Nothing Says Winter like Wasaga Beach

When you think of the world famous Wasaga Beach, does an endless  sandy beach dotted with sun worshippers and  the smell of suntan lotion come to mind? I admit it’s a nice thought and while the 14km white sand beach is definitely one of the main attractions of Wasaga Beach,  it isn’t the only one, nor is summer the only season to enjoy this playground.

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is home to one of the rarest ecosystems in Canada and 30km of cross country ski trails of varying degrees of difficulty. Over thousands of years, prevailing winds collected sand into a large series of sand dunes, some of which are over 40 metres tall. The dunes are now covered by a pine-oak savannah; an open forest of pine and oak mixed with prairie plants. There is a healthy population of white tail deer in the park, as well as many winter birds.

For beginners or those wanting a nice, leisurely ski, choose the easy Blueberry Trail (4.0km), or the more moderate Pine Trail (2.4km). If you crave an adrenaline rush as much as your morning coffee, then head for the steep,  up and down, very challenging High Dunes Trail (5.8) for a physically demanding workout. This park also is a choice destination  for snowshoeing and moonlight skiing during the full moon.

No need to worry if you don’t have your own gear – you can rent what you need at the Wasaga Nordic & Trail Centre which also sells ski wax, accessories and refreshments, has washrooms and provides a place to warm up on a brisk winter day. There are also outback shelters to be found in the 800 hectare park, so pack a lunch, get out there and enjoy!  Find the centre just off Blueberry Trail near the OPP station.

When you’re finished with your skiis, make a quick visit to the beach for a drive-by before you head home. We came across this cyclist who was taking advantage of the frozen beach laid bare by an offshore wind. We Canadians definitely are a hardy bunch!

 

An Afternoon at Coffin Ridge Winery

Just because memories of standing on the shores of Georgian Bay and leaning into the warm breezes of summer are behind us, don't be thinking the area has gone to sleep until next year. If you find yourself in the Meaford/Owen Sound area over the winter season and you are looking for something a little different from the usual winter activity, I urge you to consider this - Coffin Ridge Winery located on 2nd Concession North, R.R.#1 Annan, ON.

The five year old winery overlooks 25 acres of vineyard with views of Georgian Bay while the escarpment stands guard to the west. It is a romantic vista which can be enjoyed through large picture windows from the inside or from the outdoor patio in the summer.

Yes, the vines are bare and ready to take on winter, but the fruit has been lovingly harvested and transformed into some very delicious Ontario wines. Step up to the tasting bar and sample some of their award winning reds or whites with names like Back From the Dead Red and Into the Light White. There are myriad options here made from hardy grape varieties that can stand up to whatever a Grey County winter can deliver.

It's easy to pass the time at this boutique winery. Purchase a Vintner's Picnic and cozy up to the fireplace and enjoy the view while you savour a selection of Canadian cheeses, cold cuts, spicy nuts, jam, dried fruits, crustinis and a generous bar of Grave Temptations chocolate.

If, like me, you love books, take a moment to have a look at the coffee table book called Spectacular Wineries of Ontario. Personal stories about each winery featured along with stunning photography make this the perfect gift idea for the wine enthusiast. In fact, that vineyard on the front cover? It's Coffin Ridge.