Ontario is home to Canada's 'most beautiful village' and it looks like a fall fairytale

Cozy shops and autumn charm await.

A storefront with fall decor. Right: A person standing in front of a store.

A store in an Ontario small town. Right: An Ontario apothecary.

Lead Writer, Travel

Pumpkin-filled streets, cozy shops, Victorian homes and small town charm might sound like something out of a storybook, but you can enjoy all this and more at this enchanting village in Ontario.

Merrickville is a gorgeous community perched along the shores of the Rideau Canal, about an hour away from Ottawa. The town was actually named "Canada's Most Beautiful Village" in 1998 by Communities in Bloom so you can expect some gorgeous views while visiting this spot.

October is an especially beautiful time to visit Merrickville, when the shop windows fill with pumpkins and autumn decor, and the trees transform with vibrant colours.

It's like stepping into a scene from an autumn Hallmark film.

There's lots to enjoy in the village during the fall. You'll want to check out the cute local shops where you can find all sorts of goods.

Wick Witch Apothecary is the perfect spot to visit during the Halloween season and you can stock up on "devilish autumn delights," according to the website.

You can also head to Pickle & Myrrh for some delicious treats and pumpkin spice goodies.

Fall is the ideal time to cozy up with a good book and you can find your next read at the charming Merrickville Book Emporium.

Grab a coffee at The Village Bean Coffee House and go for a stroll along one of Merrickville's scenic trails, such as the Merrickville Ruins trail, where you can take in the gorgeous autumn colours.

With quaint streets and dreamy fall vibes, Merrickville is a gorgeous spot for a getaway.

Merrickville-Wolford Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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