Summer’s here and with it, the sun-kissed days we’ve been dreaming of all winter. But while you’re soaking up those golden rays, it’s crucial to keep your skin protected. The good news is you can shield yourself from the sun and look fabulous at the same time.
Here’s how to protect your skin in style.
Head to the Hat Rack Hats aren’t just a fashion statement; they’re your first line of defence against sunburn and premature aging. Wide-brimmed hats are as trendy as they are functional. Think oversized, floppy brims that scream glamour while also providing shade for your face, neck, and shoulders. Choose natural fibres like straw and cotton for breathability and comfort.
I love a visor but my scalp does not. And while a trendy baseball cap offers some protection, it leaves much of your face and neck exposed. Instead, opt for a trendy bucket hat if you’re looking for a sportier vibe. These provide 360-degree protection and come in a variety of fun patterns and colours.
Go Big With Shades When it comes to sunglasses, bigger is better. Large, oversized styles not only make you look like a movie star but also offer more coverage to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them. Look for sunglasses with UV400 protection, which blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
Aviators and wayfarers remain timeless classics, but the latest trend includes bold, geometric shapes and coloured lenses. Mirrored lenses are also in, reflecting away even more sunlight. Ditch the small, narrow frames—they may be trendy, but they don’t do much in the way of sun protection. Or, channel your inner Cory Hart and only wear those at night.
Wrap It Up Lightweight wraps and scarves are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your sun-safe outfit. Vicky and Ruza at Jus B Gauze Burlington suggest draping them over your shoulders or using them to cover your legs when the sun gets too intense. “Think breathable fabrics like linen and cotton in bright, summery prints or classic neutrals.”
“Sarongs are also making a stylish return, versatile enough to be used as skirts, dresses, or even headscarves. Heavy, dark-coloured fabrics can make you overheat, so go for light and airy.”
Less Skin Is More “For swimwear, opt for maximum coverage with classic one-piece suits or tankinis,” advises Karen Capocci from Linea Intima in Oakville. “This season’s modern designs along with playful prints and colour blocking are trending. If a bikini is more your style it can be paired with pretty cover-ups, tunics, and sarongs that will add a fun and functional layer to your beachy or poolside look.”
Choose UPF Fabrics Synthetic fibres like polyester and nylon offer better protection than natural fibres because they are less likely to let UV rays through. However, natural fibres like tightly woven cotton and linen can also be effective.
Some fabrics are now being treated with special UV-blocking agents. Check for labels indicating UPF ratings, and consider investing in these high-tech textiles.
Sun shirts, or rash guards, are no longer just for surfers. These stylish pieces are perfect for beach days or any outdoor activity. A UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+ is ideal, meaning the fabric blocks 98% of the sun’s rays.
Final Touches Don’t forget your sunscreen! No matter how covered up you are, sunscreen is essential for any exposed skin. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
Accessorize with a chic beach tote to carry all your sun-safe essentials and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. It’s easy to protect your skin without sacrificing style.
LOCAL LINKS
Jus B Gauze, 4019 New Street, Burlington jusbgauze.com
Linea Intima, 196 Lakeshore Road East, Oakville lineaintima.ca
When it comes to picnics and barbecues, Southern Ontarians have a longstanding love affair with classics like potato salad and hot dogs. Our neighbours from other parts of the world, however, remind us that feasting outside in nice weather evokes endless other food possibilities. Different waves of immigration have gradually, undeniably upped the wow factor of feasts in our parks. Exotic fruits, refreshments from other continents, and hot dishes lovingly prepared in time-honoured spices elevate al fresco dining to another stratosphere.
The Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth regions feature outstanding picnic sites such as Lowville Park (Lowville), Hidden Valley Park and LaSalle Park (Burlington), Waterdown Memorial Park (Waterdown), Tannery Park and Gairloch Gardens (Oakville), and Dundas Driving Park and Christie Lake Conservation Area (Dundas). Once you’ve decided on the perfect setting, consider expanding your horizons by embracing new culinary fare.
Look Local asked two families from different cultural traditions what they typically bring to their family picnics. Here are their ideas and recipes to awaken your taste buds!
Margarita Cardona, originally from Colombia, loves taking her family on day long picnics. This requires stamina, which is easily provided by ready-made treats. Margarita packs ripe, fresh fruit (such as nectarines, cherries and watermelon), and savory snacks (popcorn, and tortilla chips and salsa) to get the party started.
To keep everyone energized, Margarita shares a pro tip: “Something we make sure we pack, always, is a thermos with hot coffee! Colombian coffee, just black. We are coffee drinkers and we are not always sure we will have access to a coffee shop.”
