When it comes to mountains in Canada, most people assume that destinations like Banff and Whistler, one of Canada’s best ski towns (which is also just as fun in the summer), are the best that this northern country has to offer. However, nestled just two hours north of Toronto is one of the liveliest skiing and snowboarding hot spots in the country. The Blue Mountains are a breathtaking mountain range located on a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve along the southern side of the Georgian Bay. Featuring hundreds of acres of hills for all-levels of skiing and snowboarding as well as a vibrant after-skiing scene, The Blue Mountains are the ultimate destination for downhill thrills in Ontario.
Plus, this region is full of exciting things to do in every season, from stunning open-air gondola rides in autumn to mountaintop hiking in the summer. That said, winter is undoubtedly the most thrilling time to visit the Blue Mountains with an endless variety of activities. However, what truly sets The Blue Mountains apart is its surrounding attractions, especially the Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain, a renowned Scandinavian spa with outdoor thermal baths and gorgeous scenery, so you can unwind and soak in hot springs with the best views after a long day of outdoor activities.
At the base of the mountains is the picturesque Blue Mountain Village, a walkable district with all kinds of fun things to do year-round. This famous yet underrated mountain town is easily Ontario’s best destination for a romantic winter getaway for cold weather lovers. Plus, it’s easy to travel to from Toronto by car or bus.
Unwind at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain
Located minutes from the slopes, Scandinave Spa is the perfect spot for some after skiing R&R. The spa sits on a sprawling 25-acre territory surrounded by soaring mature trees, with views of the stunning Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in the distance. The spa immerses guests in the ancient Finnish tradition of using a hot and cold hydrotherapy circuit to achieve total relaxation. This rejuvenating circuit has numerous benefits for both the body and mind, such as improving sleep quality, boosting the immune system, reducing fatigue, and relieving anxiety.
Described as a thermal journey by the spa itself, the facilities here are both outdoors and indoors allowing you to soak in the therapeutic waters with snowy trees and mountains all around you. Outside, you’ll find several hot pools, polar plunges, waterfalls, and crackling fire pits surrounded by Adirondack chairs. The spa also has several saunas, steam rooms, and indoor relaxation areas with comfortable recliners and floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic nature views. To enhance your experience, the spa offers a variety of massage treatments, as well as hot tea stations and a bistro lounge to refuel in between soaks. The thermal journey and massage package can be a little pricey, but on Wednesdays, you can take advantage of a special weekly promotion that provides spa access at a reduced rate.
The Blue Mountains are a year-round playground
