Top 6 Things to Do in Norfolk County, Ontario
Located along the northeastern shores of Lake Erie, Norfolk County, Ontario is the place to go for summertime fun in the sun. In addition to gorgeous beaches, wildlife areas and numerous hiking and mountain bike trails, “Ontario’s Garden,” also features great eats at local restaurants and there are many craft breweries in Norfolk County. Not to mention the plethora of Norfolk County wineries you can visit as part of the Toast the Coast Trail.
With all that in mind, here are our picks for the top 6 things to do in Norfolk County, Ontario.
Hitting the Beaches of Lake Erie
There are a number of beautiful sandy beaches to visit along the shores of Lake Erie, featuring gorgeous views, clear waters and some also offer equipment rentals. One of the most fun things to do in Norfolk County, Ontario on a hot summer day is to rent a jet ski or paddleboard and enjoy water sports at beaches like Turkey Point Provincial Park and Port Dover Beach.
Norfolk County is also home to Long Point Provincial Park, a 40km-long sandspit extending deep into Lake Erie. A UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Long Point is one of the top destinations for bird watchers in North America and over 300 different species of birds can be seen at the Long Point Bird Observatory throughout the year. Check out outdoor excursions at Long Point Eco Adventures.
Image courtesy of Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Explore the “Canadian Amazon”
Nestled alongside Long Point Provincial Park, Big Creek is a collection of lush waterways travelling through the area’s rare Carolinian forest, earning it the nickname, the “Canadian Amazon.” A popular destination for kayakers and canoers, explore this rare biome on a kayak trip with Big Creek Paddle Adventure.
One of the most fun things to do in Norfolk County, Ontario, Big Creek Paddle Adventure’s experienced guides will take you on a four-hour journey across the exotic landscape of Big Creek, featuring creeping vines and rare birds and wildlife.
Image courtesy of Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Visit Norfolk County Wineries
Southwestern Ontario has a rich winemaking tradition, and there are a number of fine Norfolk County wineries to visit as part of the Toast the Coast Trail, featuring ten vineyards located from St. Thomas to Port Dover.
One of the most popular Norfolk County wineries is Blueberry Hills Estates. Featuring sweeping views of Lake Erie, Blueberry Hill earned its name with its rich fields of blueberries used in the creation of their refreshing blueberry wines. You can enjoy an elegant winetasting or take the kids blueberry picking at the farm.
For those who love their dogs as much as their wine, Hounds of Erie is a unique, boutique vineyard that welcomes pet-owners to tour their 23-acre property alongside their dogs as they sample their collection of wines and hard ciders.
Image courtesy of Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Sample the Best Breweries in Norfolk County
Norfolk County has a great craft brewing scene with a number of unique, award winning brewhouses that source natural ingredients from local farms. For instance, Meuse Brewing is based out of a local farm, offering fresh produce alongside their Belgian inspired craft beer. Check out their Fruited Farmhouse Ale, made with fresh Norfolk County sour cherries.
The Blue Elephant craft brewpub also specializes in organic, locally sourced seasonal brews, such as their Summer Harvest Strawberry Lager, alongside delicious home-style cuisine. One of the newest breweries in Norfolk County, Backyard Brewing Company features unique, limited-run brews made with fresh local ingredients.
Image courtesy of Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Grab a Bite to Eat
After exploring Norfolk County, relax and enjoy a bite to eat at some of the area’s many fine local eateries. For instance, try out some of the best burgers in Southwestern Ontario at Mustard+Relish, an artisanal burger joint that offers a wide variety of burgers and sides as well as delectable custom burgers. For dessert, drop by Ritzy’s Bakery & Deli for delicious buttercream cake and cupcakes, or pick up some deli sandwiches, breads and cheeses for a picnic by the lake.
Image courtesy of Southwest Ontario Tourism Corporation
Long Point Eco Adventures
Explore Long Point National Park and its famous Carolinian Forest like never before at Long Point Eco Adventures. Partake in a variety of excursions and activities on both land and water, such as zip-lining, mountain biking, and even axe-throwing. Hit the waters on a kayak or go on a boat tour to all the best hidden spots on the Lake Erie shoreline.
Always follow Canada and local health authority COVID-19 guidelines for travelling or visiting attractions. Learn more about current restrictions and travelling within Canada.