The days are shorter, and the temps are colder, but regardless of the season, Southampton Ontario is definitely worth a visit. Winter, spring, summer or fall, there's always lots to see and do. Southampton, Ontario, has become a popular tourist destination of late, and for good reason. Located on the sandy shores of Lake Huron, at the mouth of the Saugeen River, Southampton is a beautiful and tranquil spot to spend a lazy, summer weekend. The sandy white beach at Southampton is clean, pristine and uncrowded, and is also the perfect spot to take in the stunning sunsets that Southampton is known for. What most visitors to this lovely beach town don't realize, however, is that Southampton is worth a visit during the winter months, too. There's an abundance of winter activities to keep yourself busy in the Southampton area, and for the winter enthusiast, it doesn't get much better when it comes to natural beauty.
Cross country ski buffs will enjoy gliding along the RailTrail or along the Lake Huron shoreline on a clear day. Groomed trails are also close by in Port Elgin and Sauble Beach. MacGregor Point Provincial Park is open for those who like to swoosh through the bush!
Snowshoeing is a fast-growing sport and snowshoes come in all shapes, weights and sizes. Both cross country skis and snowshoes can be rented locally at Thorncrest Outfitters. Outdoor packages are available. Trail information can be found on the Bruce Grey Trails Network web site.
Ice skating is available at the Southampton Coliseum, the local arena. If the winter weather is cold enough, outdoor ice skating can be done on a pond at MacGregor Point Provincial Park.
A Bed & Breakfast Inn is the perfect place to cuddle up with a good book in a cozy room, and The Southampton Inn & Spa is the place to do just that. You can also treat yourself to a pamper day at their in-house Spa. The Southampton Inn offers both day spa and overnight Spa packages, and a full range of esthetic services. Guests can also enjoy lunch from a tantalizing Spa menu. In fact, The Southampton Inn & Spa has a full liquor license and offers private dining too. Guests don't have to sacrifice fine dining when seeking out a Spa experience. For those who need to stay connected, complimentary high speed internet in available in all rooms. Faces North Makeup Studio is also on site, making The Southampton Inn & Spa an ideal winter weekend getaway.
Snowmobiling can be done in town and on trails close by. Enjoy a day trip up the beautiful Bruce Peninsula.
Regardless of the season, Southampton is still home to a large number of local shops and restaurants, allowing for a pleasant afternoon of shopping and browsing. And history buffs shouldn't forget to visit the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre. This new, state of the art, muli-million dollar facility is a must on your to do list while staying in Southampton.
Winter, spring, summer, or fall, Southampton is definitely worth a visit. Bundle up and enjoy.
Derek Meade is a writer, webmaster and owner of Meade Internet Services, a search engine optimization and public relations company in Ottawa, Ontario.
