Southern Ontario’s Elora Mill Inn
By Laurie Jennings
Indulge in old-world comfort.
First impressions
Staying at Elora Mill Inn offers a refreshing reminder that simple rural pleasures can be enjoyed just 90 minutes from Toronto. At four stories tall, the former grist mill is the only “high-rise” in town. It greets you like a historic fortress with few windows, thick stone walls and one tiny door leading into the reception (yes, this is the entrance).
In the background, the Grand River roars through the famed Elora Gorge with such force that you feel like you’re perched right on top of the gushing water – then you find out that indeed you are. (The inn generates all its power from the river, so you can also feel good knowing you’re staying somewhere that truly walks the eco-friendly walk.)
Romantic retreat
No two rooms are the same in this charming 32-room property, so ask for specifics before arriving. Some are huge, others are not. What they share is a comfortable country, slightly bohemian charm and Shaker-style furniture that pays homage to the original Mennonite settlers.
A foodie favorite
The Inn’s secret weapon is Executive Chef Matthew Foote, who’s single-handedly giving upscale restaurants across the country a run for their money with his culinary artistry. His innovative menu teams local chicken and heirloom vegetables with unexpected combos such as seared dry scallops served with a spiced dahl purée and curry cream. Pure genius!
To-do list
Horseback riding is offered through Conestogo River Horseback Adventures (highly recommended!). Their guided tours wind along the river’s tree-lined trails and the surrounding countryside of rolling hills and farmers’ fields. If horses aren’t your thing, try ballooning over the gorge for the most spectacular view or fly fishing for bass, muskie and trout along picturesque river banks. Finally, no trip to Elora is complete without spending a lazy afternoon in the quaint local shops. Look for locally made pottery, furniture and art as well as antiques and artisanal gourmet goods. In fact, the only thing you won’t find is a single mass retail chain – what a relief.
Getting here
Elora Mill Inn, 77 Mill St. W., Elora, ON, 1-866-713-5672, eloramill.com
Conestogo River Horseback Adventures, 535 Northfield Dr. E., Waterloo, ON, 519-888-6503, horsebackadventures.ca
Upward Bound Adventures, 224–425 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge, ON, upwardboundadventures.com, 1-800-567-2812
Grand River Troutfitters, 9–105 Queen St. W. (Fergus Market), Fergus, ON, grandrivertroutfitters.com, 519-787-4359
Ontario Tourism, 1-800-ONTARIO (1-800-668-2746), www.ontariotravel.net
Laurie Jennings is a travel, fashion and beauty writer from Toronto.
