This historic Ontario countryside village is surrounded by stunning backroads with autumn hues
Exploring Ontario is fun in the summer, but fall truly brings out the colours of our province. Literally. And from winding road trips, to cute towns to visit this new season, there are plenty of decisions to make when it comes to the next local getaway. So we’re adding another one! If you’ve never been to the charming village of Lakefield, Ontario, fall is a great season to check it out.
Where is Lakefield?
Just about two hours north east of Toronto, and north of Peterborough, you’ll find Lakefield.
Think of a place in Ontario’s countryside, perched along the incredible Trent-Severn Waterway, Lakefield “has a gentler pace and friendly locals; inspiring people to visit for generations,” according to the local tourism website.
They add that the village of Lakefield is often “considered the gateway to cottage country in Peterborough & the Kawarthas.”
Historic Village
The village was established back in the early 1800s, and in its downtown core you will find the Christ Church, which was built in 1853. It continues to operate today as a seasonal museum.
“This museum is one of nearly forty historical locations in the village, including Lakefield College School, Hillside Cemetery, Reydon Manor and the sites of former wooden boat and canoe manufacturers,” states the Kawarthas Northumberland website.
It was originally a sawmill town, and has since grown to be a community that thrives on tourism, along with its small businesses and speciality retail shops.
Lakefield today
The historic downtown is lined with shops, cultural destinations, and restaurants serving up delicious home-grown cuisine.
You’re never more than a few steps from the water’s edge, either.
But, what’s most appealing about this village is the network of scenic backroads for driving and cycling, which are especially beautiful with the vibrant autumn colours.
Cycling in the region
Four of the Kawartha Classics Road Cycling Routes pass through Lakefield.
“The combination of rolling drumlin hills, scenic lake vistas and winding rural roads make for challenging and diverse riding opportunities,” says Peterborough and the Kawarthas.
When you’re ready to dismount or hop out of the car, there are several rural cafes and craft breweries along the way.
Or perhaps go on a road trip
Peterborough & The Kawarthas have several “Fall Driving Tours” that you can check out, with bursting colours and stops along local attractions.
One of these tours is a 119km drive, that takes three to five hours, and ends in Lakefield, but also filled with autumn hues during the season.
The stops along the way include the Petroglyphs Provincial Park, Kawartha Country Wines, Mainstreet Bar & Grill, The Village Inn, Lakefield Bakery on Queen.
“The winding roads heading north toward Stoney Lake are lined with dancing red, orange, and yellow leaves this time of year. This route is known for its unbeLEAFable photo opps along the way,” states the Peterborough & the Kawarthas page.
Check out the map route below!
More things to do in Lakefield
Believe it or not, Lakefield is also a hub for literary arts.
Famous Canadian writers Margaret Laurence, Catherine Parr-Traill, and Susanna Moodie all called Lakefield home, and the town continues to carry the tradition with its annual Lakefield Literary Festival.
And when you’re in the mood to get your steps in, you can head to the Imagine the Marsh Conservation Area, which features a floating boardwalk and a two-level viewing tower.
In short, this quaint village has a little of everything, making it a great destination for a day trip this fall.
Enjoy the journey!
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