The main meal is kept simple, such as a protein packed egg or tuna sandwich, or a quinoa salad. For dessert, a delicious homemade cake rounds out the meal! Margarita also adds a taste of Columbia to her picnics by either preparing a tasty plantain snack ahead of time, or barbecuing it on the spot.
Bushra Faisal also loves to create healthy food for her family. Bushra’s background is Pakistani and when she picnics she brings a variety of dishes including salads, chicken dishes, and desserts.
“Some of our favourite foods include Chicken Biryani, Chicken Karahi, Qeema (minced meat with green chillies), Kabobs, Naan, Qatlian (Potato slices cooked with spices), and fresh fruits, especially watermelon, cut into pieces,” Bushra says.
This popular Pakistani recipe (see below) is ideal for preparing in advance and cooking on the grill at your picnic site.
Make your next picnic memorable by bringing a few of Margarita and Bushra’s ideas to your table!
Summer is the time for awesome family adventures! The Halton and Hamilton-Wentworth regions have got you covered with endless fun, whether you’re soaring through the trees at Treetop Trekking or unleashing your competitive spirit over a game of Jenga at Nostalgia Games Cafe. Get ready for a summer of epic memories and non-stop laughter with kids in tow!
Wild Waterworks | Hamilton
Pack your swimsuits, sunscreen and smiles and beat the summer heat at Wild Waterworks in Hamilton. From thrilling water slides for adrenaline junkies to a relaxing lazy river, and Canada’s largest wave pool, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy. Little Squirt Works is a cool-down paradise for toddlers and younger kids with a large splash pad with playful features like slides, sprays and fountains.
Beat the heat at Milton’s new Kelso Cove Waterpark, which opened on Canada Day weekend. The park is a 50’ x 170’ floating island with 26 fun features and obstacles to climb, bounce, jump, and slide on. Activities are fully supervised by certified lifeguards. Swimmers ages 5 and older who meet the minimum height requirement of 48’’ can play on the waterpark after completing a 40 ft swim test, wearing a Kelso Cove lifejacket, and listening to the safety briefing.
In addition to the new water park, Kelso Conservation Area is a place to rent a boat, swim, hike, mountain bike, play disc golf, have a picnic, take on challenge courses, and more.
11:00 am to 7:00 pm (pre-book a time slot online) Water park pricing: Child 5-8 $20 + gate fee | General $25 + gate fee (no gate fee for Conservation Halton members)
Aerosports Trampoline Park | Oakville
Kids bouncing off the walls? With over 130 trampolines sprawled across this massive 27,000 sq ft facility, there’s no shortage of opportunities to unleash energy at Aerosports.
When they’re done jumping, kids can test their strength and agility on the rock climbing wall, conquer the ninja course, zoom down the huge slide or duck and dive in a game of dodgeball.
Before bouncing into action, you’ll need to grab a specialty pair of Aerosports socks, for purchase at the counter.
Springridge is a working farm with an adventure playground providing endless fun for younger kids. Play in the giant sandbox, visit the farm animals, climb on antique tractors, or join in a song with the singing tractor and chickens. Take a family wagon ride around the farm and enjoy a delicious lunch at the barn. Parents will love relaxing on the big red Adirondack chairs while the kids enjoy their play.
Take family game night out on the town and visit Burlington’s newest game cafe. Nostalgia houses a collection of over 150 games that guarantees hours of laughter and friendly competition. Discover new favourites and re-live your childhood classics while enjoying a delicious variety of treats as well as coffee and bubble tea.
Bronte Creek offers fun for all ages. Younger kids can enjoy two playgrounds and a play barn that’s perfect for burning off steam. With five scenic hiking trails, including the Enchanted Fairy Trail (located behind the play barn), it’s a perfect location for adventure seeking with young children in tow. Pack a picnic lunch and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
This indoor active gaming facility is all about high-energy entertainment. Move between 11 interactive light-up game rooms that challenge your physical and mental agility as you jump, climb and dodge your way through arcade-style games. An electronic wristband keeps track of your gaming activities and achievements, adding an extra level of fun and competitiveness. While the games are designed with adults in mind, kids aged 10 and up can join in on the action and fun with a paying adult.
Activate recommends having 3 to 5 people per game, so bring your friends along for the fun. Each session lasts 75 minutes, which you can book using their online system.
Embark on an exhilarating outdoor adventure filled with excitement, laughter and Tarzan calls. Located just outside Hamilton, Treetop Trekking offers a unique opportunity to soar through the treetops through obstacle courses, rope swings and ziplines.
For younger adventurers (age 5 and over), the discovery course features a variety of wooden bridges, tightropes and mini ziplines hovering 3 to 5 feet above the forest floor.
