The Sweetest Route to Shop

South Eastern Ontario

Sleigh your Christmas Shopping List in South Eastern Ontario

How sweet it is to travel around South Eastern Ontario this holiday season? This Festive Finds Discovery Tour throughout Rideau Lakes, Leeds the Thousand Islands, and Gananoque is your path to find delectable delights and delicious bites for the sweet tooth on your list. Plus, stock up on fresh cakes and pies for entertaining. ‘Tis the season to indulge a little!Check current store hours at the links when planning your trip.

Seasonal Gems in Gananoque

Panache Bakery & Cafe

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Located in downtown Gananoque, Panache Bakery & Cafe uses only the freshest ingredients in their breads, rolls, pies, and cakes. It’s the ultimate destination for indulgence. Don’t miss their signature desserts, including light and airy cheesecakes and irresistible coconut squares. 

Address: 
162 King St E, Gananoque, ON

Pump House Creamery

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Located in the heart of the 1000 Islands, experience a sweet sensation at Pump House Creamery in Gananoque. This charming store specializes in homemade ice cream and gelato. Bring a cooler, and take a pint (or two, or three) to go, and stock up your freezer for the holidays. Say hello to irresistible Brown Butter Speculaas and Salted Caramel ice cream. And don’t miss their new additions like Maple Bacon Doughnuts and Apple Fritters. This really is the sweetest route!

Address: 
2 King St E, Gananoque, ON

Savour & Shop in Gananoque.

When you’re in Gananoque, don’t miss the cozy family-run Pistachio Café. It’s the perfect spot for a scrumptious light bite and a seasonal latte. And for the sweet tooth in you, they’ve got award-winning gelato and mouthwatering pastries. Local artwork adorns the wall so you may be able to check off the art lover on your list too.

Laverne’s Eatery whips up comfort food with their own unique twist. The food is fantastic, the décor is a quirky delight, and they’ve got a knack for crafting some heavenly baked goods. The real stars of the show at Christmas, ‘Dorothy Jean’s’ shortbread cookies and freshly baked biscotti. Yuuuummmm!

Joyful discoveries in Rideau Lakes

Ridgway Confections

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Sweeten your holiday gifting game and stop by Ridgway Confections in the quaint village of Seeley’s Bay. This enchanting shop specializes in artisanal hand-crafted Belgian chocolates created with only the finest fresh ingredients. For those who appreciate a little crunch with their munch, their chocolate-covered sponge toffee and candy brittles are a must-try. This gem of a store is the real deal for confectionary bliss.

Address: 
159 Main St, Seeley’s Bay, ON

Luke’s European Style Market

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Experience the heartwarming charm of Luke’s European Style Market, a family-owned and operated haven in Athens. What began as offerings for their own café has now blossomed into a delight for foodies and those in search of sweet treasures.

Address: 
29 Main St E, Athens, ON

Willard’s Bakery

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A hug for your taste buds, this family-owned bakery is all about keeping it homestyle, with no added preservatives, just good ol’ deliciousness. Known for their fresh fried donuts that are so good, they should come with a warning label – you won’t be able to stop at just one.

Address: 
21 Main St E, Athens, ON

Orchèl Bakery and Boutique

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An adorable stop on the sweetest trail! Quiet and cozy and homemade deliciousness! Stock up on holiday treats and shop the boutique. If cinnamon rolls are on your naughty but nice list, you've found the right place!

Address: 
74A Quabbin Rd, Mallorytown, ON

Rapid Valley Restaurant

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Rapid Valley Restaurant is your slice of pie heaven. Get ready for the most wonderfully tasty homemade pies that’ll make your holiday season sweeter than ever. A spot loved by locals, you won’t want to skip this stop on the sweetest route!

Address: 
898 Hwy #2, Lansdowne, ON

Savour & shop in Rideau Lakes

Comfy chairs, a big historic front window, and the perfect spot to relax and take a break on this delicious day. Bastard Coffee House in the village of Delta is simply charming and the perfect spot to warm up, grab a fresh baked muffin, and enjoy the hospitality of the Rideau region.

The Sweetest Route will not only satisfy your sugar cravings but also allow you to take in the natural beauty and charming communities of 1000 Islands Gananoque and Rideau Lakes region. Whether you’re into pastries, chocolates, ice cream, or local baking, this journey offers a delightful experience for those with a serious sweet tooth.

Business opening hours can fluctuate and possibly inclement weather closures. Be sure to check their socials before you start your day. Happy shopping, and happy holidays!

You may also like our other Festive Finds Discovery Tours, where you can discover hidden gems and shop for gifts from independent retailers across South Eastern Ontario.

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