There are so many reasons to get outside this winter and Christmas shopping is one of them. After almost two years of forced hibernation, we’re more than ready to give the Amazon delivery guy a much-needed break and show this area’s local shopkeepers some love. So pack your Santa list, credit card and your ugliest Christmas sweater and try this adventure.
First settled by the United Empire Loyalists in 1784, Bath is one of the oldest communities in Ontario. It was served by an early colonial road, the 1784 Bath Road, which follows the lakefront as the Loyalist Parkway. Bath is one of those charming little spots rich in history, offering a great starting point for your journey.
But First…Coffee, because shopping is hard.
Wipe the sleep from your eyes, change out of your flannel pj’s and start your day right with a jolt from The Lodge Coffee House at 376 Main St. in Bath. Seasonal faves include Peppermint Mocha and Oat Nog Latte. Satisfy your hangry with a PJ&J cookie, Mud Bath Bomb – Peanut butter Cookie with a Reese Peanut Butter Cup in the middle and Chocolate Drizzle, or their famous Cinnabuffin.
Local Shops are very welcoming and you’ll find the cutest gifts for those hard to buy. For the artsy types, visit Anderwood Studio and Lakeside Studio Gallery. If you’re a literary lover, Books on Main is worth a browse. Janasen Lifestyle offers Canadian eco-conscious products for your health and home guaranteed to satisfy the environmentally-conscious people on your list.
Next Stop, Napanee
A short country drives away (about 20 minutes) will bring you to Napanee, the home town of musician Avril Lavigne and more shopping! Studded with beautiful historical homes, a quaint waterfront and unique shops, Napanee has some hidden gems worth checking out. Let’s start with Black Barn co. at 17 Market Square. This Lifestyle & home decor boutique offers intentionally curated products for your home, gifts & personal care. 23 Market Square Home & Vintage is a modern heritage home shoppe offering new and vintage finds. Looking for a personal hostess gift? Make your own candles at the Good Home Collective, home to 17 local vendors. AYs Fashion Accessories proffers unique leather bags and backpacks for that “have everything” person on your list.
Take a well-deserved retail therapy break with lunch at the British-inspired Loaf & Ale Pub, The Waterfront Pub or Santorini Mediterranean Grill.
All you need is a stroll around downtown to know the most wonderful time of year is finally here. People from around the region visit the historic Dundas Street in downtown Napanee every year to take in the stunning holiday lights that line the restaurants, shops and boutiques to bring them into the festive spirit! Make sure you visit at night to see them all lit up!
Staying the night? Get spoiled at the stylish rentals at 23 Market Square Suites. Choose from The Town Hall Suite or the Clock Tower Suite, both AirBnB lodgings.
We’re taking you to Stone Mills Township, a few minutes north of Napanee. This sweet little spot offers more small-town Ontario and great little spots to while away your time. Enjoy baked goodies at the Devon Cafe & Five Corners Craft in Tamworth.
The Piggery Gallery, located in Newburgh, was literally, once upon a time, a piggery. That was many years ago and today the pig barn has been completely renovated and is filled to the brim with fine arts and crafts handmade by skilled local makers. There is an exciting collection of original paintings, sculptures, fine gifts, functional and decorative items for the home, luxurious wool products, rag rugs, quilts, pottery, furniture and so much more!
There is nothing like coming across a good find and Salvage Garden at 2900 County Rd 14 in Enterprise is the spot for unique, one-of-a-kind items, and curated architectural and industrial artifacts.
There are two kinds of people in this world when it comes to Christmas: Those who embrace the season to be jolly, and those who absolutely do not. We hope this itinerary got your Christmas motor running!
WORTH CHECKING OUT