Ontario’s Highlands is 2.5 hours east of Toronto and a half hour west of Ottawa and is a region made for exploring uniquely delicious edible experiences. From sampling craft brews, savouring local spirits, and sipping wines to indulging in quaint cafe treats and spoiling yourself with delectable fine dining, Ontario’s Highlands is a land rich with fresh ingredients and incredible flavours.
Here in Ontario’s Highlands, the farm to table movement has been taken one step further with craft drink makers across the region, and one innovative distillery in Almonte is turning milk sugars into a smooth and delicious Vodkow. Combine these makers with the craft breweries dotting the region and making countless beers perfect for summer (or really, anytime) sippin’ and you’ll quickly see what all our excitement is about.
Between farm-fresh finds at markets across the region, ultimate comfort foods, and delectable doughnuts, you are in a prime region for having a cross-country edible adventure. Indulge at mouth-watering brunch spots and celebrate warmer weather by biting into golden fries at an iconic chip truck, but make sure to leave room for ice cream treats that are well worth the drive.
Start your wandering by picking a home base. We recommend embracing adventure, planning a romantic escape, or laying your head in unique (and fun) accommodations.
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If you travel through Calabogie during the cooler weather, you will want to plan an overnight at Somewhere Inn Calabogie. Swing in a hammock under the stars, get toasty beside a roaring bonfire and waken to some local temptation from the popular Oh-el-la-Café.
Ontario’s Highlands is home to a lot of really great distilleries, but our ‘must-stops’ include Top Shelf Distillers in Perth for their gin, bitters and butter tart moonshine, O’Kenny Craft Spirits in Pembroke for their unique whisky, and Dairy Distillery in Almonte for Vodkow and cream liquors.
On the brewery front, the Highlands don’t disappoint. Plan yourself a little brew loop (with a DD of course!) to Lanark County and stop into Perth Brewery, Bridge Masters Brewing Co., Braumeister Brewing Co. or Stalwart Brewing Co.
Need more inspiration? Read 5 Foodie Road Trips That Will Get You Somewhere.
Exploring the Region?
Here are a few great places to start.
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