This riverside village 1.5 hrs from Toronto is dotted with storybook shops and charming cafes

You don't need to travel far from Toronto to find a little village that looks like it belongs in a storybook.

Just about 1.5 hours from the city, you'll find a charming riverside community with historic buildings, cozy cafés, cute boutiques and scenic trails that wind along the water.

You can spend an afternoon wandering shop to shop, stopping for a baked treat and taking in the old-fashioned streetscape along the way.

See on Instagram St.

Jacobs Village is a quaint gem located along the shores of the Conestoga River.

It's even been named the prettiest small town in Canada by Narcity readers, so you can expect major charm here.

The village dates back to the 1800s and has deep German and Mennonite roots, which can still be seen in its architecture, businesses and surrounding countryside.

See on Instagram According to the St.

Jacobs Village website , the community is filled with "authentic sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and incredible one-of-a-kind shopping." Shopping is definitely one of the highlights.

The village is lined with independent stores selling everything from clothing and vintage finds to home decor, art, gifts and locally made goods.

See on Instagram You can browse the village directory to see just how many small businesses are tucked along its streets.

One particularly unique stop is Hamel Brooms , which dates back to 1908 and is known as Canada's last remaining corn broom manufacturer.

See on Instagram You can watch the traditional broom-making process inside the shop before browsing its collection of stained glass, home decor and other handcrafted treasures.

For something sweet, make your way to Stone Crock Bakery , where you can pick up fresh-baked goods, including its famous Dutch apple pie and butter tarts.