When it’s time to take a break from the bustle of Toronto, a scenic drive to Belfountain Conservation Area is just the ticket. This 13-hectare park near the town of Caledon has hiking trails, limestone cliffs and a suspension bridge overlooking waterfalls. With geography influenced by the West Credit River Valley and the Niagara Escarpment, it features varied landscapes and spectacular views. While exploring the area, here are a few places to stop along the way:

1. Downey's Farm Market is family-owned, with seasonal produce, baked goods and a play area for the kids. It’s loaded with fun things to do, including mini golf and wagon rides. (In the fall, there’s a corn maze.) It’s about an hour’s drive from Toronto or less.

2. It’s only about 20 minutes away from Downey’s, but the strangeness of Cheltenham Badlands might make you think you’ve travelled to Mars.The undulating geological formations and strangely eroded hillsides, formed 450 million years ago, create a striking landscape. Explore it along a short trail.

3. The Archers of Caledon offer a family-friendly way to try out archery, just 20 minutes or so from the Badlands. Book ahead for the 90-minute Intro Archery Lesson — membership is not required; the minimum age is 8.

On to your destination! Drive about 15 minutes farther, and you’ll arrive at Belfountain Conservation Area. Visit the park’s “belle” fountain, a moss-covered fountain made from inverted bells. Time to kick back in nature, have a picnic, take a hike and enjoy the beautiful gardens.