Summer Art Choices North of Toronto

Perfect Rainy Day Road Trip North  for Art Lovers

If you missed the Toronto Star article By Peter Goddard Visual Arts on Gallery hopping north in Ontario
Out-of-town galleries beckon with worthy shows by renowned artists
Toronto Star .....Diana Krall inspired this whimsical necklace by Donald A. Stuart, showing
at the MacLaren Art Centre in Barrie.

400ELEVEN Editor's Note: This story features northern galleries in Flesherton Ontario, and Owen Sound Ontario and would make a nice Ontario road trip for art and jewelry lovers.
 If you are heading over to the Owen Sound area, you should also check out the Southampton Art School with a show in memory of Arthur Shilling 1941 - 1986 and the founders of the Southampton Art Society  Arthur Shilling was born into a family of 13 children. His childhood was spent on the Rama Reserve, by the shores of Lake Couchiching, Ontario. At age ten, forced to stay at home because of rheumatic fever, the young Shilling began painting to pass the time. At sixteen he attended The Southampton Art School for the first of his formal training. From August 6 to September 6, 2010, we will pay tribute to Arthur and his legacy with an exhibition of his work and the work of his two sons, Bewabon and Travis.

Fall Fairs Start in August North of Toronto

Fall Fairs in August?...... the harvest season means the fall agricultural fair season has begun.  This weekend there are fairs.....in Sutton, Merickville, Willberforce and more are slated for the rest of August across Ontario.

Check out the selection of Ontario Fairs for the remainder of August and plan your summer vacation with a rural agricultural experience.  Enjoy horse shows, entertainment, farm country produce, great home style baking, roadside corn or wild blueberries.  See also Ontario Farmers' Markets  

Ontario Beach News for the Weekend

Combine your trip to the Beach with a lot of fun at special events, features and activities.  Check out Saturday Star Travel for tips on Selwyn Beach North of Peterborough:  today's  Globe and Mail  talks about deserted beaches along Lake Superior Trail; there is a Blue Flag Beach near Collingwood where Wake-Fest is happening, and in Barrie you can combine a little drumming and beat action all day with Rythmfest on the Barrie waterfront.

Ontario Beach Resort Vacations

August is a perfect getaway month for an Ontario beach resort vacation with exciting water Sports golf getaways, or fishing getaways. Day trips to Ontario beaches in cool Ontario resort destinations north of Toronto are on most "to do" summer activities. Discover a lakeside Ontario getaway vacation with family and friends or lakefront cottage or cabin as a couple. Ontario Country Inns make for great summer romantic getaways. Summer family vacation time north can include hiking getaways, mountain bike getaways, water skiing, banana boat rides, romantic resort vacation getaways, or just relaxation with an Ontario spa package.

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Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

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Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel Tourism Associations

SpaLotto.com (www.spalotto.com)
Spalotto.com is an auction website where you can bid on various getaway packages, treatments, products, gift cards and more from Canada's favourite spas and inns, below regular cost. At spalotto.com we believe that the spa experience is not a luxury, but a necessity. Thereare many items to bid on such as getaway packages (both date-specific and non date-specific getaways ), spa treatments, gift cards, retail items and more. You can bid on any number of items as often as you wish - new inventory will be posted on a weekly basis.

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Romantic Getaway of the Week

Northridge Inn and Resort - Sundridge, Ontario

Northridge Inn and Resort - The Northridge Inn is the perfect blend of refined taste and casual, "barefoot in the sand" comfort. As stewards of a part of this unique piece of Canada, our Ontario Resort keeps watch over the tranquil, undisturbed Lake Bernard - the world's largest lake without an island. This landscape is continually preserved and celebrated.The two of you will bond here as the history melts into the present; stroll over a covered footbridge, or sample the renowned maple syrup that's been produced in this area for centuries.

