Ultimate Guide to a Dreamy Girls Getaway in Stirling Ontario
Looking for a charming small-town escape in Ontario? I’ve got the perfect hidden gem for you—Stirling! Whether you’re a foodie, a small-town explorer, or planning a girl’s getaway, this rural retreat is sure to impress.
Nestled in Hastings County, just 25 minutes north of Belleville, Stirling is best known for its historic Stirling Theatre and the fascinating Farmtown Park. But beyond these well-loved attractions, you’ll find a wealth of hidden gems tucked along the backroads, from craft breweries to incredible local eats—think fresh butter tarts and artisan bread.
After multiple visits and spending several days focused on uncovering Stirling’s treasures, I’ve put together the ultimate guide to help you plan your perfect girls getaway in Stirling. From must-visit spots to an unforgettable place to stay (that you may never want to leave!), this guide has everything you need to make the most of your trip.
Disclaimer: I was a guest of Huntingdon House Boutique B&B, but all opinions expressed are my own.
Where to Stay in Stirling
The Huntingdon House Boutique B&B is the most enchanting place to stay in Stirling! And this is not your traditional bed and breakfast where different guests book a room within the house. At Huntingdon House, you literally get half the house!
This unique building consists of a board and batten farmhouse that’s attached to a renovated limestone church that was built in 1867. With a stunning stain glass window, towering ceilings, and massive wood beams, the old church is the space that guests get to enjoy when they book their stay.
As soon as I pulled back the decorative barn door to enter the space I was in awe! The open concept space includes a massive living and dining room. I love the luxurious farmhouse chic vibe that’s carried throughout the suite, it’s the perfect blend of comfort and Instagrammable –making for a truly unforgettable stay!
Also on the main floor is the primary bedroom – which exudes peace and tranquility. It has a melt-worthy Serta king sized bed and gas fireplace.
In addition to the bedroom, there’s a gas fireplace in the main space –known as Ashley Hall, and one in the loft living room. The loft space also features a small kitchenette, with Keurig coffee machine, microwave, fridge and dishes in case you opt to dine in. Plus, the main living room and loft space have comfortable pullout couches.
Breakfast at Huntingdon House is just as extraordinary! Guests have the choice of 3 different menu items. I enjoyed their incredible baguette-style French toast with local maple syrup. It also comes with juice, a bowl of fruit and yogurt. The perfect way to fuel your day!
Huntingdon House Boutique B&B Highlights
- open concept space
- stain glass window
- vaulted ceiling with wood beams
- each room has a gas fireplace
- indoor jacuzzi + rainfall shower head
- Sleeps 6 people comfortably
Who is Huntingdon House good for?
They are popular for wedding stays –for the bride and her bridesmaids to stay the night before and get ready before the wedding, as well as for the couple on their wedding night. So, whether you’re getting married or looking for a dreamy romantic escape, the Huntingdon House is ideal!
But I think it’s perfect for a girls getaway in Stirling!
Ladies looking for a relaxing and fun escape with their friends will love Huntingdon House! It comfortably sleeps 6 people. And thanks to the large space with various places to escape to, everyone can also enjoy quiet time on their own.
Plus, with the additional experiences you can book at the Huntingdon House, like yoga classes, massages and manicures, you’ll have things to do without leaving the beautiful suite.
A little about your hosts
The home, which includes both the converted church and the old farmhouse, is owned and operated by Jen & Greg. Your gracious hosts will welcome you in and are so generous with their advice on what to do in the area and where to eat. They genuinely want you to have the best stay –not just in their bed and breakfast, but also in their adopted small town.
What to do at Huntingdon House
Staying at the Huntingdon House is so much more than a typical stay at a hotel or bed and breakfast. In addition to their stunning place – which is an experience itself, they offer a number of different experiences that you can add onto your stay.
Huntingdon House Boutique B&B partners with a number of local businesses to offer on location services like yoga and massages. So, you don’t have to leave to enjoy some pampering or a rejuvenating guided yoga practice.
The property has other highlights that include a campfire with Muskoka chairs and an outdoor hot tub. Plus, there’s an adorable gazebo lounge area with hammocks and twinkling lights to enjoy night or day.
Experiences Available at the B&B:
- Yoga
- Massage
- Karaoke
- Campfire
- Charcuterie board
What to do in Stirling
While you might not want to leave the comforts of the Huntingdon House, if you do, there’s a number of great things to do in Stirling.
