By Megan of Ottawa River Lifestyle.
Welcome to beautiful towns full of unspoiled moments… I had never before explored this region of Southeastern Ontario. Nestled between Kingston and Belleville, at the base of Lennox and Addington County, lies countless shops to browse, craft drinks to enjoy and adventures to embark on. I was pleasantly surprised at all the unique, must-visit spots I found while exploring the Town of Greater Napanee, the village of Bath and the hamlet of Tamworth. Take a look at this fun filled weekend.
Day 1: Driving into Greater Napanee
Fun Fact: Our favourite Canadian skater girl, Avril Lavigne, grew up in the town of Napanee. Members of the bands The Tragically Hip and Glorious Sons are also from the area. Sounds like the makings of a great Canadian playlist for your drive in.
Time for lunch at Ellena’s Café and Pantry
This local lunch spot has a variety of sandwiches, soups, salads and quiche on their menu. Everything is made fresh once ordered. The smoked meat sandwich seems like the go-to meal for a big appetite, and their taco salad was tasty! Ellena’s Café is also a retail store featuring home and kitchen goods, from mugs and dish cloths to aprons and cast irons. Grab a County Bounty artisanal soda to go; locally made here in Napanee, with Ontario grown fruits.
Address: 16 Dundas St E, Napanee, ON K7R 1H6
Wander Downtown Napanee Shops Along Dundas Street:
Deadleaf Distinguished Gentlemen
Deadleaf Distinguished Gentlemen is a must visit! Barber, store for gents and pub all in one, this spot is quirky and cool. Enjoy a drink on the patio after getting a fresh cut, or browse the collection of beard products and fun accessories for men. The house lager is light and easy drinking, definitely recommend it on a warm day.
Starlet
You cannot miss the beauty and brightness of Starlet when walking by. It seems to have it all, but doesn’t feel too busy nor overwhelming. There is a full room of jewelry, a wall of fun greeting cards, racks of quality clothing brands, another room for shoes, other accessories and home products, and an ice cream bar! Shop brands you know and love including Smash & Tess, Blondie Apparel, Birkenstock, Arrow it Forward and Lover’s Tempo, to name a few.
Lansing Gifts & Gallery – Shop home décor, kitchenware, garden accessories and gifts.
Sand n’ Sea Boutique – Swimsuits and travel wear for men and women.
The Museum of Lennox & Addington
A beautifully curated and well-thought-out museum, especially for a small town! The Museum of Lennox & Addington is behind the main building at this address, in what was once the county jail. Don’t miss thttps://www.lennox-addington.on.ca/museum-archiveshe outdoor exhibit to the right of the entrance. There are new exhibits waiting to be explored including the origins, geography and history of the entire county.
Address: 97 Thomas St E, Napanee, ON K7R 4B9
Napanee Beer Company
From award-winning amateur brewer to award winning craft beer at his own brewery, feel free to ask the owner Geordan about his story. Many locals feel Napanee Beer helps put the town on the map, with some seriously tasty and unique brews. They have four year-round beers, three of which you can find at LCBO locations across Ontario. The Blacklist, a black German lager, was described as ‘if a light pilsner and coffee whiskey had a baby’. The Deadline blonde lager would be a go-to if you’re new to craft beer.
Address: 450 Milligan Lane, Napanee, ON K7R 3K8
The Waterfront River Pub
If you’re looking for the ultimate waterfront patio atmosphere in the area, this is it. A historic limestone building on the banks of the Napanee River, The Waterfront River Pub serves classic Canadian fare with a twist, along with house cocktails and dessert. The firecracker chicken and schnitzel were excellent choices as an appetizer and meal, and the espresso martini is perfect for coffee lovers. The spacious patio is busy on weekend evenings; stroll the Napanee River Walk or enjoy a drink on the back dock while you wait. Live music and a possible bonfire adds to the ambiance on Friday nights.
Address: 22 Water St W, Napanee, ON K7R 1V4
If you are looking for alternative dinner restaurants, check out The Loaf N’ Ale on Dundas Street or Santorini Mediterranean Grill on County Road 8. Both locations have outdoor patios, and are open until 9:00pm and 7:00pm respectively.
The Napanee River Walk & Springside Park
Walk across the bridge and follow the sail boats and footprints markings along the Napanee River. This 15-minute walk will take you from Napanee Conservation Park to Springside Park. There are historical boards to be read, colourful artwork to admire, and the Napanee Falls to take in. Springside Park is a picturesque location with bright green grass, picnic tables, gardens and a stone railroad bridge. Trains still travel across this bridge, and it is a prime backdrop for photos.
Day 2: South to Bath & Adolphustown in Southern L&A
Have breakfast at Tammy’s Country Kitchen
Tammy’s Country Kitchen is a diner-style restaurant, where you can find classic meals like bacon and eggs or French toast for breakfast. The service is quick and friendly.
