Issue link: http://read.canadatravelguides.ca/i/809166
Perhaps it's the comfort and traditions that keep regulars coming back to Ontario's resorts. Like a well-rounded menu, there seems to be something for everyone—cou- ples looking for a little "we" time, families looking to carve out some moments on the same page, high-stressed working profes- sionals looking to disconnect, unwind and . . . breathe deeply. It's all part of a growing trend to "Go Resorting." Ontario's resorts are a four-season aff air, the perfect getaway where rocks, forests and water paint the backdrop. "Getting away to the lake" is a quintessential Ontario experience, served up with a dose of personal fl avour that's a special part of many family-operated properties. As family-owned inns, resorts and cottages are passed from one generation to the next, they are noticing that repeat guests are now introducing their own children and grandchildren to the treasured resort experience. Nostalgia is enjoying a come- back as people look for opportunities to go back to simpler times. THE HARVEST IS HALF THE FUN You are… intrigued by learning about and awakening your tastebuds to new fl avours and scents. Head to… The chefs at The Briars— an hour north of Toronto—choose local ingredients, from their own gardens when possible. Guests love the popular weekly Garden Barbeque, an outdoors classic to make the most of Lake Simcoe's lovely summer evenings ( www.thebriars.ca ). In the Kawarthas, Viamede Resort's two restaurants are guided by a farm-to-table philosophy, featuring foraged, locally-sourced ingredi- ents. The Boathouse off ers casual lakefront dining while the intimate Mount Julian restaurant is a fi ne dining experience with multi-course tasting menus and a well- stocked wine cellar ( www.viamede.com ). Elmhirst's Resort, on the shores of Rice Lake, helps guests fi nd the perfect culinary vacation style. Enjoy being catered to with the resort meal plan or cook your day's catch in your well-appointed cottage kitchen or on the barbeque on the deck overlooking the water ( www.elmhirst.ca ). For those that like to dabble in the kitchen, a visit at The Waring House incorporates overnight stays at one of Prince Edward County's most exclusive inns with hands-on, themed YOUR ONTARIO RESORT IS WAITING BY JOSEPHINE MATYAS ALGONQUIN PROVINCIAL PARK • CTC ON 96