numerous residents were buried here over the years, and while the gravestones mark specific burial spots, the individuals remain sadly anonymous.
Other interesting not-to-miss exhibitions in the museum include a small theatre featuring a variety of silent films dating back to the early 1900’s, an intriguing exhibition on canes (from utilitarian to weaponized!) and the museum's rotating exhibition of national and local art.
Where to Stay
Elora Mill
Located in the heart of downtown, the Elora Mill is an iconic spot in Elora and the perfect place to lay your head on a weekend getaway. The historic Inn boasts over 30 luxurious guest rooms, all showcasing rustic and modern design elements mixing natural materials including marble, wood and original mill limestone. Many suites have wood burning fireplaces, exposed brick, and private outdoor terraces, perfect for a cozy night in, or a romantic escape for two.
Breadalbane Inn
Just steps away from restaurants, shops and the Grand River, the Breadalbane Inn is a historic bed and breakfast in downtown Fergus. The building was constructed in 1851 by George D. Fergusson, son of Adam Fergusson, a co-founder of Fergus. The building served as a residence followed by a nursing home until it was converted to an Inn in 1975. The Inn's historic charm can be felt throughout the 11 suites featuring cozy fireplaces, exposed brick walls and jacuzzi tubs. Small antique trinkets and paintings line the walls of the Inn, while vintage touches in the suites bring you back to the times of Adam Fergusson.
Find more information to plan your visit to Elora and Fergus visit Elora and Fergus Tourism.
Some activities in the above were provided by Elora and Fergus Tourism, although all recommendations are our own.