Younger children will love Treewalk Village where miniature wooden treehouses, slides and rope courses await exploration.
Mankind has been obsessed with outdoor grilling ever since our ancestors first discovered fire a million years ago. Cooking over wood and charcoal imparts a smoky flavour that is the secret ingredient to so many favourite ethnic dishes. If you’re an adventurous epicurean who loves playing host, you can turn your backyard into a gourmet oasis with specialty ovens and grills that bring to life age-old traditions from around the globe.
A Gateway to Heat
The tandoor oven, a cylindrical vessel made of clay, is an integral part of India’s culinary heritage and the secret behind the smoky tang of your beloved Indian dishes. Cooking food over wood/ charcoal in the belly of a tandoor oven at scorching high temperatures results in fast cooking times.
If you love the interactive experience of fondue parties, you’ll love these ovens that are designed for vertical barbecuing. Picture marinating meats, vegetables and cheeses in yogurt and spices, skewering them on metal rods and inserting them into the vessel vertically.
As the food cooks with the lid closed, the juices spill down onto the charcoal, creating a flavourful, smoky convection-style cooking chamber. And brace yourself – slapping dough on the inner walls of the oven makes fluffy naans with a crispy exterior!
Typically standing waist-high, tandoor ovens are portable and easy to integrate into any patio. There are stainless steel or beautifully handcrafted clay versions carved and painted in intricate geometric patterns and Eastern motifs.
Italians have perfected the fine art of pizza with their iconic brick wood-fired ovens. The tradition dates back centuries, notably in Naples, the birthplace of Napolitano pizza.
The brick construction allows for intense heat as high as 500 degrees Celsius, and the dome shape allows heat to circulate effectively for consistent, even distribution. It makes mouth-watering pizza with an airy, crispy crust in a record-breaking 90 seconds, while adding a hint of smoky delight.
But the magic doesn’t stop at pizzas! Many regions in Italy, like Tuscany and Campania, roast meats in the same ovens, including whole lambs or goats for special celebrations. Even distribution of high heat locks in the juices. Upscale brands like Forno Bravo offer pizza ovens that can be customized with stucco exteriors or decorative tile and mosaics, for a traditional look with a personal touch.
The Social Art of Grilling
In Argentina, asado is not just a grilling method; it’s a social event. The tradition dates back to the early 19th century and has its roots in the gaucho (Argentine cowboy) lifestyle. Gauchos would gather around an open fire, grilling large cuts of meat while sharing stories and songs.
Asado barbecuing is a slow, measured process using a parrilla – a special grill, typically a two-part design featuring an iron grate and a firebox (brasero) by the side to ensure food doesn’t absorb acrid flavours that are produced when wood/charcoal is fired up.
Parrillas often come with a crank that makes the grill easy to raise and lower for quick temperature adjustments, allowing popular dishes like costillas (beef ribs), chorizo sausages and morcilla (blood sausage) to be cooked to perfection.
Since the meat is cooked over an open fire, these grills don’t imbue as much smoke flavour as an enclosed smoker. But guess what? With asado, the meat is never marinated – all you need is a good quality salt. If you’re not ready to go big with free-standing units, a built-in unit can be easily dropped into an outside kitchen island.
For a more interactive social experience, consider a Korean barbecue grill. These tabletop grills, whether built into the table or portable, encourage communal cooking and dining and allow you to cook marinated meats and vegetables right at the table.
Side dishes, known as banchan, like kimchi, pickled radishes, and various sauces, will elevate your grilling experience, making every meal both a feast and a festive event!
One morning over breakfast, my toddler asked for “star-berries.” She described them as, “Da red ones with da dots.” Strawberries! She wanted strawberries on her pancakes. I think she was onto something.
Strawberries are indeed celebrity berries in my opinion. Ever heard of strawberry glam jam? That’s what I call it, anyway… the shimmery preserve made with edible glitter has undeniable star quality. Nevertheless, strawberries on their own are the superstar of fruit farms at this time of year.
Eaten fresh, baked in a pie, tossed in a salad, or enjoyed in any number of mouthwatering ways, strawberries are a celebrated sign of summer. Speaking of summer, we visited Springridge Farm every summer and fall when my kids were little.
Now that they’re grown and no longer interested in wagon rides or the Fun Farmyard, I visit Springridge on my own to stroll around the Barn Market. I always stop in at the bakery to pick up a pie and some preserves that I end up sharing with my big kids.
What they don’t know is I usually eat a strawberry tart or two on the way home. You snooze, you lose, kids. “Strawberry season is an exciting time here at Springridge Farm,” says Farmer John Hughes, co-owner.
