Elgin County

Known for its picture-perfect views of Lake Erie, Elgin County offers a wealth of country charm, local attractions and quaint towns to explore.

The county counts three Blue Flag beaches, four portside villages with unique independent retailers, a diverse assortment of cuisine and accommodation options from cheerful B&Bs to family-friendly beachfront hotels.

History buffs will find numerous points of interest, including the Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse, while outdoor enthusiasts will find over 100 kilometres of hiking trails.

Where is Elgin County?

Elgin County is located in Southwestern Ontario, north of Lake Erie, east of Chatham-Kent and west of Norfolk County. It is halfway between Toronto and Windsor, each about a two-hour drive away.

The county is best explored by car or motorcycle, although some limited transit options are available from Four Counties Transit. The nearest U.S. border crossings are the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel and Ambassador Bridge.

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Things to do in Elgin County

View the fall colours

Visit the Springwater Conservation Area in Aylmer and witness the beauty of autumn foliage along over eight kilometres of hiking trails.

Play a round of golf

Elgin County offers a number of options for those looking to get in a round of golf. Try Kettle Creek Golf & Country Club in Port Stanley or Belmont Golf Club near St. Thomas.

Learn Indigenous history

Located in the Longwoods Road Conservation Area, the Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum houses a recreated Haudenosaunee longhouse village, similar to those from thousands of years ago.

Rent a canoe or kayak

Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle your way down the beautiful Otter River. Guided day trips from Port Burwell are also available from the Victoria Day long weekend until Labour Day.

Visit a historic lighthouse

The Port Burwell Marine Museum and Historic Lighthouse offers a chance to view artifacts from Lake Erie shipwrecks and climb a 56-step staircase to the top of the old lighthouse.

Hike a trail

Elgin County hiking trails offer something for hikers of all skill levels. The county has over 100 kilometres of trails, including a connection to the national Trans Canada Trail.

Articles and itineraries

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Points of interest

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Barn Quilt Trails

Tour the series of large culturally significant painted quilt murals installed on the side of barns and fences throughout the countryside.

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Port Burwell Marine Museum & Historic Lighthouse

Located where Big Otter Creek meets Lake Erie, this museum dives into Port Burwell’s rich shipbuilding and marine history.

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Port Stanley Beach

Explore the pristine beauty and relaxed charm of Port Stanley Beach.

Purely Wicked

All-natural skincare, candles and more are available at the store with the inspiring exterior mural painted by 2 local artists.

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Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum

Learn about local Indigenous heritage at a recreated village, resource centre and interactive museum located within Longwoods Road Conservation...

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