Need a couple days away? Here are some great ideas for a weekend getaway.
Ontario has so much to offer, so with this in mind here are some things you can do. No matter where you live in Ontario or even if you are flying into Toronto for the weekend, we have you covered.
I love exploring places around where I grew up and where I live now. In a moment I could jump in my car and head north 5 hours to Tobermory or just take a drive down the Southern shores with my grandpa. Ontario is made of flat lands, rolling lands, beautiful cliffs and crystal blue waters. Finding them is the key.
Whether you are looking for hiking, adventure, family activities, a spa day with your girlfriends or just a road trip. Ontario has plenty to offer. Here is some tips and ideas to help you plan that perfect weekend.
Chasing Waterfalls
Hamilton – If you are like me and love not only the beauty of a waterfall but the relaxing sounds it makes you will love Hamilton. Just 1 hour south of Toronto you will find over 100 waterfalls in and around the city of Hamilton.
For full details Best Waterfalls in Hamilton
Where to stay : Rose Arden B&B, a cute home centrally located in Hamilton.
Niagara Falls – Well this one really needs no introduction. As one of the biggest attractions in Ontario it is not hard to find. Located just 2 hours South of Toronto this spectacular waterfalls is an amazing wonder.
Where to stay : Embassy Suites has great service, ample parking and great views of the falls
Hiking the Trails
Greigs Caves – Hands down my favorite place to hike. Located just south of Tobermory this is a great place for hikers and those who just love being surrounded by nature. This trail and cave system can be done in a couple hours.
Located just a few hours north west of Toronto
Where to stay : There are many camping areas within the National Park
The Grotto – Another amazing place just north of Greigs Caves is the Grotto. This 2 mile hike from the camp is a great start to many hiking trails along the Bruce Trail. With a few trails leading to this amazing (instagram friendly) spot, you will surely find one for your needs.
For more information on these two places
Camping in the great outdoors
Ontario has plenty of great places to sleep under the stars. To begin with there is Algonquin Park. This park has your typical camp sites but if you are the type of person who likes to go off grid completely this area offers some of the greatest views. If you love canoeing and portaging this is going to be your favorite place to be.
Located north of Toronto about 3.5 hours.
Elora Gorge is a great family camp ground. With hiking trails and river tubing there is so much fun for everyone.
Located just 1.5 hours west from Toronto
Emily Park is my favorite out of them all. Since I was a kid my family would bring us here on weekends. Exploring the board walk, watching the osprey nests from the lookout and great beaches to enjoy the sun and water.
Located 1.5 hours north of Toronto in a town called Omemee.
Spas and relaxation
For those who need to escape life and just relax there are the spa weekends.
Scandinave Spa, A beautiful place in Collingwood, nestled in nature taking away all the toxins. While emerging yourself in the hot and cold pools all your worries melt away. Perhaps you could even steam them out in the eucalyptus room. Full experience
Located just 2 hours west of Toronto.
Where to stay : Collingwood offers many hotels and B&B’s. To be honest I have family there so I stay with them.
Cavana Ridge is another beautiful spa. This one however you can spend the night. Filled with luxury and relaxation. Offering not just a spa, they also have a solon. Get the package to best spoil your needs.
Located 1 hour 45 minutes North of Toronto in a small town called Severn (near Orillia)
Wineries of the South
Just because I said south doesn’t mean you won’t see some of the best Icewine in all of Canada.
Inniskillin Icewine is rated 4 in all of Canada. If you have never tried an Icewine I suggest you head to Niagara on the Lake. For me, Icewine is a dessert wine that is sweet and flavorful.
Located just south of Toronto near Niagara Falls.
Colchester and area explore the shore. At the most Southern end of Ontario you will find some of the greatest wines. Now I am no wine connoisseurs, I do however have amazing taste buds. This area can be explored over a week to see and taste the best. My personal favorites are BearCreek, Colio, Pelee Island and North 42 degrees.
This area is south of Windsor Ontario about 4 hours from Toronto.
Where to stay : The Grove Hotel. Located in Kingsville you can get tours from this town.
Winter Activities
Collingwood once again makes the list of weekend getaways. This time it is for skiing. Blue Mountain is the number 1 place to ski in Ontario. This area is prone to large amounts of snowfall so you will be making your way down fresh slopes.
No up for the big hills check out the place I would go all the time as a teen for snowboarding Ski Lakeridge. There is no resort here like there is at the Blue, you can however stay in the town I grew up in at an old school house
Heading near the Nickle Town of Sudbury to a small called Onaping you will find the Windy Lake Provincial park. This place is stunning and with all season yurts it is a great place to Cross Country ski during the day and have a glamping sleep.
Snowshoeing has been around for ages, so why not take a step out into nature with an old means for transportation. Occasionally taking a rest and breathing in the crisp air along the trails of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park.
Extreme Getaway
Not everyone needs to relax for a weekend getaway, so why not go big. White water rafting big! Owl Rafting has been around since 1981 and offer great packages for any level. Choose the soft adventure or go big with the sport adventure.
They also offer stay and play packages, a great way to work off some of that daily grind.