“It’s hard to believe we’ve been growing and harvesting everybody’s favourite berries for almost 40 years. We pick them at their peak, so they’re always fresh and ready for you to take home and enjoy.” If you feel like channeling your inner farmer by picking your own berries, head to Andrews Farm Market and Winery.
Established in 1980, this 165-acre community farm in Halton Hills has grown to include a winery (Strawberry Wine? Yes please!), a playground, and an animal corral. Pick your own berries or buy a basket from their “proud to be local” farm store.
Matt Setzkorn, Operations Manager at Andrews Farm says, “If you’re picking your own, choose strawberries that are bright red all over with green caps.
Avoid berries that are mostly white or green, as they’re not fully ripe. Lift the leaves gently to check for any hidden berries underneath. Sometimes the ripest ones are tucked away out of sight.
To harvest the berries, grasp the stem just above the berry between your thumb and forefinger, then give it a gentle twist. This should detach the berry from the plant without damaging it.”
Wondering what to do with your berry bounty once you’ve picked them or picked out the perfect basket at the farm store?
Indulge in their sweet, perfect ripeness and gorge. You can also dip strawberries in chocolate, add them to yogurt, preserve them in a jam, or use them in your baking.
OLD-FASHIONED ENGLISH TRIFLE
YOU’LL NEED:
• 1 pound cake (store-bought works)
• 1 jar strawberry jam
• 1 ó cups sliced strawberries
• 1 ½ cups plain greek yogurt (0%)
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract or paste
• 4 (or more) fresh whole strawberries for garnish
Slice the pound cake crosswise into ó inch slices, set aside. In a small bowl, stir vanilla into greek yogurt, set aside. Start with a layer of pound cake in the bottom of each of four large red wine glasses. You will likely need to cut the slices of pound cake into smaller shapes to create this layer – don’t worry, the finished product will look great.
Next, add a thin layer (approx 1/8 inch) of strawberry jam. Then add a layer of strawberries, and then a layer of vanilla-flavoured yogurt (between . and ó inch thick). Repeat layers until glasses are full, aiming to finish with the yogurt layer. Garnish with a whole fresh strawberry and refrigerate until ready to serve!
I always joke that I don’t bake, I “bakery” (pie crust scares me). Thankfully, Springridge Bakery offers a variety of pies, tarts, and other tasty treats. In the words of chef Jesse Lauzon, who heads the Springridge Bakery, “Strawberry shortcake is a summer classic. But another simple dessert that highlights the freshness of in season strawberries is an English Trifle.”
Lauzon shares this lighter version of trifle, made with vanilla greek yogurt. It packs all kinds of flavour and couldn’t be simpler to put together.
“Make individual servings in large red-wine glasses, or make one large layered trifle in your favourite large glass bowl or trifle dish,” he says.
Whether you go berry picking, pick up a basket from a local farm, or enjoy berries plucked from your own garden, strawberries will undoubtedly be the star of your brunch, picnic, or dessert this season.
Enjoy! And try not to get strawberry juice on your shirt.
Connecting with nature, unplugging, and roasting s’mores sounds blissful. But let’s be real, roughing it in the great outdoors can be intimidating. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a newbie outdoors person, a little preparation can elevate your camping trip from basic survival to a relaxing retreat.
PICK THE PERFECT SPOT
The perfect campsite is key to a great trip, especially with kids and pets in tow. Look for amenities such as safe swimming areas and easy to access hiking trails, and consider proximity to bathrooms and a camp store for essentials.
Opt for shaded campsites, especially for pets. If backpacking, choose a flat location that is clear of rocks to set up your tent and consider proximity to water sources and trees for shelter from the wind.
FIND THE RIGHT TENT
When buying a tent, “size, weight, and durability are the most important factors,” says Marina Orde, General Manager at Adventure Attic in Dundas. Lightweight tents are ideal for backpackers, while durability is a main concern for car campers and families.
Melo Ding, Owner of Ox-Gen Outdoors in Oakville, says tent size is rated by the number of people that can sleep in a tent, but warns these ratings can be tight. Allow extra space for gear.
MAKE YOUR BED
Pack a sleeping bag, a pillow, and an air mattress or sleeping pad for a cozy night’s rest. Sleeping bags trap your body heat inside to keep you warm while an air mattress or sleeping pad adds a layer of cushioning and insulation from the ground.
Sleeping pads roll up to fit inside your backpack, while air mattresses require an air pump for inflation but feel more like a regular bed. “You can also consider a camping cot if you don’t want to sleep on the ground directly,” suggests Ding.
