Collingwood and the Blue Mountains are certainly among the beautiful places on Earth. Visitors to our hills and shores arrive by the carload, looking for adventure and entertainment throughout each of the four seasons. But do you know any of the area’s secret places and hidden treasures? We are not talking about the venues and events found in the tourist kiosk brochures, but rather the spots frequented by the few in the know.

Your Coriander peeps are happy to part with a few of their favourite local obscure gems, ranging from purveyors of fine artisan comestibles to off-the-beaten-track hideaways. 

Sarah’s Supper Secret: When our fearless leader is too pooped to participate in dinner making, she relies on the Blackbird Pie Company to come through with the main and the dessert. These pies are so good you’ll want to pass them off as your own plus the drive to their shop in  Heathcote through the rolling hills in the Beaver Valley provides an ample feast for the eyes.

Cari’s Hideaway with a View: The rooftop of the Living Waters Hotel is where Cari unwinds. “There’s always a chair to sit in and the views of the bay are stellar. I tend to stow a bottle of wine in my bag for further enjoyment!” We won’t tell, Cari...for a nominal fee.  

Amy’s Fave Sandwich Source: Just outside of Collingwood along the 119 you’ll find the Ravenna Country Market, an iconic Ontario general store that offers homemade pies and home baking, fudge, and locally renowned sandwiches. Their patio overlooks the escarpment so you may savour your purchases along with spectacular views any time of year.

Alicia’s Go-To for Goodness: Our local Press Juice keeps Alicia feeling good and looking good, and its offerings fit in well with her busy lifestyle. (Well, we can’t let her out of the building for too long -- she’s irreplaceable.) Charis always there with a bottle, a scoop or a crunch of something yummy and healthy.

Jenn’s Date Night Spot: The Collingwood Brewery has it all as far as Jenn, her hubby, and two adorable corgis are concerned: a patio AND a grassed, pet-friendly area for lounging with your furry family members while enjoying an adult beverage or two. Definitely an all paws up experience.

Brenda Beloved Jewel with a View: Brenda shares that Winifred’s English Pub in Thornbury is also a dog-friendly spot. You can pack up Fido and sit outside for a session of sipping, supping, and pond swan gazing. Their beer garden is spacious and a perfect place to meet a group of friends after exploring the great outdoors. Brenda suggests the wings. :)

Maybe you have a favourite place or two that you are willing to share. Please do so at secretcloset@shopcoriander.com -- your Coriander peeps are always looking for new local kicks.

We think Collingwood and the Blue Mountains are simply the best hometowns EVER and we are backing up our claim with some customized quality merch for those of you equally smitten. We chose two designs that best define the area: “Southern Georgian Bay” and “Blue Mountains”. 

Perhaps a wrist cuff with a sweet sentiment inside.

Maybe a set of coasters. 

Our nifty custom-made zippered linen-blend pouches make marvelous KLIMP purses (keys, lipstick, ID, money, and phone) and have a removable wrist strap for extra security. They can also be used for pencils, makeup, stash bags...or whatever turns your fancy.

And just look at this charming Georgian Bay door stop to help manage all those cooling summer breezes and ensuing door slams. Weighty and durable, they are handmade for us in Coldwater, ON. 

There's no place like home, is there?