Port Burwell: A Hidden Gem in Ontario
Port Burwell is a small community located in Elgin County, Ontario, Canada. It is situated on the north shore of Lake Erie, approximately 50 kilometers southeast of London. Despite its small size, Port Burwell is a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful beaches, natural wonders, and historical sites.
Attractions
Port Burwell Provincial Park
Port Burwell Provincial Park is a popular destination for camping, swimming, and hiking. The park features a long sandy beach, picnic areas, and a playground. Visitors can also explore the park's trails, which offer stunning views of Lake Erie.
Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse
The Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. The museum features exhibits on the area's maritime history, including shipwrecks and fishing. Visitors can also climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the lake.
Otter Creek Golf Club
Golf enthusiasts will enjoy a round at the Otter Creek Golf Club. The 18-hole course is set in a beautiful natural setting and offers a challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
Port Burwell Flea Market
The Port Burwell Flea Market is a popular destination for bargain hunters. The market features a wide variety of vendors selling everything from antiques to fresh produce.
Natural Wonders
Big Otter Creek
Big Otter Creek is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. The creek is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, pike, and walleye.
Port Burwell Beach
Port Burwell Beach is a beautiful sandy beach that stretches for kilometers along the shore of Lake Erie. The beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Backus Woods
Backus Woods is a large forested area that is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and birds. Visitors can explore the forest on foot or by bike on the many trails that wind through the woods.
Festivals
Port Burwell Perch Festival
The Port Burwell Perch Festival is an annual event that celebrates the area's fishing heritage. The festival features a fishing derby, live music, and food vendors.
Port Burwell Pirate Festival
The Port Burwell Pirate Festival is a family-friendly event that celebrates the area's pirate history. The festival features live entertainment, pirate-themed activities, and a treasure hunt.
History
Port Burwell was established in the early 19th century as a fishing village. The community was named after Sir John Burwell, a British naval officer who served during the Napoleonic Wars. Port Burwell was officially incorporated as a village in 1872 and became a town in 1949.
Conclusion
Port Burwell is a hidden gem in Ontario that offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, historical sites, or just a relaxing day at the beach, Port Burwell has it all.
Sources:
- Ontario Parks. (n.d.). Port Burwell Provincial Park. https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/portburwell
- Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse. (n.d.). https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/burwelllighthouse
- Otter Creek Golf Club. (n.d.). https://www.ottercreekgolfclub.com/
- Port Burwell Flea Market. (n.d.). https://www.facebook.com/Port-Burwell-Flea-Market-142947732402/
- Big Otter Creek. (n.d.). https://www.ontario.ca/page/big-otter-creek
- Backus Woods. (n.d.). https://www.natureconservancy.ca/en/where-we-work/ontario/featured-projects/backus-woods.html
- Port Burwell Perch Festival. (n.d.). https://www.portburwellperchfestival.ca/
- Port Burwell Pirate Festival. (n.d.). https://www.portburwellpiratefest.ca/