Many of us would prefer to hide away for the winter season, waiting for the long nights and cold weather to pass. But living in Southwestern Ontario makes us pretty spoiled for choice when it comes to keeping busy during the cooler months, with a plethora of outdoor activities at our doorstep. This year, let winter signal the start of a season spent seeking adventure and embracing the cold weather. Bundle up, slip on your snow boots and get ready to try these fun-filled winter activities.
Go Glamping at Alabaster Acres
Located just 15 minutes from Erin Glen by Cachet, Alabaster Acres in Caledon promises a cozy winter escape like no other. The property features three certifiably cool tents nestled in a tranquil forest setting, each with king-sized beds, heated mattress pads, working wood stoves and firewood for kindling.
Celebrate the Season at Winterloo
A favourite local event, this cleverly-named festival runs throughout the season and features many winter-themed activities for the whole family. From free ice skating in Waterloo Public Square, to creating or exploring snow sculptures in parks across the city, and storytime for young children hosted online by the Waterloo Public Library, this cold-weather event is sure to get you in the spirit of the season. Cambridge locals and future Westwood Village residents are especially close to the fun, with Waterloo just a 25 minute drive away.
Step into a Winter Wonderland at the Royal Botanical Gardens
The Winter Wonders festival transforms Hamilton’s Hendrie Park at the Royal Botanical Gardens into a spectacle of light and sound, with picturesque pathways adorned with festive lights, magical displays and holiday music. Located just 20 minutes from our Mount Hope community and 30 minutes from our Cachet Binbrook community, this seasonal exposition runs from late November through to early January.
Hit the Slopes at Caledon Ski Club & Chicopee Tube Park
Feel the thrill of skiing or tubing at the Caledon Ski Club in Caledon and Chicopee Tube Park in Kitchener. No matter what adventure calls to you, both resorts offer something for everyone. Caledon Ski Club is home to 55 acres of skiable terrain with 25 slopes, an outdoor skating rink and 8 kilometers of snowshoe trails, while Chicopee Tube Park is where you’ll find a 250-foot high, 900-foot long tubing hill with six chutes. Caledon Ski Club is conveniently located just nine minutes from our Erin Glen community; Chicopee Tube Park is an 18-minute drive from Westwood Village.
Bundle Up for a Sleigh Ride at Lougheed Farm & Estates
The Ronettes said it best in their classic yule-time tune Sleigh Ride: It’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together with you. And at the Lougheed Farm & Estates, that’s exactly what you’ll find. The farm provides single-horse carriage rides for groups up to 10 people, and is conveniently located under 30 minutes from Generations in the Village of Ayr.
Seek Adventure in Elora
If trying something new is on your winter bucket list, then you’ll want to give AXE Pursuits a call. Just 20 minutes from Cachet Arthur, this Elora-based group has been providing private and group adventures to beginners and advanced adventurers for over 20 years. Try your hand at mountaineering, ice climbing, winter ziplining, cave exploration and more.
Try Ice Fishing at Shade’s Mills in Cambridge
Ice fishing may seem like a niche winter activity, but it’s a great way to get outdoors and spend some time with family and friends. Shade’s Mills Conservation Area in Cambridge is just 12 minutes from Westwood Village, and it offers locals the opportunity to try this unique sport when conditions allow. Be sure to check the park conditions prior to your trip.
Visit Lights On Stratford
Stratford is home to some of the world’s best artists and creative minds, so it’s no surprise that the annual Lights on Stratford winter festival is an award-winning affair. The month-long event transforms Stratford’s heritage downtown core and park network into a unique experience filled with luminous art and interactive light installations. Running from mid-December to mid-January, visiting Lights on Stratford is sure to become a family favourite pastime.
Planning to try one of these winter activities? We’d love to see! Be sure to snap a photo and tag @cachetcommunities on Instagram for the chance to be featured in our stories.
