For those seeking a memorable escape, spending 24 hours in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains promises the perfect adventure through lush landscapes, pristine waters, and a vibrant community.
Nestled in the heart of Ontario, Canada, tucked along the shores of Georgian Bay, Collingwood and the Blue Mountains offer a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and charming small-town vibes.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or simply in pursuit of relaxation, Collingwood and the Blue Mountains have something to tantaliize your senses and leave an indelible mark on your soul.
Overnight Itinerary For Visiting Collingwood And The Blue Mountains
Join me as I share my whirlwind weekend adventure in this enchanting corner of Ontario, where every moment is a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of this dynamic and vibrant destination. This weekend itinerary will offer a mix of adventure, relaxation, and yes, lots of food. Let’s begin the journey!
Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
First up is obviously a hike through the magnificant Scenic Caves!
We arrived in Collingwood around 11:00 on a Saturday morning and headed straight to the Scenic Caves, an adventure in Collingwood that can’t be missed!
With 17 caves, 27 kms of hiking trails, part of which are part of the Bruce Trail, as well as Southern Ontario’s longest swinging bridge, the Bruce Caves are not to be missed when visiting the Collingwood area.
If I could recommend one place to visit when in this region of Ontario, it would definitely be a visit to the Scenic Caves. Allow yourself two hours to explore the caves, hike the trails, cross the swinging bridge, and sit back with a hot coffee or hot chocolate and just enjoy the surrounding scenery.
Some Insider Tips For Visiting The Caves
- ARRIVE EARLY! Reservations are not available at the caves and it does get extremely busy, especially throughout the Summer. Visitors are allowed in on a first come, first serve basis. If at all possible, I would even recommend visiting during the week.
2. Bring water, even in the cooler weather. Yes there is a place to purchase coffee and water, however, it’s quite a hike back to the store and I know you won’t want to waste any time while exploring this gem.
2. Proper footwear is a must! I highly recommend wearing proper hiking boots or hiking shoes, as the rocks can become quite slippery, even during the summer months.
3. Be sure to grab a map of the caverns and trails, as it will not only provide a guide to the trails, it will also share the history of the caves.
4. If visiting in the Spring, Winter, or Fall, dress accordingly. Even in the Spring and Fall, it can get quite cool, so bring along hats and gloves.
5. Allow a minimum of 2 hours to explore the caves, hike the trails, and walk the bridge. It would be very easy to spend the entire day exploring, in which case, I would recommend bringing a picnic, as there are plenty of picnic tables.
Lunch and Exploration of Blue Mountain Village
After spending over two hours exploring the caves and scrambling over the rock formations at the Scenic Caves, you will likely be extremely hungry. If you didn’t bring a picnic, I recommend heading to the Blue Mountain Village for a bite to eat.
While there are MANY restaurants and places to grab food in the Village, we opted to eat at MJ Byrne’s Irish Pub, which I highly recommend. They serve typical pubfare, although it’s freshly made, and offer a selection of salads and English fare.
The atmosphere is extremely laid back, service was good, and the food was even better, offering a large selection of craft beer. You will have the choice to eat either inside or outside on the large heated patio.
Just One Tip: There is no need to dress up, as the Village is extremely casual and patrons are typically dressed in their snow gear, so you won’t feel out of place wearing your hiking gear to this restaurant.
After you’ve had a chance to refuel, it’s fun to wander around the village and check out the stores. If you are up for a game of mini-golf, there is a beautiful one right on site.
You can purchase an attraction day ticket which will grant you access to the mini-golf and the gondola, which takes you up the mountain where you can revel in the breath-taking views from far above.
Check Into Your Hotel: Living Water Resort & Spa
By now, you will likely want to check into your hotel and put your feet up before preparing for dinner. While there are numerous options right in the Blue Mountain Village, I prefer to avoid the crowds and stay at the Living Water Resort in Collingwood.
The Resort is located just a short 10 minute drive from the Blue Mountain Village and is located directly on the Collingwood Harbour.
