This past year, Canadians spent more time at home than ever before. Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, our daily routines have shifted to Zoom meetings, remote learning and social distancing. The current situation has also put a damper on travel plans, with countless Canadians cancelling their overseas and cross border getaways. In 2021, vacations may have to be re-imagined, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be epic. This winter season, it’s time to take back our vacations right here in our own backyard. From glamping to road trips to national parks and getaways, Ontario has so much to offer for anyone looking to get out and enjoy the outdoors again.

Blue Mountain Resort – Collingwood, Ont.

Don’t let COVID-19 keep you from doing the things you love. As a favourite of many for skiing and snowboarding, the Blue Mountain Resort has reimagined their resort to meet new COVID-19 rules and regulations so families and loved ones can have fun while staying safe. This resort is home to 42 runs and freestyle terrain and offers snow school for beginners. Experience the holiday  magic by taking a stroll through its pedestrian village along the cobblestone streets and wonder at the enchanting and interactive light displays. Shops, pubs and restaurants are set to remain open with limited capacity for visitors to continue to enjoy. There are also many other great places to explore in Ontario this Winter season. For the most up-to-date information on where and when it is safe to travel, please visit covid-19.ontario.ca.

Almonte – Almonte, Ont.
Hallmark fans will rejoice at a weekend getaway in Almonte, Ont. In this friendly, historic mill town, loved ones can experience what it’s like to be in their own Hallmark Christmas movie. Be sure to take a scenic walk along the Mississippi River, witness the cascading waterfalls and shop antiques, gifts, collectibles and more along historic Mill Street. Unique lofts, inns and B&Bs are available for your magical overnight stay. Hallmark has filmed five of their Christmas movies here and fans are sure to revel at recognizing scenes from some of their favourites.

Tiffany Falls Conservation Area – Hamilton, Ont.
Is there anything more breathtaking than a frozen waterfall? Just a short walk from the parking lot through a forested trail leads you straight to Tiffany Falls. The waterfall tumbles into a v-shaped ravine below and is surrounded by cliffs on either side. This area is often crowded with tourists during the warmer months, making this an ideal off season winter road trip. Thrill-seekers can even take things one step further with ice climbing lessons to scale these frozen falls.

Elora Gorge Conservation Area – Elora, Ont.
For the more adventurous, Elora has a plethora of trails for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Just like at Tiffany Falls, Elora Gorge features ice climbing, but that is not all. Tourists can also zipline 60 metres down into the frozen gorge. There is also a 47-km network of trails linking the Grand and Credit watersheds. Should visitors decide to stay overnight, they can enjoy a luxurious getaway at the Elora Mill & Spa.

DOWNLOAD FULL ISSUE

Point Pelee National Park Leamington, Ont.
During the day, venture through the park’s various trails or walk on out to Canada’s southernmost point. At night, stay in one of their oTENTik and cozy up around the campfire or gather around and enjoy a fun family game night at the provided table and chairs. There are 24 oTENTik located in the heart of Point Pelee and inside each oTENTik are enough beds for your whole family, a table and chairs, dishes, cooking equipment, electricity and gas or wood stove heating. Each has its own front deck, gas barbeque with a side burner, two deck chairs, food storage locker, fire pit and picnic table. This spacious tent combined with an A-frame cabin on a raised wooden floor is designed for your comfy and cozy glamping experience.

Sifton Bog Trail – London, Ont.
If what you seek is a day trip with a stunning destination, make it the Sifton Bog boardwalk trail. Only a couple of hours away, this road trip is perfect for someone looking to unplug for a day. Totalling 2.7 kilometres, Sifton Bog offers several well-marked trails. Hikers can watch for sightings of deer and other woodland creatures. After a fresh dusting of snow, this trail takes on the essence of a Winter wonderland. Adventurers are sure to appreciate all that this urban park has to offer.

Interested in Advertising in Rafih Style Magazine?

Learn more