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A Self-Guided Craft Beverage Tour Through Grey County
Grey County is known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages, scenic country roads and spectacular views of Georgian Bay and the Beaver Valley. But there’s another side to the region that’s well worth exploring…its collection of craft breweries, wineries, cider houses, distilleries and distinctive local pubs.
From locally brewed ales and cool-climate wines to naturally fermented ciders and handcrafted cocktails, Grey County offers plenty of opportunities to discover something new. Many of these destinations are located on working farms, in historic buildings or surrounded by some of the area’s most beautiful countryside. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, entertaining visitors or simply looking for a different way to spend a day close to home, a self-guided craft beverage tour is a great excuse to get out and explore.
A Spirited History: The Saints & Sinners Trail
There’s an interesting history behind Grey County’s modern craft beverage scene.
The former Saints & Sinners Trail was a regional tourism initiative that connected breweries, wineries, cideries and distilleries throughout Bruce, Grey and Simcoe counties. It celebrated the region’s craft beverage producers while drawing attention to its colourful history of temperance, prohibition and bootlegging.
Owen Sound, in particular, became known for its strict temperance history, earning the nickname Corkscrew City. Elsewhere in the region, bootlegging and illicit alcohol production became part of the local folklore. That’s quite a contrast from today’s landscape, where craft breweries, vineyards and cider houses have become popular destinations for residents and visitors alike.
Although the original Saints & Sinners Trail is no longer an active tourism initiative, the idea behind it is still a great one: take a leisurely drive through the countryside, discover local producers and enjoy a little Grey County history along the way.
Your Self-Guided Grey County Craft Beverage Tour
There’s no single route you need to follow. In fact, that’s part of the fun. You can build your own itinerary around the places you’d most like to visit, whether that means exploring the Beaver Valley, travelling along Georgian Bay or heading west toward Owen Sound and Neustadt.
Here are some of the local producers and inviting establishments worth including in your travels.
Neustadt Springs Brewery – Neustadt
Located in the charming village of Neustadt in West Grey, Neustadt Springs Brewery offers a fascinating combination of brewing history, heritage architecture and locally crafted beer.
Established in 1859, the historic stone brewery was built over natural springs and is recognized as one of Ontario’s oldest brewing establishments. Today, visitors can enjoy a selection of traditional craft beers while discovering the history of this remarkable building. The brewery’s underground caverns and original spring are particularly interesting features, with guided tours offered by arrangement.
Neustadt itself is worth exploring, with its historic stone buildings, quiet village streets and surrounding rural scenery. It’s a wonderful stop for anyone interested in Grey County’s small-town character and heritage.
Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery – Near Owen Sound
Perched on the Niagara Escarpment near Annan, Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery offers one of Grey County’s most memorable vineyard settings. Known for its cool-climate wines and locally crafted ciders, Coffin Ridge combines a relaxed country atmosphere with sweeping views toward Georgian Bay.
Visitors can enjoy wine and cider tastings, settle in on the outdoor deck and take in the surrounding countryside. Light food offerings make it an appealing place to spend a leisurely afternoon.
It’s particularly beautiful during the autumn months, when the changing leaves add another layer of colour to the landscape, although the views are impressive throughout the seasons.
Mudtown Station Brewery & Restaurant – Owen Sound
Housed in a charming restored historic railway station along Owen Sound’s waterfront, Mudtown Station combines local history, craft beer and a relaxed dining experience in a unique setting.
Operating as a brewpub, Mudtown offers a rotating selection of craft beers brewed right on-site, which you can enjoy by the glass or as a tasting flight. The brewing equipment is visible from the dining and bar areas, adding to the atmosphere of this distinctive historic building.
With a full restaurant menu and a waterfront patio, it’s an ideal place to stop for lunch or dinner while exploring the area. Rather than a traditional brewery tour, the experience is centred around enjoying freshly brewed beer and good food in a welcoming setting. Its location also makes it a great starting point for exploring downtown Owen Sound, the harbour and the city’s historic architecture.
Grey & Gold Cider – Beaver Valley
Tucked into the beautiful Beaver Valley, Grey & Gold Cider offers an authentic, farm-based cider experience with a focus on traditional methods, natural fermentation and locally grown apples. Set alongside a 6 acre heritage orchard with approximately 1,700 apple trees, this small, independent cidery invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the peaceful rural surroundings.
Sample their distinctive, wild-fermented ciders, relax at an outdoor picnic table and, if you’re lucky, chat with the cider maker about the traditional, low-intervention methods behind each batch.
Seasonal events, special tastings and occasional live music add to the experience, making it worth checking their schedule before visiting.
Surrounded by rolling farmland, winding country roads and spectacular escarpment views, Grey & Gold is a wonderful stop on a leisurely drive through one of Grey County’s most scenic areas.
Heart’s Tavern & Bar – Kimberley
Nestled at the foot of the Beaver Valley in the picturesque village of Kimberley, Heart’s Tavern & Bar offers a wonderful combination of country charm, thoughtfully prepared food and an impressive selection of wines, craft beers and cocktails.
Recognized by enRoute magazine as one of Canada’s Best New Restaurants in 2022, Heart’s has become a destination in its own right. The inviting atmosphere includes a lively horseshoe bar, cozy dining spaces, a wine cellar and a lovely outdoor patio open during the warmer months. With a menu inspired by classic European fare and seasonal ingredients, it’s an appealing place to settle in for a leisurely lunch, dinner or evening drink.
Surrounded by the dramatic hills of the Beaver Valley, Heart’s is a natural stop to combine with a visit to Grey & Gold Cider or a scenic drive through Kimberley and the surrounding countryside.
