If you’re looking for that small-town fun, the lovely town of Erin, Ont., is a must this winter, and here’s why it’s oh-so cozy.
It won’t take you long to travel to Erin from Toronto. It’s about an hour away from the city, home to rolling country hills, rivers, and adorable shops. An all-season experience, it’s even more magical when it’s blanketed in snow.
“Lush rolling countryside, meandering rivers, small settlement areas, and quaint village settings is what you will encounter in the Town of Erin,” shares the township.
As for its downtown core, it is described as having a “medley of adorable shops and lovingly preserved buildings,” with beautiful trails and golf courses, too. The all-season town is the perfect day trip experience, especially if you love supporting small and local businesses.
With its vibrant downtown and welcoming atmosphere, the town’s rich history adds even more to its appeal. It’s rooted in a past that has shaped both its lovely charm and character.
History of Erin, Ont.
The history of this township dates back to the 1820s, when the first settler, a Pennsylvania native named Nathaniel Roszel, arrived, according to the Town.
“He took up the land at Lot 1, Concession 7 in November 1820,” it added. “On Nov. 11, 1821, his son Benjamin, their first child, was born. It was here the hamlet of Ballinafad sprang up, and here, Erin Township began.”
The Town shares its full history online for interested parties to dive right in.
The town’s old-world feel has been preserved to this day, and while you’re wandering through, you’ll be transported back to simpler times.
Winter activities in Erin, Ont.
If you want to learn more about its past, you can actually embark on a historical walking trail. According to the Town, its Recreation and Culture Committee, along with WeCare of Credit Valley Conservation, has launched its Mill History in Erin Village walking trails.
A series of maps can be found at Woollen Mill Lane at the entrance to the trail, and at McMillan Park at 109 Main St.
Another option is the Elora Cataract Trail, which passes through Erin and along an old railway bed that was originally the Credit Valley Railway from 1879. It was then taken over by the CPR in 1884.
“Passengers were carried along this line until 1958. Freight (mostly locally grown potatoes) was shipped from along this line making it very profitable for many, many years. All trains were discontinued, and the tracks were torn up in 1988,” shares the Town. Now it’s yours to enjoy – on foot, that is.
If you have a snowmobile, you can also explore the trail on one too! The town is definitely a must-visit in the winter.
Make sure to add this to your list of southern Ontario countryside stops – we’ll see you there.
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