Toronto & Niagara Wine Region

Itinerary

• Ontario

  Ontario is a province located in east-central Canada, the largest by population and second largest, after Quebec, in total area.
   Ontario is bordered by the provinces of Manitoba to the west and Quebec to the east, and five U.S. states (from west to east): Minnesota, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania (the latter two across Lake Erie) and New York to the south and east. Most of Ontario's  border with the United States runs along water.  The capital of Ontario is Toronto, Canada's most populous city and metropolitan area.  Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is also located in Ontario.

• Jordan

  The small, quaint village of Jordan is located in the Niagara wine growing region and is approximately one and half hours directly south of Toronto.

• Toronto

  Toronto is a cosmopolitan city with a wonderful network of parks, recreational and cultural facilities. It is the largest city in Canada, with a population consisting of over 2.5 million people. Toronto is the home of seven professional sports teams and the third largest English-speaking theatre district in the world, behind New York and London. It is one of the world's most multicultural cities, home to more than 80 ethnic communities (half of people living in Toronto were born outside Canada). A dominant force in the business and economy of the nation, it is also the cultural centre of English-speaking Canada. Toronto is known as a city of neighborhoods. Districts are often centered one of the main streets (Queen, College, Bloor etc), and packed tightly together, with each having something different to offer each visitor. The relative compactness of these neighborhoods makes exploring on foot easy and pleasant, especially in the warmer months.

• • Toronto
  • Art Gallery of Ontario
  • Dish at Canoe
  • Ritz Carlton Exterior

  Day 1: Toronto

  Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel in Toronto. Your driver will meet you at the arrivals gate with a sign with your name to greet you before accompanying you for the transfer.

  With breathtaking art, a spectacular new building and innovative ideas, the transformed Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is both a preeminent art museum and an international cultural destination. With a permanent collection of more than 73,000 works of art spanning more than 11,000 years, it is among the most distinguished art museums in North America. Thanks to the Transformation AGO expansion project designed by celebrated architect Frank Gehry, the new AGO features 190,000 square feet of new and renovated space, including a 47 percent increase in art-viewing space. With its dramatic sculptural staircases, bold use of wood and galleries infused with natural light, the Art Gallery of Ontario is an extraordinary new home for extraordinary new art. Enjoy a private guided tour of the gallery choosing between various themes such as Architecture, Canadian, African, contemporary or opt for a sample of everything. If you feel like a bite to eat afterwards, consider stopping by FRANK - the in-house restaurant which has proved very popular with locals.

  On your way to dinner, stop off to admire the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts, an opera house like no other and the first of its kind in Canada. Designed by pre-eminent Toronto architect A.J. (Jack) Diamond, the Four Seasons Centre is Canada’s first purpose-built opera house, and is the home of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada. Highlights include the world’s longest freespan glass staircase and a horseshoe-shaped, European style auditorium featuring phenomenal advancements in modern engineering and acoustical design.

  The concierge at your hotel can easily arrange a cab, or just hail one of the many ones passing by for the short transfer to Oliver and Bonacini’s restaurant, Canoe, for an unparalleled view of the city, through wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling glass, paired with an unparalleled taste of contemporary Canadian cuisine. The design, created by the noted team of Yabu Pushelberg, is clean and simple, yet absolutely stylish—a brilliant reflection of this country’s rich raw environment. That same brilliance is captured through the flavours and textures of Chef Anthony Walsh’s inspired regional Canadian cuisine.

  Accommodation: Ritz-Carlton (5*)

  Among the newest Toronto luxury hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto welcomes guests to the heart of the city’s financial district with a world-class spa, exceptional dining, impeccable service and 267 luxurious guest rooms and suites. Just steps from landmark locations, including the Design Exchange, CN Tower and the Entertainment District, this luxury hotel in Toronto provides convenient access to all this one-of-a-kind city has to offer.

• • Distillery District
  • Shoe store at Yorkville
  • C5 restaurant and lounge

  Day 2: Toronto

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Today meet up with Toronto’s most famous local historian for a guided walking tour of the historic village of the Distillery District.

  Learn of the fascinating history (the site dates back to 1832) of this incredible factory complex with its original cobblestone pathways including the years it was visited by 1920’s gangsters during the heyday of Prohibition.  After touring the Distillery the group will head out to the surrounding area and visit what most historians regard as the most famous spot in Toronto, the site of the First Parliament Buildings (the forerunner to Queen’s Park) where the roots of Ontario’s democracy got its start.

  Then we proceed through the fascinating remains of the great Toronto Gas Works of the 19^th century.  At one time this enormous industrial complex (once home to the Consumers’ Gas Co) took up over 30 acres of prime downtown real estate. Today while most of it was demolished in the 1960’s some outstanding buildings still remain and have been converted into the new Police Station and the Canadian Stage Company both of which we will tour inside. Another stop is Berkeley Castle once a 19^th century knitting mill and now one of the hidden treasures ofToronto. Its six buildings were converted into an enclave of prime office space surrounding an exquisite garden that is simply breathtaking the first time visiting.

