Friday, October 30, 2009

Romancing the Fall-Festivals of Lights

Late fall festivals of lights and exciting romantic getaways are reasons to travel north in Ontario. November Fall road trips for families will catch the end of the fall leaf season along with a SantaClaus parade. Without the foliage visitors can see exceptional vistas along with a country walks, a hike or bike ride. November ski country ski and snowboard swap will help winter getaway enthusiasts to get ready for the Ontario outdoor winter holiday season. Reserve now for your Christmas New Year weekends and holidays.

Ontario Resort Travel Destination Picks of the Week.

Featured Ontario Destinations &Travel Tourism Associations


North Muskoka Region




North Muskoka Region http://www.north-muskoka.com/ 
Muskoka is widely recognized as one of Canada's most popular vacation spots. Whether it is a romantic getaway with someone special, a summer family vacation or special group gathering, the many choices of cottage resorts, inns and lodges make North Muskoka an excellent place to spend a holiday. The resorts in North Muskoka have been greeting guests for generations and are a true reflection of the Muskoka vacation experience. The North Muskoka directory features private and family owned accommodations offering:
  • Accommodations only minutes from Algonquin Park, Huntsville and Lake of Bays
  • Family vacation packages and couples getaways
  • Weddings and conference venues
  • Casual restaurants and fine dining



Romantic Getaway of the Week


Deerhurst Resort - Huntsville, Ontario


Deerhurst ResortDeerhurst Resort - Go ahead, be spontaneous. Our romantic getaway just for two includes all your favourite date night essentials, in an idyllic lakeside setting. Includes: Select accommodation, wine & cheese tray on arrival, two cocktails in the Lobby Bar and 3-course dinner for two in Eclipse or Maple. Huntsville, Ontario, Information









Family Getaway of the Week


Echo Falls Cottage -Baxter Lake, Ontario
Cottage on a Golden Pond Executive Waterfront Cottage Rental Echo Falls Cottage - 4 season Echo Falls Cottage (South Muskoka), on
Baxter Lake, Ontario, Information
beautiful, quiet and calm Baxter Lake. Family getaways with 4-season activities for families up to 10, such as swimming, hot-tubbing, snow-shoeing, snowmobiling and skiing. Modern Viceroy Winterized cottage features gorgeous treed outdoor areas with beautiful lake-front; also includes hot-tub, woodstove, sunken living room, fully equipped kitchen (includes dishwasher, microwave), wraparound deck, skylights, terraces off bedrooms. Hiking
trails in wooded areas adjacent to the property. Only 90 minutes from Toronto.






Town, Village &City Getaway of the Week


Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites - North Bay, Ontario


Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites North BayHolidayInn Express Hotel & Suites - This Fall, enjoy the attractions of North Bay during the day and the comfort of your Suite at night. Our Family North Bay, Ontario, Information
Getaway Package provides extra space and value in one of our large Suites, with a free in-room movie and Hot Breakfast.






Spa Getaway of the Week


Willow Beach Cottages - Haliburton, Ontario


Willow Beach CottagesWillow Beach Cottages - The romantic spa experience comes with 2 nights accommodation in a cottage complete with a fireplace (including the wood) plus a specially selected basket of spa products and instructional material for use while you are in the privacy of your own cottage. Prices start at $166 per person midweek or $192 per person weekend for 2 night stay (and you may qualify for a 3rd night for free!). OR for an additional $100 pp enjoy a professional couple's massage and manicure at the Wind in the Willows Spa .. the choice is yours. Haliburton, Ontario, Information






Attraction of the Week


Sainte-Marie among the Hurons - Midland, Ontario


Sainte-Marie among the HuronsSainte-Marie among the Hurons - Evenings November 26, 27 & 28 - 5:30p.m. to 9:00p.m. Visitors to Sainte-Marie’s “First Light” event will experience Midland’s famous heritage site amidst the magical glow of over 2,000 candles, enjoying an enchanting community evening in the Christmas spirit. Event preparation begins weeks ahead as Sainte-Marie’s staff decorates the historic buildings and grounds, prepares craft materials, and organizes the spectacular candle display that has come to symbolize this unique event. Web Site Click Here Midland, Ontario, Information





Attraction of the Week


MacLaren Art Centre - Barrie, Ontario


MacLaren Art CentreThe MacLarenArtCentre is Simcoe County's regional public art gallery providing innovative, relevant and accessible programming. The award winning building houses four galleries, an education centre, gallery shop and licensed café with a secluded patio. The MacLaren is centrally located with ample parking making it a must see year round destination. The MacLaren is open seven days a week, Mon to Fri, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Sunday noon to 4:00 pm. Closed statutory holidays. Admission is voluntary. Suggested donation $5. Barrie, Ontario, Information

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Home Grown Hospitality in Haliburton Ontario


This past week spent  in Haliburton County has demonstrated some of the finest hospitality I have ever experienced. A combination of  two tours "Gems beneath your boots", and a test run on a new hands-on Pottery Tour both organized by Barrie Martin of Yours Outdoors.  Both tours were 'experiential' and hands on.  The tours reflected the culture, natural history and sincere hospitality of the Haliburton community.

