Summer is supposed to be prime cottaging season, but we’d argue that you don’t know the real joy of being at the cottage until you’ve stayed there in the winter. Don’t believe us? We’ve got 25 things to look forward to.
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25 things we’re looking forward to at the cottage this winter
A cozy fire
Light the fire, add a blanket, and you won't have to move until spring.
Playing in the snow
Whether you've got kids or not, playing in the snow is just more fun when you're surrounded by peace and quiet.
Peace and quiet
That feeling when the snow muffles all the sounds and everything is totally still.
Looking for animal tracks in the snow
Looking for (and identifying) animal tracks in the snow can make an everyday hike super interesting.
A fresh layer of newly-fallen snow
Snow is especially gorgeous before anyone's had a chance to step on it.
The satisfying thump of snow falling from trees in the woods
As long as it's not landing right on your head, the phlumph of snow falling off of forest trees is a classic sound of winter in the woods.
Snowshoeing through the woods
Whether you have old-fashioned wooden snowshoes or modern fibreglass ones, they'll guarantee you can trek through the winter woods without sinking up to your knees in snow.
Seeing the landscape from a whole different perspective
With no leaves on the trees, you'll get a whole different view of the landscape.
Walking (or skiing) across the lake rather than driving around it
The thrill of walking across a frozen lake never gets old.
Enjoying a hot drink in the ice fishing hut
Hot drinks just feel hotter -- and more soothing -- when you pack them in a thermos and drink them while you're waiting for the fish to bite.
Having a snowball fight off the back deck
There's usually so much snow at the cottage that snowball fights can reach truly epic proportions.
Eating easy comfort food (guilt free)
It's winter, so there's no need to feel guilty for downing all the soup, pasta and stew you want. It's cold out there!
Watching wildlife without trees in the way
Winter landscapes make it easier to see birds and animals, so make sure you've got your binoculars handy.
Reading by lamplight
OK, maybe it's not great for long-term reading, but there's something definitely romantic about reading by lamplight.
Playing board games while snow falls outside
There's no better time to brush up on your chess or Settlers of Catan skills than during a blizzard. Or a cold snap. Or light snowfall. Any time, really.
Feeling virtuously tired after shovelling the walkway and deck
Even if you use a snowblower or a plow for most of your snow clearing, nothing beats that pleasantly achy feeling after shovelling. Follow up your efforts with a warm bath.
Enjoying a traffic-free trip
Yes, winter driving can be a little hair-raising -- but if you put on your snow tires and take it slow, you might find yourself enjoying a trip to the cottage that's traffic free.
Not getting out of pajamas all day
Why get out of your pajamas? You're just going to have to get back into them at the end of the day anyway...
Only eating things that can be cooked over the fire
OK, you could eat marshmallows for dinner -- but you can also bake potatoes, roast chestnuts, toast bread and bake apples. Why bother heading to the kitchen when a fireplace will do?
Have a winter campfire
No mosquitoes and a view of the stars you just won't get in the summer -- that's the joy of winter campfire. Bring out some hot chocolate and add roasted marshmallows for extra decadence.
Fall backwards in the snow
No matter how old you are, flopping backwards into soft, fluffy snow is fun. Snow angels optional.
Build an igloo
If the snow's right, an igloo is a great project for a winter's day.
Hearing the burble of water under ice as spring approaches
Because no matter how much we love winter, it's always a thrill when the signs of spring start popping up.
Not having to paint the deck, repair the dock or mow the lawn
You've worked hard all summer -- so go ahead and put your feet up and discover what it's like to actually relax at the cottage.
Feeling cozy with your nearest and dearest -- or all by yourself
Whether you're with family or enjoying some glorious solitude, there's no better place to feel cozy than the cottage. Enjoy!
