If you’re a Toronto resident—or reside in the Greater Toronto Area or the environs a short drive away— and you’re looking for a vacation spot, either for a weekend getaway, a romantic escape, or a destination for the entire family because school’s out, then look no further than these seven spectacular spots and locations.
- Elora Mill Hotel and Spa
This spectacular hotel is in the beautiful Elora town south of Ontario and just a little over an hour from Toronto. This one-of-a-kind location has the most breathtaking views, which can be accessed from virtually anywhere from the hotel. Activities to indulge in this luxurious getaway spot include spa treatments and special culinary treats involving a 10-course meal by the kitchen staff. Surrounded by picturesque views around the Elora Gorge, the spa and accommodation offered at Elora Mill Hotel and Spa are guaranteed to give you the experience of a lifetime.
- Blue Mountain Ski Resort
Located in the charming Blue Mountain town, a small town with a majestic personality. Vacationing in this location is ideal all year round for that most-needed time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Get to experience the best that southern Ontario has to offer. Other fun activities available besides the ski village include hiking around the grounds of the waterfalls. Summer is a good time to go mountain biking or for taking in the spellbinding views of the resort grounds. There are various accommodation offerings such as cabins with fireplaces for that much needed warmth during the winter months.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake
Niagara-on-the-lake has all the markings of a peaceful vacation location. On the list of best small towns in Canada, this picturesque location has some of the best spots for a romantic getaway for two, and for the whole family. Places of interest include various eat-out spots and restaurants for a fine dining experience. Other activities to enjoy are theatres, and light shopping. Also, early evening strolls around the town are a must. Soak up on the town’s sights and sounds, and interact with the locals as they regale you with historical facts about the town.
- Wasaga Beach
Famous for being the world’s longest freshwater beach. Wasaga Beach water is warm and shallow, making it perfect for young families and beginner swimmers. Visitors to this beach can indulge in many fun activities located around the beach environs, like the Nancy Island Historic Site, the Provincial Park, Go-Karts activities among others. For accommodation, there are hotels, motels, BnB’s, cabins, and camping sites on the beach premises that one can choose from. The beach itself is located on a long 14-kilometre curve along the Nottawasaga Bay. Wasaga Beach is one of the province’s most popular beaches, and draws in a record-breaking two million plus visitors to its shores in any given season.
- Deerhurst Resort
Savour the architectural beauty of this resort as you get into the groove of the grounds. The resort has a sundeck overlooking the lakeside, where you get to enjoy the best sunsets or some absolute peace and quiet. Other attractions on the resort grounds include spit fire for those longing for a good barbeque, and various water sports including diving and boating. There’s also skiing, snowmobiling, horse riding, and of course perfect dining for lunch, breakfast, or dinner. You can also enjoy a game of golf on their 7,011 yards of luscious green course. Drinking with friends and family on the sundeck while enjoying the campfire is bound to be a hit for anyone. A night’s lodging at the Deerhurst Resort costs a little over $200 for a one bedroom for two adults and two children below age ten.
- Black River Retreat
For that perfect weekend vacation spot with the love of your life, you can do no better than Black River Retreat. Perched in the beautiful town of Tweed on the northern side of Ontario, this location provides lovers with some of the best activities to indulge in. Just a little over two hours’ drive from Toronto will get you to this location. Black River Retreat is bound to be the topic of focus for many months after your first visit.
- Woodbine Beach
Woodbine Beach is on the list of Ontario and Toronto’s Best beaches. The beach stretches about 3 km long and is a great fun spot for the whole family, especially on weekends. The area where the beach is located is surrounded by a variety of hotel accommodations, bed and breakfasts, and mini resorts for anyone desiring a bit of getaway time within the city.
Chinenye Emezie | Assistant Editor