In the Summer this is the perfect spot to call home, as there are various water sports available, however, on this particular visit, I had another reason for choosing this resort. I wanted to try the Hydrotherapy Spa on Sunday after checkout.
After relaxing with a glass of wine and freshening up before dinner, we headed to the Lakeside Seafood & Grill, which is located right in the hotel.
Dinner At The Lakeside Seafood & Grill
While at first glance, the interior of the restaurant doesn’t appear to be a fine dining restaurant, don’t let that fool you. The food was delectable and thoroughly enjoyable, as was the wine and the service.
For starters, we order the Phyllo Wrapped Brie, which we didn’t need, as bread is served with all meals. Our main course was steak, freshly grilled veggies, and garlic mashed potatoes. Although the price was a tad expensive, it was worth every penny, as the portion sizes were quite large and the food was delicious.
Guests are expected to dress smart casual for dinner, although a nice pair of jeans and nice top are more than acceptable.
JUST ONE TIP
Brunch is also available at the Lakeside Seafood & Grill, as well as specials offered throughout the week.
Recommendations are advised for dinner, and can be made prior to your arrival
Living Shore Spa
After a busy first day in Collingwood and the Blue Mountains, you will likely be ready to relax and soak your weary feet. This is why you NEED to visit the Living Shore Spa, located in the Living Water Resort, and indulge in the spa’s hydrotherapy.
During your time doing the hydrotherapy, you will be guided through 8 different stations, which include cold vicchi showers, body massagers, and foot massages, hot tub, sauna clouded with eucolyptus, a walk over smooth rocks, another warmer hot top with showers to massage your head, neck and shoulders, and you will finish off with a salt scrub (my favourite part).
The entire process only takes an hour or so and you will only be with the person, or people you booked with. So other than the guide coming back every 15 to 20 minutes, you will be alone.
Once done, relax in the comfortable lounge with a cold water or cup of tea before heading to the showers to rinse off. Lockers, robes, hairdryers, shampoo, and conditioner, are all provided.
Living Shore Spa v. Scandavia Spa
I have also been to the Scandanavia Spa before, and I admit that I preferred the hydrotherapy at the Living Shore Spa as it’s completely private, with no crowd, providing a more intimate relaxing atmosphere.
JUST ONE TIP
Again reservations are required. These can be made when reserving your room with the front desk or by contacting the spa directly.
The Hotel check out is 11:00 a.m. and we opted to book our hydrotherapy right after check out before heading home.
Drive To Thornbury
I wouldn’t recommend leaving the Collingwood area without taking a short 20 minute drive to the quaint village of Thornbury.
Fishing In Thornbury
Fishermen will want to bring their fishing pole as there is a beautiful spot for fishing. Sweet lover’s will want to pick up a freshly baked treat for the drive home from one of the local bakeries.
Shopping In Thornbury
Visitor’s seeking some retail therapy will revel in the eclectic clothing stores. And lastly, craft beer enthusiasts will definitely want to stop in at Thornbury Craft Co. Cider & Brewhouse.
Before heading home, I also recommend grabbing a bite to eat at the Mill restaurant.
Before visiting Collingwood and The Blue Mountains, you might be interested in reading these articles to help you prepare for your 24 hour adventure.
24 Hours In Collingwood and The Blue Mountains: In Conclusion
During your 24 hours through Collingwood and the Blue Mountains you will discover the boundless opportunities for outdoor adventure, the rich cultural experiences, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a sports aficionado, a foodie, or someone in search of tranquility, this region has something for everyone. This itinerary was the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for 24 hours in Collingwood and The Blue Mountains.
In just 24 hours, you will have only glimpsed the tip of the iceberg of what Collingwood and the Blue Mountains have to offer. I guarantee that it will beckon you to return, to explore this beautiful part of Ontario further.
Have a great weekend 🙂
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
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PIN TO VISIT COLLINGWOOD AND THE BLUE MOUNTAINS
