Winter Weekends on the Shore

9:00 AM | Start in Southampton

Morning Coffee and Downtown Stroll
Begin your day in historic Southampton with a warm beverage and a leisurely walk through the downtown core.
Suggested stop: Elk & Finch
Elk & Finch Coffee Pub, located at 54 Albert Street South in a turn-of-the-century Southampton home, offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere with cozy dining rooms and balconies overlooking Lake Huron. Enjoy coffee roasted on-site, espresso beverages, and scones, muffins, and pastries baked fresh daily, including their award-winning caramel butter tarts.

Seasonal Cozy Moment

• Browse the boutiques along High Street
• Pick up a locally made candle, artisan soap, or winter accessory.
• Enjoy the quieter pace of Southampton's historic downtown.

10:30 AM | Southampton Waterfront Walk

Head to the waterfront and enjoy:

• The Southampton Beach boardwalk
• Pioneer Park
• Views of Lake Huron and Chantry Island
• Seasonal photo opportunities among autumn colours or winter shoreline scenery

11:30 AM | Browse Local Shops and Galleries

Spend time exploring:

• Southampton Arts Centre and Gallery
• Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre
• Take a self-guided Historical tour
• Specialty shops like the Vintage Vault, Licit Garden, and Larkspur Books

Discover Downtown Southampton Boutiques and Specialty Shops

12:30 PM | Scenic Drive to Port Elgin

Travel south along Miramichi Bay Road from Southampton to Port Elgin
Driving time: Approximately 10 minutes. Watch for lake views and crashing waves along the way.

1:00 PM | Lunch at Allan's Fireside Grill

After arriving in Port Elgin, enjoy a cozy lunch at Allan's Fireside Grill, a popular local restaurant known for its casual atmosphere, comfort food, and welcoming service.
Suggested lunch options:

• Homemade soup and sandwich
• Gourmet burger and fries
• Fresh salads
• Seasonal daily features

Take your time and enjoy a relaxed midday break before exploring downtown Port Elgin.

2:30 PM | Port Elgin Main Street Exploration

Spend the afternoon browsing some of Port Elgin's charming independent retailers.
Downtown Highlights:

• Boutique shopping experience featuring gifts, clothing, accessories, and home accents along Goderich Street
• Discover artisan goods and handcrafted products
• Pick up gourmet foods, preserves, or locally made treats to enjoy later

Featured shops

• Mensch, Casual Corners, Becker Shoes, Bicyclette Rouge
• Cathy's Flowers and Gifts, The Stepping Stone, S’More Books

Explore Downtown Port Elgin Boutiques and Specialty Shops

3:30 PM | Port Elgin Beach and Harbour

Take a relaxing lakeshore walk at:

• Port Elgin Main Beach
• Harbour area
• Connecting shoreline trails

Seasonal highlights:

• Fall colours
• Dramatic Lake Huron waves
• Winter shoreline ice formations
• Sunset photography opportunities

4:30 PM | Afternoon Coffee and Treat Stop

Featured Café Stop
Rabbit Dash Coffee House is one of Port Elgin's most beloved independent cafés and is known for its welcoming atmosphere, organic fair-trade coffees, extensive tea selection, local art displays, and community-focused vibe. 
Try:

• Fair-trade organic coffee
• Specialty latte
• Seasonal hot chocolate
• Fresh baked treats
• A relaxing break in a cozy community café setting

The café's comfortable seating, vintage charm, and local artwork make it the perfect afternoon stop on the Cozy Café Crawl.

5:15 PM | Sunset Finale

End your day at:

• Port Elgin Beach
• Southampton Beach (return trip)

Lake Huron sunsets are among the region's signature experiences.

Estimated Duration: 8-9 hours
Best Seasons: Fall, Winter, and early Spring for maximum cozy atmosphere.

Day 1: Arrival, Wellness and Cozy Coastal Experiences

10:00 a.m. | Arrival in Southampton

Begin your retreat with a leisurely stroll through Southampton's charming downtown. Browse local boutiques and specialty shops while enjoying the slower pace of winter.
Stop for a warm beverage and house-made treat at one of the area's welcoming cafés before beginning your wellness-focused day.

