Tag: collingwood

3 Ways To “Get Together” Apart This Holiday Season

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

The holidays are a time when you get to enjoy time with family and friends while getting a bit of a break before you dive into the new year. You often think about the year’s accomplishments and set goals for the future. However, this year is not like others. 

If you want to get together with your extended family and friends this holiday season, you will have to do it “apart.” Thankfully, the pandemic happened at a time in history when connecting with people worldwide and in your own town is easier than ever.

Outlined below are three ways that you can “get together” apart this holiday season. While the pandemic might limit how close you can get to each other, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some good conversation and laughs from afar. 

Zoom Recipe Swap

While you can have a video conference with all your extended family to catch up and hear about each other’s lives, it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming with everyone trying to speak at once. Sometimes it helps to have a goal for the call rather than hope everyone is willing to chat into the computer screen. A great way to enhance these video calls is by exchanging recipes beforehand with your family members and planning to cook them on the same night. After you have eaten, or even while you are eating, you can do a conference call and talk about how the recipes went. This activity is a great way to share traditions and celebrate the holiday spirit without leaving your home. 

Neighbourhood Campfire

Many people throughout Ontario and the Collingwood area have close relationships with their neighbourhood. Many people have even bubbled up with their neighbours during the pandemic as they see them nearly every day. If you live in a neighbourhood with some of your closest friends and family members, you may be tempted to have an indoor get-together, but unfortunately, that can’t happen. Instead, bundle up and get together with our neighbourhood at an outdoor campfire. You can visit some of the Collingwood hotspots or meet in someone’s backyard. 

Decorating a wild tree can be a fun socially-distanced activity.

Wild Tree Decorating

The wonderful thing about living in the Collingwood area is that most neighborhoods are in proximity to densely wooded areas with wildlife and beautiful pine trees. Go to a local wooded area and spend some time decorating a wild pine tree in some of your favorite decorations. You can bring a portable speaker and a thermos of hot chocolate. Together you will be able to enjoy the holiday spirit while keeping your distance and staying outside.

Even though the holidays are looking a little different this year, it doesn’t mean you can’t still try and make it as festive as possible. By doing a video conference recipe exchange, a neighborhood fire, or decorating a wild pine tree, you can get a taste of a regular holiday season without putting yourself at risk.  

 

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How To Stay Social, Active, & Outdoors This Winter

by Collingwood InfoUncategorized

With the days getting colder and with outdoor activities being more limited, people are wondering how to navigate the months ahead. While you will want to stay active and social, with indoor gatherings limited, you might have some trouble. During a year that has seen multiple hurdles, finding ways to interact from afar while outdoors will undoubtedly be more challenging this winter.

If you and your family or group of friends are trying to rethink the months ahead and find ways to stay safe and connected while simultaneously enjoying the fresh air, you might need some help. Thankfully, Collingwood is a perfect spot to make the most of the outdoors. 

Explore Collingwood Area Hikes

The Collingwood area is a natural wonderland and home to many popular destinations that attract Canadians from coast-to-coast. For those currently living in the Collingwood area or thinking about relocating here from the city, luckily, there are many hiking trails that you can still enjoy during the winter months. 

Many people often balk at the idea of hiking in the winter, claiming it will be too cold or snowy. If you prepare, though, you can make it just as fun, if not more so, than hiking in the summer. Prepare yourself some hot drinks, bundle up, and put on a good pair of waterproof shoes. Once you eliminate potential discomfort, you can head out and enjoy the Georgian Trail, Loree Forest Loop, The Beaver River Trail, or one of the many other scenic hiking spots. 

Lake Skating

While there are many outdoor rinks and community centers that offer places to skate throughout the winter, it does not compare to the wild feeling of skating across a glass lake with nothing but trees and snow surrounding you. Skating on lakes can be an excellent activity for the whole family, but you have to make sure it is cold enough before settling on a destination. 

There are various places to get ice thickness reports, which can let you know if it’s safe to skate. When it’s cold enough, you can skate on Georgina Bay, Lake Simcoe, or you can head to Eugenia Lake just a bit south of Collingwood. 

Campfire Cookouts

There’s something special about having a roaring fire amidst a snowy landscape. The smell of the fire, the cool air on your cheeks, and good company at your side can transport you to another time and place. There are many places to have a bonfire throughout Collingwood, whether it’s at your friend’s country house or a provincial park. 

Once you have a spot, call up some friends and have a socially-distanced cookout. You can wrap up some sweet potatoes in foil, roast sausages, or even throw some hamburgers on a grill. A cookout will be an excellent way to get a hefty dose of fresh air and social time. 

