Travel Guide: Collingwood, Ontario and Blue Mountain Resort

Just 2 hours North of Toronto lies one of Ontario's hottest getaway spots: Collingwood and the Blue Mountains Resort. Made popular as a ski destination with its scenic cross country trails and daring downhill slopes, Collingwood’s Blue Mountain Resort is much more than a winter getaway destination.

From picturesque landscapes and gourmet eats to being the home of the world’s largest Elvis Festival, there’s something for everyone at any time of the year.

Offering a culture that boasts healthy and active recreational activities by day, and all the fixing for a lively social scene by night, Collingwood and Blue Mountain have become a hotbed for weekend warriors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The next time you pack up your weekender bag, head to Southern Georgian Bay and make sure to hit some of our favourite spots. Check them out below!

Hotels in Blue Mountain Resort and Collingwood Ontario:

If you were to Google “ where to stay in Collingwood and Blue Mountain”, the first result will likely be the Blue Mountain Resort. Targeted towards families and tourists, the resort has plenty of amenities and attractions but is definitely more on the touristy and kitschy end.

If you are into that, go for it! If not, we recommend visiting the resort to take advantage of their attractions (which will be further detailed later), skip the sleep there, and go for one of the more comfortable and trendy spots listed below.

Photos by VanderMarck Boutique Hotel

If you are looking for a modern and vibrant spot in the heart of Collingwood, check out the VanderMarck Boutique Hotel. Originally built by renowned Toronto architect Eden Smith in 1912 for the town doctor and one-time mayor, Joseph Arthur.

The VanderMarck team transformed the historic home into a fully renovated hotel while keeping unique details from the original architecture. Steps away from Collingwood’s downtown mecca of restaurants, shopping, and activities, a walk away from the city’s beautiful waterfront and extensive trail network, and a short drive to all of the attractions. Relax in luxury linen sheets and sip on Nespresso coffee before adventuring in Collingwood and Blue Mountain. 

In between the shores the Blue Mountain Village and the Niagara Escarpment, you will find the Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain. The Westin Trillium House is in the vibrant pedestrian-only Blue Mountain village, boasting beautiful views, full service, and an upscale stay with contemporary decor and luxurious suites.

Think traditional ski lodge with a modern twist. The Westin Trillium House is also pet friendly and even provide dog beds upon request! Each suite is equipped with a gaslit fireplace and kitchenette, making it perfect to be your home away from home.

Another ski resort located in the village and steps away from a ski lift is the Grand Georgian. The Grand Georgian’s decor was inspired by a historic railway hotel, offering a traditional ski lodge experience. The high ceilings, evocative towers, and turrets will take you back into time, while the 24/7 service offers you modern-day pleasantries and ease. Bask in the Grand Georgian’s warm ambiance and relax.     

Photos by Mharwood and Zach Lucero

If you are looking for a unique stay, more privacy, or trying to avoid other tourists, why not stay at a local AirBnB! 

Take your S/O to this Authentic Heritage Loft Apartment for a romantic and intimate getaway. This fully renovated two-story apartment is a short drive to all the attractions from downtown Collingwood or the Blue Mountain resorts. In the summertime, park your car in the private parking spot, and use the two bikes provided to cycle to the nearby farmers market. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, have a glass, and warm-up using the heated stone floors or the fireplace. Spacious and stylish, relax in the king-sized bed upstairs after a long day of activities. 

Get a few friends together to party and adventure up north at the Lookout Lodge at Blue Mountain. This Airbnb suite can accommodate up to eight people with six beds, four bedrooms, and two bathrooms. With Netflix connected to both flatscreen TVs, a patio with a barbecue, and a spacious open concept kitchen dining room and living room, this is the perfect spot to host an intimate get-together. The townhouse is a 25-minute walk and a five-minute drive to the Blue Mountain Village. Or take the shuttle bus that operates 24/7 free of charge to and from your night out. 

Things to do in Collingwood and Blue Mountain Resort

Photos by Nicolai Berntsen and Blue Mountain

In the winter, zoom down the Blue Mountain slopes with your own pair of skis, or rent a pair from the chalet. Blue Mountain is notorious for its 43 ski trails that are fit for all levels. 

If you are looking for a good game of sport in the summertime, check out Monterra Golf.  The club boasts incredible mountain views and rolling fairways, not to mention elevated tee shots and 86 bunkers to put your game to the test.

Photo by Victor Xok

Hike, bike, or even cross country ski through the Georgian Trail. The trail runs 34kms along the magnificent southern shore of Georgian Bay. Pack a picnic and take a break at one of the many accessible sandy beaches or conservation areas. 

Photos by Scandinavian Spa Blue Mountain

If you are looking for a well-deserved break from the activities, or to de-stress from everyday life, you better reserve a bath or massage at the Scandinavia Spa.

Tuck your phone away and escape reality at this outdoor spa surrounded by 25 acres of Canadian forests. We recommend booking your reservation in advance to avoid the lengthy wait-list! 