TRAVEL TIP: Please be aware that many businesses are not open Monday & Tuesday. So, try and plan your visit for later in the week.
Browse Stirling Book Company
I’m a sucker for finding cute and cozy independent bookshops and was thrilled to find one in Stirling. The Stirling Book Company is relatively new to the shops in downtown Stirling.
As soon as I entered, I immediately fell in love! There’s a comfy little window seat, plants, and a varied selection of books. You’ll find everything from new releases, kids’ books, and cute book merch like stickers and quote blocks.
Plus, the lovely owner, Tracey, is so friendly and helpful when looking for a book.
Enjoy a Coffee at Farm Girl Café
If you’re looking for a cute coffee shop or a place to grab a bite to eat, then head to Farm Girl Café. This adorable café has a cozy farmhouse vibe.
I love that they’re passionate about sustainability and dedicated to using locally sourced products. Their coffee is a Canadian brand, 49th Parallel Coffee Roasters, from British Columbia.
In addition to various beverages and baked goods, they offer sandwiches, soups and more. It’s a great spot for breakfast for lunch. I enjoyed a maple latte and one of their salted toffee cookies – which are huge and amazing! Wish I bought more than one!
Grab Tarts from Paradise Tarts
A dangerously delicious place to visit in Stirling is conveniently located right across the street from the Huntingdon House – Paradise Tarts.
Paradise Tarts has been crafting award winning butter tarts. They make over 1500 tarts every day! And they use local Gay Lea Butter. For those who don’t know, Gay Lea is an Ontario dairy company that uses local milk producers.
This shop is a new location and you can find a wide range of butter tart flavours, from classic pecan to caramel apple – which is a tasty mix of apple pie meets butter tart.
- Farmtown Park – This unique Stirling attraction is home to a number of buildings to explore that represent farm life in the 1930’s, like a dairy museum, steam engine and more. It’s open during the summer month.
- Stirling Theatre – Enjoy a live performance at this year-round theatre, they showcase everything from musicals to comedy shows.
- Covered Bridge – Visit this cute covered bridge and spot the signs for trolls under it! In the summer it’s home to the farmers market and during the holidays –the Christmas Market.
What to do Nearby
The area is home to a number of other cute small towns to visit. Both Madoc and Campbellford are under 30 minutes away from the Huntingdon House.
Explore Madoc
A short 15 minute drive north of the Huntingdon House, Madoc is full of places to visit during your stay.
Downtown Madoc is home to a number of great shops, including The Bookworm–a second hand bookstore, an antique store and thrift store. You’ll also find a number of different places to eat.
Welcome International is a unique restaurant with a varied menu that features pasta, classic pub grub, burgers and the BEST lasagna. Along with great food, it has a fun element with their colourful LED light system on the ceiling.
Another great place to visit in Madoc is O’Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation Area. Located a few minutes from downtown, it’s home to hiking trails as well as a number of heritage buildings to explore pioneer life in the 1800s.
Visit Campbellford
Best known for being home to one of Ontario’s giant roadside attractions – the Toonie! But there is a number of other great attractions in Campbellford.
Campbellfood is full of fabulous foodie stops that range from unique breweries and restaurants. A must-visit donut shop is Dooher’s Bakery! Since 1949, this family run bakery has been making incredible baked goods that include artisan breads and some of the best donuts.
Another great stop is Empire Cheese and Butter Co-op. I always stop in when I’m visiting the area to grab some of their blocks of cheese and cheese curds.
If you’re looking for restaurants to dine at during your Stirling getaway at the Huntingdon House, I recommend Capers Tap House. In a historic home, the menu features an assortment of options from burgers to entrees.
For outdoor enthusiast, visit Ferris Provincial Park, located minutes from downtown Campbellford. The park is home to three hiking trails, all of which are under 3.5km. Plus, don’t miss the Ranney Gorge Suspension Bridge!
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So, whether you’re looking for the perfect destination to escape to with your girl friends or a romantic retreat, planning a getaway in Stirling offers the perfect mix of relaxation and small town exploration. And booking your stay at the Huntingdon House Boutique B&B is ideal as for its location and dreamy space.
Looking for more things to do in the area? Plan a visit to explore all the attractions in Belleville!
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