11:30 a.m. | Shoreline Wellness Walk

Take a peaceful walk along Southampton Beach and the Saugeen River shoreline.
Winter offers a uniquely calming experience:

• Listen to the waves rolling across Lake Huron
• Enjoy fresh lakeside air
• Watch for dramatic ice formations along the shore
• Practice mindful walking and reflection

Wellness Tip: Bring a thermos of tea or coffee for a moment of lakeside meditation.

1:00 p.m. | Cozy Lunch

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Walker House, one of Southampton's most iconic dining destinations. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the restaurant blends heritage charm with contemporary comfort, creating an inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements a wellness-focused getaway.

2:30 p.m. | Spa and Self-Care Experience

Choose a restorative treatment experience from Re:Mind Wellness.
Select from:

• Personalized Eminence Organic facials
• Full-body aromatherapy massage
• Botanical body treatments, including scrubs and wraps
• Signature Rituals combining facials, body treatments, and massage

Suggested Duration: 60 to 90 minutes

5:00 p.m. | Check-In at a Charming Bed and Breakfast

Recommended accommodations:
Southampton Inn Bed & Breakfast, comfortable guest rooms and a warm, personalized experience.
Boutique stay at The Beach Motel blending retro style with wellness-focused amenities.

6:30 p.m. | Dinner at Rosina

Settle into an intimate and inviting dining experience at Ristorante ROSINA in Port Elgin. Known for its thoughtfully prepared Italian-inspired cuisine, Rosina offers a warm, contemporary atmosphere that encourages guests to slow down and savour the evening. 

8:00 p.m. | Evening Wind-Down

Return to your accommodation and embrace the slower pace:

• Enjoy herbal tea
• Read a good book
• Practice gentle stretching or meditation

End the evening with an early night and a focus on rest and rejuvenation.

Day 2: Nature, Nourishment and Slow Travel

8:30 a.m. | Homemade Breakfast at Your B&B

Enjoy a locally prepared breakfast before heading outdoors.

10:00 a.m. | Winter Trail Hike

Option A: Saugeen Rail Trail
A gentle route ideal for:

• Walking
• Snowshoeing (conditions permitting)
• Birdwatching
• Mindful outdoor exercise

Option B: MacGregor Point Provincial Park
Experience:

• Winter forest landscapes
• Snow-covered trails
• Wildlife viewing opportunities
• Fresh-air wellness

Suggested hiking time: 1.5 to 2 hours.

12:30 p.m. | Café & Treat Stop at Rabbit Dash Coffee House Co.

After a refreshing morning on the trails, warm up at Rabbit Dash Coffee House Co. in Port Elgin. This locally loved café offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for slowing down and reflecting on your wellness retreat experience.
Enjoy:

• Specialty coffee, espresso beverages, or loose-leaf tea
• Freshly baked pastries and sweet treats
• Light lunch options and seasonal offerings
• Comfortable seating and a relaxed community vibe

With its cozy interior and inviting ambiance, Rabbit Dash is an ideal place to unwind after a winter hike, reconnect over conversation, or simply enjoy a quiet moment with a warm drink before continuing your exploration of Port Elgin.

1:30 p.m. | Local Shopping and Slow Exploration

Spend the afternoon discovering Port Elgin's unique boutiques and specialty shops, embracing a slower pace and supporting local businesses along the way.

Browse local retailers such as:

• Mensch for clothing brands including Free People, Gentle Fawn, Levi’s, and more
• Cathy's Flowers & Gifts for unique treasures and handmade wood products
• The Stepping Stone for an eclectic collection of home décor, gifts, seasonal items

Take your time exploring and discovering distinctive items from local businesses

3:00 p.m. | Final Lakeside Pause

Before departing, spend a few reflective moments at the waterfront in Port Elgin or Southampton.
Enjoy:

• The calming rhythm of Lake Huron
• Winter scenery
• A final opportunity to disconnect from daily stresses and reconnect with nature

4:00 p.m. | Departure

Leave refreshed, recharged, and inspired after a wellness-focused retreat on the shores of Lake Huron.

