Worth the ride near Kitchener, ON
We list 13 places worth riding to around Kitchener, ON, across views, food, and coffee.
Views
Elora Gorge Conservation Area
Viewpoint
Limestone cliffs 22 metres over the Grand River, reached on river-following roads through Conestogo and Fergus.
Belwood Lake Conservation Area (Shand Dam)
Coastal View
Walk across Shand Dam for views over the reservoir and the Grand River valley, with picnic tables and flush toilets near the boat launch for a rest stop.
Conestogo Lake Conservation Area
Coastal View
The dam has a viewing area over the river, forests and farms, and the Forest Green Trail loop gives a 2 km leg stretch with a reservoir view.
Food
St. Jacobs Farmers' Market
Food
Open Thursdays 8am to 3pm and Saturdays 7am to 3:30pm, a classic early-morning breakfast and snack run north of Waterloo.
Anna Mae's Bakery and Restaurant
Food
Waterloo Region riders have long pointed rides here, about 40 minutes of farm roads away.
Fergusson Room Pub at the Breadalbane Inn
Food
Pairs with an Elora and Belwood day, and the inn offers complimentary on-site parking (stated for guests).
Cambridge Mill
Food
Open Tuesday to Sunday with Sunday brunch from 9am, a heritage waterfront stop for a meal at the end of a Cambridge loop.
The Olde Heidelberg Restaurant and Tavern
Food
Schnitzel, pigtails and smoked pork hocks since 1860, minutes past St.
EJ's Tavern at the Baden Hotel
Food
Only 15 minutes west of Kitchener, so it fits a short ride with a tavern meal at the end.
Coffee
The Lost and Found Cafe
Coffee
Steps from the gorge in Elora's stone-built downtown, on the Fergus and Elora river run.
More worth the ride
West Montrose Covered Bridge
Destination
Ontario's last remaining historic covered bridge, reached by rolling concession roads through Mennonite farm country.
Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum and Doon Heritage Village
Destination
Doon Heritage Village opens on select fall days with seasonal events, so check the schedule before riding out.