It is that time of year again, from March to April is maple syrup season! Canada happens to be the world’s largest producer of maple syrup making 80% of the world’s supply which comes from sugar bush in Ontario and Quebec. If you are looking for a truly Canadian activity to do this spring, visit a sugar shack to see how maple syrup is made and have a pancake breakfast. Near Ottawa, there are a variety of sugar bushes, including Temple’s Sugar Bush in Lanark.
What I adore about Temple’s Sugar Bush is the building, while many sugar bushes are in weathered buildings, Temple’s Sugar Bush has a Timber frame structure with vaulted post and beams ceiling and cozy stone fireplace.
The Food
Previously I have visited Temple’s Sugar Bush for a stunning rustic winter wedding, and I was excited to return to try the pancake house which is open in maple season. The menu offers a variety of single plate or family-style sharing platters of all the dishes you might expect to go with maple syrup such as pancakes, bacon, waffles, and french toast.
My personal favorite dish was the recommended Belgian waffles which came with a tart blueberry preserve that wonderfully contrasted the sweetness of the maple poured over my waffles and within the maple whipped cream.
The sugar bush pancake meal with two buttermilk pancakes, with sausage and maple, baked beans.
The cinnamon swirl French Toast which is topped with maple whipped cream and served with fresh fruit.
The sugar maker’s breakfast with baked egg, buttermilk biscuit, maple baked beans, potatoes, and sausage.
What To See And Do
Within Temple’s Sugar Bush there is also a small store to purchase a variety of maple products, including butter, syrup, sugar or tarts.
On the 70 acres of property that make of Temple’s Sugar Bush, there is a nature path that you can take for a short 15-minute walk through part of the forest where are 5000 trees tapped for maple syrup and can try to spot some of the local wild animals and birds.
Next, to the main building, you can also explore where the maple syrup is produced.
If you are something to do this weekend, try heading out to Temple’s Sugar Bush which is 50 minutes drive away from Ottawa. The large building with ample seating makes for a and is a sweet brunch location, so go ahead and invite some friends to join you in sharing one the large platter meals.
