When you think of a place that makes your heart happy, what comes to mind?
For me, it’s Ontario’s Blue Coast.
Earlier this fall, we had the chance to explore my old stomping grounds - Ontario Southwest’s Sarnia Lambton. Better known as, Ontario’s Blue Coast.
Located a short 2 1/2 hours southwest of Toronto and 1 hour north of Detroit, Lambton County is the perfect day or weekend getaway - from arts and culture, to the stunning Lake Huron beaches and everything in between, there are many ways to experience the Blue Coast. And one of the best times of the year to explore is the fall.
With the vast array of scenic drives, fall fairs and farms to explore, there is so much to do in Sarnia-Lambton during the fall months.
Hop in the car, and join us on our fall family road trip through Ontario’s Blue Coast…
FRIDAY
After leaving Toronto before ‘rush hour’ hit, we arrived in Lambton County early afternoon. We dropped Morley off with Gramma and Poppa and drove to F.I.N.E. a restaurant in Grand Bend for dinner, just mom and dad (and baby Berkley, of course - she doesn’t stray too far from mom yet).
F.I.N.E specializes in regional cuisine with exciting daily specials, utilizing the local wealth of fresh available ingredients. After enjoying the mussels as an appetizer, for the main course I opted for the local pickerel with seasonal veg and Steve had the duck. The peanut butter cheesecake and local wine from Dark Horse, the local winery, were also delicious.
We had an amazing dinner experience, and part of that was in thanks to the Grand Bend locals that were also dining. As we had Berkley with us, we were taking turns eating. Pretty typical when we’re out these days, and a cold meal is something we’re now used to. A woman the table next to us asked us if she could hold the babe while we both enjoyed our dinner. Without hesitation, I passed Berkley over. And it didn’t end there - two ladies from the table on the other side of us said they wanted to hold her as well. Safe to say, we enjoyed our meal at F.I.N.E. that much more knowing that Berkley was content. We are very thankful for the complete strangers offering to hold her. Now, I wonder if that would happen in at home in Toronto… (but that’s for another time).
SATURDAY
We woke up Saturday morning and the sun was shining. We knew it was going to be the perfect day for exploring.
We drove back down Lakeshore Road to Ipperwash Beach, and enjoyed breakfast with the entire family at the Ipperwash Beach Club. This local dining spot is just steps from the Lake Huron beach access tucked away in this quiet community of Lambton Shores. Breakfast consisted of eggs benedict and smoke salmon roti. Both delicious! With a large patio, we could tell it would be a popular spot with all of the cottagers during the summer months and vowed to come back.
After breakfast, it was time to continue our annual apple picking tradition. This year, we visited Twin Pines Orchards & Cider House, an award-winning cider house located in the countryside. The weather was perfect for hitting the orchard and filling our basket with apples.
Make note, if you plan to visit, be sure to mark Apple Fest (the last weekend of September) in your calendar. It’s busy, but a great chance to pick your own apples, sample both hard and sweet cider and choose a pumpkin to carve for Halloween.
After a quick afternoon siesta back at Gramma and Poppa’s house, it was time for more food! Dinner was at Grog’s Pub and Grill, located on Lakeshore Road in Port Franks, not far from Twin Pines. To be honest, I’ve driven past Grog’s many times but have never actually stopped in. Even with an early dinner at 4:30pm, there wasn’t an empty seat in the house. It is definitely a local hot spot. And after enjoying one of their homemade pizzas, we know why. It was delish!
Safe to say, after our fall fun-filled day, it was an early night for everyone.
SUNDAY
We woke up Sunday to grey skies and rain. Not the ideal day, but that didn’t stop us from making the most of our last day.
Breakfast was at Highway Girl, a finer food shop in Grand Bend featuring a bakery and cafe with a lovely retro style gift shop with local goods. They offer a wide variety of fair trade specialty coffees and teas, fresh baked delights and pressed juices. Their breakfast bomb (tasty dough filled with egg and bacon) is delicious, and toddler-approved.
It’s been years since I have visited the Pinery Market, located along Lakeshore Road not far from the entrance to Pinery Provincial Park. Pinery Market is a family-owned market filled with an eclectic blend of vendors, from local produce and meat to toys, antiques and more. The Market runs every Sunday from the beginning of May until Thanksgiving weekend. Be sure to check their website for all of their fun family events, including Barktober Fest and Superhero Sunday.
Before heading back to Toronto, we stopped for lunch at the Schoolhouse Restaurant in Grand Bend. Grand Bend Public School opened in 1874 and remained an active school until 1925 when a new school was built. Today, the old schoolhouse is a restaurant filled with history and delicious food. Schoolhouse specializes in from-scratch fare (the biscuits and sausages gravy are seriously delicious), ensuring the finest ingredients make it onto your plate.
With full bellies and full hearts from a weekend of family fun, it was time to hit the road and head back to the concrete jungle of Toronto.
Every time I visit, I’m quickly reminded why I love this little corner of Ontario so much - good food, good scenery and good company make my heart so happy.
Until next time Blue Coast…
Have you ever visited Ontario's Blue Coast? What is your favourite thing to do there? I'd love to hear!
Disclaimer: This trip was in partnership with Ontario's Southwest and Ontario's Blue Coast, however, all opinions are 100% that of To & Fro.
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