Beyond the main attraction that is Blue Mounain sits a happening downtown area on the cusp of Georgian Bay in Collingwood, Ontario.



What to do : Sc andinave Spa
Plan to spend a few hours relaxing amid 25 acres of forest with views of the Niagara Escarpment. The spa features outdoor hot baths, Nordic plunge pools, a Finnish sauna, eucalyptus steam room and indoor quiet rooms. It may become your only reason to visit Collingwood! 152 Grey Rd. 21, scandinaveblue.com.

Scenic Caves Nature Adventures
Skip the busy ski slopes and try your feet at some cross-country skiing or snowshoeing on the well-groomed escarpment trails at the Scenic Caves. Fresh air, spectacular views and the tranquility of a 200-year-old forest rich with wildlife promise to rejuvenate. 260/280 Scenic Caves Rd., sceniccaves.com.

Where to shop: At Home Interiors
This impressively sized home decor haven is filled with a selection of furniture and accessories that cleverly reflects both the rustic cottage style of the locals and the modern edge of urban visitors. If you have an exact size or finish in mind, ask – many of the pieces can be customized. And don’t miss the back room, which is solely devoted to gourmet treats. 65 Hurontario St., 705-446-9992.

Blue Mountain Foundation
Blue Mountain Foundation for the Arts Centre In this carefully restored century-old building, you’ll find a large, bright gallery with a rotating display of interesting works from local artists – including paintings, photography, sculpture and pottery – at affordable prices. 163 Hurontario St., bmfa.on.ca.

Where to eat : Pure
An unexpected find among the mom-and-pop diners and chain restos, Pure is equipped with an organic juice, smoothie and espresso bar and offers a full-course raw menu that’s prepared fresh daily from local, organic foods.
10 Keith Ave., purefoodbar.com.

Espresso Post
Local art as wall decor, distressed hardwood floors and chalkboard signs create ld-world charm in this quaint coffee shop. Steaming with hot-drink options ready to be made by one of the café’s award-winning baristas and brimming ith fresh rustic pastries and cakes, owners Mark and Christene Krause ure know that the way to win our hearts is through our stomachs! 139 Hurontario St., espressopost.com.