Friday, November 20, 2009

Romancing Winter-Festivals of Lights

Summer Beaches OntarioWinter in Ontario resort destinations is just around the corner. Festivals of lights and exciting romantic getaways are reasons to travel north in Ontario. November and December travel events and festivals north of Toronto are ready for families with Santa Claus parades and tree lighting ceremonies. Visitors heading north should always check road conditions. Reserve now for your Christmas New Year weekends and winter holiday getaways north of Toronto.


Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week


Featured Ontario Destinations &Travel Tourism Associations

Haliburton Highlands Tourism Region

Haliburton Highlands Tourism RegionHaliburton Highlands Tourism Region
The Haliburton Highlands is just two hours north of Toronto, but it’s also a world away. Unforgettable countryside sculpted by towering rock formations, majestic forests, postcard-perfect vistas, and scenic, rolling hills. Whether you want to tube down a lazy river or shoot white water in a kayak, this is the place. With more than 600 lakes and miles of picturesque rivers connecting them, a person could explore our waters for a lifetime and never see the same shoreline twice. The natural environment of the Haliburton Highlands inspires the vibrant arts community that continues to flourish – with artist studios, theatre, outdoor concerts, opera and the Haliburton School of the Arts.
See
Haliburton Highlands Tourism Region



Romantic Getaway of the Week

The Irwin Inn - Lakefield, Ontario

The Irwin InnTheIrwin Inn - A crackling fire, fine wine, candlelight dining and beautiful sunsets, are delightful to the senses of romantics. Experience this “Sensory Delight” getaway at the lake. Fireplace suites and cottages, with whirlpool or private hot tub or pool offer the perfect escape. Luscious truffles and fruit, wine, exotic teas and coffee are in your room to enjoy! 2 nights, 2 elegant dinners, 2 complete breakfasts, and use of most seasonal recreational activities are included.
Lakefield, Ontario, Information



Family Getaway of the Week

Barry's Bay Cottage Resort - Barry's Bay, Ontario
Barry's Bay Cottage Resort
Barry's Bay Cottage Resort - Featuring a clear, sand bottom lake with
your own access to the lake from the waterfront cottages, Barry's Bay Cottage Resort is a hit with the families. We also have a separate beach area, large children’s playground and a games room for the teens. Add in your own private fire pit, dock and large deck overlooking the lake and it is easy why guests return year after year. Select cottages even have their own private outdoor hot tub. Come let Barry's Bay Cottage Resort be your home away
from home!
Barry's Bay, Ontario, Information



Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Birch Lodge - Blind River, Ontario
Birch Lodge
Birch Lodge
- A pleasant welcome awaits you as you come to relax and enjoy the fall colors on the shores of Granary Lake. All five of our housekeeping cottages face the lake and have a wonderful view. Our hiking trails a magnificent at this time of the year
We have something for everyone. Call for Rates
Blind River, Ontario, Information



Spa Getaway of the Week

Carriage Ridge Resort at Horseshoe Valley - Barrie, Ontario

Carriage Ridge Resort at Horseshoe ValleyCarriage Ridge Resort at Horseshoe Valley - Located only 1 hour north of Toronto, Carriage Ridge Resort in Horseshoe Valley offers a relaxing and FUN getaway! Snowflakes dance outside your balcony doors as you enjoy a Spa Treatment in your condo suite. Your suite is complete with a private balcony and kitchen amenities for late night snacks. Or select a 1-Bedroom Suite with a fireplace and Jacuzzi tub... Getaways include accommodation in a condo-suite, Snacks, DVD Rental, Spa Gift, Express Manicure&Pedicure OR Hot Stone Foot Massage
Barrie, 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

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



Attraction of the Week

Shania Twain Centre - Timmins, Ontario
Shania Twain Centre

Shania 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





Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Monday, November 16, 2009

Fantastic Family, Romantic and Christmas/New Year's getaways North of Toronto.

Fantastic Family, Romantic and Christmas/New Year's getaways can be found North of Toronto.

Photo:  West Nipissing Resort


Family Getaways

Sand Lake Cottages & Inn Terrawoods Cottage

Christmas & New Year's Getaways
Best Western Midland
West Nipissing Resort

Romantic Getaways

Hunter Creek Inn
Saucy Willow Inn

Friday, November 13, 2009

Romancing the Fall-Festivals of Lights

Summer Beaches OntarioWinter in Ontario is just around the corner. Festivals of lights and exciting romantic getaways are reasons to travel north in Ontario. November road trips for families will catch Christmas craft shows for early holiday shopping and perhaps a Santa Claus parade. Without the foliage
visitors can see exceptional vistas along with a country walks, a hike or bike ride. Reserve now for your
Christmas New Year weekends and winter holiday getaways north of Toronto.


Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel Tourism Associations

Georgian Bay Tourism

Georgian Bay TourismGeorgian Bay Tourism Georgian Bay Tourism represents Ontario's Historic resort and boating destination with attractions, resorts, hotels, inns, marinas, winter recreation, summer beaches and cruise ships. The towns of Midland,Penetanguishene (Penetang), Honey Harbour, and Port Severn and the townships of Tay and Tiny make up the area of Southern Georgian Bay. The Trent-Severn Historic Waterway links to Georgian Bay-Lake Huron in the town of Port Severn. 90 minutes north
of Toronto. See
Georgian Bay Tourism

Romantic Getaway of the Week

Tall Pines Cottages - Minden, Ontario

Tall Pines CottageTall Pines Cottages - Enjoy a relaxing getaway at Tall Pines Cottages, on the shores of Twelve Mile Lake. Relax on the beach or sundeck, or take a quiet cruise in a canoe. Savor the fine cuisine offered in the area restaurants, take in the local art scene, or stroll along the countless trails. Please contact us for Rates
Minden, Ontario, Information

Family Getaway of the Week

Terrawoods Cottage - Parry Sound, Ontario
Terrawoods Cottage and RV Resort
Terrawoods Cottage - Come and enjoy the peace and serenity of Horseshoe Lake. The cottages are heated with fireplaces or wall heaters and if you don’t want to enjoy a camp fire outside you can always curl up and enjoy the propane fire inside and the cable TV.. The canoes, kayaks and paddle-boats are all included and boat & motor rentals are available. The ATV trail is practically at our door-step. Parry Sound, Ontario, Information

Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Buttermilk Falls Resort - Minden, Ontario
Buttermilk Falls Resort
Buttermilk Falls Resort
- FALL at Buttermilk Falls Resort is all about ATVing, breathtaking colours, the sound of the falls, bon fires and relaxing in the hot tub. Package includes: 2 nights accommodationin our 2 & 3 bedroom Log Cabins and Pine Cottages. Weekend ATV Trail Pass Dinner at “That Place” in Carnarvon

Spa Getaway of the Week

Harbour View Inn - Barrie, Ontario

Harbour View InnHarbour View Inn - Includes two 60 min Swedish massages & access to the Scandinavian Baths, two embroidered robes, sandals for each guest, lunch for 2 at the Spa Bistro & bottled water. Value $199/person (plus tax) Reservations required. Bathing suits mandatory. Guests must be 19+ yrs. old.Barrie, 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

Muskoka Wildlife Centre - Severn Bridge, Ontario

Muskoka Wildlife CentreMuskoka Wildlife Centre, A 100 acre wildlife park, featuring exhibits of live animals including moose, wolves, eagles, bears and much more. Everyday, enjoy "Meet the Creature" presentations. Located 20 minutes north of Orillia, right on Highway 11 North.
Severn Bridge, Ontario, Information

Attraction of the Week

Timmins Underground Gold Mine Tour

Timmins Underground Gold Mine Tour - Timmins, Ontario

Timmins Underground Gold Mine Tour, Journey under the earth and experience the workings of a mine, pan for gold and learn about the area's mining history at the Timmins Gold Mine Tour.Timmins, Ontario, Information


Friday, November 06, 2009

Romancing the Fall-Festivals of Lights

Summer Beaches OntarioLate 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 Santa Claus 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-Association Picks of the Week



Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel Tourism Associations

Veterans' Week November. 5-11

Remembrance Day: Wednesday November 11

Veterans' Week NovemberThis year during Veterans' Week Canadians are asked to take remembrance one step further. Show how you remember by attending a Remembrance Day ceremony, visiting the local cenotaph or monument, sharing your thoughts of remembrance online, or wearing a poppy with pride. This Veterans' Week, how will you remember?
See more at
Veterans' Affairs



Romantic Getaway of the Week

Fortune's Madawaska Valley Inn - Huntsville, Ontario

Fortune'sMadawaska Valley Inn - In the peaceful Madawaska Valley you can take the time to once again enjoy each other’s company. Spend the day in the great out of doors (or not) and then wile away the evening enjoying a romantic, five-course wine-tasting dinner for two. Package includes: welcome bottle of wine, a two night stay, two full breakfasts, five- course wine-tasting dinner with souvenir menu and tasting notes.
Barry's Bay, Ontario, Information



Family Getaway of the Week

Tally - Ho Inn - Huntsville, Ontario
Tally - Ho Inn
Tally - Ho Inn - Get-a-Way from the city for awhile at Tally - Ho Inn, Muskoka. Enjoy our lakeside cottages and home cooked meals. Most accommodation with wood burning fireplaces and some with Jacuzzi . Games room with ping pong, billiards, air hockey and darts or play a tune on the baby grand piano. After dinner curl up in front of your fireplace with your favourite book or watch tv.
Huntsville, Ontario, Information



Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Trillium Resort and Spa - Port Sydney, Ontario

Trillium Resort and SpaTrillium Resort and Spa - This year take advantage of our Fall Getaway Package from only $250 per person. Package includes two nights accommodations, a full breakfast and four course dinner daily and a $50 Spa allowance to utilize in our spectacular Spa facilities. Enjoy the colours of the Season in an exclusive "Adult" only setting.
Port Sydney, Ontario, Information



Spa Getaway of the Week

Scandinave Spa - Blue Mountain, Ontario
Scandinave Spa - Blue Mountain

Scandinave Spa - Includes two 60 min Swedish massages & access to the Scandinavian Baths, two embroidered robes, sandals for each guest, lunch for 2 at the Spa Bistro & bottled water. Value $199/person (plus tax) Reservations required. Bathing suits mandatory. Guests must be 19+ yrs. old.
Blue Mountains, 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



Attraction of the Week

Wye Marsh WIldlfie Centre - Midland, Ontario

Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre
Wye Marsh 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

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.