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Family Getaway of the Week

Booker's Clear Lake Cottages - Emsdale, Ontario

Booker's Clear Lake Cottages - Enjoy this Family Friendly resort for all Seasons. We offer clean and well-kept cottages & campsites. Our beautiful sand beach and beachfront deck are our pride and joy. There is plenty of room on our 11-acre property for relaxation and games. Spring,Summer and Fall activities can include hiking in nearby Provincial Parks, horseshoes, badminton, playground, water trampoline, or the children's day camp and water sports right next door (extra cost)

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Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Comfort Inn - Sudbury East, Ontario

Comfort Inn - SHOP 'TILL YOU DROP! We are just a walk away from our newest Big Box Stores and a short drive to the largest shopping centre in Sudbury. Then come and relax in one of our clean comfortable rooms. Book this package and receive 2 Complimentary Breakfasts and 2 gaming vouchers for Slots at Sudbury Downs. Discounts available at local restaurants.

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Spa Getaway of the Week

The Falls Inn - Walter's Falls, Ontario

The Falls Inn - Pamper yourself in your room, at dinner and in the spa.
Includes accommodation, $30 dinner credit in the falls-view dining room
-per person, $100 spa credit (per package) and sawyers continental breakfast.Rates: Oak $135 per person, Maple $145 per person, Cherry $160 per person, Mahogany $175 per person. Rates per person per night double occupancy. NEW! Now use your spa credits towards passes to Le Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain.

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Attraction of the Week

Sir Sam's Ski Hill & Summer Resort - Haliburton

Sir Sam's Ski Hill & Summer Resort - Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer
Resort has been established and operated by the Bishop Family for
almost 45 years. The spacious multi room chalet has 4 fireplaces
and a homelike family atmosphere. Sir Sam’s hosts twelve main runs
and a view from the top that is only matched by the view of the
slopes from the chalets panoramic windows and outdoor sun deck.
Come and enjoy a great outdoor experience in an un-crowded and family
friendly atmosphere.

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Attraction of the Week

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons - Midland, Ontario

Sainte-Marie among the Hurons - was Ontario’s first European community and is now a nationally significant historic site. Originally built in 1639, Sainte-Marie was the 17th century fortress and headquarters for the French Jesuit mission to the Huron people. The site’s history culminated in 1649 when a dramatic turn of events forced the missionaries to abandon and burn their home of nearly 10 years.

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Great Getaways for Family Vacation, Couples Retreat, Golfing and Fishing North of Toronto

Great Getaways for Family Vacation, Couples Retreat, Golfing and Fishing North of Toronto

Photo:  The Village Inn

Family Getaways
Alton Lodges
The SunDog Retreat

Golf Getaways
Diamond in the "Ruff"
Fishing Getaways
East Bull Lake Wilderness Lodge
North Country Lodge
Romantic Getaways
The Village Inn

Great Deals on Family, Fishing and Spa Getaways North of Toronto

Great Deals on Family, Fishing and Spa Getaways North of Toronto

Photo:  Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve

Family Getaways
Colonial Bay Cottages
Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve
The Mad Musher

Fishing Getaways
Booth Landing

Spa Getaways
Ste. Anne's Country Inn Spa

Civic Holiday Simcoe Day Long Weekend

Get the 411 on Simcoe Day long weekend events as you head north this weekend. A stop at Barrie's Kempenfest is a must for Arts and Craft lovers. Ontario lakes and beaches in cool destinations north of Toronto are on most "to do" weekend activities. Start your August with an Ontario cottage resort getaway to exciting Water Sports golf getaways, or fishing getaways & start of renewed relationships with the kids. Discover a lakeside Ontario resort with family and friends or lakefront cottage or cabin as a couple. Ontario Country Inns make for great summer romantic getaways. Summer family vacation time north can include hiking getaways, mountain bike getaways, water skiing, banana boat rides, romantic getaways, family package mini vacations or just relaxation with an Ontario spa package.

