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25 Fun and Original Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Ontario

Feb. 10, 2023

Valentine's Day is just around the corner! Are you ready to make it the best one yet and spoil the love of your life?

If you haven't made plans already and don't know where to start, don't worry! We've got you covered with a list of ideas and activities that will surely impress.

And to make sure your partner is thoroughly impressed, we've included a special, secret hot cocoa recipe that you can prepare for them. It's easy to make and tastes out of this world!

Don’t forget to stop at a Pioneer gas station on the way to refill your tank and your chocolate bars and snack stocks!

 

The sleeping beauty

Sir Sam’ In – Haliburton 

Sir Sam'In is a 3 hours drive from Toronto. A luxury resort for adults, with the charm and coziness of a chalet! Make your stay extra romantic with a gourmet candlelit dinner and a breakfast in bed. Enhance the experience with a visit to their beautiful spa and book your spa treatments in advance. With so many activities available, you'll be amazed. Plan your perfect stay by checking out their website.

Radisson Fallsview – Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls stays with a view of the falls all night long: discover the beauty of the frozen waterfalls illuminated in bright colors. Choose a room or suite with the best view. Summer in Niagara Falls can be crowded, but winter is quieter and a great time to visit.

Read on for more ideas of activities to enjoy in Niagara Falls.

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

For the ultimate romantic experience, stay at the resort, indulge in the spa, and book your table at the Ice Caves for a truly magical moment! These transparent "bubbles" offer a sumptuous dinner experience while enjoying the great outdoors, without the cold. The string lights glowing on the snow at night create a magical atmosphere.

Log Cabin - romantic chalets and cabins

Renting a cozy log cabin for Valentine's Day can be the perfect way to spend quality time with your loved one and enjoy some peace and relaxation. Surrounded by nature, these cabins offer a warm and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for cuddling up and enjoying each other's company. With amenities such as a fireplace or a fully equipped kitchen, you can tailor your stay to your preferences. Whether it's a romantic hike through the nearby woods or simply enjoying each other's company, a log cabin rental is the perfect way to spend a peaceful and memorable Valentine's Day with the one you love.

Backcountry cabin

Rent a backcountry lodge, accessible only by cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobile. If you love adventure, winter sports, and immersing yourself in nature, this is the perfect way to make your weekend unforgettable! Plan and pack accordingly, as you may be far from services and stores, but that's all part of the experience.

Cedar Grove in Muskokas

Treat yourself and your significant other to the perfect couple's retreat with a stay at a cozy and intimate destination. Each room is equipped with a wood-burning fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that sets the mood for a relaxing getaway. Take a dip in the jet tub and unwind after a long day of exploring the area. Savor a drink or two with the convenience of a wet bar and bar fridge at your fingertips. What else could you ask for? With all of these luxurious amenities at your disposal, beautiful moments are sure to be aplenty during your stay. Get ready to create unforgettable memories with your loved one in this idyllic setting.

 

Sleeping under the stars

Stay in a Yurt

If you've never stayed in a yurt, now is the perfect time to try! The combination of simplicity, nature, and comfort makes for an enjoyable winter experience. Yurts provide a warm and spacious tent-like environment, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. Give it a try and discover the unique charm of a yurt stay.

Yurts are available in several Ontario parks : Mongolian Yurt, the Yourte Forestière and the Minaki Yurt Adventures.

Dome

Not quite ready for roughing it in a traditional camping setting? Glamping could be your thing! Opt for a romantic and comfortable stay in a dome. With a clear dome roof, you and your partner can gaze at the stars and be surrounded by the beauty of nature. These domes offer all the necessary amenities for a comfortable and peaceful stay, including soft music from the nearby creek and the sweet sounds of birds singing in the trees. It's the ultimate getaway for those seeking a unique and serene experience in the wilderness.

Guided winter camping trip

If you're an adventurous spirit who isn't afraid of the cold, get ready for an unforgettable trip. Winter camping offers a unique chance to experience nature in a whole new way. So pack your gear, grab your warmest clothes, and be ready for an incredible adventure.

Tipi

So cozy in the tipi! Experience the magic of the great outdoors with a Valentine's Day stay in a tipi. These traditional indigenous structures offer a unique and cozy accommodation option, perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. Imagine snuggling up with your loved one by the fire, surrounded by the peacefulness of nature. With a comfortable bed and basic amenities, you'll have everything you need for a memorable and intimate stay. So why not make this Valentine's Day one to remember and try something different with a tipi stay.

 

The romantic date

Skylon Tower, Niagara Falls 

For those who haven't had the chance to try it yet, dining in a rotating restaurant is a dream come true. And it's even better in Niagara Falls, where you can enjoy a 360-degree view of the spectacular falls from a revolving restaurant. Whether you choose to have lunch and see the falls during the day or have dinner for a breathtaking view at night, this experience will surely be one to remember.

