Even with all the merry and cheerful spirit, the holidays are stressful, and sometimes, you just need an escape. But with all the family obligations and holiday parties, it’s hard to get away for longer than a night. Luckily, we got your back this winter season!

here are the best day trips to take this holiday season.

Oakville

day trips
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Downtown Oakville is an underrated winter oasis. The downtown strip is filled with local shops and a massive Christmas tree begging to be Instagrammed. We recommend grabbing a hot chocolate and taking a walk along the lakeshore neighbourhood to check out the historic (and stunning) homes.

Niagara-On-The-Lake

day trips
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This 19th-century village is the perfect relaxing day trip destination. Spend the day stroll through the downtown core and perusing the charming local shops. At night, dine at quaint restaurants and buy yourself a bottle of wine from one of the famous wineries before you head home.

Algonquin Park

day trips
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For the outdoorsy type, Algonquin Park is your winter haven. Grab some cross-country skis (or for the less athletic, snowshoes) and explore the stunning grounds. You might even see some incredible wildlife. A Rudolph spotting perhaps?

Blue Mountain

day trips
Instagram/@bluemtnresort

Blue Mountain is a perfect getaway to take with your best friend or partner. Get a day pass and tackle the ski hills together, then hit up the chalet for dinner and drinks, and even grab a beaver tail for dessert. Really, could a better winter’s day exist? You might even run into some wildlife! 

Rattlesnake Point

day trips
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The name may sound intimidating but Rattlesnake Point is an awesome day date. Get out there and explore what this beautiful conservation area has to offer. From stunning views to fun events, this is a great day trip option!

Toronto

day trips
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Whether it’s skating at the harbourfront or heading to Chinatown to explore, there are an endless amount of fun activities to do in Toronto. And if you’re a local, be a tourist in your own city. Don’t forget about all the holiday markets you can explore. You might be surprised just how different you look at it after the day’s done.  

Elora

day trips
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Check out the 80-foot limestone cliffs that descend into the frozen Grand and Irvine Rivers. The perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts who want to take in the natural beauty of the area. It’s an especially stunning sight in the winter. The Elora village has an old-world charm and century-old buildings that have been restored into gift shops, unique galleries, and adorable restaurants. If you haven’t been, it’s definitely worth checking out 

Eugenia

day trips
Instagram/@adventureontario

Situated in the tiny town of Eugenia, the area encompasses 23 hectares of the Niagara Escarpment. The all-season trail wraps along the edge of ‘Cuckoo Valley’ with excellent views of the 30m high waterfall. If you’re feeling like a brisk hike, it’s a pretty stunning sight once everything is frozen. Beware of steep cliffs but enjoy the amazing views. You can even rent an Airbnb nearby and enjoy toasting s’mores by the fire if you’re looking to extend your day trip!

Newmarket

day trips
Instagram/@goodvibesonmain

If you can’t get enough of those festive Christmas movies, then head up to Newmarket to visit the town where some of them were filmed. Located just 45 minutes north of Toronto, Newmarket is a no-brainer when it comes to an idyllic holiday-themed day trip. If you can believe it, 7 holiday made-for-TV movies were filmed here, including A Very Country Christmas, Christmas Wedding Planner, My Perfect Romance, Christmas in Paris, and more. For the ultimate movie-lovers tour through Newmarket, head to Holland Marsh Winery, Fairy Lake, Little Brew Hops, and the Pink Flamingo.

Prince Edward County

day trips
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Escape to The County this holiday season for a picturesque day trip unlike any other. While Prince Edward County is highly popular and visited throughout the summer, it’s a day trip destination that shouldn’t be overlooked come winter. Pop by Drake Devonshire for all the cozy vibes while enjoying a good meal, stop by a local winery, and even go for a cross-country ski!

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The ultimate relaxation getaway is here! The Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain has officially reopened.

All of the Scandinavian Baths opened to the public earlier this week on July 11. 

