7 scenic spots for a summer day trip in Ontario

With international travel on hold this summer, now is the perfect time to get outside and explore your own backyard. Southern Ontario boasts a wide range of farms, beaches, wineries and historic towns all within easy driving distance of the GTA.  If you’re looking for a nearby adventure this summer, check out these seven activities and day trip ideas in Ontario.

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Located between Hamilton and Niagara-on-the-Lake, Rosewood Estates Winery and Meadery is known for its signature honey wine. Situated on the Beamsville Bench, the vineyard’s limestone-rich soil provides the ideal growing conditions for wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Niagara region. Private wine-tasting flights are available by appointment for groups of up to four, or drop-in visitors can take a seat in the rustic Muskoka chairs overlooking the winery while enjoying a glass of mead.

Missing your regular beach vacation this year? Head to Sauble Beach for more than 10 kilometres of white sand beaches and plenty of room to spread out with the family. The sparkling waters of the Bruce Peninsula are ideal for swimming or paddleboarding, and the beach is known for spectacular sunsets.

Located in the countryside near Milton, Andrews Farm Market and Winery is a popular venue for pick-your-own fruit, vegetables and flowers throughout the summer months. The scenic 165-acre farm offers activities for all ages, including gentle hiking trails, wagon rides and a charming farm store that stocks seasonal produce, prepared goods and grocery items. In August, the on-site Sunflower Kingdom field bursts with tall, golden sunflower stalks – making it a picture-perfect location for a scenic Instagram shot.

Head to Northumberland County and get up close and personal with a herd of alpacas at Old Mill Alpacas. These long-necked animals are known for their toothy grins and fluffy coats, which are shorn throughout the year to create soft fabrics and textiles. Visitors can call ahead to book a guided hiking tour and explore the property alongside a group of leashed alpacas.

Cleanse your body and soul with an afternoon of hydrotherapy at Scandinave Spa Blue Mountain. Nestled within the idyllic forests and hiking trails surrounding the Niagara Escarpment, the Scandinavian-style baths feature a circuit of hot and cold pools and waterfalls designed to energize the body and leave you feeling refreshed. Visitors who want to take their relaxation to the next level can book a private 60-minute massage. Select areas of the sprawling spa remain closed at the time of writing (August 2020), including all saunas and steam rooms, and the Scandinavian Baths have reduced occupancy to accommodate social distancing.

Escape the city and stop to smell the fragrant blooms at Christel Lake Lavender Farm. Located in Durham Region, this family-owned lavender farm is home to stunning fields of unique varieties of purple flowers, as well as an on-site gift shop selling aromatic skincare products and home goods made by local artisans. Little ones will love the on-site play area. Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic.

Open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays throughout the summer months, St. Jacobs Farmers Market offers a true taste of the countryside with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods and high-quality meats and cheeses from nearby farms. The charming indoor market has been reconfigured with directional markers to encourage physical distancing.

Whether you’re looking for  a picturesque winery, charming farm or a luxurious spa experience deep in the forest, there’s plenty of natural beauty to discover in Ontario this summer.