Ahhh… Cayuga. Something about this little town just makes me feel relaxed and at home. I love the drive along the river to get to this quaint little town taking me through York and past Ruthven National Historic Site (a great spot to hike or tour throughout the year) and of course the views of the river are, well, grand. ????
My first stop as I make my way into the downtown is the Twisted Lemon. Their Lemon Twists are the perfect snack and addition to a charcuterie board. I simply must pick some up while I’m here, that is if there are any left as they don’t ever seem to last long (people love them), plus while I’m there, I can get the low-down on what takeout or “Take and Bake” options are available. Once a week Chef Dan comes up with something delicious, like Chicken and Waffles, that’s then prepared fresh, packaged, cooled and made ready for pick up the same day so that customers can take it home and bake up it up in their own oven. The key with “Take and Bake” is that you need to reserve your spot as early as possible in the week for pickup on Saturday. If “Take and Bake” isn’t your thing, they are open to diners, just call ahead or if dining in isn’t your thing right now, you can order something that’s hot and ready to go… like their Lobster stuffed Ravioli complete with a lobster tail on top. It’s the current special and I’m drooling at the thought.
After reserving my meals, I’m away again. This time to grab an Oat Milk Latte at The Carolinian Café before heading for a bit of a walk around town to work off the thought of the feast to come from the Twisted Lemon. A stop at Brittany’s bake shop means I have to extend my walk even further but that’s okay as neither Otis nor I mind.
We stroll leisurely through town, stopping in at Glow Studio & Co. for a gift certificate or two. They’re the perfect stocking stuffer, birthday or anniversary gift that will guarantee to be appreciated by anyone who loves a mini spa day. Then away we go again, past the charming houses and municipal offices where we access the Grand River Vista Trail. I just love this walk. The bridge crosses over the river and the views are stunning. Then, on the other side I let my mind wander as I walk by some of the beautiful timber frame homes built by Van Osch and Company, based right here in Cayuga. I daydream about my dream home that I would then have furnished by Blue Barn Furnishings located on Highway 3, not far from where I make my turn to head back over the river into town once more.
One last stop at Wildwood Gallery to see what’s new (I mean my dream home needs some beautiful artwork, right?) and then it’s back to the car where we set off for a drive through Fisherville, home of the Fisherville Hotel and Tavern (run by my lovely friend Janna and her husband) and The Cabin Wellness before heading to Selkirk to pick up yet another coffee at the Sunflower Café (they serve the best breakfasts too). On my way we make a quick stop by the Cottonwood Mansion to take a couple photos before carrying on to the Waterfront Waterway Trail. It’s just a quick loop but very scenic and both Otis and I are thankful to stretch our legs and take in the sights and sounds of this natural area near the lake.
A quick note about Cottonwood Mansion and the other historic sites throughout Haldimand County… check for hours of operation as they vary, but don’t forget about them though. History is so important to preserve for future generations to come. There’s so much we can learn from the past. It’s still possible to walk around the outside of Cottonwood Mansion and many of the other historic sites in the area and donations are being accepted through etransfer.
It’s time now to set off for home, seeking as I go the answer to, “what’s for dinner?” The answer: I stop at Concession Road Brewing Company in Jarvis for some small-batch hand-crafted beer and then Main 88 back in Hagersville for some delicious pizza. It’s the perfect pairing, pizza and beer. I just love trying out the different beers that brew master Jeff creates. Hello, chocolate peanut butter beer? I’m here for that. Today though I’m bringing home some Fjord of Dreams, it’s “double dry-hopped, brewed with Kveik yeast, Simcoe & Cashmere hops, making this IPA fruity, piney with a hint of grapefruit” and some Quincy Jonesin, “a delightfully light, tart and floral Witbier, brewed with hibiscus and Quince fruit”. Mmm, I can’t wait to dig in! What do you think, pineapple on my pizza?? It might pair nicely with the tart of the brews. ????
Catch me next time as Otis and I hit the road and head for Dunnville.
Happy and safe travels!
Haldimand County gratefully acknowledges the support of FedDev Ontario for tourism businesses in Southwest Ontario.
Travel only when it is safe to do so. Follow recommendations of your regional Department of Public Health as well as your destination’s Department of Public Health.
