Located at the edge of the Greater Toronto Area, about 75 km northwest of Toronto, the County of Dufferin is made up of eight communities: the towns of Mono, Orangeville and Shelburne, as well as the townships of Amaranth, East Garafraxa, East Luther-Grand Valley, Melancthon and Mulmur.  Almost half of the area’s population is found in Orangeville.

Headwaters Country

From the rolling hills of Hockley Valley to the lush Luther Marsh, Dufferin is a natural wonderland. Known as “Headwaters Country”, Dufferin is home to the headwaters of the Credit, Humber and Saugeen Rivers. Both the Grand River and the Nottawasaga River wind through the county, making Dufferin the ideal spot to go fishing, canoeing or kayaking, while Luther Lake, a man-made reservoir, is perfect for boating and swimming.

Dufferin County Outdoor Enthusiasts Dream

But the fun doesn’t end there. Take a leisurely drive and enjoy the magnificent colours in the fall or go skiing and snowmobiling when the snow flies. Bring your hiking boots to Mono Cliffs Provincial Park and explore the natural staircase of stone through the Niagara Escarpment or ramble along the Bruce Trail at Boyne Valley Provincial Park.

Dufferin County’s economy was mainly agricultural in the past but has diversified to include manufacturing, retail establishments, tourism and construction. Commercial services are based in Orangeville and Shelburne, which are the main shopping districts in the county with restaurants, specialty shops and franchise stores. Grand Valley also has a charming downtown area and is the perfect destination for a day trip.

The agricultural history of the area is preserved at the Dufferin County Museum and Archives, which is built in the style of a bank barn. The museum is located twenty minutes from Orangeville between Shelburne and Alliston on Highway 89 and features four historic buildings, artifact displays and an art gallery displaying the works of local artists.

Dufferin County Real Estate

Dufferin County offers plenty of housing options, from a farm in the rolling hills to family-friendly subdivisions in established towns. No matter what you prefer, Dufferin is the perfect place to call home with nature’s playground right outside your door.