One of my favorite road trips is between the Kawarthas and  Haliburton with a combination of day road trips and family fun cottage experiences. More on Haliburton Ontario.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

SAVINGS-SKI SEASON IS CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

There is a better way to buy your first set of skis or that first snowboard. Many downhill skiers, snowboarders, and cross country skiers only buy the used equipment and save a bunch of money during their early skiing years.
The following list provides locations of the ski and snowboard swaps taking place north of Toronto. Most swaps will be selling or trading for The following items may be sold in the
  • Skis
  • Snowboards
  • Ski Wear
  • Ski Boots
  • Snowboard boots

Friday, October 16, 2009

Fall colours continue North of Toronto







The latest fall colour report from The Ministry of Tourism indicates leaf colour is peaking in the Barrie to Midland area north of  Toronto.Horseshoe Valley offers great vistas over the region and Barrie Parks provide shoreline views along Lake Simcoe.  The report ads the Collingwood region has colours at Peak with the view from the top of Blue Mountain at Scenic Caves always offering an outstanding view. The view from the suspension bridge at Scenic Caves is amazing. There is about 20% leaf fall in the area.  See suggested road trips starting in Barrie, Ontario in Simcoe County.

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Simcoe County Boosts Trail System Development


At a press conference at the Horseshoe Valley Resort yesterday, Tourism Simcoe County announced a boost for the existing 242 km of existing trails. As part of the launch of the new logo and strategy for Tourism in Simcoe County, representatives from trails associations announced a major funding initiative throughout the region.  See Simcoe County Trails 

See Media Release "Tourism Simcoe County Hosts Official Launch Simcoe County Celebrates Ranking as 4th Most Popular Tourism Destination in Ontario"

Great Fall Family, Romantic, Spa & Fishing Getaways North of Toronto

Great Family, Romantic, Spa & Fishing Getaways can be found North of Toronto.

Photo:  The Victorian Inn Bed and Breafkast


Family Getaways

Cedar Meadows Resort
Paradie Cottages


Romantic Getaway

Eden Place Bed & Breakfast
The Victorian Inn Bed and Breakfast

Spa Getaways

Scandinave Spa -Blue Mountain
Ste. Anne's Country Inn Spa

Fishing Getaway

Andorra Lodge

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Thanksgiving Weekend Fall Colours North of Toronto

Leef Peepers Weekend-Brilliant Fall Colours north of Toronto

This is a great weekend to get out and see the fall colours.  A number of suggested road trips are available,
or you can create your own maple leaf road trips.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Toyota Launches New 4 Runner at Georgian Auto Show


Twenty-five years and four generations later, the 4Runner remains close to its roots. To date, more than 103,225 Canadians have purchased the 4Runner and discovered both on- and off-road adventure.
yeterday, for the first time in Canada and as part of the North American premiere of this vehicle, Toyota revealed the all-new 2010 4Runner at North America's largest outdoor auto show, the 2009 Georgian College Auto Show. Packed with an impressive list of new standard performance, safety, comfort, and convenience features, the latest 4Runner will start at $36,800 - the same starting price as the 2009 model it replaces.


The 24th year for the show has many fun activities for family in the Kidz Zone. Kids get in Free. Adults only $5.  Show runs all weekend.  A great stop on your day trip north or fall color road trip weekend.  Lots of fresh car colours to look at in addition to the fall foliage and leaf colour changes.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Agricultural Tourism--Auto Show Road Trips North


Fall Fairs & Farmers’ Markets & Auto Show Event Highlights Family Travel North of Toronto Barrie, Ontario…..September, 2009. Several unique Canadian events take place on the weekends during September and October. Travelers heading north into cottage country are fortunate to be able to attend some FREE events like Doors Open Ontario, or have the kids admitted free to the Georgian College Auto Show September 25, 26, 27.The Canadian Automotive Institute in Barrie, is hosting the annual Georgian College Outdoor Auto Show, the largest venue of its kind in North America. The Ottawa International Animation festival is held October 14-18. Agricultural enthusiasts with more of an agricultural bent can attend the International Plowing Match in the District of Temiskaming, Earlton Ontario Tuesday Sept. 22 –Saturday Sept. 26, 2009. In addition there are many community fall fairs and harvest festivals with unique fun family activities.

