THIS MOTHER’S DAY - THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE ONTARIO

From Bruce to Barrie, Ontario offers unique ways to spoil Mom

Whether she has a green thumb or a sweet tooth, the Ontario counties of Bruce, Grey and Simcoe offer endless ways to show your appreciation this Mother’s Day. With activities and locales ranging from decadent to unique, this year is your chance to do something a little different that is sure to be appreciated.

In the spirit of giving her the special treatment she deserves, the following list of Top 10 Mom-approved selections are sure to make her feel special - today, tomorrow and forever.

1. Feed her soul – For many, Mother’s Day brunch is a much anticipated ritual. This year, why not shake up the tradition with brunch in the country? Five-star dining and cozy local hotspots are only a short drive away and provide a great change of scenery from the usual city fare. Whether dining in or out, some of our favourites include a fabulous three-course meal, complete with fresh flower takeaway at Era 67 in Orillia; or the quality catering of Delicious Dishes in Wiarton - bringing fresh and local Mother’s Day goodies straight to your doorstep.

2. Pamper her spirit – Parenting is tough work no matter what age your kids are. Offer Mom the ultimate thank you with a pampering package from one of Ontario’s many luxury spas. The spas at Cobble Beach Resort, Scandinave Spa at Blue Mountain and the Shizen Spa at Horseshoe Resort are just a few locales that offer utterly-over-the-top experiences.

3. Apple of my eye – For once, there really is no rush. Tell the woman who means the world to you that she deserves some time away from schedules and deadlines. Spend a relaxing day in Grey County exploring some of the Apple Pie Trail’s more than 20 vendors. Only a couple of hours outside of Toronto, this trail is perfect for foodies and of course, serious apple-lovers.

4. Stop and smell the roses – Finding the perfect Mother’s Day gift doesn’t have to break the bank. This year tell the special woman in your life to take a “hike”, or rather a leisurely stroll, at one of Central Ontario’s many picturesque gardens or trails, such as: The Ganaraska Trail, which highlights sections of Orillia, Barrie, Wasaga, Midland and Oro-Medonte; or the Bruce Trail, which starts off in Tobermory, and heads south towards Wiarton and beyond.

5. A little R&R – With hundreds of choices, Central Ontario’s cozy B&Bs offer ideal R&R options for Moms in need of some downtime. Taking the guesswork out of planning a perfect getaway, lodgings like Between The Maples in Grey County and Orillia’s Cavana Inn & Spa, offer views of Ontario’s picturesque landscape that can’t be beat.

6. A gift above par – Mom’s everywhere are taking pleasure in spending the day on the green, especially when they don’t have to stray too far from home. Whatever her handicap, there are a number of courses to choose from throughout Central Ontario - Simcoe County alone has more than 50 courses for her to play.

7. Satisfy that sweet tooth – From home-grown maple syrup to decadent, locally produced fudge & fresh honey, Central Ontario offers no shortage of sweet confections. Many of the area’s local producers and stores, including Kemble Mountain Maple Products, Lazy J Ranch Honey and the family-owned and operated Holly’s Sweets & Eats, welcome visitors – an ideal experience for any true foodie.

8. What she wants, baby we got it – You don’t have to wander far to find unique, charming and often hand-crafted gifts this Mother’s Day. Bruce, Grey and Simcoe Counties offer a wide variety of one-of-a-kind craft, antique and home-made specialty stores. Some of our favourite places include The Handcraft House in Wiarton, The Pastorale in Owen Sounds and Carousel Collectables in Orillia.

9. Nourish her mind – For the mom looking for a little food for thought, Central Ontario offers an endless list of activities to do and see this May – perfect for moms looking to make a weekend out of Mother’s Day. From art festivals and classes with award winning artists to museums, birding locales, open-air markets, film festivals and more, there’s an activity for every interest in Bruce, Grey and Simcoe Counties.

10. Off the Beaten Path – Moms with a sense of adventure will surely love a day spent on horseback, especially if you join her on the trail. Saddle up your ride at Whinny Acres in the Grey Highlands for a memorable Western riding trek through the winding trails. Stop for a picnic and take in parts of Ontario only seen on horseback. Stay for the day, the night or even the week at the property’s bed and breakfast.