The Niagara Benchlands’ beautiful Escarpment views, rolling vineyards, fruit orchards and farm markets are a gorgeous side of Niagara often missed by those en route to the attractions and excitement of Niagara Falls. For couples looking for a peaceful escape filled with off-the-radar wineries, fabulous farm-to-table meals, and some easy-going outdoor activities, the Niagara Benchlands is an ideal destination.
 

Once you arrive in Niagara, you’ll likely be ready to stretch your legs a bit, so start your day in Jordan Village. Grab a cup of coffee and a freshly baked Morning Bun at RPM Bakehouse and walk south down Main Street, stopping to browse at the unique shops along the way. When you arrive at the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre, walk toward the outdoor shelter in the back, and you’ll find a set of wooden steps down to a beautiful path. Follow the Twenty Valley Trail for an easy walk and get back on the road at 21st Street, where you can continue your stroll back up the hill to return to your starting point at RPM Bakehouse.

Since no visit to Niagara Benchlands would be complete without getting a taste for the award-winning wines and craft beverages produced in the area, spend a few hours poking around at the selection of spots that suit your fancy and plan on having lunch at one of your stops. Excellent options for wine lovers include Sixteen Mile Cellar, Hidden Bench Estate Winery, Kew Vineyards, Tawse Winery, Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Wending Home Estate Vineyards and Winery, and Westcott Vineyards.

Sober sippers who would like to experience the beauty of Niagara wine country minus the alcohol have some fun options too. Rosewood Estate Winery and Meadery offers a fascinating Bee Experience that invites visitors to suit up in protective gear and venture into a live beehive to witness the intricate workings firsthand. Vineland Estates Winery produces a wonderful selection of zero-alcohol Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling, and Rosé that guests can purchase by the glass to enjoy seated or sip on as they stroll the vineyards. e-bike The Bench runs its electric bike rental and touring operations from Vineland Estates Winery, should you wish to plan a pedal while you’re there.

Craft beer fans will want to make time for tasting flights at Bench Brewing Company and Newark Brewing, and perhaps spread their wings a little wider into the thriving craft cider scene bubbling up in the Niagara Benchlands. A+ cidery sip stops include Fielding Craft Cider Company, Niagara Cider Company, Redstone Winery, Creekside Estate Winery, and Vieni Estates.

Freshen up from your afternoon of touring in the room you’ve chosen for the evening. Couples looking to continue the theme of rural relaxation can book a stay with a vineyard view at Inn The Orchard. Those who prefer a stay that’s a bit closer to a delicious dinner out can opt for Jordan House, Inn on the Twenty, or The Jordan By Ramada Wyndham.

A farm-to-table feast is a must when visiting such an agricultural hotspot, and Niagara Benchlands restaurants offer a wide range of price points. Dine on affordably priced but simply delicious pasta creations made with locally sourced ingredients at Just Cooking Rustic Italian in Vineland. The Good Earth Food & Wine Co. celebrates Niagara’s seasonality, emphasizing local products in its delicious dishes. Restaurant Pearl Morissette has earned two MICHELIN Stars for its painstakingly produced tasting menu. The next morning, cap off your rural retreat with brunch in a barn! Honsberger Estate Winery serves a delicious farm-to-table brunch in its warm, inviting Small Barn Restaurant