It's November...

If there are two months you might consider a getaway from beautiful Southern Georgian Bay, it’s November and April. April may be a while away, but November is here, and it’s known for its impact on those who feel the effects of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is often the first month when many experience a dip in mood, marked by the shorter days, darker skies after the time change, and chilly temperatures. By November, the leaves have fallen, the landscape feels bare, and persistent dampness  fills the air—a bit like the moody, rain-soaked scenes in "November Rain" by Guns N' Roses. With limited sunlight and regular rain, drying out can feel nearly impossible, making November our unofficial "mud season." For most, jetting off to a sunnier destination isn’t an option. So, what can you do to stay positive and ease through the month? Here are five activities in Southern Georgian Bay to help boost your spirits until the holiday season when festive lights, snow, and celebrations bring winter cheer. Go to the SpaThe Scandinave Spa in Blue Mountain, near Collingwood, offers a serene escape in a lush, natural setting. This tranquil space combines outdoor hot and cold baths, saunas, steam rooms, and quiet zones to create a restorative hydrotherapy experience that soothes and revitalizes. Massages are also available, and the calming ambiance, coupled with scenic forest views, is especially uplifting during November’s chill. A day at the spa is the perfect way to unwind and shake off the blues. Visit Local Breweries and CideriesSouthern Georgian Bay is full of vibrant breweries and cideries, offering cozy spots to relax and savor the region’s flavors. Venues like Side Launch Brewery and Spy Distillery provide tastings, tours, and a warm atmosphere that’s perfect for gloomy days. Sample the season’s best with fall-themed drinks, and enjoy the local spirit of craftsmanship and camaraderie that’ll help you embrace November. Engage in Outdoor ActivitiesYes, the weather may be cold, wet, and dark, but getting outside can boost your mood and energy. Explore the trails at Scenic Caves Nature Adventures or Pretty River Valley Provincial Park, where the lack of foliage opens up unique, scenic views. The Collingwood area is also great for bird watching, with migratory birds still passing through in early November, making it a surprising but refreshing seasonal activity. Check Out Festivals and EventsThough November events might be fewer, places like Blue Mountain Resort often feature themed weekends and activities. Local craft fairs and holiday markets also start this month, perfect for a festive shopping experience with seasonal treats. Here are some upcoming highlights: Nov 10: The Wedding Society - Fall Wedding Show, Blue Mountain Village Conference Centre Nov 14: Sound Bath + Wine Tasting, The Roost Wine Company, Clarksburg Nov 22: Red Devil Ladies Night, Blue Mountain Village Nov 23: Christmas Market, Alpine Ski Club, The Blue Mountains Nov 30: The Real DJ KAOS - Holiday Magic, Blue Mountain Village Try Indoor Activities and Creative OutletsFind local art workshops, cooking classes, or wine tastings to keep your mind active and creative. Many community centers and studios offer one-time workshops in art, cooking, or even yoga, letting you try something new in a relaxed setting. The good news? November is only 30 days. Make the most of it by embracing the local charm of Southern Georgian Bay, finding joy in the small things, and planning activities that keep you engaged and uplifted until the holiday spirit takes over!

