The natural setting and outdoor adventures may be the biggest draws for visitors to the area, but the towns and villages of the region offer their own charms as well. Huntsville, being the largest town in the region (pop. 18,500) is well-known to tourists and popular with our guests for shopping and dining. But it's not the only town within an easy drive of the inn.
The Village of Burk's Falls lies just north of us, 16 km up Highway 11. With a population of just 1,000, it is definitely a small town -- and a lovely place to spend an afternoon. The Magnetawan River winds through the village. Houses, shops and churches perch on hillsides or cluster along quiet streets. Stores and restaurants are spread out, mostly along the main street, so driving between stops is more common than walking, but parking is free and plentiful.
Here is a selection—by no means complete—of some stops to include when you spend an afternoon in Burk's Falls.
Burk's Falls Welcome Centre and Cafe
Not just a repository of tourist information, the centre has public washrooms, a covered outdoor picnic spot overlooking the river, and an excellent cafe. This is the place for a great latte, cappuccino, or other specialty coffee. Plus their selection of fudges and baked goods are absolutely delicious. I highly recommend the butter tart muffins! Beside the centre is the covered footbridge which is the starting point for the in-town Heritage River Walk.
Hwy 520, just east of Ontario Street, Burk's Falls
A lovely garden centre and home decor & gift store located on 6 acres on the main street. Enjoy the outdoor gardens and pond then browse through the many displays and stylish furnishings, kitchen ware, gifts and ornaments inside the large store.
85 Ontario Street, Burk's Falls
A retail store selling jewelry, books, crystals, drums and all things of various spiritual beliefs and faiths. A tarot card reader is sometimes available at the store for readings. Beyond the store, the back garden is open to visitors to enjoy a labyrinth, quiet gardens, teepee, bottle tree, peace pole and more (visiting is free). The barn out back houses an art studio showcasing works from local artists.
156 Ontario Street, Burk's Falls
Located in a big old barn, this retail store offers two floors of giftware and home furnishings, many of them hand-crafted. You'll find things such as pottery pieces, solid wood furniture, framed artwork, jams & jellies, jewelry and souvenirs.
311 Ontario Street, Burk's Falls
Burk's Falls Arts and Crafts
A gallery displaying various artwork and handcrafts of local artists.
113 Young Street, Burk's Falls
Burk's Falls Heritage River Walks
Not just for shopping, Burk's Falls offers a number of walking trails in and around town. The Heritage River Trail is the longest at 1.5 km and the rest are all under a kilometre in length making for easy walking. See the map and legend at the Welcome Centre for details.
Restaurants and Conveniences
Burk's Falls offers a small selection of eateries, with something for everyone.
Dee's Bistro: Classic family dishes and fine dining. Ontario Street.
The Village Pub: Traditional pub fare, stone and timber decor, juke box, pool table, darts. Ontario Street.
British Boy Fish & Chips: Hand-battered fish fillets, assorted menu, take out or eat at the picnic tables outside. Ontario Street.
Yeti's Pizza: Made to order; they'll even deliver right here to the inn for a reasonable fee. Ontario Street.
Tim Horton's; ValuMart (grocery store offering President's Choice products); LCBO; Chip Truck; Convenience Store; Gas Station; Home Hardware; Hair Salon & Spa services; and a summer Movie Theatre are also in town.
Around Burk's Falls
Other things to do and see when you're around Burk's Falls include...
Burk's Falls and District Museum
Screaming Heads
Magnetawan River Rapids
Danny's Justa Pasta: This restaurant is not in Burk's Falls but further north and very popular. Exit #271 from Hwy 11 between Burk's Falls and Sundridge.
Enjoy your visit to Burk's Falls!
