Written By Alan Good
TRAVEL - Some of our past trips reported here have been rather short in length, so perhaps a longer drive, one taking up a day, is more to your liking. Well, head north to go to Southampton.
The drive along Lake Huron on 21 through Goderich, Kincardine, Port Elgin, finally landing in Southampton, takes about two and a half hours if you don’t stop. The day can be full of breaks in those towns as there is much to see.
Although it is about the ride, not the destination, our goal was Southampton. There you can walk, jog or bike along the lake from Port Elgin to Southampton and sit by the lake taking in many vantage points. On a clear day you can see watercraft of all sizes.
A favourite for shopping is the Southampton Market. Here you’ll find two acres of items on two floors—some 140,000 square feet. They even have a large puzzle room full of every sized puzzles.
It’s not only the merchandise but the quaint atmosphere that may attract shoppers. From look and feel of this old warehouse with its rustic wooden floors to the scads of things offered, time spent in this family run and friendly business can be rewarding.
Lunch anyone? Walker House, established in 1915, offers delicious food and drink either inside or on the patio. The great staff are there to please and the food is always hot.
On our way out of Southampton we like to stop at the Hi Berry Farm outlet. During the summer and fall, in particular, all kinds of produce from local growers can be had.
Taking our time back down the coastal highway, glimpses of Lake Huron are seen on the way home. You may be temped to turn off any road heading west toward the water. If you are fortunate to be traveling at sunset, one of these offshoots would make a perfect ending to your day if you stop to view the setting sun over the expanse of blue.