Georgian Hills Vineyards – The Blue Mountains
Set among the rolling hills near Clarksburg, Georgian Hills Vineyards is a lovely destination for anyone interested in Ontario’s cool-climate wines. The vineyard produces wines that reflect the unique growing conditions of the Georgian Bay region, where the influence of the lake and surrounding landscape helps shape the character of locally grown grapes.
Visitors can enjoy wine tastings in a peaceful rural setting, often with opportunities to pair their selections with local cheeses and other regional foods.
Located in the heart of apple-growing country, Georgian Hills is an appealing addition to a day spent exploring Thornbury, Clarksburg and the surrounding countryside.
Spy Cider House & Distillery – The Blue Mountains
Want to try something a little different? Spy Cider House & Distillery is a fantastic choice. The business combines craft cider making with small-batch spirits in an attractive rural setting near Clarksburg.
Orchards and beautiful countryside surround the property. The landscape provides a stunning backdrop for visitors to relax and enjoy discover locally crafted ciders and artisanal spirits. If you’re so inclined, you can even learn about the craftsmanship behind the beverages.
Spy Cider House is another example of Grey County’s deep agricultural roots. These local traditions continue to inspire creative businesses and offer great new ways to enjoy the region’s harvest.
The Vault – Markdale
Located in the heart of Markdale, The Vault brings a little sophistication and character to Grey Highlands’ growing food and drink scene.
This intimate cocktail bar sits inside a former bank building and has fully embraced its historic surroundings. It’s a warm and inviting space where guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted cocktails and a selection of beer and wine. You can even pair your drinks with a few delicious bites. The original bank vault adds a touch of atmosphere but it’s the friendly vibes that make it a great place to settle in for an evening.
Are you stopping at the shops along Main Street? Maybe you are returning from a scenic drive through the Beaver Valley. You might just want a unique place to spend an evening. Either way, The Vault is a great discovery.
The Foundry 1872 – Durham
In downtown Durham, The Foundry 1872 provides a welcoming restaurant and bar atmosphere with a connection to the town’s industrial past.
The restaurant takes its name from the historic Inkerman Foundry, which once occupied the property beginning in 1865. Although the original foundry is long gone, its history lives on through the restaurant’s name and industrial-inspired character.
Today, this family-operated establishment offers a comfortable setting for lunch, dinner or drinks, with a menu featuring hearty favourites, creative dishes and locally sourced ingredients. With its spacious dining area and popular outdoor patio, The Foundry is a convenient stop while exploring Durham and the West Grey countryside.
Consider combining your visit with a walk through Durham’s historic downtown or a stop at nearby McGowan Falls and the Saugeen River.
More Than Just a Tasting Tour
One of the best things about planning a craft beverage tour through Grey County is everything you’ll discover between stops. The drive itself can be just as enjoyable as the destinations. Take the winding roads through the Beaver Valley. Explore the charming communities of Kimberley and Flesherton. Stop for lunch in a local café or spend some time browsing the shops in Thornbury and Owen Sound.
Are you travelling through Flesherton? Stop in at The Bakery for fresh bread, strong coffee, and tasty treats. Or visit Highland Grounds for fair-trade goods, meals on the go, organic meats and local produce. If you are passing through Kimberley, Justin’s Oven is a great dining option if you love locally sourced ingredients. They also feature a great selection of craft beers, wines, and ciders.
In downtown Markdale, Marilynne Restaurant offers seasonal, locally inspired dining. Enjoy creative cocktails inside the town’s historic former firehall. And don’t forget to check out Susan’s Deli for delicious sandwiches, craft coffees, and specialty pantry items.
Will your route take you through West Grey? Consider exploring the historic village of Neustadt. You can also take a scenic drive through the countryside near Durham and Hanover. Depending on the season, you can enjoy several great activities. Visit a local farm market for fresh goods, stroll through a charming small town or enjoy a walk along one of the area’s many trails.
For those interested in the region’s more colourful past, Grey Roots Museum & Archives is another worthwhile destination. Grey Roots let’s you explore the history of Grey County, including its temperance and prohibition-era stories. Located just outside Owen Sound, the museum is an easy addition to your day trip.
Planning Your Grey County Craft Beverage Tour
With producers and local establishments spread throughout the county, there’s no need to try to visit them all in one day. In fact, dividing your travels into a few shorter outings gives you more time to enjoy each destination and the communities along the way. Spend one afternoon exploring the wineries and cider houses around Clarksburg and The Blue Mountains. Then take another to discover the Beaver Valley and Kimberley, or plan a western route through Neustadt and Durham.
For a leisurely outing through southern Grey County, consider combining a visit to Neustadt Springs Brewery with a stop in Durham for lunch at The Foundry 1872. From there, explore the countryside through West Grey and Grey Highlands before finishing your day in downtown Markdale, where The Vault offers a cozy setting for an evening out.
Keep in mind that many of these businesses are smaller, independently operated establishments. Opening hours, tasting experiences, guided tours and seasonal availability can vary. It’s always worth checking directly with each business before heading out.
A friendly reminder: With so many great places to visit, it’s important to plan ahead and enjoy the experience responsibly. If you plan to taste beverages along the way, choose a designated driver or arrange other safe transportation instead. Never drink and drive. Remember, you do not have to participate in tastings to enjoy the beautiful scenery, local food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
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For additional destinations and inspiration, visit Grey County Tourism’s Wineries, Breweries & Cideries guide
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Discover the Local Side of Grey County
There’s something special about exploring a region through the people and businesses that call it home.
At Forest Hill Real Estate – Grey County, we love sharing the local businesses, communities and experiences that make this region special. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend, considering a move to the area or have called Grey County home for years, there’s always something new to discover!
Discover more about life in Grey County, explore our local stories and browse real estate opportunities at greycountyhomes.com.