PACK KITCHEN ESSENTIALS
Roughing it somehow turns eggs and a humble cup of coffee into a zen ritual. For kitchen convenience don’t forget the portable gas stove, cookware, mugs, collapsible sink, and biodegradable camp soap. “Camp soap is usually very concentrated, so a little goes a long way,” says Orde.
PREP MEALS IN ADVANCE
Pre-made food, frozen in a leakproof container, is handy and also functions as ice in the cooler. Orde’s go-to camping meal is chili. “Chili can be prepared as a vegetarian or vegan option, and can offer great nutritional content: protein, vegetables, carbs and fibre,” she says, adding that chili can double as pasta sauce.
KEEP FOOD COLD AND SAFE
To keep food fresh, Order recommends YETI Tundra coolers. “These will keep ice frozen for days, and keep your food properly chilled for days, too,” says Orde. For optimal coolness, pre-chill your cooler and then place an ice block at the bottom, packing food in layers.
“Place items that need to stay coldest, such as raw meat and dairy, closest to the ice,” says Ding. Fill in empty spaces with ice. “A tightly packed cooler retains cold air more effectively and slows down the melting of ice,” says Ding.
Keep your cooler in a shaded area, replenishing ice as needed. Pack beverages in a separate cooler to avoid letting the heat in every time you grab a drink. Freeze dried foods and nonperishables are best for backcountry camping since keeping food cold isn’t an option.
STAY ORGANIZED
Labeled plastic storage bins help keep everything neat and protected. Ding recommends hanging gear on hooks to keep it off the ground and easy to find. Backcountry campers have the added challenge of packing only essentials to keep their load manageable.
Keep frequently used items accessible in exterior pockets to avoid digging through your pack, and use waterproof bags for clothing, electronics, and other items that need to stay dry.
Implementing these tips will help to make your outdoor getaway comfy and fun!
Country day trips nourish the soul. Natural landscapes lift anyone’s spirits, and the therapeutic benefits of petting a bunny or frolicking in a meadow are hardly surprising. For city slickers craving a rustic getaway or a taste of nature’s bounty, the following two rural destinations are unique, local, and not to be missed.
TRIPLE C FARM, ANCASTER
Triple C started as a small hobby farm and horse boarding facility. Tricia Simons set up the farm to make her eldest son Geoffrey’s farming dreams come true. They started by rescuing four goats, a sheep, and two horses. The farm eventually opened its doors to the public for goat yoga.
If you’ve never heard of this, instead of the usual ultra-serious kind of zen experience, this yoga involves adorable goats checking you out, jumping on you, or chewing on your hair – making it impossible to have a bad day.
As word spread about these animal rescuers, their hobby farm evolved into a fully functional animal sanctuary. “Admittedly it is a bit addictive outbidding a meat buyer, walking out with an animal that was bound to be killed, and bringing it home and seeing it blossom and love and just be happy,” says owner Tricia Simons.
By appointment only, visitors can enjoy the property at their leisure. The interactive petting farm has more than 160 animals (goats, sheep, alpacas, mini horses, pigs). Visitors can take an alpaca, donkey, mini horse or goat for a walk; snuggle with goats, bunnies or mini pigs; groom a horse or donkey; partake in goat yoga; or even bring their favourite DVD and watch a movie with their new furry friends. Beyond the petting area there are horse and donkey paddocks, and freeroaming chickens and ducks.
The farm is a source of income for Simons and her family but, more importantly, it gives brothers Geoffrey, Michael and Richard, all of whom have autism, a wonderful life. “The farm’s most unique feature is that over 80% of the work is done by individuals with special needs,”
Simons says. “It gives them a sense of purpose and a ‘job’, and a place where they can be themselves — not to mention reducing the amount of screen time in their lives.”
WEST AVENUE CIDER HOUSE, FREELTON
The 75-acre property owned by Amy Robson and Chris Haworth is a popular destination for its breathtaking scenery and award-winning artisanal cider. The idea for West Avenue Cider House started to form when the couple lived in England. “There were so many amazing unique ciders and cider houses, but when we came back to Canada in 2005 there was nothing like that here,” Robson says. It took Amy and Chris – then a TV producer and a chef, respectively – a few years to get a business plan together and develop recipes.
What started as just a taproom has evolved into a thriving family-friendly agro-tourism experience. On a sunny day it’s abuzz with first dates, friends and families. “In England it was perfectly acceptable for you to bring your children to the pub,” Robson says. “We wanted a place where kids can roam and dogs can hang out.”
