This winter, my partner and I have been focusing on spending meaningful time together and getting outside more.
Life in Toronto as working parents can feel like a never-ending grind, so I put together a day trip plan to Grey County—a beautiful little drive from the city and a perfect escape for couples looking to reconnect in the magic of winter.
Here’s how to plan the ultimate romantic winter day outdoors, packed with stunning views, cozy stops throughout the region, and just the right balance of adventure and relaxation.
Start your day in Flesherton
Set your alarms early, grab some coffee to-go, and hit the road. After a peaceful drive (and maybe a playlist of your favourite songs), you’ll arrive in the charming town of Flesherton, about 2 hours from downtown Toronto.
Breakfast is an absolute must at The Bakery of Flesherton, one of those quintessential small-town cafes that serves up some classic pastries and sammies, perfect for fueling the first adventure of your day. A savoury croissant or scone with hot coffee are my ideal start for a day of exploring.
Chase some frozen waterfalls
Grey County is home to some of Ontario’s most stunning waterfalls, and in the winter, they’re transformed into magical, frozen scenes. Spend your morning hiking to a few of these spots:
Hoggs Falls: This gem is a short and easy trail that leads to a small, icy cascade surrounded by snow-covered trees. It’s quiet, romantic, and feels like your own private winter wonderland.
Eugenia Falls: Just a couple of minutes away, this waterfall is a showstopper. The 30-meter drop looks incredible in winter, with dramatic ice formations that make you stop and just take it all in.
Inglis Falls: Wrap up your waterfall tour at Inglis Falls, where the frozen water and mist create a magical scene. The surrounding trails are easy to navigate, and it’s a great place to linger and enjoy the views.
Lunch and adventure at Blue Mountain
By midday, you’ll probably be ready for something warm and hearty. Drive to Blue Mountain Village, where you’ll find plenty of cozy spots to eat. The Pottery Alpine Restaurant is a favourite in the village for its comfort food and resort vibe.
The restaurant closes its brunch service at 1 p.m. and reopens at 5 p.m. for dinner service, so plan accordingly. After lunch, it’s time for some fun, and Blue Mountain has an exciting range of outdoorsy experiences just right for anyone. Here are the three on our bucket list.
Hit the slopes: Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder or just starting out (like me), the runs at Blue Mountain are perfect for a playful afternoon on the snow.
Ice Skating: For an unforgettable experience, head to the Woodview Mountaintop Skating Trail. This 1-kilometer loop winds through a snow-covered forest at the top of Blue Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment as you glide hand-in-hand.
Scandinave Spa: If skiing isn’t your thing, the thermal Scandinave Spa is a dream way to spend part of your day. Soak in the outdoor hot pools, hit the cold plunge, meditate in the saunas, all while being surrounded by snowy trees, and let all your stress melt away.
We haven’t even arrived yet and I already know one day won’t be enough to experience all the outdoor fun Blue Mountain has to offer. It’s definitely a place that’ll have us coming back to explore more another time.
Dinner and a quiet evening in Thornbury
As the sun sets, make your way to Thornbury, a beautiful little town on the shore of Georgian Bay. Wrap up your day with dinner at the lovely Bruce Wine Bar, where you’ll relish in delicious, locally sourced dishes perfectly paired with a glass of wine or whatever you fancy.
Before heading home, take a peaceful walk along the Thornbury Harbour. It’s the perfect way to reflect on a day spent together—away from the pace of life in Toronto—and head back feeling refreshed, reconnected, and ready for whatever comes next
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