As you look ahead to the winter months, rather than get discouraged by the various pandemic-restrictions, try and look on the bright side. There are still great ways to get together with friends while also enjoying the fresh air. 

By checking out the Collingwood hiking trails, lake-skating, and having a campfire cookout, you can be sure your winter won’t feel too different from past years.  

 

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Preparing For A COVID-19 Collingwood Ski Season

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do / Uncategorized

With an unprecedented year coming to a close and some cold and unpredictable months ahead, more people are thinking about how to get their daily recreation and leisure in during the winter. Skiing, the perfect combination of exercise and recreation, has long been a winter pastime for many Canadians throughout the country (primarily on the West Coast, in Quebec and Ontario.) 

Collingwood, one of Ontario’s most coveted ski destinations and the home of some established mountain resorts and private clubs, is witnessing a changing tide that could change not just the face of the mountains, but skiing accessibility in general. As more mountains prepare for a busy winter and try to navigate COVID-19 protocols without going under, skiers try to comprehend how they should approach the snowy season. 

If you are a skier and wondering what you can do to stay safe while also skiing regularly, you will need some advice. Whether you plan on moving to the area or are a long time visitor, these tips will help you feel more confident about the months ahead. 

Contact Hills Individually

A big mistake you might make this ski season is assuming the rules are the same at each ski hill. While past winters were as easy as driving up to a resort, unloading your gear, and hitting the lift, things are different now, much different. As most hills will be swamped trying to invoke a new system for booking and renting, you need to ensure you have the correct details before jumping in the car. 

If you are already living in the Blue Mountains area, currently looking for homes, or coming in from the city, knowing how each hill is approaching the season will help you prepare. You can find out what their scheduling system is like, what their COVID protocols are, and other information that will better inform your excursion. 

Avoid Renting

For tourists and people looking to try skiing for the first time, renting equipment is useful, especially if you realize you never want to do it again. However, if you tend to ski every year, even if only once or twice, but have never bought yourself gear, this is the year you should. Renting requirements could make your ski excursion more complicated, increasing wait times or costing you more money than usual. 

If you invest in some good skis or borrow from a friend, you will be better prepared for the Collingwood ski season. As you might also have to ski somewhere further from home or at a hill you’ve never visited, having your own equipment will ensure you actually ski and aren’t just waiting for your friends and family to finish.

Stay Updated

If there was ever a time to listen to the news, it’s now. With COVID-19 protocols in constant flux and more news regarding the months ahead being released every second, you should be staying up to date. Keeping informed about the issues and the state of various winter activities like skiing in the Collingwood area will ensure you don’t miss any critical information. 

Preparation will be necessary if you want to ski this winter in the Collingwood area. If you contact the various hills and find out their protocols, avoid renting and stay informed, you will plan your trip more effectively. While the upcoming months may be different than others, if there’s anything Canadians handle best, it’s the unpredictability of winter.

 

 

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A Brief History of Collingwood

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do / Uncategorized

Collingwood, Ontario is a beautiful town in Simcoe County. Just a two-hour drive from Toronto, Collingwood is a welcoming community, boasting an interesting and historically significant past. Located along Nottawasaga and Georgian Bay, Collingwood’s unique location means its been inhabited for centuries, first by the Iroquois and later becoming the first municipality in Canada to have a Heritage Conservation District included on the prestigious list of Canada’s Historic Places.

A truly unique town for its warmth, hospitality, and rich history, today Collingwood is a vibrant town attracting thousands of visitors each year. Read more to learn about Collingwood’s incredible history and why this town should be on everybody’s bucket list!

 

The First People

Surrounded by waterways used by the First Nations to travel across Canada, Collingwood’s central location made it an ideal settling ground for the Iroquois. Building a number of villages all around the Niagara Escarpment, whose natural resources later attracted European settlers, the Iroquois inhabited what is now known as Collingwood until the 18th century.

As European settlers began to arrive and the settlement grew, Collingwood went by a number of names, including Hurontario, Nottawa, and even Hens-and-Chickens Harbour as a reference to the small islands in the bay. Eventually incorporated as a town in 1858, Collingwood was named for Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood, the man who had been Lord Nelson’s second in command during the Battle of Trafalgar and who succeeded Lord Nelson in commanding the British navy after his death.

 

A Growing Economy

By the early 1900s, Collingwood’s harbour was booming and became the shipment point for goods travelling to the upper Great Lakes, Chicago and Fort William (now known as Thunder Bay). Consequently, for much of the 20th century, Collingwood’s economy boomed as shipbuilding businesses appeared to service the ships coming in and out of the harbour. During the Second World War, Collingwood’s shipyards were used to build warships for the Royal Canadian Navy and at one time employed as much as 10% of its workforce.