The property includes two kilometres of hiking trails where visitors can see the honey bees and apple trees, a lookout, a pond with a beaver dam, and even the resident chickens and roosters. The Cider House itself is cozy and rustic but, in nice weather, patrons prefer to sit outside in the beautiful Meadow Lounge to socialize and enjoy cider, wood-oven pizza and other delights in the soft summer breeze.
The scenery is so tranquil and pretty that West Avenue has become a popular spot for weddings, landscape painting, spa retreats, and more.
West Avenue Cider House’s summer hours are Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m.
The season for outdoor leisure has finally arrived, so dust off your cushions. It’s prime patio time! Since the start of the pandemic, homeowners have invested more in their outdoor living spaces to design inviting retreats that cater to their needs.
A patio can become the ideal oasis for relaxing with a good book, socializing with friends and family, or simply connecting with nature while breathing in the fresh summer air. “People are creating tranquility in their own yard,” says Jay Real, Owner of Oakville Home Leisure. “They’re trying to recreate a vacation they’ve been on and experiences they’ve seen and felt elsewhere as an extension of their home.”
“Cabanas, kitchens, dining al fresco, technology with stereo systems and TVs are all things people are investing in,” explains Rose Luxton, Owner of Lakeside Livin’. “Outdoor spaces have evolved a lot.” Regardless of the size of your space, you can easily integrate elements of breezy resort living into a condo balcony or a complete backyard makeover with the following trends.
Colour
Design experts agree this season is all about cool blue hues. Common interpretations of this colour provide all the feelings you want to integrate into a dreamy staycation including calmness, serenity, and refreshment.
“You can incorporate a colour theme throughout your entire space,” says Luxton. “You can infuse it into striped fabrics, outdoor rugs, and pillows. Not only are we seeing a lot of blue this summer but orange, lime green, and other pops of colour too.”
Furniture
Opt for pieces that evoke the comfort and luxury experienced on a beach vacation while creating a personalized look. There’s no need for the various elements to match.
“We’re seeing a movement away from sectionals back to sofas, loveseats, club chairs, and club swivels,” explains Real. “The trend in the industry still includes resin wicker, but it’s swaying more to aluminum and other materials as additional creative design elements are available. Mixing elements by pairing rustic teak tables with wicker dining is very popular.”
Decor
Accessories make memories! Take the opportunity to select pieces representative of your lifestyle from kid-friendly corners to sophisticated spaces for empty nesters.
“Pillows with sayings are always embraced,” says Luxton. “Outdoor metal artwork is a great way to decorate brick walls and fences. People are also veering toward natural tones and woods because you can always mix and match any trend with sustainable outdoor wood foundations.”
Shade
Sun protection is as important on your deck as it is on a tropical vacation. Retractable shades and umbrellas featuring breathable fabrics and UVstable finishes will help keep you cool and safe from harmful rays.
“Shade is at the top end of everyone’s scale of what they’re looking for,” says Real. “In this climate, people are also opting for cantilevers with rolling bases so they can move the umbrella around their backyard and adjust to the changing seasons.”
Must Haves
Ambiance is the hottest trend you can add to your patio space this summer. Luxton’s pick is, “Hanging solar lanterns that have the look of real flames to create that lustre and [cozy] feeling when you are sitting outside.”
Real chooses fire features. “Everybody loves to gather around a fire as it can be used for heat or ambiance,” he says. “Dekko ultra-modern fire pits are absolutely spectacular.”
The charming town of Dundas, Ontario is a favourite warm weather destination for the young and old. Historic and hip, scenic and swingin’, this town is a mecca for foodies, shoppers and outdoor enthusiasts, as well as a patio-goer’s dream.
A day trip to Dundas is well worth the short jaunt from Burlington, Oakville or Waterdown. You can work up an appetite – and your thirst – by hitting the trails, parks and shops and exploring the tree-lined streets, and then settle in for some serious lounging. Gazing up at the stars after dinner with a cocktail or mocktail in hand, you might not want to leave.
Here’s how to fill your day in Dundas with adventure, relaxation, and everything in between.
SHOPPING
If shopping’s your bag, Dundas won’t disappoint. King Street is lined with cozy cafes and charming shops offering artisanal goods, apparel, sweets, and locally crafted treasures. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind gift or indulging in a little retail therapy, the boutiques and galleries are sure to delight. Weekends are extra special in downtown Dundas with free parking!
Getting Out In Nature Dundas is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The town boasts several beautiful parks and conservation areas, providing ample opportunities for hiking, picnicking, birdwatching, and simply basking in the beauty of nature. The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is home to over 40 km of trails, including a stretch of The Bruce Trail. The awe-inspiring Webster’s Falls and Tews Falls are two natural wonders that showcase the area’s stunning landscapes.