9:00 AM | Breakfast at The Lighthouse Restaurant, Southampton

Begin your day in Southampton with breakfast at this local favourite, The Lighthouse Restaurant. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere and classic breakfast menu make it a great starting point for a day of exploration.

Family Tip: Take a short walk to the waterfront afterward for photos of the Chantry Island Lighthouse before exploring downtown.

10:00 AM | Discover New Stories at Larkspur Books

Browse this charming independent bookstore, Larkspur Books, in downtown Southampton, featuring a thoughtfully curated selection of children's books, young adult titles, local authors, and gifts.
Why Families Love It:

• Children's literature for all reading levels
• Canadian and local-interest books
• Cozy atmosphere perfect for young readers
• Great opportunity to pick up a vacation keepsake

10:45 AM | Explore the Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre

Visit the Museum in Southampton for an interactive family experience at one of Bruce County's premier attractions.
Highlights include:

• Hands-on exhibits
• Marine and shipwreck history
• Local and Indigenous history displays
• Children's discovery experiences
• Rotating family-friendly exhibitions

Plan for approximately 60 minutes to fully enjoy the museum.

11:45 AM | Beach Walk and Playground Break

Head to Southampton Beach and the waterfront for some outdoor fun. Stroll the boardwalk, watch for dramatic ice formations along the shore, and the boats in the harbour

12:30 PM | Lunch at The Walker House, Southampton

Enjoy lunch in one of Southampton's most iconic historic buildings.

Dining Experience: The Walker House combines historic charm with a relaxed family atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of options suitable for both adults and children, making it an ideal midday stop.

2:00 PM | Art Discovery at the Southampton Arts Centre

Introduce young visitors to the local arts scene through exhibitions featuring talented regional artists.

Interactive Activity: Encourage children to choose their favourite artwork and share what they think the artist was trying to express.

2:45 PM | Play and Explore at Turtle Crossings, Port Elgin

Head to downtown Port Elgin and let the kids browse the areas STEM and screen-free toy store. Turtle Crossings Toy Store is filled with toys, games, puzzles, crafts, and educational activities that encourage creativity and play.

Fun Family Challenge: See who can find the most unique toy or game in the store.

3:30 PM | Winter Adventure at MacGregor Point Provincial Park

Experience one of Ontario's most beloved winter destinations at MacGregor Point Provincial Park. Families can choose from a variety of outdoor activities that showcase the natural beauty of the winter season.

Choose Your Adventure:

• Skate the outdoor ice-skating trail through the forest (weather permitting)
• Enjoy a winter hike along scenic snow-covered trails
• Try snowshoeing and explore the park's picturesque wetlands and woodlands

Need Equipment? Stop by Thorncrest Outfitters in Southampton before your visit to rent snowshoes and other winter gear, making it easy for the whole family to join in the fun.

Why Families Love It:

• Accessible outdoor recreation for all ages
• Beautiful winter landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities
• A unique skating experience beneath the trees
• Flexible activities suitable for varying skill levels and interests

Allow approximately 60 to 90 minutes to explore before heading back to Port Elgin for dinner at Allan's Fireside Grill.

5:30 PM | Family Dinner at Allan's Fireside Grill, Port Elgin

Wrap up the day with a relaxed family meal at Allan's Fireside Grill in downtown Port Elgin.
Popular family favourites include:

• Burgers and sandwiches
• Comfort-food classics
• Shareable appetizers
• Kid-friendly menu selections

Friday Evening: Arrival and Unwind

4:00 PM | Check-In and Settle In

Arrive in Southampton or Port Elgin and check into your accommodations. Choose a bed and breakfast, boutique suite, or cozy vacation rental close to downtown for easy access to shopping and dining.