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Plus, with Ontario moving into Stage 3 in the province’s reopening plan, the Scandinave Spa’s indoor areas will soon welcome guests as of July 16. These include the Finnish Sauna, the Infrared Sauna, and the Eucalyptus Steam Room, which have actually been closed since March 2020. 

Scandinave Spa is taking all of the precautions necessary to keep its guests safe and comfortable.

So, you’ll find reduced capacity throughout the spa as well as social distancing, thorough sanitization, and a pre-arrival COVID-19 assessment.

Instagram/@scandinaveblue

As for pricing, bath reservations will start at $85 and hour massages (with free baths) will start at $165. For all other pricing and to book reservations, check out the website. If you happen to not have an appointment, a same-day waitlist is available beginning at 11 a.m. that day. 

So sit back, relax, and enjoy the view of the beautiful Blue Mountain spa.

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Don’t let the cold weather stop you from getting up to outdoorsy things this winter!

It’s time to bundle up and enjoy the beauty that our Canadian landscape has to offer. From hiking to skating, zip-lining, and more, you won’t regret going on one of these incredible winter adventures. Who needs sun and sand when you have activities like these?!

Take a look at the most amazing outdoor activities to do this winter in Ontario, and step up to the plate.

Skate the Arrowhead Ice Trail

winter ontario

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If you love skating, the Arrowhead Ice Trail will give you thrills that only a 1.3 km trail, framed with tiki torches and forest can give. Located in Huntsville, Ontario, the skating path is perhaps the most exciting one you can visit this winter. Check out hours of operation and dates on Discover Muskoka for a perfect skate under the stars.

Tour Some Frozen Waterfalls

winter ontario

Instagram/@annekgill

While most people would assume a waterfall tour to be a summer thing, seeing these frozen beauties in the heart of winter can be even more spectacular. Head over to Grey County, and visit 7 out of 9 of the waterfalls present throughout the hike that showcases a portion of the Niagara Escarpment.

Take a Sleigh Ride

winter ontario

Instagram/@nervousknitter

Romantic sleigh rides are only approximately 2.5 hours away from the GTA! If a ride on a horse drawn sleigh through the snowy terrain seems like your cup of tea, make sure to visit Dual Acres farm, just outside of Collingwood. The tour will take you through one of Georgian Bluff’s beautiful woodlots while it’s covered in a festive layer of snow.

 

Do a Snowshoe Vineyard Tour

Contrary to popular belief, vineyard tours aren’t only something to enjoy during the summer. Georgian Hills Vineyard located near Blue Mountain offers a truly Canadian experience with their Winter Wines & Vines snowshoe tour. Once the leisurely walk is over, relax inside the Thornbury Village Cider House to do some flights and tastings.

 

Hike to this Suspension Bridge

Southern Ontario’s biggest suspension bridge is open for winter visits too! 25 meters above the valley, look out over the snowy landscape while you complete the 45-minute hike to the bridge, saving the best for last: the view from the top. Apparently, on a clear day you can see for 10,000 square kilometres.

 

Go Dog Sledding

winter ontario

Instagram/@shannbradbury

Is there anything more Canadian than dog sledding? Try your best to make it out to North Ridge Ranch in Huntsville for a truly thrilling experience this winter — you won’t regret it. Not only are these pups adorbs, but they’re also fast and ready to pull you along a scenic wilderness tour. Warm up with a hot chocolate at the midway point and give your team of dogs some love. You can find tour prices on their website.

 

Try Winter Zip-Lining

winter ontario

Instagram/@jeanhsu

The Elora Gorge isn’t only a summer destination, it’s also home to one of the most awesome winter adventures in Ontario: zip-lining over the snowy gorge! Adventure Seeker Tours starts off with a trek to an 80-foot-tall cliff where the zip-lining station is set up. Once you’re there, strap in and go flying 200-feet across the gorge. We promise a true adrenaline rush with this one!

