Visiting Lake Erie’s North Shore from September to November is definitely a vibe. The region quiets down, but there is still plenty to do, especially for those who love the culinary scene and the outdoors. Daytimes are warm with the autumn sun, while the nights cool off making it the perfect sweater weather cozied up by a fire. To help you plan your fall getaway, here is a list of our favourite fall experiences you should do while staying at The Walnut Grove B&B.
All bookings from October through April, will receive our complimentary package valued over $75, including vouchers to enjoy at many great local businesses including wineries, breweries & more.
Grape Harvest
Lake Erie’s North Shore is home to 13 wineries. Situated on Canada’s southernmost point, and sharing the same latitude as northern California and Tuscany, it’s no wonder the wine is so good here. With fall being less busy, it is easier for guests to shoulder up to the bar for an intimate wine tasting experience. The fall season is also the perfect time to visit to get an insiders’ look at the hustle and bustle of the grape harvest in action.
When not working at The Walnut Grove B&B, owner Leslie spends her time as a Sommelier and assistant winemaker at North 42 Degrees Estate Winery. Before your wine tour, make sure you get her insider knowledge about how wine is made, and what to look for in a tasting. Indulge in Oxley Estate Winery’s Swanky Tastings events, including their October feature From Harvest to Wine and learn from Winemaker, Andrew Wilson, about the fun, not so fun, and definitely crazy aspects of harvest season.
Fall Migration
This region is the pathway for many birds and butterflies as they migrate south for the winter. While visiting the area, spend a morning at Point Pelee National Park for some great bird watching. We can help get you on your way by providing breakfast to go with our Birders’ Package. Point Peelee National Park is also a gathering point for thousands of migrating monarch butterflies before crossing Lake Erie. You could get lucky during your visit and witness this spectacular event which only takes place for a few special days each autumn.
The Chrysler Canada Greenway Trail, is a 50km trail travelling through Essex County from Windsor to Leamington. This multi-use trail is great for hiking, cycling and birding in the fall months, especially with the canopy of vibrant autumn colours. Spend an afternoon cycling this beautiful route, before ending the day at Muscedere Vineyards located just off the Greenway Trail for some wine and wood-fired pizza.
Fill your Basket
This region is home to many agricultural producers. With the fall harvest in full swing, you will have no problem filling up on fresh produce from the local farm stands. A favourite Walnut Grove B&B producer and popular stop is The Fruit Wagon. During the fall months, you will find their large wagon overflowing with produce to choose from. You can also find gorgeous mum plants to take home as a souvenir to decorate your front entry. Other food stands you should check out include Kranicz Orchard, Adam’s Garden of Eatin’ and Bouchard Gardens.
Fall Colours
With the warmer temperatures, the leaves typically change a little later in this region than the rest of the province. For the ultimate fall colour viewing experience, start your day hiking through Point Peelee National Park in the morning, before refueling at Jack’s Gastropub located in Kingsville. Spend the afternoon on a fall colour driving tour along County Road 20 from Leamington to Windsor, with a jaunt over to Country Road 50 (View Map). This is the most scenic driving route in the area. Be sure to take a break at Ure’s Ice Cream Parlour & Café, for some delicious Kawartha Dairy and Shaw’s Ice Cream. If you have time, play a round of mini golf on site. As long as the weather is good, the golf course is open.
Pick Your Own
Nothing’s better than getting into a cozy sweater on a crisp autumn day and heading to an apple orchard. Visit Meleg’s Lakeview Orchard to pick a selection of apples. The apple harvest begins late August and runs to the end of October. While there, don’t forget to pick up some fresh baking and cider to bring home, and for the kid at heart, get lost in their seasonal corn maze.
Alfresco in the Fall
Being the most southern region in Ontario, Lake Erie’s North Shore is lucky to enjoy an extended patio season. Take advantage of the warm autumn weather and check out the many great restaurants, cafés and wineries that offer an outdoor dining experience. Looking for a more intimate outdoor dining experience? Try our Walnut Grove Candlelit Dinners.
Lake Erie’s Beaches
If you’ve never experienced a beach in the fall, this is the year to change that. With the sun lower in the sky, the beach becomes warmer in colours, almost like a living painting. Lay a blanket out on the sand at one of our local beaches for a picnic in the beautiful surroundings. Also, visit Sprucewood Shore Estate Winery, the only winery in our region with a beach and try their beachfront experience including a pitcher of sangria and a picnic basket of goodies.
Experience Walnut Grove
The Walnut Grove is not just a bed and breakfast, it’s an experience and fall is the perfect time to get the most out of our property. During your stay, spend some time exploring our peaceful country setting as you walk along the trails and through the pollinator gardens. Enjoy a beautiful picnic in the meadow catered by Green Heart Kitchen offering healthy meals made with locally sourced ingredients. In the evening, relax near the koi pond under the twinkle lights of the pergola while enjoying a glass of wine by the fire. Or stroll out into the meadow to experience the clear night sky, stargazing as you lay on cozy blankets and pillows, paired with wine and a delicious charcuterie board.
Fall is the season to travel, and we at The Walnut Grove B&B feel that our region is still an untapped secret. Extend your fall experience into November and enjoy the region and its warm autumn days. Book your stay at The Walnut Grove B&B and we’ll help you fall in love with Lake Erie’s North Shore.