  Discover the chic neighbourhood of Bloor-Yorkville in the heart of Toronto- the ultimate fusion of historic charm and modern seduction. This is the city's most celebrated neighbourhood of style and culture and offers a unique blend of designer boutiques, fashionable restaurants, plush hotels and world class galleries... 700 in all! Spend time strolling along the various streets and pedestrianised alleyways and enjoy some time shopping!

  A suggestion for dinner this evening that you may like to consider is the C5 restaurant lounge in the ROM museum. C5, located at the pinnacle of the new Leibskind designed Crystal, is a unique dining destination that provides superlative gastronomic experiences and a sophisticated lounge environment, not to mention one of the most chic locations in the city to unwind.

  Accommodation: Ritz-Carlton (5*)
• • Royal Ontario Museum

  Day 3: Toronto

  Enjoy some time exploring the many things to see and do in the cosmopolitan city of Toronto. If you are interested in art and culture, be sure to visit the newly expanded Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) which has an extensive permanent collection as well as ever changing temporary exhibitions. The newly revamped Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) showcases the best of Canadian and international art, all housed under an impressive building designed by Frank Gehry of Guggenheim fame - consider a private guided tour of the gallery. The Ontario Science centre is a fascinating museum which appeals to both adults and children. The Distillery district, one of Toronto's most historical areas makes for a pleasant morning or afternoon stroll as you can check out the many artisanal studios and galleries or take a shared or a private tour. There are often live musical performances on weekends during the summer. For shopaholics, Toronto's Rodeo drive equivalent is along Bloor street, on either side of Yonge street. Here you will find all of the top boutique names from Gucci to Tiffany's to Prada as well as the upscale department store Holt Renfrew. For a more eclectic shopping experience, head to Queen street west, where there are many independently run stores. Alternatively, escape it all and take the short ferry crossing over to the Toronto Islands where you can enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk or through the residential area with many traditional beach style houses. With a no car policy on the island, it is indeed a tranquil escape from the metropolis of Toronto. If you would like to do a tour, consider a shared or private walking tour of one of the interesting neighbourhoods of the city. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if any of these are of interest to you.

  Accommodation: Ritz-Carlton (5*)
• • Fry House at the Jordan Historical Museum
  • Inn on the Twenty

  Day 4: Toronto - Jordan

  Transfer to the charming bucolic town of Jordan by private vehicle. The distance is just over 100 km and takes approximately an hour and a half.

  Upon arrival, check in to the Inn on the Twenty, housed in a former sugar warehouse. Afterwards, take a stroll along Jordan’s tree-lined Main Street, where you will discover a range of antique, craft and gift shops, the Jordan Historical Museum’s authentically restored pioneer settlement and an impressive array of 19th Century period homes.

  This evening, walk across the street to Cave Spring Cellars, one of Niagara’s most mature vinifera vineyards (and the oldest functioning wine cellar in all of Ontario) for an unforgettable, private wine tasting experience. There are various options to choose from;

  Strictly Riesling (45 minutes)

  An introduction to how the winery's signature grape is grown - Riesling. Following a guided tour of the cellars, follow the path of the Riesling grape from its inception in the vineyards of the Niagara Escarpment to the finished wine in the bottle. Included will be a tasting of three Rieslings.

  Looking Down a Barrel (45 minutes)

  One of the great mysteries of the oenological universe is the effect of barrel aging on wine. Learn how Chardonnay and Cave Spring reds can be transformed by the use of oak.

  Wine and Cheese Match-up (45 minutes)

  Wine and cheese; sounds simple; but done just right, the match can be one of the most sublime and complex imaginable. Taste three cheeses - selected by Inn On the Twenty chef, Kevin Maniaci - with three Cave Spring wines and learn why some pairings harmonize, while others clash.

  Cave Spring Uncorked (45 minutes)

  An introduction to the basics of grape growing and wine making in the Niagara Peninsula, focusing on the unique climatic conditions of the Niagara Escarpment, and their imprint on our wines. Following a guided tour of the cellars, relax and enjoy a tasting of three Cave Spring wines.

  Enjoy a gourmet, 3-course dinner this evening at On The Twenty, the restaurant which pioneered the concept of a regionally- focused and locally-sourced cuisine in Niagara. An example of the kind of cuisine is the signature Shorthills trout in Riesling-rhubarb butter, or partridge in hazelnut-chardonnay sauce.

  Accommodation: Inn on the Twenty

  The Inn at the Twenty is part of Leonard Pennachetti’s Cave Spring Cellars winery in the village of Jordan, a 30-minute drive from Niagara-on-the-Lake. The twenty-nine luxurious suites have elegant 1920s mahogany headboards, whirlpool baths, and fireplaces. The Vintage House offers an historic alternative and houses a suite with fireplace and bath as well as two more modest rooms with tub/shower combinations and a shared den space. In the adjoining garden, a gazebo under a spreading sycamore tree makes a pleasant spot to unwind.

