Elora and Fergus – A Limestone Gorge Adventure
Refered to as “Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village” by A. J. Casson of The Group of Seven, Elora had a lot to live up to! Although I cant totally agree with the moniker (there are many competitors), it would surely contend for the title. Here is a quick look at this little corner of Ontario.
Table of Contents
Geography
Located north of Guelf, on the Grand River, Elora sits in a quiet rural region of Southern Ontario. Here small towns permeate the quiet countryside where mighty streams once powered industry.
Of course the supreme attraction is the gorge itself, formed by centuries of erosion. This, along with the use of waterpower, is what propelled the region from backwater to something worth stopping in.
A Brief History
Once occupied by first nations, the region was settled by colonists in 1817 for Elora and 1833 for Fergus. The town of Elora itself was founded by Captain William Gilkison, a Scotsman while Fergus was home to back loyalists such as Richard Pierpoint and Scottish developers Adam Fergusson and James Webster.
Apart from both settlements being developed by Scotsmen, they were both founded on waterfall which led to the development of mills.
The mid 19th century would see both towns becoming minor industrial centers while Elora gained importance for its hosting of an agricultural market. Their development mirrored that of many such settlements in their part of Ontario.
Today the region is no longer industrial but a thriving center for both agriculture and tourism, where the once dilapidated mills have been transformed into boutique hotels.
What to Do In Elora
Visit the Famous Elora Gorge
You can access this natural wonder by one of two ways, either by the conservation area or by starcases leading down towards the water from town. The former is easier and will get you closer to the lazy river portion you can float down.
If you wish to do the rafting you can rent the tubes and carry them down. If anything, it is just a pleasant lazy river!
If you choose to hike the trail along the gorge you will be rewarded by both views of the gorge itself and an interesting hole in the ground leading to a set of interesting rock formations.
Below are the rock formation:
And here are the views of the gorge caused by centuries of erosion:
Alternatively one can walk up the gorge from the tubing area for equally impressive views of the gorge.
If you wish to avoid paying money to get into the park, you can head down a steep set of stairs located near town, not far from the confluence of the Grand River and Irvine Creek. From the creek bed you will have a chance to look out at the pillars of one of the towns historic bridges.
Soak in the Superb Town of Elora
In the north side of the city you will find many of the town’s important civic structures including the old stone post office and the town hall… but most importantly the Elora Brewing company 😉
From here you will be able to follow Metcalf, the main street, into town.
It is here that you will find the majority of the towns small businesses.
It is here that you will find the majority of restaurants and distilleries.
Intersecting with this street is the aptly named church street, anchored by the beautiful yellow mansonry Knox church.
Parallel to the Grand River, you will find Mill Street. Known for its old stone mills, they have now been transformed into businesses and condos.
The best view of these is from either bridge over the Grand River, there the buildings reflect along the quiet river water.
You will find further mills on the other side of the river.
Mill street is more of a shopping street then Metcalf. Here you will find old stone buildings, including the crown jewel of the town, the old 1832 Mill.
You will also find the tourism office in a Mill building nearby.
Take a Swim in the Elora Quarry
Although you must book in advance, this abandoned quarry with stunning water colors is well worth spending an afternoon at. Be aware that it will likely be quite crowded.
What to Do In Fergus
Rolling into Fergus, one may notice a distinct change of atmosphere compared to the lively town of Elora. Fergus is a quiet place despite it having many beautiful stone buildings and its proximity to the former. This is a great place to stop and it is a shame that even a fraction of the Gorge visitors do not venture out this way.
Soak Up Scottish Heritage on Main Street
Upon your arrival to the town, you will immediately notice a litany of Scottish flags adorning the main street, hanging from the gothic stone structures. Welcome to a mini Scottish replica (minus the mountainous terrain and desolate grazing lands). The town was after all founded by Adam Fergusson, a proud Scot and his partner James Webster.
Although not remarkable by any stretch of the imagination, this part of town has a few notable buildings including the Wellington County Library and a coffee house & bar located in an octagonal towered bar.
Enjoy the Riverfront
Both sides of the watercourse were once littered by old stone factories, today one side of the river, that closest to the main street, is home to a ruined mill. Near its base is a park and gardens dating from the 1930’s commemorating the towns history and also housing a random beaver statue.
From it you can access the ruins of the mill. The town was originally founded due to its proximity to an abundant supply of water power.
A bridge will also take you across the stream to a public market.
The views from it of the ruins and a nearby church are phenomenal however bland the structure may be.
On this side of the river you will also find a second mill, this one in good shape housing a beer garden.
Conclusion
If you enjoy the great outdoors, the Elora and its famed gorge is for you! After you have finished with your dead, head back into town for a cold brew and enjoy the scenery, a full day out in the sun deserves nothing less.