However, steep competition in shipbuilding made the industry unsustainable and by the late 80s, much of Collingwood was employed by manufacturing firms, many of which still remain today.

 

Modern Day

Well known for its stunning vistas and proximity to Blue Mountain, a popular skiing destination, today Collingwood boasts a robust tourism industry that attracts visitors year round. Full of incredible heritage properties that remain carefully cared for by residents, Collingwood’s rich history and commitment to its conservation is truly something to behold. From skiing in the winter to its Scenic Caves, upscale spas and Wasaga Beach Provincial Park (now a designated biosphere reserve), there’s no shortage of exciting activities in the region.

Well known for its stunning vistas and proximity to Blue Mountain, a popular skiing destination, today Collingwood boasts a robust tourism industry that attracts visitors year round. Full of incredible heritage properties that remain carefully cared for by residents, Collingwood’s rich history and commitment to its conservation is truly something to behold. From skiing in the winter to its Scenic Caves, upscale spas and Wasaga Beach Provincial Park (now a designated biosphere reserve), there’s no shortage of exciting activities in the region.

 

 

Whether you’re seeking a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life, or looking for a place to stay while you’re in town, Collingwood is an attractive destination for families, friends, and couples. A truly quaint town that has managed to preserve its vibrant character for future generations, it’s no surprise that interest in Collingwood continues to grow!

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The Best Trails in Collingwood, ON

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Collingwood is famous for its outdoor activities. With Blue Mountain and Georgian Bay on either side, there is an endless list of recreational sports to fill your time. But what if you aren’t into sports? What if you prefer a nice leisurely walk or light hike? Here is a list of the best trails in the area.

 

Pretty River Provincial Park

Part of the Escarpment and located 6 km southeast of Collingwood, Pretty River Provincial parks is a nature lover’s paradise. There no facilities and no camping permitted, so there is nothing but nature. The 6 kilometers of trails are on some of the highest points of the escarpment. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking and skiing. The area has a variety of terrains and users should be aware that some locations in the park are for more advanced hikers.

 

Harbourview Park Loop in Collingwood

Harbourview Park is perfect for a leisurely afternoon walk for the whole family. Starting on Birch Street, the trail goes all the way to Georgian Bay. Visitors can expect to walk or cycle about 1.3 km from start to finish. The trail is well maintained and has a great mix of trees, greenery, and flowers.

 

 

Kolapore Uplands Trail

Part of the Bruce Trail Network, the Kolapore Uplands Trail is quite long. Beginners should expect a challenge and bring a map. The trail itself is about 9 km, but in the winter it turns into about 50 km of cross country skiing trails. The trails are clearly marked and their difficulty is marked on the trail as well.

 

Western Circle Route

For the seasoned and ambitious hiker, this is a system of 6 trails that tour throughout the Collingwood area. During a hike, users can stop in at a number the local resorts as they will pass many. The total circle can take about 2.5 hours so visitors should be prepared. A map is also suggested.

 

Blueberry Plains

Described as an easy to moderate hiking trail, the trail is located on some very unique sand dunes. The dunes have been marked as a nature reserve. The area and vegetation are very fragile so families should be aware of that when walking.

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A Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Home in Collingwood, ON

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Real Estate

Spring is well on its way in Collingwood, ON, finally. As hibernation period ends, it starts to become clear just how tough Mother Nature has been on your home over the last few months. With the onset of warmer days and the excitement of warmer temperatures, now is the best time to start that spring deep clean. Here are a few ideas to help speed up and organize the process.

 

Clean Upholstery and Carpets

 

The fabrics of your home have been collecting a long winter’s worth of germs, dust, and dried skin. Yuck! They will need a deep cleaning to prepare for the year ahead. The greenest way to clean these is with a steam cleaner. This is a non-toxic way to remove allergens and dirt from your textiles. If you are using a rented machine or are shampooing the fabric, make sure to use an earth-friendly product.

 

Wash Those Walls

 

Give all the walls, cabinets, and wood furniture a good wash. Believe it or not, walls can gather dirt and dust just like any other surface in your home. Use a sponge and dishwashing detergent. For the hard to reach areas, you can use your mop. Once you are finished, do the same with your baseboards. Not only will this catch the remnants of the cleaning you just did to your walls, but baseboards are also a breeding zone for dirt during the winter season.