 

Visit the Scandinave Spa

winter ontario

Instagram/@m.ari.j.a

If your idea of outdoor activities is relaxing in a pool or hot tub, then you need to visit the Scandinave Spa this winter. Located in Collingwood at Blue Mountain, the hot and cold pools, and steam room are idyllic framed by a snowy backdrop. Relax and unwind in the heart of nature — nothing gets more zen than this. And if you can’t book in time their, try one of our other favourite spa getaways

 

Go Tobogganing or Tubing

A list of amazing outdoor adventures wouldn’t be complete without tobogganing. If you’re looking to stay local, check out the best tobogganing spots in Toronto, otherwise, up the ante and go tubing at Chicopee Tube Park. Their runway is designed for speed, and is as icy as can be — you’ll be trying to fit in as many runs as you can.

Featured Image: Instagram/@livelihood.ca

As I’m sure you know, Christmas is only two weeks away. Don’t wait until last minute to decide what to do. We’ve got a perfect idea. May we suggest Blue Mountain’s Jingles & Joy event?

This year, Blue Mountain Village will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland! It’ll feature cool activations, delicious food, dazzling lights, and tons of family-friendly entertainment.

Throughout the village, guests can check out holiday-themed celebrations including music, horse-drawn carriages, and holiday shopping. Saturdays in the village will be a spectacular scene, with firework displays every weekend. Spend your holidays surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.

It’s time to light up the night sky!  Tonight at 8pm fireworks will be illuminating the night sky over the Mill Pond!  @bluemtnvillage . . . . . . . . . #liveitoutside #fireworks #familyday

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Check out the Blue Mountain Village and learn everything you need to know about Jingles & Joy from Dec 2, 2017, to Jan 6, 2018.

Image Source: Instagram – @Bluemntresort

Winter is one of the best seasons to take in everything Toronto has to offer. It may get cold here in the Great White North, but that doesn’t mean you should stay inside and hibernate all season long. Bundle up, get outside, and enjoy the chilly season. With everything from holiday markets, to skating and skiing, and winter vineyard tours, there’s so much to do in Toronto come winter.

If you’re looking for ideas on how to spend your days (and nights) this season, here are 5 cliché but totally awesome things to do in and around Toronto this winter!

Toronto Christmas Market

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The Toronto Christmas Market is a must-visit for a true Torontonian winter. The city’s Distillery District is transformed into a magical, holiday fest with activities for all ages to enjoy. It boasts one of Toronto’s largest real Christmas trees, locally crafted products, festive lighting, beer gardens, a carousel, and of course, Santa and his reindeer. It’s one of the best ways to spend a day (or night) this winter!

Hit the Slopes

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If you’re a skier or snowboarder or want to try your luck on the slopes this year, there are quite a few ski hills in the surrounding Toronto area. From Blue Mountain, about 2.5 hours north, to Hockley Valley, less than two hours North West and Ski Dagmar to the East, you can spend the day on the slopes and warm up with a warm hot chocolate and poutine in the chalet afterwards.

Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village

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If you’re looking to get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors this winter, head to Evergreen Brickworks Winter Village to embrace the cold and snow. From campfires to tours of the Don Valley trails, you can see the winter wonderland Toronto has to offer. You can also browse the Holiday Etsy Market on Sundays and shop fresh produce at the Saturday Farmers Market.

Snowshoe Vineyard Tours

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If you thought winery tours were just for spring and summer, think again. Less than a three hour drive from Toronto, the Grey county region offers snowshoeing vineyard tours at the Georgian Hills Vineyards. Snowshoe through the wineries, and end the day cozying up by the fire with a glass of vino and artisan cheese board.

Ice Fest

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Come February, the Bloor-Yorkville annual ice fest will have the neighbourhood transformed into a showcase of intricate ice sculptures and ice carving demonstrations. This year’s Ice Fest theme will be Canada 150, so you can expect gorgeous creations including Canadian Mounties and the Parliament Buildings. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and take in the gorgeous sculptures. The event is free and takes place on Saturday, February 25  (12 noon – 8 pm) & Sunday, February 26  (12 noon – 5 pm.)