• • A garden in Jordan
  • Hidden Bench Winery
  • The Good Earth Cooking School
  • Spa on the Twenty

  Day 5: Jordan - Beamsville - Niagara-on-the-Lake

  A private driver and vehicle will transport you around the region today so that you can see all of the sights on your itinerary.

  Head over to Hidden Bench to discover why this winery made it onto the Canadian 100 Best Vineyards list. This unique artisanal winery is dedicated to producing ultra premium wines solely from vineyards situated within the Beamsville Bench VQA sub-appellation. Their non-interventionist, quality-focused and terroir-driven wines are produced from three distinct vineyards totalling almost 100 acres. Enjoy a flight tasting of three current-release Estate Series wines under the guidance of one of the experts.

  The Good Earth Cooking School is located in the heart of Niagara’s Twenty Valley region. The beautiful country setting, nestled in vineyards and fruit trees, will surely inspire you to get your hands dirty and cook up a storm. Nicolette Novak, owner and self-proclaimed ‘facilitator of fun’ will greet you with a fortifying glass of local wine before you begin your ‘hands on’ cooking class with executive chef Patrick Engel, resident chef Isa DiIorio or one of the other local culinary personalities. It’s impossible to predict in advance what you will be doing, since all menus are designed to showcase the region’s best seasonal produce. If it’s May, you might build an entire meal around honey, while if it’s July, cherries will provide the focus. Camaraderie is infectious as everyone sits down around a harvest table to share the fruits of their labour for a 4 to 5 course gourmet lunch. If the weather is nice (which it often is in this micro-climate), the beautiful alfresco kitchen will be set up overlooking the vineyards, fruit trees and herb beds.

  Consider stopping off at Flat Rock Cellars (whose 2007 Nadja’s Vineyard Riesling was listed as the only Canadian wine in the Top Values of 2008 by Wine Spectator magazine) for an expert-led tasting before heading back to the hotel. Otherwise, head straight back for some pampering at the Spa On the Twenty, for some quiet time relaxing in the garden with a book, or to peruse the in house Inuit art gallery.

  Spa-goers have flocked to this region of Ontario for over 125 years. In the 1880s, European immigrants discovered mineral springs nearby and two spa resorts opened shortly thereafter. Spa on the Twenty is housed in an 1840s house, adjacent to the Inn on the Twenty, and across the street from Niagara’s famous On the Twenty Restaurant. The names are derived from Twenty Mile Creek which runs through the village. Highly qualified, personable staff ensure that you receive services tailored to your personal needs. Signature treatments incorporate products of the wine industry.

  Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

  Tonight’s dinner is at the Tony de Luca’s. Chef Tony de Luca coaxes the nuances from each ingredient as he creates beautiful and explosively flavourful meals. A respected cookbook author as well as founding chef at Hillebrand Winery Restaurant, Chef de Luca brings wine-country cuisine to life by creating recipes from locally and domestically sourced ingredients which reflect the affinity enjoyed between the food and the wine. The goal is to showcase how well-prepared, imaginatively-presented food using premier Canadian ingredients, and internationally-acclaimed VQA wine, come together to create new and exciting flavour and textural experiences.

  Accommodation: Inn on the Twenty

• Day 6: Jordan

  Sit back and relax on your private transfer from Jordan to Toronto.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Local Diversions

  Toronto is best explored on foot, to discover its cultural neighbourhoods, bustling markets, inspiring architecture, the unique ravine system and lush parks. More than 7,000 restaurants are scattered across the city, serving an array of cuisine from the flashy kitchens of leading edge chefs to authentic ethnic favourites. The theatre scene rivals London and New York, and festivals throughout the year draw tremendous audience for theatre, film, music and dance. Toronto is the ultimate urban destination.

• Ritz-Carlton (5*)

  Among the newest Toronto luxury hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto welcomes guests to the heart of the city’s financial district with a world-class spa, exceptional dining, impeccable service and 267 luxurious guest rooms and suites. Just steps from landmark locations, including the Design Exchange, CN Tower and the Entertainment District, this luxury hotel in Toronto provides convenient access to all this one-of-a-kind city has to offer.

  • More information
• • Inn on the Twenty

  Inn on the Twenty

  The Inn at the Twenty is part of Leonard Pennachetti’s Cave Spring Cellars winery in the village of Jordan, a 30-minute drive from Niagara-on-the-Lake. The twenty-nine luxurious suites have elegant 1920s mahogany headboards, whirlpool baths, and fireplaces. The Vintage House offers an historic alternative and houses a suite with fireplace and bath as well as two more modest rooms with tub/shower combinations and a shared den space. In the adjoining garden, a gazebo under a spreading sycamore tree makes a pleasant spot to unwind.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
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