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Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

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Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel TourismAssociations

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:

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Romantic Getaway of the Week

Westwind Inn On The Lake Couples Resort - Buckhorn, Ontario

Westwind Inn On The Lake Couples Resort - Peaceful, intimate & serene. Discover our spectacular wilderness setting. Cozy log cabin style rooms with fireplace and private balcony, rustic luxury suites, jet tubs for two, great foods, fine wines and genuine service. Enjoy many fun complimentary activities for every season...skis,
skates, snowshoes, canoes, kayaks, row boats, pedal boats, trails, bikes,
pool and beach. Outdoor hot tub, sauna, games room. So Much to explore, great area golf, snowmobile trails, galleries, trading posts, artisans, small towns, quaint villages and so much more! Spa services available by prior reservation

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Family Getaway of the Week

Comfort Inn - Sudbury, Ontario

Comfort Inn - Let Us Pay Your Way…..So You Can Relax and Enjoy Your Stay! Receive a $25.00 Esso Gas Card and 20% Off Regular Room Rates. Offer also includes FREE Breakfast, FREE Parking, FREE Wireless Internet Access & Discounts at Local Restaurants. KIDS STAY FREE! PET FRIENDLY!CALL THE HOTEL DIRECTLY AND ASK FOR THE “GAS UP AND GO” SPECIAL

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Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Oakview Lodge - Minden, Ontario

Oakview Lodge - WALK IN THE CLOUDS CANOPY TOUR 2 NIGHT PACKAGE. This unique and unforgettable experience will leave you breathless. The Haliburton Forest Canopy Tour is included in this 2 night package as well as 2 nights luxury lakefront accommodation, 2 full breakfasts and 2 four course gourmet dinners.Also included in this package is free entry to the 'Wolf Centre' where you will see wolves living in their natural environment.

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Spa Getaway of the Week

Rawley Resort & Marina Inc - Port Severn, Ontario

Rawley Resort & Marina Inc - Couples Rejuvenation. Radiant Reflections is a destination spa using Eminence organic skin care products handmade in Hungary. Share the pleasure, ease your mind, feel the tension melt away while our professional therapists guide you through your spa treatments.Renewed – Polish perfect.

 

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Attraction of the Week

Discovery Harbour - Penetanguishene, Ontario

Discovery Harbour - One of Ontario’s most picturesque historic sites, Discovery Harbour recalls the days of the 19th-century British navy and military that safeguarded the defence of Upper Canada. In 1820 the thriving naval dockyard boasted residences and workshops, large and small vessels, and a community of officers, artisans, sailors, and soldiers. The base was eventually operated by the British military from 1834 to 1856, constructing an impressive stone Officers’ Quarters that still stands today.

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Attraction of the Week

Ontario Northland's Polar Bear Express - North Bay, Ontario

Ontario Northland's Polar Bear Express - The Polar Bear Express is a well renowned summer excursion train which departs from Cochrane, Ontario daily except Saturdays during the summer excursion schedule from Friday June 27 to Friday,
August 29, 2008. Your journey will take you through spectacular forests and rugged wetlands, and across mighty rivers once navigated by early natives, explorers and fur traders. Ride the rails 186 miles to the edge of the Arctic and immerse
yourself in Cree culture. New packages are available for the 2008 summer season!

Barrie Kempenfest Long Civic Holiday Weekend Update 2011

July 29-August 1, 2011.  An Ontario Top 100 Festival

If you are traveling north of Toronto via Highway 400 on the Simcoe Day Civic Long Weekend make sure you stop in at Kempenfest just off Essa Rd. at Lakeshore Drive in Barrie.   See Kempenfest In the news.   Barrie's magnificent waterfront is on display with a jurried arts and craft show considered by many to be Canada's best arts & crafts show of the summer season.  Combine the show with a little antiquing...for families there is a midway, beaches for the kids, great food and music all weekend long.