Enjoy your breakfast picnic style at the rustic park around the corner (there is one picnic table under the pavilion), or drive to Springside park for more of a view.
Address: 300 Dundas St W, Napanee, ON K7R 2B4
Spud’s Restaurant on Industrial Boulevard is an alternative breakfast option.
Down on the Farm at Hickory Lane Alpacas
A family run farm where you can interact with goats, pigs, cows, chickens and the highlight; alpacas! Upon arrival, you’ll meet and feed the adorable alpacas, along with one or two sneaky goats. You’ll also go hangout with more goats and a grown teacup pig. The husband and wife team, Mike and Ashley, have taken over Hickory Lane Alpacas from Mike’s parents, and have fun plans for the future. They hope to soon create a spacious backyard patio area, and have forest walks with goats, where anyone can drop in and enjoy the farm. Alpacas are timid animals, and these ones have not been trained to walk with or fully interact with people; ask the couple’s son Levi which ones don’t mind being pet. They’re more open and curious when you have food!
Address: 7326 County Rd 9, Napanee, K7R 3K8
Explore Shops & Stops on Main Street Bath:
The Lodge Coffee House
A great café to grab lunch or a snack, The Lodge Coffee House serves up a variety of drinks; both hot and cold, treats, sandwiches, soups and salads. Find local County Bounty Soda here, and Dave’s Sparkling Lemonade. They also have their own merchandise for sale in addition to local products and coffee beans. The Lodge has created a takeout window to order , and a casual garden patio space out back. The GOAT cookie is a must try, chewy and tasty full of chocolate, toffee, pretzel and ruffles chips. * Chef’s kiss *
Address: 376 Main Street Bath, Bath, ON K0H 1G0
Books on Main
Books on Main is a bright and spacious local bookstore, featuring colourful artwork on the walls. You will find both new and bargain books, board games and some artisan products. Their goal is to provide a space for enthusiastic readers and game-players to meet. Everything is beautifully curated and organized, with countless books to browse and explore.
Lakeside Studio Gallery & Anderwood Studio
Across the street from the bookstore, you’ll find a mother daughter duo in their adjoined shops. Enjoy the friendly service and chats!
Lakeside Studio Gallery is owned by Sarah, who fills the space with bright, beautiful pieces of art, including her own work. Her latest collection is a range of fun pink abstract skylines, offering a feeling of magic and warmth. Her paintings are inspired by natural landscapes. The other featured artists are mainly up and coming artists living in the region. All paintings come together for a diverse, colourful gallery.
Next door, Anderwood Studio is run by Sarah’s mom Laura. She has curated a collection of home accents and décor, including many locally made items. Shop through birdhouses and cross-stitching made on Amherst Island, pottery handcrafted in Brockville and woodworking made right here in Bath, to name a few. There’s also wall art, refurbished items and furniture paint to purchase. Laura’s own workshop is right on site.
360 Castaways
Take an ice cream break at 360 Castaways. This locally owned ice cream parlour serves up over 20 flavours of ice cream from trusted brands including Chapman’s and Neilson’s Dairy. They have a garden-style outdoor patio beside the building to enjoy your sweet treat. They also make daily sandwich options such as hotdogs and paninis.
Mackinnon Brothers Brewing Company
A spacious outdoor yard with plenty of areas to sit, refreshing local beer, and Texas BBQ and live music on weekends? Yes please. Mackinnon Brothers Brewing Company is a must-visit if you’re in the area, especially if you’re a fan of craft beer! With over 200 years of farming heritage behind them, they use barley, hops and wheat grown on their own farm to brew beer. Go take a closer look at the hanging hops growing nearby. They’re creating a sustainable, truly local business, with 80% of their beer sold being within 25 KM of the brewery. The Harvest Ale is made with 100% ingredients grown on the farm, and is a tasty, easy drinking beer.
Address: 1915 County 22 Rd, Bath, ON
33 Vines
Family farming land since the 1700’s, 33 Vines was purchased by the Dunn family in 2019 and they’re taking the time to work on both the vineyard and indoor tasting room, event space. It’s a beautiful space to host a party, watch the game on the big screen or enjoy a quiet glass outside. They serve and sell from a stockpile of wine, mainly from the years 2009-2015. It’s hard to decide on a favourite wine as they’re all delicious! The Chardonnay and Riesling in particular will surprise you, as they’re light but not too sweet.
Address: 9261 Hwy 33, Adolphustown, ON
Bergeron Estate Winery & Cider Co.
Bergeron Estate Winery and Cider Co is a boutique style winery offering wines, hard cider, gourmet pizza, and beautiful vineyard views. Each of their wines is made with close to 100% of their own grapes! Select a tasting to discover your favourite drink, and pick out one of ‘Nona’s pizzas’ to enjoy with your glass out on the patio. The potato pizza was an excellent choice, and you can also build your own. The cider is dry and a perfect choice if you’re visiting with a non-wine drinker.
