When the crowds disperse, the air turns crisp, and the quiet settles in, you know it’s autumn. It’s a season conducive to a flannel-shirt-fuelled escape in the furthest reaches of South Eastern Ontario, isn’t it? Yes. Yes, it is.
Stretch your legs, quench your thirst, fill your belly and your bags, and sleep like you’ve never slept before. This is what you’ll get when you take up this itinerary and wander your way through Prescott Russell and SDG Counties in the fall.
Day 1: Hammond Hill, Prescott-Russell
Kickstart your slow-living weekend and check in to your getaway at Hammond Hill. The 62-acre eco-resort prides itself on being entirely off-grid but you’ll find out that its accommodations—yurts, trapper’s hangouts, pioneer cabins, and Airstreams—are completely on-point when it comes to comfort. After dropping your bags, it’s time for a walk. You have options: meander around the property to see what this retreat has to offer, jump on the two-kilometre walking trail that takes you through the dense mature forest, or take a nine-minute drive for a jaunt on Lavigne Natural Park trails.
After working up a thirst, head north into Rockland to Brauwerk Hoffman. Tuck into their tap room to mingle with the locals and taste-test German-style beers.
Hit up Hammond Golf next. Though the course is now closed for the season, the restaurant is a draw on its own. The wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are always popular and decadent but if you’re in the mood for something meatier, try Black Angus ribeye or a hearty smoked brisket burger. Pair your meal with suds from Broken Stick Brewing Co., crafted right on the property. Broken Stick is the country’s first craft brewery located on a golf course!
Back at the resort, take a seat by the fire pit for your final wind down before bed.
Day 2: Alexandria & North Glengarry
Find your way to the trailhead for the Garry Fen trail just west of Alexandria, about a 50-minute drive away from Hammond. The 3.6-kilometre hike is the gem of the Glengarry Trails system that takes you through woodlands and marshland. The wooden boardwalk section is particularly beautiful, not to mention educational; along with views of the marsh, the interpretive signs share important insights for this protected area.
Treat yourself to some “fearsome tasty liquid” as the folks at Wood Brothers Brewing Co. like to call it. This family-run operation in Glen Robertson produces small-batch, hop-forward beers while also facilitating a casual and convivial ambiance in their always-packed taproom and outdoor spaces. While you’re at it, grab a bite from their on-site food truck called The Manger.
Before heading back to Alexandria, pick up a bottle (or two) at Stonehouse Vineyard. Owners Joanne and Craig have mastered growing cold grape varietals on this historic MacMillan family property. Their land—once used for traditional farming—now produces a selection of vibrant wines as well as barrel-aged ones.
On Main Street in the pretty town of Alexandria, pop in to chat with shopkeepers Julie and Anick who run Cedar & Fern. Both creatives, each one has turned a keen eye to stocking their shelves with the most beautiful items. Grab a gift—handmade signs, unique housewares, gorgeous stationery, and more—for a loved one or treat yourself!
Buvette du Marché Gastropub is another mainstay on the downtown strip. It could be the moody, intimate interior but the real allure comes from the terrific tapas and Insta-worthy cocktails.
After a full day, rest your weary head in a perfectly appointed room at Auberge Glengarry Inn. To supersize your soothing hot tub session or relaxing sit-down in the lounge, you might want to pull out your bottle of red, white, or rosé. They will pair perfectly!
Day 3: Lancaster & South Stormont
Keep heading south! Once you reach Lancaster, make a pit stop at Henderson’s Grocery. Run by two gourmands, the store is stocked with tasty snacks and great baked goods.
Fuelled up, go to Cooper Marsh Conservation Area for a morning excursion. Whether you’re a birder or not, you can’t help but find a little thrill exploring the boardwalks, climbing the viewing platforms, and working to spot the 130 species of birds that make their home here. The marsh is considered one of the most ecologically significant in the province! Cap off your weekend away with lunch at Perch and Paddle Pub. This casual pub looks out over Lake St. Francis and has the distinction of being the newest restaurant in the region. Aside from their selection of craft beer and wine, you’ll find a contemporary menu full of flavour-forward plates like perch tostadas, lobster mac n’ cheese, and wild game sliders.
As you head home, use the drive to dwell on how Prescott Russell and SDG Counties gave you a reprieve from the busyness of everyday life. And remember: You’re always welcome to come back for more.