Kempenfest Quick Links: 

Barrie Area Accommodation: Links to area hotels, resorts, inns. Barrie Attractions: Links to Barrie area attractions, museums, galleries, kids fun and more Barrie Beaches Waterfront: Some of Ontario's best beaches on Kempenfelt Bay Lake Simcoe.
Lake Simcoe: One of Ontario's largest lakes and favourite resort destinations north of Toronto.

Kempenfest is celebrating 40 years 
                                   

Highway 400 Travel North in Ontario

Ontario Toronto North on Highway 400

Travel north from Toronto on Highway 400 and you feel a dramatic change around Highway 9 as the Holland Marsh comes into focus and you know your are in farm country.

Fall colours will become a dominant motivation for the many road trips millions of Toronto and Southern Ontario residents pursue in September and October. 

Ontario Highway 400 will take you on a memorable road trip with highlighted attractions, events, festivals with links to accommodation and featured lakes, sports and recreation activities.  as east west spring summer and fall road trip options as you head north.

Regular weekend travelers and road warriors will know they getting closer to cottage country  when they start seeing waterfront and beach signs and the Barrie welcome sign

  

Travel Sections along Highway 400 are divided into 3 logical highlighted locations--side trips, attractions and events provide additional Ontario Travel ideas. See Highway 400 North

TORONTO TO BARRIE

BARRIE TO PORT SEVERN-HONEY HARBOUR

HONEY HARBOUR-PORT SEVERN TO PARRY SOUND

 

August, Civic Holiday Weekend, & Family Getaways North of Toronto

August, Civic Holiday Weekend, & Family Getaways North of Toronto

Photo:  Nottawasga Inn Resort

Family GetawaysNottawasaga Inn Resort
Viamede Conference Resort & Spa

Additional Family Getaways
Additional August Getaways 

August Events, Celebrations & Festivals
 

Long Weekend Celebrates John Graves Simcoe

History buffs are sure to celebrate the legacacy of John Graves Simcoe, as the greatest influencer on the building of  Ontario's road system among other achievements such as eliminating slavery.

His surname Simcoe stands out on Ontario maps as in Lake Simcoe and Simcoe County and the town of Simcoe.

Contrary to popular belief he was never made a "Lord", but had a hotel in Toronto named after him called the Lord Simcoe Hotel.  Up until this year a favourite watering hole in Barrie was called the Simcoe hotel.  A photo of  the sign from the Barrie Ontario hotel is shown below and was included in the Barrie Doors Open Event in 2009.  

Summer Getaways & July Vacations

Ontario cottage resort getaways to one of the thousands of Ontario lakes and beaches in cool destinations north of Toronto are on most "to do" summer activities. Water Sports Getaways, Ontario golf getaways or fishing getaways can be the start of renewed relationships with the kids. Discover a lakeside Ontario resort with family and friends or lakefront cottage or cabin as a couple. Ontario Country Inns make for great summer romantic getaways. Ontario summer long weekends such as Simcoe Day in August can start early and end late. Summer family vacation time north can include hiking getaways, mountain bike getaways, water skiing, banana boat rides, romantic getaways, family package mini vacations or just relaxation with an Ontario spa package.

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Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

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Featured Ontario Destinations & Travel Tourism Associations

Lake Simcoe (http://www.400eleven.com/lakesimcoe.html)
Lake Simcoe is Toronto's close to home resort destination. It is the first major lake north of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and has often been described as the "Sixth Great Lake". Lake Simcoe is linked to the Great Lakes through the Trent-Severn Historic Waterway to Georgian Bay and Lake Huron. The two largest cities on Lake Simcoe are Barrie, and Orillia both with substantial public marinas, beaches and waterfront parks. Simcoe County, York Region, Durham, and Kawartha Lakes all touch on Lake Simcoe. Many say Lake Simoce is the Ice Fishing Capital of North America. See Lake Simcoe Ontario

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Romantic Getaway of the Week