Address: 9656 Loyalist Pkwy, Adolphustown, ON
Loyalist Trading Company
Canadian artwork and décor, gifts, candy, locally made preserves and treats… and goats on the roof?! Even if you’re not one for shopping, Loyalist Trading Co is a fun experience, with friendly service and unique touches relative to a typical gift shop. You’ll notice goats and bunnies to the left of the shop, and a coin-operated vending machine full of feed pellets. Pay a quarter for some pellets, place them in the black cup attached to the bike pulley, and pull it up to the roof where the goats will be waiting! Keep an eye out for their homemade brands, Cook’s Gourmet and Hard Cider Kitchen, in store and at craft shows across Ontario.
Back to Napanee for dinner: The Royal Coachman
Originally this restaurant was a stagecoach shop in the 19th century, and now has four dining rooms, a banquet hall and patio area. The Royal Coachman serves up casual fine dining, and generous portion sizes! The atmosphere is calm and friendly. A cute garden patio was created during Covid opening phases. They have been accepting walk-ins this summer, and typically they require reservations; it’s best to call ahead and make sure.
Address: 8087 County Road2, Napanee, ON
Day 3: Napanee & Tamworth
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or head to Itty Bitty Diner.
Another local, diner-style breakfast, Itty Bitty Diner offers a full menu with classic breakfast options like omelettes, eggs with a choice of meat, and pancakes.
Address: 7 Snow Rd, Napanee, ON
Coffee Cravings
Grab your morning pick-me-up at Coffee Cravings. Indulge in a specialty coffee or dessert such as a Nanaimo bar or peanut butter stack. It is a modern space with the ultimate café vibes and outdoor patio area. In addition to food and drinks, they sell coffee and tea accessories, candles, chocolates and gift baskets. It will be the best coffee you have this weekend.
Address: 86 John St, Napanee, ON
Heading North to Tamworth…
On the way: Hawk Vale Antiques & Old Stuff
The most picturesque antique shop you will ever see, Hawk Vale Antiques is a lovely spot to walk through, as you browse vintage pieces and the beautiful outdoor garden. Walk up the driveway to the main shop in the back, making sure to wander around checking out the various sheds. Look out for flowers and new paintings for sale, as you hunt for treasures. It’s a charming location you can’t miss.
Address: 1408 County Rd 1, Napanee, ON K7R 3L2
Upon arrival in Tamworth: The Book Shop
You will find The Book Shop in a red brick coach house in the small town of Tamworth. It is completely full of books, wall to wall and floor to ceiling. Books are hand-picked, ranging from recent best sellers to rare classics. It’s a quirky spot where you could lose time browsing the many options.
Address: 2-10 County Rd 4, Tamworth, ON
Devon Café & Five Corners Craft
For the ultimate cozy, small town feel and homemade meals, stop for lunch at Devon Café. They have a menu full of breakfast options, daily specials, fresh salads, sandwiches and desserts. Their new patio is referred to as ‘Dragonfly Lane’, featuring quaint garden-style accents. Say hi to the owner, Marg, as she checks in and chats with local regulars. They also have a shop, Five Corners Craft, where you can find giftware, accessories for women and Birkenstock shoes.
It gets quite busy Sunday mornings, and is recommended to call (613-379-2745) ahead of time for a reservation.
Address: 3 Concession St S, Tamworth, ON
The River Bakery Café and Patio
Grab some fresh bread or dessert to bring home from River Bakery. Hot sandwiches, salads, desserts, pastries, breads and other treats await. They also offer a variety of drinks and have an outdoor patio, if you’re looking to relax and stay a bit longer. Crowd favourites are the butter tarts and Jamaican patties.
Address: 11 Concession St S, Tamworth, ON
The Bee Spot
Book a tour ahead of time or stop by for some honey and a chat! The Bee Spot began as a family hobby and now is a business, selling local honey and beeswax candles and educating others about bees and pollination. As you walk up the driveway to their home and apiary, you’ll notice 25 acres of wildflowers in the distance, next to the row of beehives. The owners are passionate and knowledgeable, open to questions and a stroll around the property. A tour includes getting close and personal with the bees, wearing a beekeeper suit and opening up a hive! There are both morning and afternoon tours available, June to September.
Address: 695 County Rd 4, Tamworth, ON
Continue your L&A Adventure…
If you wish to continue the adventure stop by the Sheffield Conservation Area on the way home, for a hike or evening stargazing. The Dark Sky Viewing Area allows you to view the night sky as it is meant to be seen, providing clear views to star gaze. This is the most southern point in Ontario where you can enjoy a night sky experience comparable to what you’d see over 100 years ago.
We hope you enjoyed your visit to Lennox and Addington County. Looking for more? Find out other fun things you can do here.
