It’s no secret that Hockley Valley Resort is a hotspot for winter fun in York Durham Headwaters. With plenty of outdoor adventures to be had on-site, an expansive spa, plenty of great eats and rooms that will have you wishing you could extend your stay, it’s an exquisite unplugzest experience in the Headwaters Region. Keep reading for all the après ski fun that Hockley Valley Resort has to offer but be warned, the chance of booking a visit is high!
Don’t know what unplugzest means? It’s our word here in York Durham Headwaters for being present in the current moment. Free from distractions, it’s when you ditch the digital devices and deeply appreciate your surroundings and present experiences. We have a whole list to describe what we call Snuug-Flaking in YDH so check out our article to learn more!
Less than 15 minutes from downtown Orangeville, Hockley Valley Resort offers a stellar mix of snowy fun and relaxation. Strap on your skis with 16 stunning runs for all skill levels. If you’re new to skiing or need a refresher, sign up for one of their lessons where their trained guides will show you the ins and outs to have you tackling black diamond routes in no time. Snowshoeing is also a fantastic option for those who would prefer to blissplore through the stunning forests of the Hockley Valley rather than striveforge downhill. Rentals are available for both skiing and snowshoeing so no need to worry if you don’t have your own equipment!
When the need to rest begins to slink in, this is where Hockley Valley Resort truly shines. Après all day in 8000 square feet of absolute bliss! Rest your body and soul with a visit to the indoor pool, hot tub and sauna while awaiting one of their superior treatments. With manicures, pedicures, facials and body treatments including massage therapy all designed with self-care and wellness in mind, there is an option for everyone to keep the winter blues away.
Whether you’ve opted for winter wanderings or rest and relaxation, it will eventually be time to indulge at one of the many restaurant options Hockley Valley Resrot has to offer. The first, Babbo Wine Bar, is a sleek and modern space offering a variety of small plates that are great for sharing. You can also enjoy hearty mains such as their Kobe burger, steak frites and plenty of housemade pasta dishes. Enjoy a cozy spot in the dining room or grab a seat at the glowing glass bar for a front-row seat to catch all the action.
Another fantastic on-site option is Cabin 1865 where your taste buds will be treated to Canadiana fare. Its rotating menu not only highlights the culinary prowess of Chef Iniyan Vijay but also the local flavours of Headwaters with many ingredients sourced right from the Hockley Valley Farm. At Cabin, you’ll enjoy more than just a meal but rather an experience with stunning plating as you’re surrounded by bright, elegant decor. While you can’t go wrong with their exquisite entrees such as the lobster raviolone and muscovy duck duo, their weekend features are not to be missed. Whatever you choose, enjoy a glass from their extensive wine list highlighting top quality vintages from across the globe!
However, if you’re going to indulge anywhere at Hockley Valley Resort this winter, the warmthrove of their Snow Globes is a must! Bring your significant other for a romantic date night or gather a few friends for a meal you won’t forget. Settle in as you feast on a five course farm-to-table meal (complete with wine pairings!) all within your very own personal snow globe. Bask in the glow of candlelight as faux fur throws keep you toasty warm beneath the magic of twinkling lights. It’s bound to be the highlight of your winter season!
As you can imagine though, Hockley’s Snow Globes are in demand. Luckily there’s another option just up the road at Adamo Estate Winery! On Fridays and Saturdays throughout the winter season, relish in the flavours of a cicchetti-style dinner as you overlook the vineyard from your snowglobe. Guests will enjoy classic Italian eats like bruschetta and lasagna alongside numerous small plates from the local seasonal market. Top it off with a flight of three wines and you have a delectable match made in heaven! However, Adamo is worth a visit even without a snow globe so make time to stop by for a flight of their award-winning wines!
Of course, you can call it a night in Headwaters after that but really, there’s no better way to end the day than by sinking into a king bed at Hockley Valley Resort. Settle in for a brilliant sleep as the plush pillows and cozy sheets carry you off to dreamland.
The Art of Snüg-Flaking: Aprèsphere
Aprèsphere means Après EVERYTHING this winter. Winter is a wonderland, and every time we venture into its frosty embrace, we deserve a treat – no negotiations. Whether it’s conquering the slopes, twirling on ice, strapping on some snow shoes, or even just attempting to build the world’s best snowman, we’re all winter champions. And you know what champions need? Celebration! So, let’s raise a toast to aprèsphere – because every winter activity is a reason to treat ourselves and turn chilly escapades into unforgettable moments of joy!
