Blessed with ample power as water drained through the Rideau Lake, the town of Westport’s existence as a milling location was destined by its abundant natural resources.
So in 1829, at the site that is now The GristMill Place, the Manhard family built the original mill.
In its day, it was among the most important buildings in the town. A powerful nexus of decision making, social interactions and, of course, the critical task of sustaining the region with food.
Ironically, in the years long after milling ceased, the location once vital for transforming grain would transform itself. Many times over, in fact.
Becoming everything from a hotel destroyed by fire (under mysterious circumstances, of course!). A maple wood baseball bat fabrication facility that would help many Major League Baseball players “knock ’em out of the park!” And a private home complete with an art gallery.
In 2020, the property was purchased by current owners JF and Kathy, whose vision and renovations have turned The Gristmill Place into an Airbnb ‘Guest favourite’ lakeside retreat.
A designation earned by transforming the place in a way that will immediately connect you to its storied past, while its luxury helps comfortably connect you with those you care about.
Now you know why we say that a stay at The GristMill Place is everything but run of the mill.
