Funny things happen when you start exploring the rural roads and small towns of West Niagara in the fall. Time feels like it slows down. Strangers suddenly seem friendlier. Food tastes so fresh. The brightly coloured trees lining the Niagara Escarpment and rolling vineyard views make you forget about checking your phone.
If that sounds like the recipe for a perfect getaway, the friendly communities of Niagara’s Town of Lincoln are calling you this fall. This more rural area of West Niagara is home to dozens of wineries, endless acres of fields and orchards, heritage sites and an amazing collection of parks and trails that showcase the area’s stunning location between the Niagara Escarpment and Lake Ontario. Whether you’re drawn to the one-of-a-kind retail districts in Beamsville, Jordan or Vineland or prefer exploring the winding rural roads that surround them, here are just a few of the reasons you’ll want to linger a little longer in Lincoln.
Barrels, Brews, Spirits and Ciders
The unique geology, soil and climate of this section of the Niagara Escarpment touches all aspects of agriculture here. They impart such one-of-a-kind qualities in the grapes that the wine industry has designated it a unique region appellation within the Niagara Peninsula. Pioneering wineries, like Cave Spring Vineyard, have been capturing the hearts of wine lovers for three decades. Over the course of those 30 years, an additional 50 wineries have chosen to call this region home. For insider tips on how to spend a relaxed day exploring Lincoln’s wineries, read this article.
In addition to having a reputation for being home to an incredible collection of wineries, the area is also gaining a passionate following of beer and spirit aficionados thanks to newer additions, including Bench Brewing Company and Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers. The area’s acres of apple orchards create some truly outstanding ciders as well. Stop by Fielding Craft Cider, Vieni, Tawse, Redstone and Rood Apples to taste the signature stamp that the Niagara Escarpment lends to the spirited ciders made here.
Farm-to-Table Fare
Lincoln’s soil and climate don’t just create wonderful wines, beers, ciders and spirits. The area’s farms and greenhouses are also known for producing world-class fruits and vegetables. Foodies who opt to take a fall drive around Lincoln will want to have ample room in their trunks. Stopping at the area’s numerous roadside farm stands, farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture initiatives are a perfect way to stock up on the fall’s freshest fruits and veggies to enjoy at home. Can’t-miss stops include and Grand Oak Culinary Market. De La Terre’s delicious breads are another popular local product that visitors love to bring back as a tasty memento of their trip.
For those who would prefer to let someone else work their magic on area produce, Lincoln restaurants that get rave reviews for their commitment to farm-to-table cooking include:
- August Restaurant
- Just Cooking
- Pearl Morissette
- The Good Earth Food and Wine Co.
- Vineland Estates Winery
- Inn On The Twenty Restaurant
Outdoor Fall Fun
There are endless ways to embrace the natural side of Lincoln. Exploring the area’s Niagara Escarpment waterfalls (link to article) is a must. Hiking the section of Bruce Trail that winds its way through the area or taking in the vibrant fall colours at conservation areas, including Ball’s Falls, , Louth and Rockway, offer other easy options for outdoor fun. Watching a stunning Lake Ontario sunset at Charles Daley Park, Mountain View Conservation Area or Jordan Harbour Conservation Area is the perfect way to wrap up a fall day.
Cyclists in search of a relaxing ride through Niagara wine country can bring along their bikes and hop on the Greenbelt Route in Lincoln and follow it along the ledge of the Niagara Escarpment toward St. Catharines.
Golfers looking to squeeze in one more round before the snow starts to fly have great options in Lincoln as well, including Twenty Valley Golf and Country Club, Sawmill Golf Course, and Rockway Vineyards Golf Club.
Slow Down With An Amazing Fall Offer
Visitors who want to really sink into Lincoln’s relaxed rural charm may want to consider an overnight stay, so they don’t have to rush their way through the day. In addition to the area’s extensive collection of bed and breakfasts, hotels in the neighbouring city of St. Catharines are a great option. St. Catharines’ fall Stay One Night, Get One Night Free promotion makes it even more affordable to slow down and really get to experience all Lincoln has to offer.
For additional dining, winery, shopping and activity recommendations, visit www.shoplincoln.ca. You can also read our latest blog posts on Niagara’s culinary and craft brew scenes and fall cycling in Niagara for more trip inspiration.
COVID-19 Considerations
To help protect the health of yourself and others, please remember to bring and wear your face mask, wash and sanitize your hands regularly and practice physical distancing of at least 2 m/ 6 ft. Contacting the places you wish to visit in advance is recommended to check to see if reservations are required.