DINING
Food lovers will find plenty to savour in Dundas. The town’s culinary scene is ethnically diverse and exciting, with a range of eateries serving up everything from casual bites to gourmet meals. Whether you crave a lentil curry, fish ‘n chips or steak tartare, expect to be well fed in the valley.
EVENTS
Summer is when the town of Dundas really comes alive.
Dundas Live and Local (June 8) Experience the heartbeat of Dundas by strolling the open King Street West (between Cross and John Streets) and celebrating the lively spirit of Dundas. Local businesses will be selling on the street, hosting open houses or running activities. The Dundas BIA will also be revealing its new logo at this festival, one that features architecture from key historic landmarks.
Dundas Cactus Festival (Aug 16 – 18) This event is family fun at its best with free local entertainment, vendors and fun for all ages. Visit dundascactusfestival.ca for more information.
Check Downtowndundas.ca and @downtwndundasbia for the most up-to-date events.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
The blend of natural beauty, rich history, and culture of Dundas make this small town an ideal destination for a summer day trip.
PATIOS
Experience the laid-back vibe by unwinding on one of the town’s many patios.
Pinbones Fish Market has now added an upscale seafood restaurant and will be open for patio dining this summer.
Barrel Heart Brewing, a newcomer to Dundas, offers craft beer brewed in the saison style—in aged oak barrels that once housed wine. There’s a charming patio with views of King Street outside the historic post office.
Collins Brewhouse opened in 1833 and remains a town favourite, now a laid-back, modern space offering pub grub, a full bar, and garage doors opening to a large patio.
Detour Caféhas a vibrant shaded patio where you can enjoy a cup of java and a delicious snack.
The Winchester Armshas a beautiful patio on the side of the building where patrons are served British pub classics like fish & chips and burgers.
Bangkok Spoon Deluxe has a slightly hidden patio for patrons to enjoy this Thai restaurant’s fresh and flavourful dishes.
Sensational Samosa is an artisan food shop serving noodle bowls, butter chicken bowls, pot pies, and of course their signature samosas and sensational chutneys, all the more delicious on their summer patio.
Café Domestiique is a fun bicycle-themed cafe with breakfast and brunch items, great coffee and a covered, bike-friendly outdoor seating area.
Dundas’ vibrant downtown is perfect for finding that special gift or enjoying some retail therapy.
SHOPS
Food & Drink Shops
Norfolk Juice Co is the newest addition to downtown Dundas. Opening this summer, this healthful haven will fuel you up with delicious cold press juices, smoothies, bowls and amazing coffee.
Mickey McGuire’s Cheese Shop carries over 400 varieties of fine cheeses, sourced around the world by its proprietor, Mike McGuire.
French Revolution Bakery & Creperie is owned by a French pastry chef and serves up everything from fresh crepes to coffee. Bon appétit!
Genesis Chocolate Companyis a new addition to Downtown Dundas. This artisanal chocolate shop uses high-end ingredients and Belgian chocolate to create delicious treats.
Dundas Chocolate Shop is another new addition to Downtown Dundas, specializing in horizontally-traded, bean-to-bar chocolate.
Emilio’s is a popular pizza, sub and wing establishment that takes pride in its handmade dough, homemade sauces and freshly prepared ingredients.
Jax Sweet Shoppemeets all of your sweet and savoury needs, including decadent breakfast creations, homemade baked goods, hearty sandwiches, and a tantalizing selection of ice cream.
Picone’s Fine Food has been a family business in Dundas since 1915 and continues to serve fresh, quality items such as premium oils, condiments, produce, prepared foods, flowers, gift baskets and more.
Home Décor & Gifts
The Handmade House is a hub for handcrafted apparel, jewellery and a host of other high quality items, supporting the local artisan community.
The Keeping Room is a local favourite for cooking enthusiasts. This shop calls itself the “toy store for local cooks and chefs”.
Mrs. Greenway sells a wide assortment of green, eco-friendly products, kids’ toys and gifts. You can bring in your containers and refill over 80 varieties of personal care and cleaning products.
The Kitchen Witch is an entertaining little gift shop, perfect for finding hostess gifts, containers, linens, antiques and curiosities.
Oliver & Co is an elegant home décor boutique that offers a curated selection of home décor, art, gifts and candles to breathe elegance, comfort and luxury into every corner of your home.
Webber Balloons, Cards, and Collectibles offers an impressive selection of sports cards, trading cards, games, toys, stickers, balloons, and even Pez dispensers, for the child in all of us.
Anglesea Home Accents and Apparelfeatures natural apparel and a mix of new and vintage styling options for your home, thoughtfully curated by designer & stylist Kate.
