Written by Kate Murakami
Sustainable Living in Grey County
Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to become a more environmentally-friendly consumer? Are you interested in living more sustainably? Look no further, we’ve got your guide to some great spots in and around Grey County for shopping sustainably and eating locally in 2025!
Markdale
Down Home Farmhouse is a farm-based restaurant located in between Markdale and Kimberly. The Down Home experience is based on an ever changing menu because all foods used in each meal are locally sourced, so available meals depend on what is in season when you visit! They are passionate about sustainability and about the food that they are putting on the table. The restaurant is “Feast On” certified, meaning they have been recognized for using Ontario grown products to further their customers’ culinary experience!
Sideroad Farm is a small, family run farm located outside of Walter’s Falls. The farm supplies a farm shop stocked with organic vegetables and fresh cut flowers, as well as pasture raised chicken and pork. Products are available for purchase at the farm store as well as at a number of local businesses. Many are also used at many local restaurants. Sideroad Farms is certified organic, part of Artisanal Chicken Growers. They are members of the Local Flower Collective and the Association of Specialty Cut Flower Growers.
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Flesherton
The Eco Refillery in Flesherton focuses on four pillars when shopping: mind, body, soul and planet. This outlook helps shoppers remain mindful and limits the number of impulse purchases made. The Eco Refillary offers a variety of health, wellness, and hygiene products as well as sustainable cleaning supplies, diffusers and refill options. Classes are also offered such as candle making and lessons in how to make your own eco-friendly cleaning supplies.
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Priceville
Looking for a local getaway or the perfect spot for a stay-cation? ReLive Retreat is dedicated to providing a fully immersive, nature-based experience focused on remaining sustainable! At ReLive, they believe that we should strive not to leave any impacts on the environment around us. ReLive Retreat currently offers 2 solar powered Mongolian yurts, a hilltop cabin, a cottage and a truly unique sleeping capsule. It’s an invitation to immerse yourself in all things relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Thornbury & Meaford
Popular The Bruce Wine Bar offers a specialty menu full of delectable meals like woodfired pizza and sustainably sourced seafood. Much of their delicious menu, including the specialty drinks and cocktails, are locally sourced. The Bruce Wine Bar carries both the Feast On certification as well as the Ocean Wise designation which highlights their efforts to make environmentally friendly choices.
Keeps Refillery in Meaford offers both a classic-style refillery where patrons can stock up on staples like dish soap or shampoo and conditioner while reducing their consumption of single-use plastics, and a uniquely curated collection of eco-friendly home goods and accessories. This includes handmade soy candles, eco-friendly makeup products and other personal care / home care necessities. The Keep offers a range of waste-free products. All products are locally sourced, all natural, organic, cruelty free and plastic free.
Pom Pom’s Ice Cream Hut has definitely become a favourite during the summer in the Georgian Bay area. They truly believe that great taste and locally sourced, healthy ingredients are all you really need! Because of this, they make all of their vegan ice creams in-house. Seasonal and revolving flavours such as Matcha Latte, Cinnamon Cookie and Blue Lavender are featured at the Hut in downtown Thornbury and the scoop shop in downtown Meaford. Fan favourites are also available at select retailers across the county! All flavours are handmade in small batches and feature locally sourced ingredients.
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If you’re interested in making the move to Grey County
Forest Hill – GREY COUNTY is here to help.
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