With the warmer temperatures finally upon us, we at Walnut Grove B&B like everyone else, are getting spring fever and the itch to explore. If you are planning a spring getaway, Lake Erie’s North Shore is definitely a location you should consider. As the most southern region of Ontario, you can expect warmer days to get outside and discover what the region has to offer. Here is our top 10 list of spring activities to do in the region:
1. Wine Tours
The Lake Erie North Shore is one of Ontario’s well known VQA wine regions. Located in Canada’s southernmost point, our region experiences warmer weather and a longer growing season. Spend a few days this spring exploring the region’s 13 wineries, while enjoying tastings and tours with a stunning backdrop of Lake Erie. Walnut Grove owner and sommelier Leslie, is happy to provide you with suggestions and lots of knowledge before your tour.
Looking for a guided tour? Book with Grape Vine Tours with pickups available at Walnut Grove B&B.
2. Hike 42 Degrees – A Wildflower Discovery
Step into nature through the months of April and May with North 42 Degrees Estate Winery and their popular outdoor culinary experience. Enjoy a guided hike through the winery’s 40-acre Carolinian forest with owner Suzanne, and learn about the beautiful flora and fauna, grape growing, and the natural history of the region. You will stop for a delicious outdoor camp style gourmet lunch and wine tasting paired with the sounds of nature. After your tour, be sure you purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy back at the B&B. Our favourite is the Brut Rose.
Participate in this Ontario Southwest Signature Event
3. The Buzz about Pollinators
Do you love to garden or simply have an interest in learning about helping our native pollinators thrive? Starting in May through to September, participate in a 2-hour interactive guided experience at Walnut Grove B&B where you will stroll through our 5-acre meadow discovering many species of pollinators. You will leave with gardening tips to help our busy friends, as well as a few extra goodies to take home.
Book your experience, or make it an add-on with an overnight stay.
4. Explore by Bike
If you love to bike, this is a great region to explore the outdoors and scenery on two wheels. We are located in a very bike friendly location. It doesn’t matter your skill level, there is a trail that will meet your needs, including the Greenway from Harrow to Kingsville, and wide bike shoulders on busier roads. If you don’t feel like bringing your own bike, The Grove Bike Co. is a great option for rentals. Pair your bike ride with wine through WindsorEats Wine Trail Ride, a luxury guided bicycle tour including 4 winery stops, 14 wines to try, a progressive meal at the wineries and scenic country roads.
5. Spring Bird Migration
Attention bird lovers, each spring, over 300 bird species stop over in Ontario’s Southwest during their migratory travels. This is the perfect time of year to catch a glimpse of the birds you’ve been hoping to see. Between May 1st to 22nd, check out the Festival of Birds at Point Pelee National Park which includes birding hikes, daily information sessions and the 100 Species Challenge.
Settle in at Walnut Grove B&B and book our Birders’ Package. We’ll have you ready to go each day with a packed lunch and breakfast to go for the early risers.
6. Candlelit Dinner
Stay in for the night at Walnut Grove B&B, and enjoy a candlelit dinner made with locally sourced food with vegetarian options, and deliciously paired wine by owner Leslie, a trained sommelier and chef. As the sun sets, you will hear the sounds of nature come alive while dining by the koi pond or in the forest chalet screened in porch.
@kristin.schaab We visited the Lake Erie North Shore wine region and stayed at @thewalnutgrovebnb. They offer amazing experiences including this candlelit dinner. I would highly recommend if you’re visiting @visitwindsoressex. #bedandbreakfast #lakeerienorthshore #thewalnutgrovebnb #wineregion #windsoressextourism #winetour ♬ Coastline – Hollow Coves
7. Events at Oxley Estate Winery
This spring, Oxley Estate Winery is hosting some fun events for you to enjoy with your partner or group of friends. The Howl at the Moon Dinner takes place every month. You will enjoy delicious food, wine and live music under the light of the full moon. Swanky Tastings are monthly themed events that you can enjoy every Saturday from May to October. Give Pop into Spring and Canapes under the Canopy a try this May and June.
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The ferry to Pelee Island opens each year starting April 1st, but it’s not until May when the island really comes alive. Plan a day trip to explore Ontario’s southernmost island and discover its many historic gems including Canada’s first commercial estate winery Vin Villa. Step back in time as you walk the grounds of this historic winery, explore its ruins and learn about the origin of wine making in Canada. You will even go below ground into the restored wine cellar.
Pelee Island also has an extensive trail system for hiking and biking that lets you enjoy the shoreline, spring wildflowers and bird migration. We can’t forget to mention Pelee Island Winery Pavilion, open mid-may to October. Relax in their outdoor wine garden with a glass of wine overlooking Lake Erie and surrounded by the vineyards.
9. Golf Getaway
Swing into spring by planning a golf getaway. With multiple golf courses located no more than 10 minutes away, make Walnut Grove B&B your golf headquarters. Play a round each morning, followed by some winery or brewery stops in the afternoon. Finish the day in our chalet with a game of cards, or use the onsite hot tub to help with your early season achy muscles. Book your tee times at these local courses:
10. Serenity Lavendar Farm
Located at the front of North 24 Degrees Estate Winery is Serenity Lavender Farm. Stroll through gardens featuring over 42 varieties of lavender, and enjoy the aromas of this calming fragrance and relaxing experience. If visiting the weekend of June 24-25, make sure you visit their Lavender Festival which celebrates all things lavender including artisans, culinary experiences, lavender tours, classes, live music and more.
Now that you have some inspiration, it’s time to start planning your spring getaway. We look forward to seeing you soon.