Discover the Township of Brock on this Amazing Scenic Road Trip

There’s nothing quite like leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind as you venture into the tranquil countryside. We’re lucky in Ontario to have numerous rural destinations to explore. Even better, many rural businesses are joining forces to showcase the beauty of their own communities. So, roll down the windows, turn up the music, and add this scenic road trip through the Township of Brock to your Ontario summer bucket list!

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Hello, Backroads of Brock!

Summer in Ontario is all about road trips, and one of the best routes to take is the Backroads of Brock.

Winding through the township’s lesser-known roads, you will discover charming small-town treasures that embody the spirit of Canada. It won’t take long for you to embrace Brock Township’s motto: breathe it in. This journey is ideal for spending a day or two exploring rural communities while supporting local businesses.

The best part? Each stop caters to all ages, making it an excellent road trip for families and a unique date idea for couples. Ready to join in the adventure? Keep reading to discover these fantastic businesses in the Township of Brock!

Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm

Address: 1070 Brock Concession Road 5, Sunderland [map]

Since the fall of 2020, owners Rick and Stephanie have transformed an abandoned farm into a beloved family destination. This agri-tourism spot, located just south of Sunderland, is a must-visit while exploring the Township of Brock!

Starting in 2024, you can enjoy picking your own berries during their Haskap Pick & Play events every weekend starting at the end of June! If you’re wondering, haskap berries are a delightful blend of blueberries and raspberries—firm like a blueberry, with a flavor reminiscent of raspberries. Plus, they’re packed with vitamins A & C, antioxidants, and potassium, making them extremely healthy!

With eight varieties available, along with jams, honey, and maple syrup, there’s no shortage of delicious options. An entrance fee allows access to various activities for both children and adults alike. Challenge your friends on the pedal kart track, try your hand at field bowling, or test your aim at the elastic band shooting range. Kids will enjoy the expansive sandbox and slides, and don’t miss the corn maze—it might just come in handy if you get a little lost!

NOTE: Due to high demand, they are already sold out for the season! Not to worry—more berries will be available next year, so be sure to follow them on Facebook to stay updated for 2025.

As fall approaches, Buzzing Bees Adventure Farm offers seasonal favorites. Enjoy activities like pumpkin bowling, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, and be sure to tour their self-sustaining eco-dome, featuring subtropical plants and an eco-garden!

The highlight of your visit might just be their sprawling corn maze, spanning over nine acres! Each year features a unique theme, and for 2024, whispers suggest an escape-room style maze focused on pioneer life, so make sure you bring your thinking cap!

Pinedale Patch

Address: Side Road 18, Sunderland [map]

Over 65 years ago, the Smith family moved to Sunderland, turning a love for farming into a thriving passion. In 2011, Graham, a third-generation farmer, married Holly, who brought her own farming knowledge to bear, and they had two budding little farmers of their own. This led them to expand their offerings further.

What started as a small market stand selling pumpkins at the end of their driveway has blossomed into an acre of stunning sunflowers alongside those pumpkins! In 2021, Pinedale Patch was officially established, and since then, visitors have loved strolling through their magnificent sunflower field. Bring a picnic and savor the beauty, or treat yourself to some ice cream from the farm.

PRO TIP: If you love catching the golden hour for photography, Pinedale Patch is open from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM on Fridays, allowing you to soak in the blooms during this magical time!

As the cooler months arrive, the farm offers an array of pumpkins and fall decorations. The Smith family even provides porch packages that include straw bales, corn stalks, flower mums, and pumpkins, ensuring your home will be the envy of the neighborhood!

Pinedale Patch officially opens for the Civic Holiday weekend in early August.

Forget-Me-Not Alpacas

Address: 1595 Thorah Concession Road 3, Beaverton [map]

Among all these delightful stops, Forget-Me-Not Alpacas truly stands out as the cutest destination on the Backroads of Brock. I’m sure Bruno, Ginger, Gunner, Tabitha, Tara, Tango, and the rest of their furry friends would wholeheartedly agree!

A guided farm tour here will be the highlight of your summer, as you’ll get to connect with these adorable animals. In a small group, you’ll explore the property and learn about the differences between alpacas and llamas, their unique characteristics, and more. You even get to feed the lovely ladies at the end of the hour-long tour, perfect for those adorable alpaca selfies!

