BLUEWATER
Get to know the three villages in the Municipality of Bluewater. Bayfield is a charming lakeside village that offers arts, culture and great dining options. Zurich was settled by Swiss-German immigrants and was once home to famed clockmaker George Hess. Pride in their heritage is found in the village name and in the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church clock tower. Hensall is the white bean capital of Canada. Thousands of tons of beans are annually processed, packaged and shipped globally in this agricultural industry hub.
1. Bannockburn Conservation Area
76249 Bannockburn Line, Exeter
The 2 km trail loop located on Bannockburn Line is home to six different natural communities: wet meadow, white cedar, deciduous forest, marsh, old field, and mixed scrub. Early morning walks reward hikers with sightings of deer, grouse, and numerous songbirds.
73463 Bluewater Hwy, Zurich
Located a stone’s throw away from the shores of Lake Huron, you will find Bad Apple Brewing Company Ltd. The craft brewery is located in a renovated century barn, surrounded by an orchard where they grow some produce that is found in their very own recipes. Despite the name, you’ll find no bad apples here, priding themselves on their country atmosphere, hospitality and, of course, lots of craft beer!
3. Schatz Winery, Hessenland Inn
72981 Bluewater Hwy, Zurich
After having perfected the accommodation side of Hessenland Inn, over the course of almost 30 years, the Ihrig family was ready to add a new facet to their business by laying the vines in 2015 for the eventual Schatz Winery. With all hands on deck, the family carried out their first harvest in October 2017, producing such fan favourites as Frontenac Blanc and Petite Pearl.
35291 Zurich Hensall Rd, St Joseph
Proud growers of Everbearing strawberries, sweet corn, tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, beans, peas, squash, pumpkins, and assorted fall decorations. Open from mid-June until November 1. Fresh-picked daily!
23 Victoria Ln #21, Zurich
The Zurich Bean Festival on August 25 and 26 offers live music, a car show, constant entertainment, and fun for the whole family. It’s a vibrant event where you can enjoy a lively atmosphere and a variety of activities, making it a perfect destination for an exciting day out.
36 Main St, Zurich
All-In Skatepark in Zurich is Southwestern Ontario’s biggest and best Indoor skatepark for BMX, scooters, and boards. They offer pro-staffing and instruction at hourly rates for individuals and parties.
7. Jerry Rader Homestyle Catering and Market
38110 Zurich Hensall Rd, Zurich
You can find beans, beans and more beans at Jerry Rader. Enjoy white bean salad, 4-bean salad or if you’re feeling adventurous try the 7-bean salad. Classics of yesteryear include pistachio salad and strawberry mello. Baked goods and other prepared meals are also available.
180 Brock Ave, Hensall
A butcher shop offering delicious specialty meats sourced from locally trusted farms, employing traditional European preparation methods. Metzger Meat Products prides itself on producing healthy products, fashionable presentations of ready-to-cook meats, and traditionally-smoked German delights.
108 King St, Hensall
George and James Petty, two brothers from Yorkshire, England, are credited with founding the Village of Hensall. Take a selfie with them sitting on the bench next to the Hensall Library.
48 Long Hill Rd, Bayfield
Pier Beach offers visitors a refreshing dip in Lake Huron’s waters. Rent a canoe or kayak from the nearby marina or stroll to the end of the pier to enjoy the view.
46 Bayfield Terr, Bayfield
Pioneer Park is a privately owned park located on a bluff overlooking Lake Huron in the beautiful Village of Bayfield. Best known for its breathtaking sunset views, Pioneer Park is a favourite destination for residents and visitors seeking tranquillity and relaxation in a natural setting.
12. Bayfield Archives and Heritage Centre
20 Bayfield Main St N, Bayfield
The Bayfield Archives preserves and stores several different types of archival material and resources related to Bayfield’s heritage.
1 Bayfield Main St N, Bayfield
The Albion Hotel in Bayfield serves a Farm to Table taste of the Country. Homemade burgers, Chicken wings and Fish and chips are among their most popular orders! The large menu has something for everyone from traditional pub fare to fine entrees.
17A Bayfield Main St N, Bayfield
Marten Arts is a Canadian art gallery and a Bayfield mainstay for over 20 years. The gallery is full of contemporary fine arts, crafts and jewellery.
4 Bayfield Main St N, Bayfield
Main Street Gallery is located in Bayfield. The Gallery exhibits the work of many award-winning artists including painters, potters, photographers, wood turners and carvers, sculptors, jewellers, textile, glass, metal and ceramic artists.
16. Skwirl Fine Art Gallery/Gallery House
16 The Square, Bayfield
A collaborative art gallery specializing in fine art by Canadians.
1 Fry St, Bayfield
The family-friendly Bayfield Fair continues a 167-year country fair tradition and runs from August 18-20. Enjoy musical entertainment throughout the weekend. The arena will be filled with exhibits and demonstrations. Horse, 4-H, animal displays, community meal, inflatables, children’s activities, and entertainment for all ages are features of the fair.
Fun Fact
Dr. Jennie Smillie
Dr. Jennie Smillie Robertson was the first female surgeon in Canada and grew up on a farm near the village of Hensall. Visit the Jennie Smilie Park in downtown Hensall.
(Image source: Lauren Elder Collection)