If you’re looking for a magical getaway that’s more than just skiing, Blue Mountain Resort in Ontario is the perfect spot. Whether winter or summer, this charming destination offers tons of fun and relaxation for everyone—even if you don’t know how to ski yet! I recently spent an unforgettable weekend exploring Blue Mountain Village, trying the local eats, and soaking up the festive vibes. Let me take you through everything you need to know for your next trip.
Table of Contents
- Blue Mountain Accommodation: Staying Right in the Village
- Exploring Blue Mountain Village Shops & Dining
- Blue Mountain Restaurants: Asian Flavors & Cocktails
- Things to Do in Blue Mountain: More Than Just Skiing
- Blue Mountain Hiking Trails & Summer Activities
- Blue Mountain Weather: What to Expect
- Blue Mountain Ski Passes & Tips
- Local Gems: Thornbury & More
- Blue Mountain Spa and Wellness
- Final Thoughts: Why Blue Mountain is the Ultimate Getaway
- FAQs about Blue Mountain Resort
Blue Mountain Accommodation: Staying Right in the Village
For our stay, we chose the Grand Georgian Village Suites, located right in the heart of Blue Mountain Village. Staying here means you’re just steps away from all the shops, restaurants, and activities, which is perfect if you want to explore without worrying about driving or parking. We booked a village studio room with a cozy queen bed, a small kitchenette, and a clean, decent bathroom. The room was surprisingly spacious, with a great window letting in natural light and a floor-length mirror (always a bonus!).
Blue Mountain accommodation fills up quickly, especially during holiday weekends, so booking in advance is a must. We paid around $350 for one night, which felt like a fair price given the location and convenience.
Exploring Blue Mountain Village Shops & Dining
The village itself is just adorable! It’s colourful, lively, and full of quaint little shops where you can find everything from unique Christmas ornaments to local crafts. During the holiday season, the whole village lights up with festive decorations, making it a magical place to stroll around.
For lunch, we headed to Firehall Pizza, a fire-themed restaurant that’s a hit with pizza lovers. They also serve local craft beer, like Primore from a nearby town, which paired perfectly with our meal. The pizzas were tasty, though I’d rate them about 6 out of 10, but the atmosphere made up for it.
Later in the evening, we discovered Joel’s Bar, a local favourite that’s a bit off the beaten path. It’s lively with live music and a great vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Fun fact: Joel is reportedly the founder of Blue Mountains, which adds a cool historical touch to the place!
Blue Mountain Restaurants: Asian Flavours & Cocktails
For dinner, we craved Asian cuisine and found a gem called Mother Tongue. This spot doubles as a cocktail bar with a cozy vibe and colourful decor, including umbrellas hanging overhead. We tried their banana-infused old-fashioned, which was surprisingly delicious, and some of the best dumplings I’ve ever had. The chicken fried rice and spring rolls were also top-notch, making Mother Tongue a must-visit for foodies.
Things to Do in Blue Mountain: More Than Just Skiing
Even though skiing is the highlight for many, Blue Mountain offers plenty of other activities for non-skiers or beginners. The Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster is an exhilarating ride down the mountain, and the zipline and adventure park keep the thrill going year-round. There’s also a plunge pool and spa for those who want to relax and indulge in some wellness.
We didn’t have skiing lessons booked, but I learned that rentals for ski equipment run around $70-$80, and lessons cost about $40-$50. Next time, I’m planning to hit the slopes properly!
Blue Mountain Hiking Trails & Summer Activities
Blue Mountain isn’t just a winter wonderland. In the warmer months, the village transforms with patios around a small lake, offering stunning views and a great vibe. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking fresh air and beautiful scenery.
Whether it’s a peaceful walk or an adrenaline-pumping zipline adventure, Blue Mountain summer activities keep the fun going all year long.
Blue Mountain Weather: What to Expect
The weather at Blue Mountain can be quite chilly in winter, especially in the evenings, so layering up is essential. During our visit, the village was buzzing with holiday spirit, complete with Christmas lights and even a Santa horse carriage ride. It felt cozy and magical, but pack warm clothes!
Summer weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and enjoying the lake views.
Blue Mountain Ski Passes & Tips
For those planning to ski, buying ski passes in advance is highly recommended to avoid long lines and sold-out days. The slopes are beautifully lit for night skiing, adding an extra layer of excitement. If you’re new to skiing, start by getting comfortable in your ski boots and renting the right gear. Lessons are available and can make the experience a lot more enjoyable.
Local Gems: Thornbury & More
During our trip, we also explored Thornbury, a nearby quaint town known as Ontario’s largest apple-growing region. It’s a sleepy, charming place with colourful houses, cozy coffee shops, and a historic bakery famous for its cinnamon buns. The town even has a harbor, which must be beautiful in summer.
Thornbury is also known for its apple cider, and we enjoyed a cider tasting that ranged from dry to sweet flavors, all made with fresh local apples. If you’re nearby, it’s worth a quick visit to experience a different side of Ontario’s countryside.
Blue Mountain Spa and Wellness
After all the exploring and excitement, don’t forget to unwind with some spa and wellness options available around Blue Mountain. Whether you want a massage, a dip in a hot tub, or simply some quiet time away from the hustle, these wellness spots add a relaxing touch to your trip.
Final Thoughts: Why Blue Mountain is the Ultimate Getaway
Blue Mountain offers a magical blend of adventure, relaxation, and charm all year round. From the festive holiday vibes in the village to the thrilling Ridge Runner coaster and delicious local eats, there’s something for everyone, even if you’re not a skier yet.
For me, the village itself was a highlight. Staying right in the heart of it meant we could walk everywhere, enjoy the colourful shops, and soak in the cozy atmosphere. The holiday lights and seasonal events made the whole experience feel like a winter wonderland.
Next time, I’m planning to learn skiing and hit the slopes, but for now, this weekend at Blue Mountains was pure magic.
FAQs about Blue Mountain Resort
- What are the best things to do in Blue Mountain? Enjoy skiing, hiking trails, the Ridge Runner mountain coaster, ziplining, exploring Blue Mountain village shops, and relaxing at local spas.
- When is the best time to visit Blue Mountain? Winter is perfect for skiing and holiday festivities, while summer offers great weather for hiking, lake views, and outdoor patios.
- Are there ski lessons available at Blue Mountain? Yes, lessons are offered and recommended for beginners. Equipment rentals and lessons are priced separately.
- What kind of accommodation is available in Blue Mountain? There are many options, including village suites like Grand Georgian, hotels, and lodges close to the slopes and village amenities.
- Is Blue Mountain suitable for non-skiers? Absolutely! There are plenty of activities like shopping, dining, mountain coasters, ziplining, and spa treatments.