SunDog Retreat, The - Parry Sound, Ontario

SunDog Retreat, The - Come experience the serenity at our beautiful retreat. Take in nature with a scenic hike, canoe or kayak ride, soothe your muscles in our outdoor hot tub and settle down by a roaring fire. All the ingredients to relax, rejuvenate and get inspired. All cottages have fireplaces, satellite TV, DVD players. Many local attractions to enjoy. Escape to heaven

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Family Getaway of the Week

Sportsman's Lodge Wilderness Resort- Wahnapitae, Ontario

Sportsman's Lodge Wilderness Resort - Need a break from everything and everyone? Come experience our wilderness resort.
Enjoy our rustic charming atmosphere for a few days where you can just
be you for a change. Relax over a bottle of wine and a good meal prepared with the finest of ingredients, no preservatives, additives or anything that you shouldn't be eating! Summer Activities: ATVing, Canoeing, Fishing, Hiking / Walking, Kayaking and Mountain Biking

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Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Kashaga Lodge - Haliburton, Ontario

Kashaga Lodge - Kashaga Lodge encompasses a full 5-acres on the shoreline of Lake Kashagawigamog, one of Haliburton's largest and most scenic lakes. There are relatively few accommodation units, which means the property is never crowded. One of the things that makes Kashaga Lodge unique is the wide variety of accommodation types available, each with its own character and ammenities.

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Spa Getaway of the Week

Harbour View Inn - Barrie, Ontario

Harbour View Inn - Let the Harbour View Inn be your destination for a luxurious spa getaway weekend in Barrie. Let your senses take over as you relax in one of our fabulous waterview suites for the weekend, with a full day spa excursion to the Green Day Spa that is sure to help you unwind from a busy week.

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Attraction of the Week

Sir Sam's Ski Hill & Summer Resort - Haliburton

Sir Sam's Ski Hill & Summer Resort - Sir Sam’s Ski and Summer Resort has been established and operated by the Bishop Family for almost 45 years. The spacious multi room chalet has 4 fireplaces and a homelike family atmosphere. Sir Sam’s hosts twelve main runs and a view from the top that is only matched by the view of the slopes from the chalets panoramic windows and outdoor sun deck. Come and enjoy a great outdoor experience in an un-crowded and family friendly atmosphere.

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Attraction of the Week

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.

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Summer Getaways & Civic Holiday Weekend Events North of Toronto

Summer Getaways & Civic Holiday Weekend Events North of Toronto

Book your Ontario August Getaways early! The Civic long Weekend Starts Friday July 30th.


See a variety of Civic Holiday day trip ideas, events and festivals available north of Toronto over the holiday weekend.

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

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

Photo:  Westin Trillium House -Blue Mountain

Family Getaways
Viamede Conference Resort & Spa
Westin Trillium House -Blue Mountain

Fishing Getaways
Booth Landing
Camp Missanabie Outfitters / Northern Walleye Lodge

Golf Getaways
Taboo Resort, Golf & Spa

Romantic Getaways
Christie's Mill Inn & Spa

Spa Getaways
Rawley Resort & Marina

Ontario Cottages--Summer Fun in Cottage Country

Renting an Ontario cottage is a year round ritual for Toronto residents vacationing north of Toronto in what is often described as "cottage country".   Photo taken at Bonnieview Inn Resort, Haliburton

Summer in Ontario is the traditional cottage rental time where swimming, beach fun at the cottage and Ontario water sports bring families together.  A summer or fall rental is often highlighted with an overnight cottage  experience with friends, or family or couples. Cottage getaways in Canada often include diving from the dock or a visit to a nearby cottage beach in a Provincial or National Park.  Many lakeside cottage resorts have a beach on site.  There are many options from romantic cottages with fireplace, hot tub and jacuzzi for two or a Honeymoon couples cottage.  See Types of Ontario Cottages