None of the above tickle your fancy? Well, you can always enjoy a cold craft beer at one of Collingwood’s local breweries. Or hey, why not have a few and brewery hop!

Check out Northwinds Brewhouse & Kitchen for some beers and bites. Split a soft pretzel with a buddy (or have one to yourself) and sip on their Yacht Club English Mild Ale. 1

5 minutes away from Northwinds and 5 minutes away from the Georgian Trail is Side Launch Brewerying Company Inc. We suggest taking the 15-minute tour of the place and enjoy some samples. Our favourite is their Dry Hopped Sour.

Just a bit east of there, you will find Black Bellows Brewing Co. If it’s still warm out, you better take advantage of their amazing patio while sipping on a cold one. You might like their White - Whitbier. Buy a few beers to take home and remember never to drink and drive. 

Things To See in Collingwood and Blue Mountain Resort:

If you are already headed to the mountain for skiing or golfing, then you have so many other sights to see around there. Explore the Blue Mountain Village, Ontario’s largest mountain village resort.

Walk down its cobblestone paths and explore the village’s 40 unique shops, restaurants, and sites. Take a chair lift up the mountain to get a birds-eye view of the whole village, snap an Instagram photo, then hit the slopes all the way down. 

Photos by Scenic Caves Nature Adventure and Jake Melara

If you are looking for and adventure and are feeling brave check out the view from the Suspension Bridge in  Collingwood’s Scenic Nature Caves. While hanging 82 feet above the forest floor, enjoy the 360-degree lookout point. The hike to the Suspension Bridge is moderate in difficulty and only 1km long. 

Right off highway 26, you will find Collingwood’s iconic Sunset Point Beach. The perfect spot to set up a picnic and watch the sun go down along the water. Watch the sun reflect an array of beautiful warm tones across the water as it goes down for the night. 

Where to eat in the Collingwood and Blue Mountain Resort area:

Less than a 20-minute drive from Blue Mountain Village, is an Italian restaurant and a McEwen group creation, Fabriacca Thornbury. Enjoy wood oven pizza along with other Italian fares. Or try crowd favourite Tesoro in downtown Collingwood for another Italian option.

Photos by Lakeside Seafood & Grill and Bent Taco

Bent Taco is always a fun option with its creative flavours and attentive staff. Whether it be a burrito, taco, nachos, or all three, check out their extensive tequila and drinks menu while you are at it. 

If you can’t get enough of the view of Collingwood’s beautiful lakeshore, dine at the Lakeside Seafood & Grill situated right by the water. Celebrate with friends while savouring sustainable seafood and steaks. For a fun interactive dinner, the Lakeside also offers culinary courses! 

Shopping in Collingwood and Blue Mountain:

If you are looking for sports gear for your upcoming adventure, check out the shops located in the Blue Mountain Village. Check out Hillside Outfitters located in the Village for all your hiking, skiing, and mountain biking needs. 

Downtown Collingwood with you S/O? Step into Homme Femme for high quality his and her’s apparel and unisex products. This boutique sells from brands that offer high-quality minimalistic designs, with ethical and sustainable values. 

Photos by Leuk

Down the street is Leuk, specializing in everything from furniture, apparel, and gifts. Leuk was conceived from a sense of European well being. Shop vintage gifts and furniture from Turkey, Netherlands, France, Istanbul, and Hungary. 

With an emphasis on quality design and local production, the Hive has been operating since 2014. Shop lifestyle and home at this downtown Collingwood boutique inspired by the culture and peoples of the Georgian Bay.

Collingwood and Blue Mountain Resort Nightlife:

With Covid-19 in action, the crowded bar nightlife scene sure has changed. Check out these spots once the pandemic quiets down! 

The Blue Mountain Village has no shortage of fun nightly activities. Restaurant Kaytoo offers Canadian fare dining during the evenings and transforms into a bottle service bar at night.

For that hole in the wall feel, Rusty’s located in the Blue Mountain Resort is a great option. Enjoy classic pub grub, a tall can, and the live music at this local tavern. I

Irish Pub MJ Byrnes offers a traditional tavern experience with 28 draft beers, Canadian and Irish dishes, and nightly live music. 

Downtown Collingwood definitely offers more unique and cultured spots for a night out. Inside the exposed brick walls of Crow Bar & Variety, you will find live music, seasonal eats, an extensive drinks menu, and a great atmosphere.

Photos by Jessica Crandlemire

For a more intimate late night activity, check out date night hotspot Gibson & Company. A warm and romantic cafe and bar focused on craft coffee, beers, wines, and whiskey. 

Now that you know the what and wheres of Collingwood, Ontario and Blue Mountain Resort, it’s time to hit the road!

Not sure what to pack on your Weekend Getaway? Get inspired by discovering our collection of weekender bags so you arrive in style on your next getaway.