Thursday, November 27, 2014

Pre-Christmas and Christmas Vacation Getaways and Packages

FEATURED LATE FALL AND CHRISTMAS VACATION GETAWAYS NORTH OF TORONTO

Get ready festivals of lights and tree lighting ceremonies...the season is changing to Christmas bazaars craft shows and the festive pre-holiday shopping time. Enjoy spa treatments and culinary delights after brisk biking and walking in resort destination trails Plan late fall getaways and vacation time north of Toronto. Questions? Please Contact Us

Romantic Ontario Getaway Pick

Nottawasaga Resort - Alliston, Ontario

Nottawasaga Inn ResortNottawasaga Resort - Treat yourself to a romantic getaway for two at the Nottawasaga Resort.  Our TGIF package is perfect for couples and includes deluxe resort room accommodation, buffet breakfast, gourmet 4-course dinner one evening, one hour RMT massage or 18 holes of golf one day, complimentary cocktail and appetizer in the Starlite Lounge, two mini-golf passes and gratuities. If you are joining us over the weekend consider using your package breakfast vouchers for a partial credit towards our delicious Sunday Brunch. Served every Sunday from 10:30am to 1:30pm in the Riverview Dining Room, our famous Sunday brunch features a gourmet selection of breakfast favourites including made to order omelettes, fresh Belgium waffles, an exceptional selection of hot items and more!

Couples Romantic Getaways north of Toronto 

Spa Getaways in Ontario Pick

Millcroft Inn and Spa - Village of Alton-Caledon, Ontario
Millcroft Inn and SpaMillcroft Inn and Spa -SPA ESCAPE at MILLCROFT INN & SPA. Indulge in a getaway to the Hills of Headwaters at The Millcroft Inn & Spa. Indulge in a three course dinner, then retreat to the comfort of your guestroom. You will also receive a $100 spa credit per person to use at The Millcroft Spa, Centre for Well-Being. This relaxing getaway is sure to recharge your batteries and bring new life to your romance.


Spa Getaways north of Toronto

Family Vacation Getaway Pick

Sunbeam Bungalows - Sundridge, Ontario
Sunbeam Bungalows Family & Fishing ResortSunbeam Bungalows Sunbeam Bungalows Family & Fishing Resort is conveniently located amongst the snow covered pines, on the shores of Callander Bay, Lake Nipissing. Blue skies, clean white snow, bracing fresh air, and the beauty of the frozen lake are what we love about the winter experience in Northern Ontario. Come and relax in the comfort and privacy of one of our clean, spacious 2 or 3 bedroom housekeeping cottages– fully furnished including bed linen, with fully equipped kitchens. Cottages also include digital cable, 32” flat screen TV/DVD, Wi-Fi, BBQ with propane, and fire bowl for a crackling outdoor winter camp fire. You’re only minutes away from ice fishing, downhill and cross country skiing, tobogganing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. There are local services and amenities in the small town of Callander, and the larger centre of North Bay is just a short drive away.

Winter Ontario Pick 

Westwind Inn On The Lake - Buckhorn, Ontario
Westwind Inn On The Lake Couples ResortWestwind Inn On The Lake - A winter wonderland...So Romantic!   Serene, Intimate, Private. Scenic. For Adlults.  Mostly Couples.
A cozy all cedar lodge nestled under tall pines on pink granite rock on the shore of a scenic lake in a wilderness setting yet close to all amenities, 90 min from Toronto. Rustic. Comfy. Unpretentious...says it all ... Rustic. Relaxed, welcoming, casual... No need for jacket & tie. Comfy bedsitting room with sofa, coffee table, fireplace, ancient color tv with few stations (like new since rarely used). Rooms, basic, clean, in good repair. Many have been renovated with new bathrooms with slate floor, heart shaped jet tub for two, pedestal sink, fridge, kettle. Rustic! Lodge filled with century old antique dressers, chests, blanket boxes, flat to walls, dry sinks, cupboards,spinning wheels, oriental Persian rugs. Common Living room with books, coffee maker, tea pot & kettle, fridge. Honeymoon Suites in the “chalet”, only 4  So private. Not only for Honeymoons!  Larger... with pine floors, red cedar ceiling, huge sofa & wing chair, 4 poster bed... large balcony deck by the lake.
December Getaways north of Toronto

