Perth County: Nature, Food and History

The Guelph to Goderich (G2G) Rail Trail runs through the village of Monkton as it passes through Perth County. In the morning, the trail is well suited to hiking or cycling, with scenic views of farmland, rivers and forests along the way. Perth County brings together rural life, historic small towns and farm-to-table experiences. This gives you several possible ways to shape your trip: nature and outdoor activities, regional food experiences, or history.

On the G2G Rail Trail

The G2G trailhead is at 200 Nelson Street in Monkton. It has washrooms, e-bike charging stations, bicycle repair facilities and a pavilion. For a cycling trip, the charging station and repair equipment are especially practical; the washrooms and pavilion round out the amenities on site. Check these details again before you arrive.

Cycling Routes and Golf

Cycling routes in Perth County pass farmland, natural areas and charming small towns, and can be explored by bike. You can plan your routes around both the scenery and the places along the cycling routes.

Six scenic golf courses each offer their own challenges and beautiful views. This is a different focus from hiking or cycling: the varied character of each course and its views shape the golfing experience. If you are choosing between these activities, consider whether you would rather be out on a route or take on the challenge of a course.

Getting There and Planning Your Hotel Stay

Perth County is accessible by car, with roads connecting the county directly to major highways. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, first decide whether cycling, golf, food or culture will be the main focus of your trip. This priority gives your search direction before you choose accommodation to suit your travel plans.

Regional Food Experiences

Perth Farmhouse offers self-guided wine and cider tastings paired with snack boards made with locally sourced, artisan products. Chok. Fine Chocolates offers a hands-on experience: in a workshop, participants decorate, mold, fill and seal Swiss chocolate bonbons. At Hoover’s Maple Syrup, the hands-on experience includes bottling maple syrup, a tasting and a tour of the facility. The experiences are quite distinct: self-guided tasting, making chocolate, or a combination of bottling, tasting and a tour.

History at the Brocksden Country School Museum

The Brocksden Country School Museum is Perth County’s oldest one-room schoolhouse and offers an interactive historical experience. Highlights include original school desks, writing on slates, old classroom rules, and stories about former students and teachers. Alongside the historic classroom, the experience focuses on lessons and personal memories. For travelers who want to include history as well as scenery and activities, the museum offers a specific glimpse into the county’s former school life.

Discover more destinations: St. Marys, Stratford, Listowel, Shakespeare, Parry Sound District, Algoma District, Grey County, Prince Edward Division.

For the broader travel overview: Ontario.