 

Make Those Windows Shine

 

Windows are our home’s eyes to the sunshine. And after the long Collingwood winter we’ve had, it is time to make them sparkle again. One of the healthiest ways to get our windows gleaming is to clean with vinegar. If you don’t like the smell or prefer to use a cleaning product, aim for something organic. Don’t forget to wipe down the frames and ledges as well.

Inside The Appliances

 

Just like the rest of the home, winter can wreak havoc on the inside of the appliances we use. Your stove tends to produce more meals over the winter months, so it is time for deep cleaning. You can use a mixture of baking soda and water or the self-cleaning function built right into your stove. Take all the food out of your refrigerator and give the shelves a wipe.  Gently pull the appliances out from the wall to clean the back of them and the floors surrounding the area.

 

As much as we enjoy the Collingwood winters, the spring and summer are just as beautiful. Taking the time for a post-winter deep clean will help make these upcoming months so much more enjoyable.

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5 Romantic Things to Do on Valentine’s Day in Collingwood, ON

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

It is almost impossible to think of a day that is more romantic than Valentine’s Day. It is one of the few days where couples can celebrate their love for one another. Thankfully, couples in Collingwood, ON have a never-ending list of romantic activities that they can take part in.

 

Romantic Activity #1 – Go Out For a Romantic Dinner

 

On Valentine’s Day, many restaurants in Collingwood, ON are packed with couples. This is because they offer a beautiful ambiance and delicious treats. Couples in Collingwood, ON have tons of amazing options to choose from. They can take a short drive to Lakeside Seafood and Grill, Memories or The Huron Club for a romantic night of food and drinks.

 

Romantic Activity #2 – “Bring Some Snow-mance Into Your Life”

 

Couples that love to ski or snowboard can have a romantic night cruising down the hills at Blue Mountain Resort. On Valentine’s Day, the resort is hosting the “Bring Some Snow-mance Into Your Life” event. Couples can hit the slopes at a discounted price and enjoy music on the Silver Bullet Lift Line.

 

Romantic Activity #3 – Spa Date

Nothing is more relaxing than going to the spa, especially when they offer massages. Relieve some tension with your loved one by going to the Scandinave Spa. Couples can go for a relaxing bath or a deep massage. Couples that want to be really pampered can purchase a package and experience it all!

 

Romantic Activity #4 – Walk Through the Trails

 

The residents of Collingwood, ON are lucky to have a huge collection of trails within close proximity. This gives couples the perfect opportunity to take a romantic stroll through the woods. Bring a camera and some snacks for a fun February afternoon. Not only are the trails romantic, but walking them can burn a hefty amount of calories.

 

Romantic Activity #5 – Stay In

 

There is nothing wrong with staying in on Valentine’s Day. In fact, many couples prefer to stay in; they can save money and spend some quality time with each other. Couples that don’t feel like hitting the streets of Collingwood, ON can heat up a bowl of popcorn and throw on their favorite movie.

 

Valentine’s Day is a magical, beautiful time, especially in Collingwood, ON. The streets are filled with smiling faces and there is a ton of romantic things to do.

 

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3 Fun Physical Activities That Will Get Your Body Ready For Spring

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

During the winter, it can get extremely cold in Collingwood, ON. As a result of these frigid temperatures, many residents may be more inclined to stay indoors. Although it is warm and toasty inside the home, staying indoors can turn people into couch potatoes.

 

There is nothing wrong with taking it easy over the winter, however, sitting around eating delicious treats can lead to unwanted weight gain. Many residents in Collingwood, ON like to do these physical activities to shed off this winter weight.

 

Physical Activity #1 – Skiing/Snowboard

 

It is common knowledge that Collingwood, ON is a short drive from the renowned Blue Mountain Resort. This fantastic resort offers a plethora of opportunities for skiers and snowboarders. Whether you’re hitting the beginner slopes or going for the double black diamond, Blue Mountain is the perfect place to go. After an hour of hitting the slopes, a person can easily burn anywhere between 300 and 600 calories.

 

Physical Activity #2 – Hiking

Although Collingwood, ON is known for its skiing and snowboarding, it also offers plenty of beautiful trails. A person can spend hours exploring these jaw-dropping works of nature. During the winter, a person can walk the trails or opt for some snowshoes or cross-country skis.

A 200 lb person can burn up to 550 calories in a single hour of hiking. Similarly, people can burn between 650 and 675 calories an hour while cross country skiing at 2.4 mph. That is a lot of exercise!

 

Physical Activity #3 – Gym

 

Those that aren’t fond of the cold may feel more comfortable going to the gym for some exercise. Thankfully, there is an abundance of great gyms in the Collingwood, ON area. After a month or two in the gym, anyone will notice some results. Match the hard work with a balanced diet for an even healthier lifestyle.