Ontario Christams Getaways

Pine Vista Resort - Douro-Dummer, Ontario
Pine Vista ResortPine Vista Resort - COUNTRY CHRISTMAS GETAWAY. Celebrate Christmas and cherish time with your family in a safe, relaxing, and fun atmosphere. Enjoy 3 nights accommodation in a cottage or resort townhouse with fully equipped kitchen, washroom with whirlpool bath, TV/DVD, wood fireplace and deck with BBQ. While the festive meal is cooking the whole family can be enjoying our "hot tub under the stars", indoor hot tub, games and fitness rooms, go cross country skiing, snowshoeing, skating, tobogganing, and hiking or treat yourself to a therapeutic massage for some pampering. Take part in our organized recreation activities, including a horse drawn sleigh ride followed by hot chocolate and cookies, winter carnival with face painting, tobogganing, maple taffy, plus crafts, movie nights, outdoor games, campfires and so much more.

Christams Getaways north of Toronto

Ontario Cross Country Skiing Getaways Pick

Moose Horn Lodge - Chapleau, Ontario
Moose Horn LodgeMoose Horn Lodge Snow comes to our area in November and doesn't leave until April, which gives us a very long winter season to enjoy. In the winter, snow blankets the area with majestic beauty. Trekking by cross country skis or snowshoes allows visitors to view the areas' breathtaking sights. You can also bring your skates and skate on the rink that is available right outside your door. For those who would like to snowmobile, the lodge is only a mile from the OFSC Trail F system. Unlike trails in southern Ontario and the Northern US that are packed with snowmobiles, we have the luxury of hundreds of miles of pristine trails right outside your door with no bumper to bumper traffic. There are also many lakes in the area with excellent ice fishing for Walleye and Trout.

Attractions Ontario Pick

Sainte Marie among The Hurons   - Midland, Ontario

Sainte Marie Among The Hurons Sainte Marie among The Hurons - First Light Special Event Evenings November 27, 28, 29, 2014 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Now in its 15th year, Sainte-Marie’s “First Light” is a must-see event with a great line-up of family activities and performers, all amidst the spectacular glow of over 5,000 candles. The magic begins when visitors approach the candlelit historic site, as a beautiful amber glow illuminates the famous 17th-century mission. A colourful historic encampment will greet visitors, set up by the popular “Survival In The Bush” group. Visitors can then stroll the candlelit paths which lead to a variety of fun family activities. The cookhouse is filled with the sights and smells of delicious baked goods and cookie samples available for tasting. Historic blacksmithing will also be demonstrated, and a Nativity crèche will be on display in the stables near the Farmer’s Dwelling. Always popular with little folks, corn husk doll making will be offered in the Sainte-Marie foyer. “First Light” has strong ties to community groups, and many will be involved in this year’s celebration, offering special “hands-on” children’s crafts and historic demonstrations. An abundance of music will also fill the air, including Native drumming and singing, lively Franco-Ontarian folksongs, and delightful community and school choirs performing seasonal music over the three evenings. For some early holiday shopping, 20 exceptional artisans will be in the Sainte-Marie museum, and the themed Sainte-Marie gift shop will be open each night. Admission is just $10.00 per person (children 5 and under are free), with a non-perishable food item that will be donated to the local food bank. Special Notes: Please be advised that with the exception of service animals, family pets are NOT allowed on the historic site for this event. Overflow parking will be available at Doral Industries, 100 Wye Valley Road. Free shuttle buses will run to Sainte-Marie throughout each evening.
Ontario Attractions north of Toronto


