St. Jacobs & West Montrose | A Step Back in Time 🏡🌉
📍 Why Visit? Horse-drawn buggies, Canada’s last covered bridge, and farm-fresh pies—this is Ontario’s quaintest escape. 🛤️ St. Jacobs Village History & Vibe Founded: 1850s (by Mennonite settlers). Population: 1,988 (2016) + many more horses 🐴. Must-See: Main Street: 1850s brick buildings (now boutiques + cafés). Conestogo River: Once powered 19th-century mills. St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 📍 5 mins south of village | Thu/Sat 7AM–3:30PM Eats: Apple butter, fresh cheese curds, maple sausages. Pro Tip: Saturday 9 AM = Amish baked goods still warm. 🌉 West Montrose Covered Bridge (“Kissing Bridge”) 📍 10 mins north of St. Jacobs | Free Built: 1881 (oak + pine, cost $3,197.50 😱). Fun Fact: Ontario’s ONLY surviving covered bridge. Cross It: By foot, bike, or horse buggy (no cars over 3 tons!). 📸 Photo Ops 1️⃣ Buggy Rides: Snap Mennonite horse carriages on country roads. 2️⃣ Bridge at Golden Hour: Glowing wood + dappled light. 3️⃣ Market Colors: Rainbow produce stacks + handmade quilts. 💡 Tips ✔ Drive: 15 mins from Waterloo (park free at market). ✔ Timing: Weekdays = quieter (but market only Thu/Sat). ✔ Respect: No photos of Amish people’s faces (ask first). #StJacobs #CoveredBridge #SlowTravel
