There’s nothing quite like hitting the road to get a change in scenery! We always love a good road trip, and a day in Lyndhurst is definitely one of our favorite road trip destinations to date. We started off the day by departing Gananoque (with our much-needed caffeine from Laverne’s Eatery in hand) and driving approximately 20 minutes north-east to the small village of Lyndhurst – located along the Rideau Heritage Route and home to the oldest bridge in Ontario.

Berry Homestead Farm

Our first stop was to Berry Homestead Farm. This isn’t just any regular farm… it’s an off-grid, sustainable farm, and offer the experience of getting up close and personal with their herd of donkeys! The owners of the farm were extremely friendly and were happy to pepper us with so many interesting facts about sustainable farm living and the quirks of raising donkeys that we would have never known. When you are in the pasture with the donkeys, they come right up to you looking for attention! You are able to brush them down, take pictures (they LOVE selfies), and even give them hugs! Not only does Berry Homestead Farm have donkeys, but they also have chickens and turkeys, they grow their own vegetables and elderberries, and sell an assortment of handmade elderberry products and other preserves. They even make their own soap/ skin products out of donkey milk!

Petra’s Place and Kendrick’s Park

After visiting Berry Homestead Farm, we were super hungry. One of our favorite places to eat in Lyndhurst is Petra’s Place – it is a chip truck with food that is to die for! (While they may not be for everyone, we do recommend indulging in an order of deep-fried pickles; they’re amazing!) After lunch we were ready to have a quick cool off at Kendrick’s Park. Kendrick’s Park is home to a wonderful sandy beach that is perfect for families with children because the water is safe and shallow. There’s playground equipment and a shaded picnic table area, and also features a canteen and washrooms. On a hot summer day, it’s a perfect place to cool off!

Wendy’s Country Market

Before you make your way back home, Wendy’s Country Market is a place you must stop at! Growing up in the area, Wendy’s Country Market was always a fun summer activity that we looked forward to every summer! They have a variety of locally produced fresh veggies and plants, farm fresh eggs, home raised meats, handmade baked goods and an assortment of preserves available for purchase. To get a real taste of local, it is the place to visit for a selection of locally grown and produced goodies.

Twist’s Outlet

On the way home, be sure to stop and enjoy an ice cream to top off your day! We decided to stop in at the Twist’s Outlet off County Road 3 – not far from the Charleston Lake Provincial Park. It’s a cute little store for cottagers and campers to get their hands on some necessities, and sells ice cream by the scoop that you can enjoy by the water.

There’s so much to see and do in the 1000 Islands region, and if you’re able to explore it by car there are so many hidden treasures that you are sure to enjoy!

This article was written by the 1000 Islands Tourism Ambassadors: Kiana & Paige