Ontario Tourism Destination of the Week

Township of Algonquin Highlands Trails DepartmentAlgonquin Highlands Trails
(http://www.algonquinhighlands.ca/)
Where Adventure Awaits! ~ Haliburton Highlands Water Trails – Frost Centre and Poker Lakes ~ Frost Centre Ski and Snowshoe Trails ~ Backcountry Camping, Canoeing and Kayaking ~ Canoe, Ski and Snowshoe Rentals ~ 38kms of Hiking Trails, Hundreds of kms of Snowmobile and ATV trails ~ Excellent fishing for Trout, Bass and Whitefish ~ Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower – Best view of Fall colors in the highlands! ~ Ontario’s only full size historic Log chute ~ Group of Seven Outdoor Murals ~ Dorset Snowball Winter Carnival. Just 2.5hrs from Toronto, in the heart of the Haliburton Highlands. Visit www.algonquinhighlands.ca. Call 705-766-9033 for info
Ontario Resort Destinations north of Toronto

Friday, November 21, 2014

Wax On! Early start for skiiers this season north of Toronto!

It's incredible - a week of snow, snowsqualls and low temps have led the way to an early weekend to hit the ski hills and trails north of Toronto!

If you're looking for some outdoor physical fun this weekend the following are ski operators who will be offering limited access to their slopes and trails at reduced prices.

As conditions are changing daily, we recommend checking directly with the operator to confirm availability. 

"OPEN FOR NOW"

Hardwood Ski and Bike
Barrie
Friday update: Hardwood received another 2 cm last night and have Ginzu Groomed Meadowlands, Torino and Nagano and Sochi for skating. Meadowlands has a classic track. Trail passes available for $15 + HST.



Horseshoe Resort
Barrie
November 22nd & Sunday, November 23rd from 9am to 4pm with two runs. Lift tickets are only $20 so come out and #DotheShoe this weekend. If you haven't bought your Seasons Pass yet, not to worry there is a sweet deal happening....for $209 get a 5 Day, 7 Night pass that includes a one night mid-week stay. If your winter sport is Cross Country, we have 15km of groomed trails ready for you. Daily trail passes are just $12.


Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday.

More Blue Mountains & Collingwood Hotels & Attractions...

Future Opening Dates (subject to change based on conditions)

Blue Mountain Resort, Blue Mountains - November 28

Sir Sam's Ski & Bike, Haliburton  - December 6

Wye Marsh, Midland - TBA

Keep Calm and Ski On! 

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Mid-November Events North of Toronto

The rush of November is here, the countdown has officially begun. However, we recommend you take the time and enjoy the days and weeks ahead - there are lots of great things happening including special events, holidays events and all around late fall and early winter fun in areas north of Toronto. The days may be shorter and the air is a little cooler, but there are day trips and getaways to lift your spirits and help you keep your holiday glow.

Special Getaways

Merry in Muskoka with Chef Michael Smith


Join Chef Michael Smith for a non-stop interactive weekend of holiday flavours, friends and full-on foodie fun. Michael will welcome you Friday night to a Taste of Muskoka packed with lots of local flavours. On Saturday attend an exclusive lunch-time cooking class as Michael leads a raucous recipe demonstration with his signature high-energy style, entertaining story telling and a few tricks up his sleeve. Then settle in for an evening unlike anything you’ve ever experienced as you and your table plunge into an interactive meal full of surprises and fun. Turkey dinner has never been so much fun!
Click here for more details

Read More:



Featured Events

Visit the Nottawasaga Resort for the 31st Annual Sugar Plum Fair Craft Show & Sale, Saturday November 15th and Sunday November 16th and discover a spectacular line-up of crafters who feature a unique line-up of handmade items.

