Welcome to the 2026 Winter Issue
A fresh year, a fresh start; let go of the old, and welcome the new, “For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice.” T.S. Eliot
As we welcome January here in Cottage Country, I encourage you to fully embrace winter and explore the changes and magic it brings with it to our region. Whether you bundle up and pull up a lawn chair to watch your breath puff up into the night sky while the brightest stars twinkle above, or if you find joy in adventure, get out and strap on a pair of cross country or downhill skis or hike through the winter wonderland of our forests via snowshoes, or lace up your skates and enjoy an outdoor rink. Winter offers just as much fun as summer, and Cottage Country is brimming with excursions, events, and communities that celebrate the frosty season.
Welcome to the Winter, January/February 2026 issue
On the Cover: The Kawarthas Tourism brings you the best handpicked excursion ideas for enjoying winter here in The Kawarthas with ideas curated for those seeking simplicity, culture, outdoor excursions or purpose driven events – especially great ideas for enjoying the Family Day holiday in February.
Outdoor writer Rick Whitteker invites you on a hike to the Minden White Water Reserve, and Outdoor Education Instructor Jacob Rodenburg educates us on how to build shelter and survive in frigid winter temperatures with the insulation of snow. Kids corner also encourages outdoor play, with a simple snow painting activity that is quick to prepare and will keep the kids busy in the snow for hours.
Nik from Weekend at the Cottage serves up the perfect Ginger Cookie recipe, a perfect treat to have after you’ve built your own skating rink on the lake with our tips on how to get that perfect glassy ice. We bring you design inspiration for 2026 renovations from Four Points Construction, Birchview Design and Jessica Cinnamon Design Inc., and beautiful Haliburton Highlands invites you to experience winter in the Highlands with a handpicked list of their top winter activities, including their annual Hike Haliburton Festival.
From all of us at Cottage Country Lifestyle Magazine, may the year ahead be filled with both big and small successes, simple happiness, unlimited blessings, and lots of adventure.
2026 is going to be a good one.
