1. Espresso Post
Owners Christene and Mark Krause were tired of hoofing it to Toronto for a decent latte, so three years ago, they opened this cozy bean boutique (the name refers to its past life as a post office). The place welcomes with its buttermilk-coloured walls and sounds of wistful indie rock and frothing milk. Mark Krause (winner of the 2006 barista competition for Central Canada) serves up a seriously killer latte. 139 Hurontario St., 705-446-1740.

2. Garden’s Nest
A hammock slung overhead, a drowsy ceiling fan and farmhouse clapboard panelling sets the country-time tone in this horticulti haven. The store is abloom with everything you need to dress your green space: bird baths, stone benches, wrought iron bistro sets and planters. TIP: Owner Sandy Dennis does consultations and will help reno your patio, veranda or yard. 137 Hurontario St., 705-444-1712.

3. Café Chartreuse
French chef-proprietor Patrick Bourachot worked at Paris’s Hôtel de Crillon, the Inn at Manitou and Le Château Montebello before opening this café du coin, stocked with charm and classic bistro fare. Croissants, brioches, quiches and heart of palm and green bean salad are lunch highlights, while Friday-night fondue warms patrons in chalet uniform. TIP: On Mondays, an organic farmer sells bushels of fruit and veg. 70 Hurontario St., 705-444-0099.

4. Three Peas in a Pod
Owner Polly Taylor’s second addition to downtown Collingwood (she also owns Out on a Whim) is full of adorable baby things that would quicken the biological clock of even the most child-averse. Meltingly soft blankets from Aurora’s Baby Magoo make cotton seem like sandpaper, while minivelour-terry coats from U.S. company Bunnies by the Bay have rabbit-eared hoods. 64 Hurontario St., 705-443-8383.

5. Out on a Whim
Packed with whimsical gift ideas and other cute covetables: from B.C., bowls and vases by Torre & Tagus and purses made from recycled mountain bike innertubes by Flat. Local wares include vinyl handbags from Toronto’s Fleurtje (patterned with flowers and leaves from a kid’s drawing), beaded jewellery, and sweet greeting cards handmade by the store owner herself. 62 Hurontario St., 705-445-2417.

6. Le Scandinave Spa
You might arrive feeling about as fresh as a co-ed after a weekend of keg stands, but you’ll leave feeling as invigorated and tranquil as the models that grace the spa brochure. The second of its kind in Canada (the first is in Mont Tremblant), Le Scandinave—dreamily set amid 25 acres of forest, with views of the Niagara Escarpment—is in itself a persuasive reason to come to Collingwood. The spa features outdoor Scandinavian baths, a Finnish sauna, a Norwegian steam room, Nordic plunge pools and massage rooms. TIP: Plan to spend the afternoon (they recommend two to four hours). 152 Grey Rd. 21, 705-443-8484.

7. Westin Trillium House/Oliver & Bonacini
This handsome hotel (more W than logfire ski lodge) claims a prized perch at the foot of Blue Mountain. The ultra-modern design provides an interesting counterpoint to the surrounding Intrawest Village, a property so quaint it would make Snow White feel like a gritty urbanite. Rooms have kitchen facilities and outrageously comfy beds. Adjoining the lobby is Peter Oliver and Michael Bonacini’s year-old resto—a studied mix of urban swankery and consoling country. The menu tends toward designer comfort food: a Madras curried pumpkin soup dressed with a quince and mint riata; tagliarini pasta with sautéed gulf shrimp. 220 Mountain Dr., 705-443-8080.