A Day in Port Hope, Ontario

Just before Christmas, I was fortunate to be able to fly to Ontario to visit family in Port Hope. This bustling town and the surrounding area is so quaint, pleasant, and beautiful, with lots to offer. If you live in Southern Ontario or plan on visiting there soon, I highly recommend you drive out to Port Hope. This article is about the things I did in Port Hope that I think you should do too.

Start your day in Port Hope with Haute Goat. This is a unique experience that basically made my entire year…maybe my life. The Goat Schmurgle. Yep, you read right: schmurgling goats. A schmurgle, according to the farm owner, is an experience much greater than a cuddle or snuggle. Haute Goat allows its visitors and guests to schmurgle some of their adorable Nigerian Dwarf Goats.

The farm is located about 20 km outside Port Hope. They have a lot to offer besides the goat schmurgling, including fresh, organic farm products such as soap and cheese, however, I think the goats certainly steal the show.

Playing with the goats was such an enjoyable and heartwarming experience. They are so cute, so playful! You couldn’t wipe the smile off my face. We were able to hang out with them, feed them, and schmurgle them for over an hour; just strolling around the fields and pens on the farm. It was laidback and relaxing. I didn’t want to stop cuddling even after my fingers were numb from the cold. I wish I could do it all over!

After we had finished with the goats, we were able to go inside the farmhouse for a delicious meal of soup and bread with apple tarts for dessert. Everything was warm, tasty, and made from mostly local ingredients. We were able to sample goat cheese and peruse the shop. Everything about Haute Goat was perfect. I would go back again in a heartbeat.

After what I wish were endless cuddles (and considering getting a dwarf goat of my own), we made our way back to town for a shop on the main strip. Port Hope has a lovely downtown area with unique, vibrant, and bustling shops and cafes. My favourite shop on the street is Turquoise and the best cafe, in my opinion, is Coffee Public. You’ll love the atmosphere!

End your day with a stop at Olympus Burger for supper. With some of the best burgers in Canada and options for many diets, you won’t regret it. Have a milkshake and be sure to try their amazing fries. Olympus Burger takes strides to save the environment and has been named the first carbon zero restaurant in Canada. Olympus Burger is certainly a gem and shouldn’t be missed.