Fallicious Shop & Dine
Book your table and grab your shopping bag for the annual Shop and Savour experience at Blue! Choose sensational menu specials from nine participating restaurants, three craving stops plus get a head start on your holiday shopping early at several favourite shopping outlets. SUNDAY TO THURSDAY only.


Santa Claus Parades & Tree Lightings

Enjoy the magic of the Christmas holidays by attention a small town Santa Claus parade or get warm and fuzzies at a beautiful holiday tree lightings.

Coming up:

Alliston (Nov. 14) | Angus (Nov. 15) | Bala (Nov. 15) | Barrie (Nov. 15) | Bradford West-Gwillimbury (Nov. 15) | Newmarket (Nov. 15) | Lakefield (Nov. 16) | Orangeville (Nov. 15) | Lindsay (Nov. 15)



Late Fall & Winter Markets

Holiday shopping, locally sourced foods and unique artisan work make it a great spot to spend a few weekend hours. Featured Markets:

Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers' Market
Saturday morning on Fairground Rd.

Orillia Farmers' Market
Saturday morning at the Orillia Public Library

Penetanguishene Community Market
Saturday morning at La Cle d'la Baie on Main Street

Click here for market details.



Live Entertainment at Casino Rama


Nov. 13 - John Fogerty
Nov. 14 & 15 - Roger Hodgson
Nov. 16 - Fausto Leali & Marcelle Bella

Other Events:

PA Day Camp at Huronia Museum (Friday)

Open Mic at the Roxy Cafe - Midland Cultural Centre (Saturdays)


Activities

There are many other fun activities for couples or for families, you can find those here,

Or choose adventure by destination! 

Tuesday, November 04, 2014

Fresh is still best in Ontario's Lake Country! Great food and fun events this weekend north of Toronto!

While the fall colours and leaves are falling, things are heating up in the kitchens of Ontario's Lake Country!

Attention foodies and fresh food lovers ~ the Fall Flavours campaign is the opportunity for both locals and visitors to treat themselves to some of the finest dining establishments found in Ontario's Lake Country. During Harvest the Fall Flavours guests have the opportunity to experience a diversity of three-course culinary delights. The participating chefs have been busy creating new tempting menus, to entice visitors to choose their restaurant, the menu must include at least one item that is sourced from a local farm or producer.

Dine at one of the 11 participating restaurants and enter to win cooking class for two from Chef Derek at The Grape & Olive!

Featuring the 400 Eleven members participating in this promotions:

Crazy Horse at Horseshoe Resort

Echoes Dining Lounge at Bayview Wildwood Resort

Grape & Olive & Martini Bistro at Bestwestern Plus Mariposa Inn

St. Germain's at Casino Rama


Farmers' Markets also continue in OLC all year long!

Orillia Fairgrounds Farmers' Market
Saturday mornings at the Orillia Fairgrounds

Orilla Farmers' Market
Saturday morning at the Orillia Public Library

Other Weekend Events happening this weekend north of Toronto -

Annual Ski & Snowboard Swaps



Snow Valley Resort - Ski Swap & Open House
November 1
Barrie

Snow Valley's equipment swap & open house has traditionally been one of the area's largest ski & snowboard swaps. This year you can expect it to be even better as they plan to move the entire swap to the new chalet! Be sure to arrive early to snag the best deals. Stay the rest of the day and ride the chairlift, take a hay wagon ride, hit the jib setup, check out the retail sale, or just sit and enjoy the day with your fellow ski bums!



November 1-2
Barrie
Bring in your old gear and pick up something new at one of Ontario's largest ski & snowboard swaps. New this year, Horseshoe is pleased to add Bikes into the mix. So if you are in the market for new ski/snowboard or bikes this is the Swap not to miss!

November 1
Midland
Create beautiful hand-made rattles under the instruction Suzi Kies.

Alice Cooper, The Doobie Brothers, Tony Bennett

There's so much to see and do, consider an overnight or weekend getaway to any of these area or other great ones in areas north of Toronto. 

Click here for: Weekend Getaways