Weir’s Lane Lavender & Aviary started as a lavender farm and now produces luxurious lavender and bee related products including soaps, sprays, honey, sachets and more.
Fashion & Jewellery
David William Shoes and More Inc. is one of the top independent shoe retailers in the area, with collections sourced from around the world.
Gadsby’s Clothing Co. offers mid-high-end clothing for men and women, with consultants who ensure a happy fit and are trained to make alterations as needed.
La Rouge Consignment and Bridal is the place to shop for new and gently used designer clothing, dresses, shoes and accessories.
Kevin Martin Fine Jewellery has served the Dundas community since 1992 with its wide range of high-end jewellery, from best-selling collections to limited edition items.
Lillian’s Style Shoppe is a consignment boutique that sells clothing and accessories for women in the heart of downtown Dundas.
Dolce Kimerastarted as a mother daughter team in 2003 and sells unique fashions, gifts, jewellery and décor.
Bling on King sells unique clothing, jewellery and accessories, and the staff go out of their way to help customers make the perfect selection.
Two things are apparent when you visit the town of Dundas, Ontario: it’s quaint, and it’s old. But don’t be fooled! The sleepy town gets its architectural charm from its wild past of money, booze and good times.
Nineteenth-century Dundas had a staggering number of taverns and saloons. The town enjoyed an economic heyday after the Desjardins Canal connected the isolated valley to the Great Lakes shipping system. Dundas prospered as the commercial destination of farmers from across the region.
“The many taverns and hotels that sprung up catered to these farmers, who needed places to stay and places to spend their newly gotten monies” says Austin Strutt, Exhibitions Curator, Dundas Museum & Archives. “They were built to catch the eyes of visitors, with architectural flourishes that would entice patrons inside.” King Street was the main thoroughfare, so most taverns were on this strip. Here are some notable examples:
THE COLLINS HOTEL Irish immigrant Bernard Collins opened the North American Hotel in 1841, but folks called it the “Collins Hotel.” The establishment had a great reputation for quality and service. It narrowly survived a devastating fire in 1881 but was gutted by flames in 1955, after which its Victorian interior was fully renovated. Today, the famous tavern retains the name of its founder as Collins Brewhouse Restaurant.
ELGIN HOUSE William McDonnell, an enterprising former peddler and hotel manager, erected the opulent Elgin House. His Scottish-style tavern was lauded as “the finest hotel west of York.” Two radical reformers, Dr. John Rolph and William Lyon Mackenzie, were guests at the hotel’s grand opening banquet on November 30, 1837.
“Elgin House opened before the town was even incorporated,” Strutt says. “It did amazingly well and the town spread around it.”
An arched recess beside the door allowed horses and carriages access to stables out back. The keystone atop the arch says, “Wm. McDonnell 1837.” A law office now occupies the building.
THE RED LION “This was one of the more infamous taverns,” Strutt says. “It was always getting busted for gambling, and for selling drinks on Sundays.”
The original building burned down in 1871 and was rebuilt in brick the following year. Temperance laws shut down the drinking establishment in 1916. It became the Wentworth Inn and, later, Dundas Café.
The former Red Lion is currently home to Bangkok Spoon Deluxe restaurant. An archway built for horses and carriages now leads to a cozy patio.
THE CENTRAL HOTEL AND MELBOURNE HOTEL The Central and Melbourne Hotels, built in 1890 and 1899 respectively, represented a new turn-of-the-century style of hotel with large, modern amenities. Both were bars well into the late 20th century, and both still stand on the north side of King between Sydenham and Foundry. A decorative pyramid-topped tower still bears the name “The Central.”
THE RILEY HOUSE One of the longest operating taverns in Dundas, The Riley House on Main Street no longer stands. It was built in 1827, the largest inn west of York (Toronto). Known for its fine food and extensive stables, it operated under many owners until prohibition. The building was demolished in 1956 to make room for a parking lot.
“There were many drinking emporiums and groggeries sprinkled along Main, King, and York, consequently they used to say that it took four days to travel from Galt to Hamilton, two of the days being needed to get through Dundas.”
– T. Roy Woodhouse, Dundas Historian
End of an Era From the 1840s to the 1860s, a perfect storm of events brought the Dundas heyday to an end. Railways expanded. Ships got larger, rendering the shallow Desjardins Canal obsolete. Hamilton, with its deep water port, became the area’s commercial hub.
Eventually, Dundas learned to embrace its small-town charm. In 1896, Town Council published a picture book, Picturesque Dundas, to promote its architecture and surrounding natural beauty. To this day, Dundas is a visually striking, peaceful community enfolded in a giant hug by the lush Niagara escarpment.
