Ontario

Festive fun in ontario

When the temperature drops and the white stuff starts to fall, Ontario transforms into a winter wonderland. From ski hills to ice wine tasting there’s an activity for everyone

Highland highlights

A dusting of snow transforms the remote hillsides and woodland tunnels of Ontario’s Highlands into a winter playground. Zip around miles of groomed trails on a snowmobile, past frozen lakes and sparkling forests, or swap an engine for a pack of huskies for some mushing. Don snowshoes and hike trails to scenic lookouts or try ice fishing for a get-awayfrom-it-all experience.

Feeling festive

Canadians embrace the colder months with the Winterlude festival in Ottawa a prime example of this enthusiasm. The three-week festival in February lights up the darker days with food, music, and an events schedule for the entire family. The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into the world’s largest ice skating rink from January to early March, with 4.8 miles of icy terrain cutting through the heart of the buzzing capital.

Frozen Falls

During the bitter winter months it appears as though the magnificent Niagara Falls actually freeze over. Low temperatures cause the mist and spray to ice over the top of the rushing water, leaving many to assume that the Falls have stopped falling. At night the illusion really takes hold, when the illuminations send colours dancing off the icy sculpture. And at this time it’s not uncommon to have the viewing platform to yourself.

Hit the slopes

With 42 runs, 30 of which are lit for night skiing, Blue Mountain ski resort is a great place to learn how to ski or snowboard. For non-skiers there’s plenty of alternative ways to get a rush. Try zipping at speeds up to 42 km/h on the Ridge Runner Mountain coaster, sliding in an inflatable snowtube, or glide along the 1.1km ice skating loop. After a day on the slopes visitors can relax in the bars and restaurants in the Blue Mountain Village.

Glass half full

January is icewine season in Ontario. For three weekends the entire Niagara region celebrates by sampling the local produce – a rich dessert wine made of grapes that have frozen on the vine. Participate in the festivities by joining a tasting tour on a winery, or simply enjoy a crisp glass with the stunning Niagara Falls as a backdrop. There’s also gala dinners and outdoor bars and tables, carved entirely from ice!

Toronto lights

Set under a string of twinkling lights, Toronto’s Christmas market is returning to the historic Distillery District this year. Festive treats will include life-sized gingerbread houses, mulled wine stands and a spectacular tree. January will see the opening of the annual light festival, when local and international artists dress the district in light and art instillations, transforming the neighbourhood into an interactive open-air gallery.

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