Take Richmond St. North (Hwy. 4) out of the city past Hwy. 22. Continue north for 60 km. and turn left (west) in Hensall onto Hwy. 84 until it ends at Hwy. 21. then turn right (north) and Bayfield is 16 km. ahead.

If Grand Bend is a town of summertime exuberance, then laid-back Bayfield is its perfect counterpoint. Both towns are built on Lake Huron and both swell in population as the temperature soars and the vacationers arrive. But the flavour of each town is distinctly different and they tend to attract different crowds.

Maybe it’s Bayfield’s big shady trees making a canopy over the cinder sidewalks or maybe it’s the cottage-like shops with their colourful gardens, but the town exudes a delicious unhurriedness. Perfect for sauntering down the main street, lingering in an outdoor café and browsing in the many boutiques.

The shops are a major drawing card. Not only in the goods they carry (antiques,
china, gardening gifts, clothes, jewelry, pottery, art), but also that there are shops geared to a variety of price ranges. If you’re looking for an unusual or oneof-a kind item, you may well find it here.

There’s a very long legacy of hospitality in Bayfield. The Little Inn of Bayfield has been serving dinner guests and overnight visitors for more than 150 years. The Albino Hotel, a storied country restaurant and pub, has been in business for more than a century. The Red Pump Inn, with its elegant building, restaurant and gift boutique, has become a well-loved institution within a few short decades.

Americans seem particularly drawn to Bayfield, largely due to the Bayfield Yacht Club and the excellent moorings here. The beach is somewhat eclipsed by those of nearby Goodrich and Grand Bend, which makes it an absolute haven if you’re looking for something quieter. Do yourself a favor by stopping by this peaceful oasis.

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