Additionally, you will discover the importance of pollinators and how to support butterflies and bees. You might even spot some of the other animals on the farm, from wild birds to their friendly horse, Gypsy. And don’t be surprised if some chickens come wandering by!

Tour spots fill up fast as they’re limited to 8 people, so head to their website and book your time now. They sometimes offer pop-up tours during the off-season as well!

If you can’t secure a tour, feel free to visit their farm store during tour hours, where you can browse a variety of alpaca products, from mittens to socks—all made from the wool of specific alpacas!

The Sunflower Farm

Address: 24430 Side Road 17, Beaverton [map]

Owner Ursula ventured out into the world but returned to her hometown, bringing back a beautiful vision: The Sunflower Farm. It features Canada’s only sunflower-shaped trail!

Discover this stunning 20-acre sunflower field with 15 varieties of these vibrant blooms. The goal is to inspire future generations to reconnect with Ontario’s agricultural roots, and you can’t help but appreciate the effort that went into cultivating this magnificent display of over 400,000 sunflowers.

This is far from your typical sunflower farm, as it hosts various exciting events throughout the season! Check out their market days featuring over 20 local vendors, including artisans and food trucks. Gather your friends for a fancy picnic among the sunflowers, with delicious food from The Shortiss Cafe in Beaverton. You can also book floral workshops to create beautiful bouquets using flowers from their private cutting gardens, along with live music evenings and classic car shows that are always a hit!

Ursula has even introduced new events for 2024! Experience the stunning sunset during a Paint Night, where you can paint the gorgeous landscapes around you. Come late August, The Sunflower Farm will host its first-ever drag show! And for dog owners, Saturdays are designated as Doggie Days, meaning you can bring your furry friends along—just keep them on a leash!

Check out their website for a full event schedule and follow them on Instagram to stay informed about all the upcoming excitements. The Sunflower Farm will officially open for the 2024 season on July 30th.

Villa Vida Loca

Address: 13350 Highway 12, Sunderland [map]

Finally, we arrive at Villa Vida Loca—a truly remarkable gem! Where to even begin? Perhaps with the bees, as Ann and Brian have been proud beekeepers for over a decade. When the pandemic hit, they recognized the need for community and connection, and what better way than to foster that through their love for local produce?

Thus, their boutique farm market was born! Step inside to discover a selection of handmade, locally sourced goodies. From fresh vegetables to artisanal beeswax candles and spicy hot sauce, you’ll be delighted by the range of delectable items available. They even have a self-serve stand for grab-and-go items like honey and eggs—just bring cash!

While anytime is perfect for a visit, weekends are particularly vibrant, as you can enjoy delicious meals from The Smokhouse. Don’t miss their 14-hour smoked beef brisket sandwiches, paired with a homemade honey jalapeno slaw that’s just out of this world! Brian’s menu also includes smoked ribs, brisket nachos, and carnitas nachos, tempting you to try it all—so come with a group!

Villa Vida Loca also hosts unique events, such as their Villa dinner series, where you can enjoy a delightful five-course meal on their terrace, each dinner themed with unique flavours crafted by Chef Alex Page. They frequently introduce new events, including boxfit classes, so be sure to follow them on Instagram to stay informed!

And just a reminder: they manage all this while balancing full-time jobs! As Ann and Brian bring life to this wonderful venture, it’s impossible not to admire their dedication and look forward to what else they may introduce in the future.

Where to Stay in the Township of Brock

As you can see, there’s so much to see and do along the Backroads of Brock, why not extend your getaway? Several fantastic accommodation options are available for you to enjoy a little retreat.

Villa Vida Loca

If you’re looking for a unique glamping experience, Villa Vida Loca offers two amazing options: the charming La Cabaña, a cozy bunkie on their 10-acre property, and the stunning A-frame cabin known as Cabaña de Amor. You’ll love dozing off to the sounds of nature and enjoying a cozy bed after a day of exploration. Picture yourself winding down by a crackling fire while gazing up at the stars!

This option will appeal to more adventurous guests, as cooking is done on a small propane BBQ provided by Ann and Brian, and there are bathrooms located outside. An outdoor shower provides a refreshing experience, especially on hot summer days! You can choose how rustic you want your stay to be, as they do have electricity available and access to their hot tub. If cooking isn’t your thing, numerous nearby restaurants will treat you to delightful meals!

