COMPASS
WONDER-FALLS Explore Niagara’s many dimensions, from its food and wine scene to the excitement of the Falls. BY YUKI HAYASHI
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bout a 90-minute drive from downtown Toronto, the Niagara Region has epic adventures to suit all travellers. From the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls to the quaint, rustic charm of wine country, there’s so much to see and do on a day trip. Here are our suggestions for three traveller types to go gaga over Niagara. WINE LOVERS
Blessed with rich soils and unique microcl i m at e s , Ni a ga r a’s w i ne cou nt r y i s Canada’s largest and most prestigious (hello, icewine!). With more than 90 wineries throughout the region, touring by car—or, better yet, bike—is an enjoyable way to pass the day. Zoom Leisure Bikes (zoomleisure.com) 88
TORONTO 2017
offers a relaxed afternoon wine tour by bike, perfect for meandering along country roads and stopping at wineries for tours and tastings. For wine without the exercise, Niagara Vintage Wine Tours (niagara vintagewinetours.com) provides group and private tours with a driver and a guide. Rather explore on your own? Vineland Estates Winery (vineland.com) boasts
incredible vineyard views, an acclaimed restaurant and award-winning Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Nearby Niagara-onthe-Lake is home to Trius Winery at Hillebrand (triuswines.com), Top Ontario Winery of the Year at the 2015 WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada. Or create your own itinerary with Wine Country Ontario’s Wine Route Planner (winecoun tryontario.ca). For an unforgettable night of food, wine and music under the stars, visit JacksonTriggs Winery (jacksontriggswinery.com). Start with dinner in the barrel cellar before sauntering over to the amphitheatre for the summer concert series. Past acts include Stars, the Sam Roberts Band and Arkells. www.SeeTorontoNow.com
CHRISTINE HESS ( JOURNEY BEHIND THE FALLS)
Journey Behind the Falls