I spent a weekend in Ontario's 'most beautiful' village and it felt like a fairy tale

Ontario has so many dreamy small towns to explore, and one of my favourites has to be this enchanting village just a road trip away from Toronto.

With old-world streets, limestone buildings and fairytale charm, it's no surprise it's been dubbed Ontario's "most beautiful village."

Downtown Elora.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Elora is a quaint small town perched along the rushing Grand River, about an hour and a half from Toronto. Its Scottish heritage, historic shops and quaint architecture make it feel like a far-off land, and it's a beautiful spot for a day trip or weekend escape.

I recently spent a weekend in Elora, and it truly felt like stepping into a storybook. Having grown up in the area, it was so lovely to wander the enchanting village again and discover all the new treasures tucked between its familiar streets.

I stayed at the Ayrshire Hotel, a recently opened boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the village. Owned by husband-and-wife duo Teal and Eric Parkinson, the modern venue boasts 10 guest rooms with nods to Scottish heritage.

The hotel is situated in Canada's oldest standing flatiron building and offers a luxurious stay with cozy fireplaces, locally made lavender toiletries, and more.

A suite in the Ayrshire Hotel.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

It is a gorgeous spot for a staycation, and I loved the upscale amenities and beautiful village views from the top floor.

On the ground floor, you'll find the Lobby Bar. This intimate restaurant is a true hidden gem, and one I've been wanting to visit for a while. The narrow interior is decked out in retro tropical decor, and I felt like I'd stepped into a scene from The White Lotus.

The Lobby Bar.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The Gucci wallpaper, peacock lamps and chihuahua statues make it feel like you've been whisked off to a funky little getaway, no passport required.

The menu boasts a range of Asian-inspired dishes, with my favourite one being the Bang Bang Tiger Shrimp Skewer and Udon Noodle. It's the perfect place to grab a cocktail or two, and features an impressive lineup of signature drinks and mocktails.

Terre Bleu lavender mockarita from the Lobby Bar.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Since summer evenings just aren't complete without ice cream, I headed to Scoop Elora for a late-night treat. With many of the day visitors gone, the town had a peaceful, quiet vibe and seemed extra magical beneath the glow of streetlamps.

Scoop is known for its hand-crafted artisan ice cream and offers a variety of flavours and toppings to make all your sweetest dreams come true.

Ice cream from Scoop Elora.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

I enjoyed a twilight walk around the town, gazing over the winding gorge and into the glowing shop windows as I finished up my ice cream.

The best way to fuel up for a day in Elora is with a stop at one of its cozy cafés, so the next morning, I headed to the Lost and Found Cafe, a warm little hideaway tucked inside the Elora Mews. With its homemade baked goods, specialty drinks, and tables nestled into quiet corners, it has all the charm of a quintessential small-town coffee shop.

Madeline at the Lost and Found Cafe.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

One of my favourite things about Elora is its shopping scene. The village might be small, but it's home to so many unique and eclectic shops where you can find all sorts of treasures.

I always love stopping by Epiphany for clothes, as well as Jammed Lovely for gifts and home decor. Beyond these spots, there are plenty of boutiques and galleries to wander through, each one tucked into a charming storefront.

A street in Elora.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

From artisan jewelry and handmade pottery to cozy bookshops, the shopping scene here is truly special. Even if you're not in the mood to buy, it's worth stepping inside just to soak in the quaint interiors and creative displays that make Elora's shops so memorable.

I also took some time to explore Victoria Park, which takes you on a dreamy forest trail with views of the tumbling gorge.

Donna Summers pizza from Tony's Sourdough PizzeriaMadeline Forsyth | Narcity

Another hidden gem worth visiting in Elora is Tony's Sourdough Pizzeria. The venue claims to have the "world's best pies," and, after trying them, I can confirm — they are delicious.

The founder, Tony Bish, seen on The Next Iron Chef and Master Chef, grew up eating his grandmother's "famous" sourdough pancakes — and has now incorporated the recipe into drool-worthy pizza dough.

Tiramisu from Tony's Sourdough Pizzeria.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Aside from pies, you can enjoy drinks like Thai iced tea and sweet treats like tiramisu. It's casual, lively, and the kind of place where you definitely won't need a to-go box for leftovers.

If you have some extra time at the end of the day, you can stop by the enchanting town of Fergus on your way home. Located just minutes from Elora, the cozy, Scottish village has a similar vibe and additional shops to explore.

The Grand River in Fergus.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Together, Elora and Fergus make for the perfect twin-stop road trip—one offering gorge views and boutique charm, the other adding even more history and character to the mix.

I always love visiting Elora. It's a reminder that you don't have to leave Ontario to stumble upon a truly magical destination. Its stone shops, winding streets, and historic buildings have the kind of charm that feels straight out of Europe — yet it's just a short drive away.

Madeline outside the Ayrshire Hotel.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Whether you're stopping in for a day or settling into the Ayrshire Hotel for a longer escape, Elora is the kind of village that will make your travels feel unforgettable.

Elora Fergus 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.

The Ayrshire Hotel offered Madeline Forsyth the opportunity to experience a stay at the hotel with no expectation of coverage, positive or otherwise.
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