Friday, September 04, 2009

Ontario Fall Getaway Travel Guide 2009

Summer Beaches OntarioOntario Fall Getaways and fall colours travel source for travel north of Toronto. Get the 411 Ontario Travel ideas for fall road trips, staycations, overnight getaways, spas, cottage rentals, romantic getaways, family vacations for your family fall getaway. Your source for weekends, getaways and packages for romantic couples north of Toronto. Reserve early for the Thanksgiving Long Holiday Weekend.



Ontario Resort Travel Destination Picks of the Week.



Romantic Getaway of the Week

Delta Sherwood Inn - Port Carling, Ontario

Delta Sherwood InnDelta Sherwood Inn - Enjoy one night with your special someone in front of a fireplace, your choice of a bottle of red or white wine, fresh flowers & chocolate dipped strawberries & candles & towelling robe for the romantic in room Jacuzzi tub. Gift of homemade bath products.Package includes: one-night's accommodation, gourmet dinner for two, breakfast for two, chocolate dipped strawberries, your choice of red or white wine, candles, gift of bath products Port Carling, Ontario, Information



Family Getaway of the Week

Four Winds Cottage Resort - Parry Sound, Ontario

Four Winds Cottage ResortFour Winds Cottage Resort - Spring is in the air! The sun is out, the birds are chirping! Come and enjoy Spring in a cozy cottage. Our cottages have a propane fireplace for your enjoyment. Prices starting at $115 per night based on four people.
Parry Sound, Ontario, Information



Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Green Wilderness Lodge - Gogama, Ontario

Green Wilderness Lodge Green Wilderness Lodge - Wilderness at its best....miles from the rest. Fish for walleye, northern pike, perch & whitefish on beautiful Mattagami Lake. We have 7 clean housekeeping cottages, 1 boat-to outpost cottage plus American Plan at the lodge. Our 7-day Fishing Package for 4 people including cottage, 2 deluxe boats & motors& gas is $465 per person plus taxes.
Gogama, Ontario, Information



Spa Getaway of the Week

Ogopogo Resort - Minden, Ontario

Ogopogo Resort Ogopogo Resort - Relax and enjoy the ambiance of Mountain Lake and your lakeside
cottage some with Jacuzzi bath and fireplace. During your getaway, indulge in a professional deep relaxation massage or reflexology treatment or a combination of both. A weekend getaway for two including two treatments of one hour each from $585/couple, plus taxes.
Minden, Ontario, Information




Attraction of the Week

Founders' Museum & Pioneer Village - Thunder Bay, Ontario

Founders' Museum & Pioneer VillageFounders'Museum & Pioneer Village - Take a Walk Through the Past in this unique to Northwestern Ontario Pioneer Village. Drop in at the General Store look through the newly arrived catalogues, visit the shops and chat with the residents while they wait for the train. Spend a quiet moment in the church, recall the memories of a one room school. Whether your interest lies in antique cars, tractors, farm equipment, engines or motors it is all here for you. The pioneer home recalls life in a simpler time. The carpenter, cobbler, printer and the blacksmith welcome you to their business establishments. Enjoy great home cooking in the tea room
Thunder Bay, Ontario, Information



Attraction of the Week

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre - Midland, Ontario

Wye Marsh Wildlife CentreWyeMarsh Wildlife Centre - Explore the Wye Marsh on your own or join the Outdoor Educators for an interpretive walk, feed the chickadees, stroll the boardwalk, search for animal tracks in the snow or learn about nature in the Exhibit Hall. During all seasons the Wye Marsh offers interesting activities and programs for everyone and can design programs to fit your needs. Contact the Wye Marsh for more details.
Midland, Ontario, Information


Thursday, September 03, 2009

Fall Getaways, Labour Day Weekend Getaways & Fall Colour North of Toronto

Get ready for Fall Getaways, Labour Day Weekend Getaways & Fall colours North of Toronto at the following locations.

