Let’s face it, holiday cheer and nostalgia aside, the holiday season can be exhausting and rife with obligation. Often times, this later leaves us wanting time off to recuperate. Why not recalibrate at the get-go by changing-up how you celebrate this holiday?
Here we have a list of exceptional Ontario Resorts going the extra mile to ensure that their guests get the most out of their winter stay. With minimal effort on your end, you can embrace relaxation while spending time with loved ones over the holidays. Reader beware . . . you may never want to leave these getaway locations.
Eganridge Resort
Kawartha Lakes, ON
Eganridge Resort is in the Kawartha-Northumberland region and boasts of accommodating activities for the whole family. From outdoor activities of snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and wooded equine trails (!) around the property, to indoor retreats at the spa or epicurean experiences in the Eaganridge dining room.
Join their Christmas Dinner Buffet on Dec. 25th for a meal with all the nostalgic fixings you won’t have to raise a finger to prepare. And don’t shy away on New Year’s! Reserve a spot for you and your friends to ring in the New Year over a 5-course meal followed by putting a few scuffs on your dancing shoes.
Hockley Valley Resort
Mono, ON
The Hockley Valley Resort is a place to dine, wine and relax while the more adventurous members of your family kiss the icy slopes with their skis. The fact that HVR grows 80 percent of their menu ingredients, with a welcomed dedication to reducing their carbon footprint, is exciting; and the fact that Adamo Estate Winery is nearby, is delightfully convenient.
From Dec. 21 – 25, and New Year’s Eve, Hockley has a lot planned to make their guests’ stay worthwhile. Book a spot for, what looks like, an incredible Christmas dinner or New Year’s celebration.
Northern Edge Algonquin
South River, ON
The Northern Edge Algonquin says it best on their website, “Winter at Algonquin Park is about embracing the best of winter outdoors and retreating inward to warm the soul.” This destination spot is the perfect retreat for a group of outdoorsy pals and keep-the-kids-busy families.
There are a myriad of options available to satiate one’s penchant for winter activities. Some of this includes skating, kick-sledding, cross-country skiing and a nighttime sauna outside your cabin, procuring the perfect opportunity for stargazing. Once indoors, enjoy a candlelit meal by chef Gregor, followed by hot chocolate by the fire.
Ste. Anne’s Spa
Grafton, ON
Sometimes the best getaway is one where you treat yourself or plan a getaway for just you and a significant other. Ste. Anne’s Spa has great accommodations, whether you’re looking at booking a room or cottage, as well as season appropriate Winter Warm Up and January Healing packages. Enjoy their spa services and wellness classes and then nourish your body by dining at Ste. Anne’s Feast On Certified, Country Dining Room.
Pine Vista Resort
Douro-Dummer, ON
Another Kawartha-Northumberland resort to suit the outdoorsy guest, Pine Vista offers several winter packages with a plethora of playful activities and gastronomic adventures. The Country Christmas package has family appeal with fully equipped cottages and resort townhouses to choose from. It wouldn’t be a country Christmas without Christmas dinner and activities. Pine Vista includes a prepared festive meal, skiing, snowshoeing and tobogganing. And to sleigh the whole experience, this package also includes a horse drawn sleigh ride accompanied by hot chocolate and cookies. There’s a jolly amount of organized activity for the kids to participate in and, don’t fret mom and dad, guests can also book a therapeutic massage for some well-deserved pampering.
