Bob Wells
3 things I love about the Stratford Area:
It's very easy going, and there are a lot of off the beaten track places to explore; beautiful countryside; bike friendly.
3 Favorite local hidden treasures you shouldn't miss:
Soiled Reputation Run by Anthony John, "the Manic Organic", this certified organic produce farm, grows custom salad mixes, seedlings, and leafy greens year round for the best restaurants in Ontario. It is also a seasonal grower of 50 different gourmet and heirloom vegetables.
St. Marys Quarry Billed as "Canada's largest outdoor swimming pool", this former limestone quarry was flooded in the 1930's, and in 1945 was adjoined to the Thames Quarry along with 50 acres of surrounding land for $2,200-it's a gorgeous and refreshing spot for a dip.
Megan's Family Farm. Every June I like to spend an afternoon at the Strawberry Festival where I can pick my own strawberries, take in the BBQ and listen to live music. Based on principles of environmental farm stewardship, fresh asparagus, squash and pumpkins are offered in season, as well as local honey, maple syrup and a host of preserved local foods.
My perfect day spent in the Stratford Area:
I would start my day driving out to Millbank, a 19th century heritage mill town of barns, woodsheds, and wholesome country foods. There I would browse the shops for quality hand-crafted furniture, unique quilts and crafts. While in Millbank, there are hidden treasures to visit, from the Bauman Apiaries to taste some of the sweetest liquid, creamed, and unpasteurized honey around; and of course, Anna Mae's Bakery and Restaurant to enjoy fresh country jams and pies, and of course their broasted chicken. Of important note: this bakery/eatery has gone completely green and is now powered by wind. After departing Millbank I would continue driving through the rolling green country side, stopping at roadside vendors of berries or corn, and continue to the fields of Soiled Reputation. This lush organic farm supplies some of the cleanest, freshest, tastiest vegetables we eat. Then I would head south to St. Marys, another 19th century heritage town, and after exploring, and grabbing a bite to eat there, I would park at The Quarry, and laze away the rest of the afternoon in the cool waters there. Back in Stratford I would browse the shops for interesting finds, or pending availability, even catch a show at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival. Afterwards I would check out bars like The Boar's Head or Bentley's to see if there were any live performances. Balzac's Coffee and Tango Café & Grill both have cork boards with listings of what's going on around town. There is so much to see and do, I would probably just play it all by ear, and know that I would come back to catch whatever I missed.