6:00 PM | Dinner at The Berkshire

Begin the weekend with a memorable dinner at The Berkshire on Goderich Street in Port Elgin. This farm-to-table restaurant offers casual fine dining with Canadian comfort food and a French influence, with everything made from scratch using ingredients from local Bruce County farms. Try the house schnitzel or the seared pickerel. The cozy, welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for reconnecting with friends. Reservations are recommended call 519-832-2461.

8:00 PM | Evening Wellness Experience

Take a leisurely waterfront stroll along Port Elgin's shoreline before returning to your accommodations for a relaxing evening.

Saturday: Wellness, Shopping and Culinary Experiences

8:30 AM | Breakfast at Rabbit Dash

Start the day at Rabbit Dash Coffee House in Port Elgin with specialty coffee, fresh baking, and a relaxed atmosphere before heading out for a day of self-care and exploration.

9:30 AM | Morning Wellness at Cedarvale Wellbeing

Spend the morning at Cedarvale Wellbeing, embracing a restorative wellness experience in a peaceful rural setting. Consider booking:

• Infrared sauna sessions
• Cold therapy experiences
• Breathwork and mindfulness practices
• Gentle movement classes

This rejuvenating experience sets the tone for a relaxing girls' getaway.

12:30 PM | Lunch at Minh's Southampton

Enjoy lunch at Minh's Southampton, a local favourite known for fresh Vietnamese and Asian-inspired cuisine. The welcoming atmosphere and flavourful menu make it an ideal stop before an afternoon downtown.

2:00 PM | Downtown Southampton Shopping & Olive Oil Tasting Experience

Spend the afternoon exploring Southampton's walkable downtown, combining boutique shopping with a unique culinary experience.
Featured Experience: Southampton Olive Oil Company
Begin with an interactive olive oil and balsamic vinegar tasting at Southampton Olive Oil Company. Sample premium oils and aged vinegars, discover flavour pairings, and find gourmet products perfect for entertaining or gifting.

6:30 PM | Dinner at Room 797

Gather for dinner at Room 797, one of Southampton's standout dining experiences. Known for its sophisticated atmosphere, creative menu, and expertly crafted cocktails, it's the perfect setting for a memorable girls' night out. Enjoy a leisurely meal featuring seasonal ingredients, shareable plates, and decadent desserts while catching up with friends.

8:30 PM | Cozy Evening Gathering

Return to your accommodations for a relaxed evening. Enjoy wine, artisanal chocolates from Mill Creek Chocolates, herbal tea, or a charcuterie board from Southampton Meat Market while unwinding after a day filled with wellness, shopping, and exceptional dining. 

Sunday: Adventure, Spa and Farewell

8:30 AM | Breakfast at The Lighthouse Restaurant

Head to Southampton's beloved Lighthouse Restaurant for a hearty breakfast before your outdoor adventure.

10:00 AM | Winter Adventure at MacGregor Point Provincial Park

Spend the morning exploring MacGregor Point Provincial Park, one of Bruce County's premier winter destinations.
Choose from:

• Snowshoeing, winter hiking, and wildlife viewing through forest trails
• Rent a fat bike and winter cycling gear from Martin's Bicycle Shop in Southampton
• Ice-skating the 400-meter trail that winds through the trees in the Cedar Lane section of the Algonquin Campground.

For those requiring equipment, snowshoe rentals may be available through local outfitters such as Thorncrest Outfitters in Southampton.

12:30 PM | Lunch at The Wismer Brewpub, Port Elgin

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Wismer Brewpub at 705 Goderich Street. It is a friendly neighbourhood pub in a restored Victorian house, with Port Elgin's own craft brewery, Three Sheets Brewing, next door. 

2:00 PM | Downtown Port Elgin Shopping and Sweet Treats

Before heading home, explore Port Elgin's downtown shops. Pick up locally crafted gifts, fashion pieces, home décor, and gourmet treats to remember the weekend.

4:00 PM | Departure

Head home refreshed after a weekend of wellness, creativity, shopping, outdoor adventure, and quality time on the Coast of Lake Huron.