Scandinave spa

Of course, we couldn't write a complete article on Valentine's Day activities without mentioning a spa. Going to the spa is the perfect way to relax and unwind on Valentine's Day. And what better place to do so than at the Scandinave Spa. With its tranquil atmosphere and luxurious amenities, it's the ultimate escape for those seeking ultimate relaxation. So, whether you're looking to pamper yourself or spend some quality time with your significant other, the Scandinave Spa is the perfect choice for a rejuvenating and romantic experience.

 

The outdoors lovers

Skate The Ice Trail in Arrowhead Provincial Park

Explore the enchanting Muskoka Forest along the 1.3 km ice trail. Immerse yourself in nature and let your mind wander. In addition to the ice trail, you can also enjoy activities such as snow tubing and cross-country skiing at Arrowhead.

Ice skating on the Rideau Canal

Ice skating is a classic romantic activity and the Rideau Canal offers the largest skating rink in the world! With a 7.8 km stretch of ice, it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site open 24/7. Take breaks to warm up and enjoy hot chocolate or a Beavertail for the ultimate winter experience.

Winterlude Festival – Ottawa

From February 3rd to 20th, this festival has everything to make this time of the year a good one for you and your partner: Ice skating, Ice and snow sculptures, outdoor shows, snow tubes and more.

Ski or snowboard – Blue Mountain

For a fantastic wintertime, go skiing or snowboarding on the Blue Mountain! Pack your thermos and enjoy a hot chocolate or spiced hot red wine at the top of the mountain! (Find the best recipe below!)

Snowtubing – Barrie

Enjoy a fun and inexpensive winter activity with a snow tube ride in Barrie. With 14 different chutes to choose from, you're sure to have a good time any time of day during the winter season.

Dogsledding

If you and your partner agree that dogs are the best, you’ll be even more convinced than ever after going dogsledding. This incredible experience will strengthen your bond with those furry friends and you may even want to bring one back home!

Sleigh ride

Romantic evening sleigh ride. Get cozy under blankets in the sled seat, with magical string lights and lanterns to light up the way. Glide on the snow through the sleepy forest. Enjoy the quiet time and look at the stars. Finish your romantic expedition by sipping hot chocolate at a campfire. A beautiful moment to slow down and reconnect!

Winter horseback riding

Horseback riding isn’t just for professionals, and not just for summer, either.  Experience the winter wonderland on horseback for a romantic and unique Valentine's Day adventure. Saddle up and take a ride through pristine snow-covered landscapes, surrounded by breathtaking views of frosty forests and glistening streams. The gentle sway of the horse and the crunching snow underfoot will create an unforgettable moment for you and your significant other.

Snowshoeing wine tour

A wine tour in winter? Why not? If you both love wine, we strongly suggest you try this original activity! Visit their website for more information, or go ahead and reserve right away!

Fat biking

For any bike lover, fat biking is a formidable way to enjoy the outdoors all year long! If you’ve never tried it, now is the time! Rent a fat bike and explore the trails!

Where to go ?

Hardwood Hills near Barrie : https://www.hardwoodskiandbike.ca/winter-things/fat-bike/ 

Horseshoe Resort is also near Barrie : https://horseshoeresort.com/nordic-centre/fat-biking/

Highlands Nordic in Collingwood : https://highlandsnordic.ca/our-services/

Algonquin Outfitters in Algonquin Park : https://algonquinoutfitters.com/rental/bikes/

Ice climbing

Want something more adventurous? Go Ice climbing! You might need an experienced climber or monitor to come with you, but it could leave you with unforgettable memories! Here are two options : Outdoor Skills And Thrills in Thunder Bay or Superior Exploration.

 

Original activities

·      See a dance show : https://nac-cna.ca/en/dance

·      Go to the theater : http://www.odysseytheatre.ca , http://www.ottawalittletheatre.com , https://www.gctc.ca

·      Go to a cabaret

·      Go to the cinema

·      Take a fun class or workshop: pottery, painting, cooking, social dance, etc.

 

Extra Hot Chocolate

We made a promise! Here it is! 

An exceptional hot cocoa recipe to prepare on Valentine’s Day and impress your loved one! It will keep you both warm and happy on your extraordinary winter adventures!

Ingredients : 

  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 3 to 4 cups of your favorite milk or plant beverage (unsweetened)
  • small pinch of cayenne or paprika powder (optional)
  • one anis star
  • one cinnamon stick or a pinch of cinnamon powder
  • You can also add vanilla extract, a pinch of nutmeg, ginger powder and cardamom.

In a pan, melt the cocoa powder and sugar while stirring slowly. Gradually add the milk while continuously whisking. Keep whisking for a few minutes as the milk heats up, then add your desired spices. Allow the mixture to cook on low heat for approximately 15 minutes to half an hour.

Serve hot and covered with marshmallows and enjoy!!!