Collingwood, Ontario, is an all-around destination – celebrating the spectacular four seasons with abundant activities, breathtaking sights, and seasonal delights. The area is a microcosm of culture, excellent food, and outdoor fun.
Situated on the shores of the stunning Georgian Bay and in the shadow of the beautiful Blue Mountains, Collingwood is the perfect escape for city dwellers to unwind, relax, and enjoy the fresh breezes off the bay.
Collingwood is a destination that can be enjoyed throughout all seasons, so any time of year you plan to book a stay at the Vandermarck, you will find an array of activities perfect for the season.
Below is in no way a comprehensive guide to all there is to do during Collingwood getaways, but it is an excellent starting point to plan the perfect escape.
Scenic Caves Nature Adventure
For something a little unusual and exciting, visit the Scenic Caves Nature Adventure. Beyond the historic and beautiful caves and caverns, there are many activities throughout the winter and summer seasons.
From trails and fishing to night snow-shoeing – there is so much to see and do.
The Harbour
With the lake and the mountains close by The Vandermarck, it is a 5-minute stroll to the harbour, where you can have dinner on the way, take a sunset cruise, or snap some Insta-riffic photos of you and your special someone as the sun sets over Blue Mountain.
The harbour is the perfect after-dinner stroll or sunset cruise, and it is such an easy walk home!
Georgian Trail
Beyond the exhilarating slopes are gentle and challenging hikes, bikes, or jogging trails to suit any fitness level or expertise.
This stunning scenic path accommodates bikers, hikers, cross-country skiers, and cyclists and stretches from Collingwood to Meaford.
Because it’s non-motorized it is peaceful and safe. Looking to check out the trail in style? Why not consider renting an E-bike from Georgian Trail e-bikes!
Sip, Stroll, and Indulge
In and around Collingwood is an array of delectable food and beverage options, from artisan coffee houses to local brews and even locally-produced wine.
Coffee Shops We Love: Espresso Post, Gibson’s & Heavenly Cafe
Local Brews: Northwinds, Black Bellows, Collingwood Brewery & Side Launch
Plus, there is an abundance of farm-to-table fresh dining options to suit every taste bud – really too many to list here!
Collingwood Farmers Market
Sometimes, the hustle of everyday life can mean you rush from one takeout to the next ready-made meal to dinner with friends.
Slowing down and indulging in home cooking can be the perfect remedy for the perpetually rushed.
Luckily, every possible cooking ingredient is at your disposal – alongside a bustling and vibrant farmers’ market offering all the fresh ingredients needed to whip up a delectable dish.
The Vandermarck has a fully equipped kitchen, perfect for a cozy and relaxing evening. Our comfortable accommodation is designed for guests to enjoy the amenities and kick-back.
Contact us for dates and times it’s open.
Tube at Blue Mountain Resort
If whizzing down the slopes is your speed, visit the Blue Mountain Resort, where you will find a wide selection of pristine slopes. There are plenty of options for skiers, snowboarders, and even snow-shoers.
Throughout the summer months, there are an enormous amount of fair-weather activities to keep you busy, ranging from hikes to complex trails, mountain biking, and zip-lining – enough to keep the most active adrenaline junkie busy!
Indulge in Some Spa Therapy
When it is time to slow down and relax, there is nothing more indulgent than a replenishing treatment afternoon or morning at one of the many spa options in and around Collingwood.
You can find old-fashioned luxurious spas, yoga studios, or even a new-age float experience – Collingwood has everything you need for a relaxing afternoon.
For feel-good savings, check out our package options with the Scandinave Spa and Cedar + Sage.
A Golf Adventure
There is nothing that says vacation-mode more than indulging in eighteen holes of golf. So, take advantage of being off the clock and book yourself in with one of our exclusive golf packages!
For the avid golfer, keen amateur, or complete newbie, the Duntroon Highlands golf course is an excellent fit for all skill levels. The stunning course, retreat, and trails boast breathtaking scenery and views.
Even if you’ve never played, don’t feel intimidated. The Duntroon Highlands offer an array of lesson packages that are perfect for beginners. They even have PGA pros on-hand to provide one-on-one lessons.
An Afternoon of Culture
Collingwood is a hub of art galleries, studios, and museums. With a diverse and thriving arts community, there are many options for viewing the works of local artists.
Check out Creative Simcoe Street, the arts and entertainment district in downtown Collingwood. The area is home to over 30 independent and artistic businesses – including 18 artists’ studios and the Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts.
These venues offer just a glimpse into Collingwood’s diverse range of arts, making it the ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture seekers alike.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
If you have your sea legs, it’s a few hour boat ride from Collingwood to the South Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Or better yet, make it a day trip by car. It’s just over an hour’s drive away.
Once on the island, you can explore the rugged island terrain, hike the beautiful trails, and enjoy abundant water-based activities such as kayaking and canoeing.
If you prefer to whizz around on a mountain bike, rental options are available, and there are many hiking trails to explore. If you fancy a rugged night of camping, there is a campsite, and some rustic cabins are available, too.
But we recommend you take the hour drive back to your boutique room at The VanderMarck, of course.
Here is just a glimpse of the vast array of options available on your visit to Collingwood. Book your stay at The VanderMarck and get your adventure underway.