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As our car pulls past farmlands, vineyards and quaint country roads set against the backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment, I lean over and ask my wife, "Is this only 45 minutes away from our stuffy Toronto condo?" The Niagara Benchlands, located in the Niagara Region, feels like a different world, and certainly much further away than it really is. Spring is in the air, and I know that this is the season for simple pleasures and the beauty of the Niagara region.
One of the first signs that spring has truly arrived is the appearance of local fruit stands, brimming with an array of vibrant produce. I stop to visit a roadside fruit stand where plump, juicy strawberries steal the show. Their deep red hue seems to glisten under the morning sun, enticing passersby to stop and indulge in their sweet, fragrant goodness. Each bite is a burst of flavour, a tantalizing reminder of the bountiful delights that await us in the months ahead.
Springtime in the Niagara Region is also an invitation to embrace the outdoors and explore the breathtaking surroundings. Satiated (for now), we make the 30-minute drive from the Niagara Benchlands to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Once we arrive, we stop at McFarland Park and self-check-out bicycles. We’re now ready to embark on a cycling adventure, pedaling along beautiful stretches of the Niagara Parkway and backroads that wind through the Niagara countryside. The landscape unfolds like a painting, with vineyards, orchards and charming estates dotting the scenery. As I pedal, the cool breeze whispers stories of adventure, and the rhythmic motion of my bike carries me to REIF estate winery.
Founded by Ewald Reif, a visionary German immigrant, in 1982, the winery has become a cherished destination for wine enthusiasts seeking exceptional vintages and a genuine taste of the Niagara terroir. The cool climate of the region proves ideal for producing vibrant, aromatic wines with a distinctive character. As I sip the first pour of the newest vintage of riesling, I could taste the promise of a joyous summer ahead, filled with shared glasses and laughter among friends.
Whether partaking in the exquisite flavours of fresh produce, immersing oneself in the awe-inspiring natural wonders, or savouring the wines that epitomize the region's unique character, we can see the Niagara Region becoming our sanctuary, our escape from the demands of daily life, our place to unwind and reconnect.
To start planning your trip to Niagara, head to visitniagaracanada.com
