If a European getaway isn’t in the plans this summer, there’s a charming alternative right here in Ontario that locals are calling one of the province’s best-kept secrets. Welcome to St. Marys, a picturesque village offering European charm, riverside views, and a laid-back summer escape.
Dubbed “The Stonetown,” St. Marys is nestled along the Thames River and is known for its beautiful historic limestone buildings that lend the town a distinctly Old World feel. Locals responding to a Narcity Canada Facebook post about Ontario’s hidden gems gave St. Marys top marks — and for good reason.
Visitors can spend the weekend strolling along the scenic waterfront, browsing quaint stone shops, or relaxing in cozy cafes. With over 25 kilometres of natural trails, including the Loop Trail and Riverview Walkway, there’s no shortage of nature to enjoy either.
But the true highlight? The town’s quarry, billed as Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool. This former limestone quarry is now a sparkling swimming hole, complete with a floating water park, making it a perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
And if that’s not enough, St. Marys is just 15 minutes from Stratford, giving weekend travelers two destinations to explore in one relaxing trip.
With its European flair and small-town heart, St. Marys is a summer destination worth discovering, and locals say it’s one of Ontario’s most enchanting hidden treasures.