Photo: Pike Cottage Rockview Camp Cottage Resort








Friday, August 28, 2009

Ontario Summer Vacation Travel Guide 2009

Summer Beaches OntarioOntario Summer and fall colours travel source for getaways and packages
north of Toronto. Get the 411 Ontario Travel
ideas for fall road trips, staycations, overnight getaways, spas, cottage rentals, romantic getaways, family vacations for your family summer getaway. Your source for weekends, getaways and packages for romantic couples north of Toronto. Reserve early for the Labour Day Long Holiday Weekend



Ontario Resort Travel Destination Picks of the Week.



Romantic Getaway of the Week

Comfort Inn - Sudbury East, Ontario

Comfort InnComfort Inn - Light Up Your Love. Starting at $140.99.
based on double occupancy. Includes an upgraded room (based on availability at booking); complimentary breakfast for 2; 1 complimentary movie selection; a gift basket (includes a bottle of wine). Ask for "PLOVE"
Sudbury East, Ontario, Information




Family Getaway of the Week

Clyffe House Cottage Resort - Port Sydney, Ontario

Clyffe House Cottage Resort Clyffe House Cottage Resort - Clyffe House is perfect for a family holiday. Shallow sandy beach, Tennis, beach volleyball, kayaking, waterskiing,
tubing, firepit, 100 acres, Two, 3-bedroom cottages available June 27-July 18. Rent: $995 each plus tax. Includes many boats, firewood, propane,
100 acres, tennis.Free introductory boat tour of Mary Lake.
Port Sydney, Ontario, Information



Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Idle Tyme Fishing Camp - Callander, Ontario

Idle Tyme Fishing CampIdle Tyme Fishing Camp -SMALL TOWN HOSPITALITY ON THE SOUTH SHORE OF LAKE NIPISSING Idle Tyme is located in the country 15 minutes from the small town of Callander in Deep Bay. Fishing is our expertise, offering fishing guide services with shore lunches. Indulge in the summer fishing on Lake Nipissing, where sunsets and solitude make your idle time experience tranquil. A husband and wife team offer you all the comforts of cottage life including a well maintained swimming beach, dazzling sunsets, and lakeside surroundings.
Callander, Ontario, Information



Spa Getaway of the Week

Ste. Anne's Country Inn Spa - Grafton, Ontario

Ste. Anne's Country Inn Spa Ste. Anne's Country Inn Spa - Diva Day Spa at Ste. Anne's Spa from $99 per person, for the whole day. We’ve had so many guests excited about booking their Diva Day Spa that we’ve decided to give Diva a face-lift so that more people can be ‘Diva for the Day’! Your Diva Day Spa at Ste. Anne's will now include a 3-course lunch, afternoon tea buffet, complete use of the extensive facilities and a choice of one of the following spa treatments: ½ hour Caribbean Aqua Therapy, ½ hour Caribbean Foot Rejuvenation, ½ hour Essential Oil Scalp Rejuvenation, ½ hour Pure Aroma Massage
Grafton, Ontario, Information



Attraction of the Week

Shania Twain Centre - Timmins, Ontario

Shania Twain CentreShania Twain Centre - Built in honor of the famous hometown girl, the Shania Twain Centre enables fans from around the world to find out more about this popular superstar.
Timmins, Ontario, Information




Attraction of the Week

Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve Ltd. - Haliburton, Ontario

Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve Ltd. - The Outdoor Education Programs at Haliburton Forest are designed to fully engage participants in the Outdoor Experience. Our teaching philosophy is simple: people learn best by doing. In addition, taking the time to reflect on the experience is a very important component of the learning process. Our programs are developed under 3 broad categories: 1) Adventure Based Leadership Programs,
2) Outdoor Skills and Pursuits and 3) Environmental Education. Each of these categories can be overlapped to suit the specific needs and desired learning outcomes. After consultation with your teacher/leader of visiting group, we tailor your programs to suit your needs.
Haliburton, Ontario, Information

Monday, August 24, 2009

Summer Deals & Fall Getaways North of Toronto

Summer Deals & Fall Getaways can be found at the following locations North of Toronto.

Photo: Eganridge Inn & Spa

Family Getaways






Golf, Romantic & Spa Getaways




Saturday, August 22, 2009

Ontario Train Travel--Returning Adventure

My recent trip south of the border included two 18 hour train trips through the wild west starting in Denver, through Wyoming, and Utah to Salt Lake City, with a different return route through Colorado canyons and jountains . It was adventureous with exceptional views and stories. In the Globe and Mail today, Off the Rails talks about the Agawa Canyon and the Canyon View Camp Car Accommodation and the coming fall colours. With the Niagara and North Bay bike train we may be seeing a rebirth of affordable rail travel in Ontario.