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From Farm to Your Table

Before diving into this topic, I want to acknowledge my perspective on food and health. I firmly believe that what we eat has a major impact on our well-being, and I favor naturally raised and organic whole foods. With various diets and approaches to eating, I don’t claim to know what’s best for everyone, but I think it’s essential to consider how food choices impact both health and sustainability when discussing farm-to-table options. One of the great advantages of living in an agriculturally rich region is having access to local farms and fresh produce. While supermarkets and curated grocers offer convenience, visiting local farms lets you source food directly. Below, I highlight some of my favorite local farms that not only provide incredible products but also promote sustainable, regenerative farming practices. These include Good Family Farms, with their diversified organic operations, Sideroad Farms’ certified organic vegetables and flowers, Twin Creeks Farm’s grass-only livestock, Higginson Farms’ sustainable beef production, and Harvest Moon Farm’s dedication to healthy soils and community connections. Supporting these farms means making healthier food choices while contributing to a sustainable food system. Good Family Farms I’ve known the Goods since they opened with an old painted sign and a freezer in their drive shed. Now, their operation spans over 600 acres, offering beef, pork, chicken, lamb, eggs, and a wide variety of produce at their Farm Store in Meaford, Ontario. They also sell at the Collingwood Farmers' Market and offer delivery. Good Family Farms operates on regenerative principles, certified organic, and focused on healthy soils. By rotating livestock and crops, they create a symbiotic environment that nourishes both the land and the animals, minimizing the need for harsh chemicals and ensuring sustainable production. https://goodfamilyfarms.ca/     Sideroad Farms Patrick and Amy Kitchen established Sideroad Farm in 2013 in Walter’s Falls, Ontario. Their 60-acre farm produces Certified Organic vegetables, pasture-raised chickens and eggs, and cut flowers. They are deeply committed to sustainability, using regenerative agricultural practices such as cover cropping and livestock integration to improve soil health. You can find their produce at local farmers' markets, through their CSA programs, and at their farm store. Sideroad Farms also partners with local retailers and restaurants, helping to spread their values of environmental stewardship and healthy eating across the community. https://sideroadfarm.com/         Twin Creeks Farm Located on the beautiful rolling hills of the Niagara Escarpment, Twin Creeks Farm produces grass-only beef and lamb, as well as pastured pork and poultry. Their farming philosophy goes 'Beyond Organic,' ensuring animals have full access to fresh grass during the growing season. They employ sustainable practices that nurture both their land and their animals, providing customers with naturally raised, high-quality meat. Twin Creeks is committed to growing food for their family and community with the highest standards of environmental care. https://www.twincreeksfarm.ca/     Higginson Farms Dedicated to raising sustainably produced beef, Higginson Farms focuses on grass-fed, grain-finished cattle. Their humane farming practices aim to minimize environmental impact while producing tender, flavorful beef. Offering everything from individual cuts to pre-packaged boxes, Higginson Farms is committed to transparency, ensuring their customers receive ethically raised, high-quality meat. Whether you're visiting their farm or ordering for delivery, they make it easy to bring farm-fresh beef to your table. https://shophigginsonfarms.com/         Harvest Moon Farm Nestled just outside of Meaford, Harvest Moon Farm specializes in providing fresh, organic vegetables to the community. Known for their hands-on approach to sustainable farming, they offer not only produce but also educational workshops and consulting services. Their mission is to connect people to their food, from seed to plate, while emphasizing the importance of healthy soils and sustainable growing practices. By empowering their customers with knowledge and fresh, local ingredients, Harvest Moon Farm helps build a stronger, more connected community centered around wholesome, nutritious food. https://www.farmharvestmoon.com/  

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Hiking and Biking Routes to See Fall Colours

Metcalf Rock Loop (Hike)The Metcalf Rock Loop is a popular hiking trail located in Grey County, Ontario. Part of the Bruce Trail, it offers stunning views, diverse terrain, and natural features that attract outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a summary of what to expect: Trail HighlightsScenic Views: The trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Nottawasaga Bay.Rock Formations: Metcalf Rock itself is a notable feature, with its impressive cliffs and rock faces that are popular for rock climbing.Caves and Crevices: Hikers can explore various caves and crevices formed in the escarpment.Forests and Flora: The trail passes through beautiful hardwood and coniferous forests, with diverse plant life.Wildlife: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, small mammals, and occasionally deer. Trail DetailsLength: Approximately 7 kilometers (4.3 miles) for the loop.Difficulty: Moderate, with some challenging sections due to rocky terrain and elevation changes.Access Points: The trail can be accessed from the Metcalf Rock parking area, which is located near the village of Ravenna. Trail Head Beaver Valley Loop (Cycle) Length: Approximately 52 kilometers Scenery: The route takes you through picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, scenic vistas, and vibrant autumn foliage. Points of Interest:Eugenia Falls: A beautiful waterfall where you can take a short break and enjoy the view.Kimberley: A charming village with cafes and spots to rest.Beaver Valley Lookout: Offers stunning panoramic views of the valley, especially breathtaking inthe fall.Terrain: Moderate difficulty with some challenging hills, making it suitable for intermediate toadvanced cyclists. Road Quality: Generally well-maintained roads with low to moderate traffic. The Route

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