Embrace the beauty of winter in Ontario with a perfect getaway that combines outdoor adventure, cozy retreats, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re looking to hit the slopes or relax by a warm fire, Ontario offers a diverse range of winter destinations. Here’s a list of 20 fantastic winter getaways to explore this season.
1. Horseshoe Resort
Location: Barrie, ON
Highlights: Dive into winter excitement with 29 downhill ski and snowboard runs, snow tubing and cross-country skiing. Don’t miss the magical Valley Lights Walking Trail.
2. Deerhurst Resort
Location: Muskoka, ON
Highlights: Engage in snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snowmobile tours. Its proximity to the Arrowhead Ice Skating Trail adds to the allure.
3. Blue Mountain Resort
Location: The Blue Mountains, ON
Highlights: Ontario’s largest ski resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and a lively village atmosphere with shops and restaurants, making it a dynamic winter destination.
4. Muskoka Ski Club
Location: Huntsville, ON
Highlights: Perfect for families, this ski club offers downhill skiing and snowboarding amidst the stunning beauty of Muskoka.
5. Timberline Lodge
Location: Haliburton, ON
Highlights: Enjoy a cozy winter lodge experience with activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the Haliburton Highlands.
6. Algonquin Park
Location: Near Huntsville, ON
Highlights: Explore extensive trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, providing stunning winter landscapes and an immersive nature experience.
7. Orillia & Lake Country
Location: Orillia, ON
Highlights: Indulge in skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and enjoy cozy accommodations for a calming winter getaway.
8. Kawartha Lakes
Location: Kawartha Lakes, ON
Highlights: Famous for its pristine lakes and trails offering snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle.
9. Minden Hills
Location: Minden, ON
Highlights: Experience a variety of outdoor activities including snowshoeing and ice fishing, all set in a serene and picturesque environment.
10. Sudbury
Location: Sudbury, ON
Highlights: Discover local ski hills and extensive trails for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, showcasing Sudbury’s winter charm.
11. Parry Sound
Location: Parry Sound, ON
Highlights: Perfect for outdoor adventurers with opportunities for cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing amid scenic Georgian Bay views.
12. Bancroft
Location: Bancroft, ON
Highlights: A gateway to Silent Lake Provincial Park offering winter camping and exploration opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
13. Elliot Lake
Location: Elliot Lake, ON
Highlights: Ideal for winter sports lovers with Mount Dufour’s downhill skiing and extensive cross-country ski trails.
14. Niagara Falls
Location: Niagara Falls, ON
Highlights: Experience the majestic falls adorned with stunning ice formations and experience the Winter Festival of Lights, where over three million lights illuminate the region.
15. Collingwood
Location: Collingwood, ON
Highlights: Known for great dining, access to ski resorts, and snowshoeing trails, making it a charming and active winter getaway.
16. Prince Edward County
Location: Prince Edward County, ON
Highlights: Known for wineries and charming inns, offering wine tastings and cozy B&B stays for a soothing winter escape.
17. Gravenhurst
Location: Gravenhurst, ON
Highlights: Explore Muskoka with ice fishing on Lake Muskoka or visiting local shops and restaurants for a delightful winter experience.
18. Haliburton Highlands
Location: Haliburton County, ON
Highlights: Known for extensive trail systems for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing; perfect for exploring nature in winter.
19. Winterlude Festival
Location: Ottawa, ON
Highlights: Celebrate winter with ice sculptures, skating on the Rideau Canal, and various cultural events during this renowned annual festival in February.
20. Tobermory
Location: Tobermory, ON
Highlights: Visit during winter for breathtaking views of Bruce Peninsula National Park with opportunities for hiking on snowy trails or exploring local gems.
Ontario is a winter wonderland packed with diverse getaways for enjoyable and cozy adventures. Whether you’re skiing down the slopes, exploring beautifully frozen landscapes, or relaxing by a fireside, these destinations offer perfect escapes. Plan your winter getaway now and embrace the magical season in Ontario!
Looking for more fun ideas? Check out our curated list of things to do in Toronto, updated weekly!