Golf in the news Aug. 2009

A Canadian golf genius - The Globe and Mail

20 Aug 2009 ... Course designer Stanley Thompson was a colourful character - and one of the greats. From PEI to Alberta, his courses show off his sense of ...
See great Golf getaways in Ontario north of Toronto

A Canadian golf genius - The Globe and Mail

20 Aug 2009 ... Course designer Stanley Thompson was a colourful character - and one of the greats. From PEI to Alberta, his courses show off his sense of ...
Alexa Traffic Rank for http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/travel/a-canadian-golf-genius/article1256726/: 2,659www.theglobeandmail.com/life/travel/a...golf.../article1256726/

Friday, August 21, 2009

Ontario Summer Vacation Travel Guide 2009

Ontario Summe GetawaysOntario Summer and fall colours travel source for getaways and packages north of Toronto. Get the 411 Ontario Travel ideas for day trips, overnight getaways, spas, cottage rentals, romantic getaways, family vacations for your family summer getaway. Your source for August weekends, getaways and packages north of Toronto. Reserve early for the Labour Day Long Holiday Weekend.


Ontario Resort Travel Destination Picks of the Week.



Romantic Getaway of the Week

Cedar Meadows Resort - Timmins, Ontario

Cedar Meadows Resort & SpaCedar Meadows Resort - Love & Romance Package. Package for two includes: 1 night's accommodation in a Junior Suite (with fireplace & Jacuzzi), Use of our cozy bathrobes & slippers., One dozen Roses and one bottle of chilled Sparkling Wine upon your arrival, Two keepsake Cedar Meadows Resort Champagne Flutes, A basket full of "Sweets & Treats" including chocolate covered strawberries.,Cedar Meadows Resort stuffed animal, Dinner Voucher to use in our dining room ($75 value), Breakfast in Bed for two (Breakfast Express)
Timmins, Ontario, Information



Family Getaway of the Week

Algonquin Woods - Emsdale, Ontario

Algonquin WoodsAlgonquin Woods - Your family-friendly lakeside Cottage Resort near Algonquin Park and Huntsville, in Muskoka. 10 immaculately clean, quaint, cozy cottages on Clear Lake with magnificent views of the water. Activities include a wide variety of water craft, horseshoes, ping pong, shuffleboard and water-skiing available right next door for a fee. First class golf nearby. For the winter we are close to downhill and cross country skiing, dogsledding, snowshoeing, skating, horse drawn carriage rides and other activities. In the fall our magnificent fall colours can not be beaten.
Emsdale, Ontario, Information



Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Camp Conewango - Redbridge, Ontario

Camp ConewangoCamp Conewango - Just waiting for you! Camp Conewango, located within the Mattawa River Provincial Park on the north shore of Lake Talon, offers housekeeping cottages as well as Campsites with free hot showers, clean toilets and laundry facilities.Enjoy the sandy beach with swimmdock and playground, go swimming, boating or fishing, canoe or kayak along the historic Voyageurs route, visit the chutes at the other end of the lake, watch the wildlife, go hiking or take your ATV on the marked trails to one of the many back lakes.
Redbridge, Ontario, Information



Spa Getaway of the Week

Trillium Resort and Spa - Port Sydney, Ontario

Trillium Resort and SpaTrillium Resort and Spa - Enjoy life in Muskoka with a hike along our 7 km of trails that wind through our 86 acres of pristine Muskoka woodlands. Paddle Devine Lake in a complimentary Canoe or Kayak. Pamper your mind body and soul in our full service Country Spa. All this and more in an exclusive "Adult" only setting.
Port Sydney, Ontario, Information



Attraction of the Week

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures - Collingwood, Ontario

Scenic Caves Nature AdventuresScenic Caves Nature Adventures - Nature, history and Adventure for the whole family. Self guided tour of caves, caverns and lookouts on the highest point of the Niagara Escarpment. Ontario's Longest Suspension footbridge offers light adventure and the most spectacular views of Georgian Bay
and Surrounding Countryside. Gemstone Mining, mini golf, trout pond, picnic areas, snack bar and gift shop. Please, no pets and running or hiking shoes are necessary.
Collingwood, Ontario, Information




Attraction of the Week

Midland Tours Inc. - Midland, Ontario

Midland Tours Inc. - Miss MidlandMidland Tours Inc. - Midland 30,000 Islands Boat Cruise - Midland, Ontario Experience the sparkling water, the windswept pines and rocky grandeur of Muskoka / Georgian Bay's 30,000 Islands on a cruise aboard the 300-passenger Miss Midland - Northern Ontario's most popular tourist attraction.
Midland, Ontario, Information