 

With Wasaga Beach just a short drive away, many residents in Collingwood, ON want to look good in the spring and summer. However, due to the frigid temperatures, many of these residents have a hard time finding the motivation to do so. Some fun outdoor activities residents should consider for exercise are skiing, snowboarding, or hiking along one of the many trails near Collingwood, ON. Those that prefer to stay indoors can get their exercise fix by going to one of the gyms in town. With all of these options, it is easy to stay fit in Collingwood, ON.

 

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Fun Things to Do in Collingwood, ON This February

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood Events

Even though it’s the shortest month of the year, there are tons of fun things that people can do, especially in Collingwood, ON. This quaint town boasts a great number of restaurants to try and a long list of fun events happening all month long. Collingwood, ON residents better clear their calendars for these fun and interesting events.

 

Event #1 – Reconciliation Art Project

Anyone who appreciates indigenous art will want to make the time to check out the Reconciliation Art Project. The event is formally titled ‘Call to Action #83: Eight Indigenous and Eight Non-Indigenous Artists’ Quest for Truth and Reconciliation. This project consists of the work of 16 artists (eight indigenous and eight non-indigenous) and celebrates their hunt for truth and reconciliation. Anyone who wants to see the art can visit the Collingwood Council Chambers on February 7th, 14th and 21st from 11:00 A.M to 1:00 P.M.

Event #2 – Collingwood February Family Jam 2019

 

Who doesn’t enjoy spending time with their family? Anyone who is looking for a great way to spend their Family Day should head over to Central Park for the Collingwood February Family Jam 2019. This is a free, event that runs nearly all day long – from 9:00 A.M. to 9 P.M. This fantastic event offers a wide range of activities and events including skating, basketball, button making and more! Anyone who is planning on going should check out the full event schedule.

 

Event #3 – Magic of Children’s Art Show

 

The Magic of Children’s Art Show has been an ongoing event in Collingwood, ON for 25 years. To celebrate their 25th anniversary, they are inviting children to register their favorite piece of art in this year’s art show. Visitors can check out the art at the Collingwood Public Library on February 23rd from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. and February 24th from 1 P.M. to 4 P.M. Be sure to call 705-293-ARTS or visit the Collingwood Public Library for more information about registering your art.

 

There is never a shortage of fun things to do in Collingwood, ON. February is jam-packed with exciting events, including the  Reconciliation Art Project, the Collingwood February Family Jam 2019, and the Magic of Children’s Art Show. The residents of Collingwood, ON should gather up some friends or family members this February and enjoy everything that the month has to offer.

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3 Reasons to Move to Collingwood, ON

by Collingwood InfoCollingwood things to do

Ontario is an absolutely beautiful province filled with wonderful towns and cities. Many young homeowners are keen on moving to major cities like Toronto or Ottawa, however, these areas are quickly becoming unaffordable. Instead, home buyers may want to consider moving to smaller towns like Collingwood, ON. This quaint town is filled with fun attractions, activities, and more. Anyone who is thinking about purchasing a home in Ontario should take the time to learn all of the benefits of this terrific town.

 

Reason #1 – Great Attractions

 

There are so many things to do in Collingwood, ON that it is hard to list them all. Collingwood is on the eastern tip of Lake Huron which makes it easy for residents to fish and spend time near the water. During the winter, residents are just a short drive away from the beautiful Blue Mountain Resort, which is a major hotspot for skiers and snowboarders. Although it may be a little nippy in the winter, Collingwood is also a short drive from Wasaga Beach. This is a great place to spend a sunny, summer morning. There are also a number of events that take place in the town throughout the year. Residents can easily find the schedule online and make room in their calendars for their favourite events.

 

Reason #2 – Amazing Restaurants

 

There is no shortage of amazing places to eat in Collingwood. This town totes a number of great cafes, restaurants, and pubs that will a wide variety of delicious meals. Whether you are looking for a delicious plate of fish and chips or some tasty Mexican cuisine, it can be found in Collingwood.

 

Reason #3 – Beautiful Scenery

 

Anyone who lives in Collingwood already knows that it is a beautifully quaint town. Regardless of the time of year, the area is always picturesque. During the winter, the town is covered in a beautiful layer of snow that stretches as far as the eye can see. In the summer, the streets are filled with happy residents and tourists making the most out of the wonderful, warm weather.

 

It doesn’t take a real estate genius to figure out the amazing benefits of living in Collingwood, ON. This picturesque town seems to have it all: amazing attractions, quality restaurants, and beautiful scenery. It is the perfect place to start or raise a family; take a trip today and see the beauty for yourself.

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