If you’ve ever considered glamping but were hesitant, this is a fantastic opportunity. Ann and Brian are among the kindest hosts you will ever meet, going above and beyond to ensure your stay is exceptional—maybe even helping you keep the fire lit if you’re too tired after a long day of adventure. It’s truly a slice of paradise in Brock!

The Snug Cabin

If you prefer indoor plumbing while still embracing a rustic vibe, The Snug Cabin is a great choice for you. Hosts Karen and Nick have transformed their guest house into a picturesque rural retreat. Settle into the king-size bed and soak in the spectacular views through expansive windows overlooking their wooded property. Amenities include a kitchenette with a mini fridge, toaster oven, and coffee maker, a large flat-screen television, and an electric fireplace for cozy evenings. Guests also have access to an outdoor firepit and a charcoal BBQ—don’t forget to bring the charcoal!

What makes this spot truly unique is that Karen and Nick offer a variety of services you can book during your stay. Karen, a registered massage therapist, utilizes techniques like Swedish massage and myofascial release for deep relaxation. Nick, a psychic medium and hypnotherapist, can help you connect with departed loved ones or explore elements of your previous life for healing. A stay at The Snug Cabin could be just what you need to reconnect with yourself and others.

Grant House

For bed and breakfast lovers, look no further than Grant House. Located in Beaverton, this guest house offers private suites with numerous luxurious amenities. After a delightful day exploring the Backroads of Brock, unwind in the spa tub, curl up with a book by a three-sided fireplace, prepare a snack in the kitchenette, and enjoy the fresh air on your private balcony. You will rest soundly on your comfy queen bed, especially after a refreshing dip in the pool!

Your hosts, John and Lore, are committed to making you feel at home, serving a magnificent breakfast each morning. Previous reviews rave about the impressive spread, served on their beautiful wrap-around deck. They also accommodate diets and sensitivities, and are more than happy to recommend local attractions and activities in Beaverton!

The Shortis|s Hotel

If you appreciate boutique hotels, the Shortis|s will be your best option for extending your eacation in Brock. One of the oldest buildings in Beaverton, it exudes an old-world charm. Each of its four private suites is uniquely decorated with original art by local artists and boasts a collection of eclectic furniture, offering a strikingly modern aesthetic.

Though specific amenities may vary, each suite includes a private bathroom with plush towels, personal hygiene kits, and a mini-fridge. One of the suites features two single beds, while the others have a cozy queen bed perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Two suites even feature soaker tubs, perfect for relaxing after a busy day of adventures! For more information on the Shortis|s Boutique Hotel, visit their website.

Enjoying Golden Hour Along the Beaver River Wetland Trail

Additional Things to Do While Exploring the Backroads of Brock

The Backroads of Brock route highlights specific businesses, but there’s an abundance to see and do in the area! If you’re adventurous, why not explore some hidden gems in the Durham Region? As the saying goes, the world is your oyster, but here are some suggestions if you’d like a little guidance.

Explore the Town of Beaverton – Many of the stops are centered around Beaverton, a charming town filled with vintage allure, delightful eateries, and a lovely waterfront. Make sure to explore this hidden gem while wandering the Backroads of Brock, especially if you choose to extend your stay. Check out my full guide to Beaverton for more insights!

Grab a Meal at Bon Select Bistro in Sunderland – Sunderland is another town featured on the Backroads of Brock, and it’s home to the fantastic Bon Select Bistro. Its extensive menu might initially raise concerns about quality, but whether you order seafood linguine, chicken tikka masala, or a pizza, the flavors will impress you! I still reminisce about my meal from my visit!

Explore the Beaver River Wetland Trail – There’s plenty of exceptional hiking, including the Beaver River Wetland Trail, which is a gem within the Township of Brock. You can explore as much or as little of the 34-kilometer route as you desire, taking in the sights and sounds of the largest intact wetland complex in the Lake Simcoe Watershed.

Cast a Line and Go Fishing – Did you know that the Township of Brock is known as the smallmouth bass capital of Canada? Whether you’re an avid angler or a casual fisherman, try your luck at catching fish in Lake Simcoe. You can cast from the pier in Beaverton or charter a boat for a chance to reel in something special!

Scoot Over to Sideroads of Scugog – Since you’re already enjoying the countryside, consider exploring another area of interest nearby! The Sideroads of Scugog neighbors Port Perry and offers another fantastic rural route to explore. Read more about Lake Scugog and its many offerings here!

Disclaimer:
This article was created in partnership with Central Counties Tourism, but all the content and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

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