Do you know any other amazing things to do in Toronto this winter? Share with us in the comments.

Featured image: torontochristmasmarket.com

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With summer already feeling like a distant memory (aside from temperatures in the high 20s), we can’t help but daydream about our next getaway. And what could be better than rounding up a group of friends and hitting the road for a weekend filled with food, drinks and memorable adventures?

If you and your besties are planning for a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city, these 5 spots are just what you need.

Here are 5 of the best girls road trips only hours from Toronto.

Prince Edward County
Distance from Toronto: 205.1 km

best girl's roadtrips

The June Motel (Image: Instagram/@thejunemotel)

Over the past few years Prince Edward County has gained popularity as one of the trendiest spots a quick jaunt from Toronto. With motels like The June, brunch spots like The Vic Café, and vineyards and breweries almost everywhere you turn, Prince Edward County is a no-brainer for a girls weekend getaway. Rent bikes from The County Wine Tours to mosey along the county road, stopping to sip rosé along the way. Make your way to the Drake Devonshire for seasonal cuisine and cocktails, and don’t forget to bring your cowboy boots for a night at The Hayloft Dance Hall.  

 

Detroit
Distance from Toronto:
371.9 km

best girl's road trips

Just a section of The Heidelberg Project (Image: Instagram/@nairomero)

While Detroit has gotten a bad rap in the past, it’s now one North America’s most up and coming cities, especially for millennials. Abandoned buildings are opening their doors revived as cafés, museums, bars and restaurants, which means there’s tons to do there for a girl’s weekend across the border. Just over a 4-hour drive from Toronto, take a half day on Friday and get there in time to have dinner and drinks before a night out on the town. Check out Airbnb for a pick of the city’s gorgeous downtown lofts and hit up a speakeasy like The Keep. And if you’ve got extra time, be sure to check out The Heidelberg Project, a big outdoor art project that features homes, recycled and found products in the east side of the city. 

Scandinave Spa
Distance from Toronto: 157.1 km

girls getaway

The Scandinave Spa (Image: Instagram/@TheCuriousCreature)

There’s nothing quite as rejuvenating as spending the weekend getting pampered and primped. Situated in the heart of Blue Mountain, the Scandinave Spa is renowned for its Scandinavian baths and relaxing massages. Start the morning hiking along the Bruce Trail or biking across Grey County roads, and spend the rest of the day doing nothing but unwinding with the girls. Blue Mountain is also host to a number of restaurants and bars so you’ll have no problem finding something to do at night.

Tobermory
Distance from Toronto: 295.8 km

girls getaway

Flowerpot Island (Image: Instagram/@msbowry)

If your group of friends is the outdoorsy type, rent a cabin in Tobermory for a weekend at one with nature. Hike the beautiful trails of Bruce Peninsula National Park. Walk along the Cyrpus Lake Trail to the grotto, overlooking the turquoise waters of Georgian Bay. Take a boat cruise to Flower Pot island before they close up for the winter. All this is sure to make you hungry, so stop by Della Rocca Pizzeria for a wood oven pizza, and visit Little Tub Bakery, a quick walk from the grotto.

Niagara-on-the-Lake
Distance from Toronto: 132.3 km

girls getaway

Two Sisters Vineyards (Image: Instagram/@mlle_zein)

Good food and wine never stop flowing when you’re visiting Niagara-on-the-Lake, which makes it ideal for a trip with your besties. Winery hop from vineyard to vineyard, making sure to have a bite at Ravine Winery (the charcuterie is to die for) and Two Sisters Vineyards. Shop along Niagara’s well-known Queen street and head to the casino if gambling’s your thing. Don’t miss Sunday brunch at Treadwell, a farm-to-table restaurant with offerings like eggs benny with duck sausage and chardonnay steamed mussels.

Are you planning a girls getaway? Which of these places would you and your friends love most?

Featured Image: Instagram/@scandinaveblue

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