Road trips are where it’s at, according to travellers. A study conducted by Turo, the car sharing marketplace, released in July, revealed that Canadians love road trips more than air travel. The study, done in partnership with Maru/Blue, a research software company, revealed that over half (57 per cent) of Canadians surveyed would rather spend five hours or more driving to their staycation than fly in general. Americans? Not much different.
The reasons? Greater control over itinerary, flexibility to add multiple destinations to the trip that they wouldn’t normally be able to experience, as well as better pricing. Regarding Luxury writes a lot of new luxury cars. You need suggestions on where to drive it, don’t you?
Lake Erie Wine Country
A road trip through Chautauqua County, New York State
That brings us to Chautauqua County, an idyllic community destination, with its natural spaces, a nice, casual drive in upper New York state, around a three-hour drive south from Toronto. Chautauqua County is the westernmost county in the U.S. state of New York, with a population of 127,657. Its county seat is Mayville, and its largest city is Jamestown.
The area is especially renowned for the Chautauqua Institution, a not-for-profit, 750-acre community which blends music, dance, theatre, visual arts, opera, interfaith, a platform of distinguished lecturers, and recreational activities like golf, sailing, pickleball, boating, fishing and tennis.
Many of us are planning some vacation time through Christmas. So here are a few suggestions, if you’re planning a brief road trip respite, with Thanksgiving followed by Christmas holiday season more and more on our minds. Jamestown is a city of just 28,000, and if there’s one thing about small cities, they best capture the nostalgia of the holiday season, a return to simpler times. Slower pace, peaceful setting, unique shopping experiences, community spirit – towns, villages or small cities are where people go to replenish the soul during this time of the year, as someone once said.
Lake Erie Wine Country Harvest weekends
Over 20 wineries (nestled along 53 miles of Lake Erie coastline) in Lake Erie Wine Country participate, offering samples of their wines paired with local cuisine. Visitors get a broad sampling of the region’s renowned wines, from Chardonnays to distinctive ice wines. The event emphasizes locally-sourced foods, which are served alongside the wines. This focus on local produce and craftsmanship enriches the overall experience and highlights the region’s unique flavors. And get ready for discounts on wines, exclusive releases to stock up on holiday gifting, and unique experiences like private tastings and vineyard tours.
The Lake Erie region is particularly beautiful in the fall when the vineyards are filled with ripe grapes and the surrounding landscapes burst with autumn colors. This setting makes for an ideal weekend getaway, especially for those who enjoy the outdoors.
The event fosters a warm and social environment where visitors can interact with others who share a love of wine. Group tickets, tastings, and events encourage mingling, making it a popular choice for friends and couples. Harvest Weekend No. 1, is Nov. 1-3, with Weekend No. 2 Nov. 8-10.
Dunkirk Lighthouse
A popular stop for tourists is the historical, operational lighthouse where you can experience a guided tour of area museums. Admire the magnificent view of Lake Erie from the lighthouse observation deck. Tours include a climb of the lighthouse’s spiral stairs to the upper observation level, a walk through the restored 1800 lighthouse keepers’ home and a chance to experience the museum’s nautical and U.S. Veterans displays.
Peek’n Peak Resort
As we head into November, before you know it, the snow will be falling, with upper New York state typically seeing an abundance of snow. Chautauqua County is no exception. That puts winter sports squarely in play for the road tripper through November and December.
Peek’n Peak Resort is popular for its scenic views and array of winter activities. With a range of slopes suited for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders, Peek’n Peak is a go-to spot for winter sports. It features well-maintained trails, terrain parks, and multiple lifts. That makes it easy for guests to maximize their time on the mountain. For those looking for winter fun without skiing or snowboarding, the resort offers a popular snow tubing area with multiple lanes and a magic carpet lift, which is a hit with families and groups.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails weave through beautiful wooded areas, and the Alpine-style lodge at Peek’n Peak gives a cozy, inviting feel with fireplaces, hot tubs, and warm décor. The resort also features a luxurious spa with a variety of treatments — perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes.
Top image: Johnson Estate Winery charcuterie boards and wine tasting glasses
Lunar Light Tubing at Peek’n Peak Resort
Peek’n Peak Resort
I am a 50-something Torontonian who loves everything about my city. It’s been my home, my playground, for my entire life. I went to school here. I met my wife here. I own real estate here. I love writing about the transformation of my city on the world stage, which hasn’t been anything short of dramatic. That continues on, as I write this. I write on the real estate scene. I write on travel and fashion. I like following the world of luxury watches.
But I love writing about cars – check that, luxury cars, a level of superior, engineering sophistication, high performance and style, that transports you not just from one destination to another but also out of whatever you are going through on a particular day, whatever mood you are in, all to another head space. It’s complete and total exhilaration, head to toe.
Check out my stories, and email me direct at mkeast@regardingluxury.com