Summer Getaways & July Vacations

Beach resort vacations and Ontario cottage getaways to one of the thousands of lakes and beaches in cool resort destinations are on most "to do" summer checklists. Water Sports Getaways, Ontario golf getaways or fishing getaways can be the start of renewed relationships with the kids. Discover a lakeside Ontario resort with family and friends or lakefront cottage or cabin as a couple. Ontario Country Inns make for great summer romantic getaways. Ontario summer long weekends can start early and end late. Summer family vacation time north can include hiking getaways, mountain bike getaways, water skiing, banana boat rides, romantic getaways, family package mini vacations or just relaxation with an Ontario spa package.

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Ontario Resort Travel Destination-Association Picks of the Week

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Featured Ontario Destinations &Travel Tourism Associations

Haliburton Highlands Tourism Region (http://www.haliburtonholidays.com)
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 waterin 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.

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Romantic Getaway of the Week

Bourget Inn &Spa Resort, The - Bourget, Ontario (Ottawa)

Bourget Inn & Spa Resort, The - Slip-Away for a Romantic Spa Escape...The Inn’s country setting offers you a romantic hideaway with all the luxuries of the city. Located in Eastern Ontario just outside Ottawa you’ll discover the perfect romantic escape. You’ll savour gourmet candlelit dining, relax with a soothing couples’ massage and enjoy fun outdoor activities. 2 Night Massage Getaway: 2 Nights at the Inn. 2 Gourmet Breakfasts. 1 Spa Lunch (cheese plate, chicken salad & homemade sorbet). 1 Four Course Dinner with a Chocolate Fondue Dessert. 1 Full Body Massage (1 hour). Use of the Hot Tub, Sauna and Steam Room. Access to the Inn and Grounds. Access to the Seasonal Pool and Patio.Gratuities on Hospitality and Meals Included/

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Family Getaway of the Week

Clyffe House Cottage Resort - Port Sydney, Ontario

Clyffe House Cottage Resort - Clyffe House is perfect for a family holiday. Shallow sandy beach,Tennis, beach volleyball, kayaking, waterskiing, tubing, firepit, 100acres, Two, three, four and five bedroom cottages available

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Town, Village & City Getaway of the Week

Comfort Inn - Barrie (Hart Drive), Ontario

Comfort Inn - Barrie (Hart Drive) - PACKAGES as low as $91.50 per person include: 1 Night Accommodation at the Comfort Inn, Barrie Hart Drive. Sunshine Breakfast. 2 Adult passes to Canada's Wonderland. Park open May 2 through October 31, 2010! Packages are priced per person, based on double occupancyTaxes not included

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Spa Getaway of the Week

Millcroft Inn and Spa - Village of Alton-Caledon, Ontario

Millcroft Inn and Spa - Plan a personal spa escape made especially for you. The Millcroft's 100 scenic acres set the mood for relaxation. Spend the night in comfort in one of our distinct guestrooms and wake up to our country continental breakfast buffet the next morning. Enjoy the amenities of stunning Millcroft Spa, Centre for Well-Being, including our outdoor pool, and use your $100 spa credit on the pleasure of your choice. We'll make your getaway even more memorable with a spa welcome gift, plus extend a 15% discount on spa retail purchases during your stay.

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Attraction of the Week

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures - Collingwood, Ontario

Scenic 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.

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Attraction of the Week

Haliburton School of The Arts - Haliburton

Haliburton School of The Arts - With hundreds of lakes surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking vistas, the Highlands of Haliburton are the ideal setting for an art school. The inspiring surroundings and courses within the schedule kindle a creative vigour that can be motivating and energizing or reflective and relaxing.The program spans the calendar, the ages, the skill levels, and the seemingly unrestrained range of techniques and media. With an eclectic and extensive variety of courses offered at a range of skill levels, there's something for everyone!Just 2 1/2 hours north of Toronto and 3 1/2 hours west of Ottawa. 

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