With the season’s first snowflakes fluttering outside the window, and our every breath lingering in the cool, crisp air, we are reminded once again that a long, hard winter is just around the corner.
In Barrie, winter can be a wonderful time that encompasses everything snow – skiing, skating, sledding, but if you’re one to fear the dreaded ‘s’ word, how about something soothing – like a warm and inviting fireplace to cozy up to?
To help you out, we explored the city and found a warm hearth to suit a variety of tastes. From a romantic night out to a family gathering – a fireplace awaits you. For the coffee coinsure and the art dweller – a fireplace awaits you too. And for those seeking the ultimate haven, we’ve located the grandest wood-burning fire around.

Michael & Marion’s
 The Side Door Café
(89 Bayfield Street)
If you’re looking for an intimate place to dine that has it all – great food and a fabulous causal dining atmosphere – look no further than Michael & Marion’s. From historic house to restaurant, it is rich in original character and charm. And, with not one, but two fireplaces, you really can’t go wrong. The dining room is so warm and welcoming, it’s like stepping into a friend’s home. Warm taupe walls and white wainscoting wrap around the room, and in centre of it all is a stunning fireplace. Reservations are accepted, so why not request a fireside table for two and enjoy a night of winter romance? If you’re looking to grab some after dinner drinks or meet up with friends, head to the other side – the Side Door Café that is. A dramatic fireplace, encased from floor to ceiling in beautifully stained wood, pulls the room together. So grab a seat at the bar, a glass of wine and enjoy the relaxed and inviting ambiance.

The Keg
(395 Dunlop Street West)
For those who love a tender steak and a fine glass of wine, you can’t go wrong with The Keg. Renovated this summer, the new-look restaurant combines darker wood tones and natural elements for a more contemporary style. While more seating was added, the ambiance remains cozy, and the service is still exceptional. In the main dining area, a flickering flame can be seen from almost every table. Encased in a wall of natural stone, this wall-mounted fireplace adds warmth to even the coldest of nights. Head through the main dining area to a semi-private room, where a second fireplace can be found. No matter where you sit, you’ll enjoy good food and a warm welcome, in a casual dining atmosphere that’s sure to please.

Casa Cappuccino
(91 Dunlop Street East)
At Casa Cappuccino customers will rejuvenate in this naturally bright and airy coffee house. Accented with canary yellow walls, chocolate brown trim and leafy green plants, the surroundings, along with the lingering scent of coffee, will give you a boost during this busy time of year. Windows stretch the length of the café, looking onto a snowy Memorial  Square. Tucked away in the back corner is a cozy gas fireplace, with comfy furniture to settle into. Two arms chairs and a creamy leather couch sit across from each other, while a small round table rests in the centre of the space. It’s like a living room away from home – the perfect place to grab a latte and gather with friends and family.

Second Cup
(74 Dunlop Street East)
If you prefer a coffee house that’s a little more intimate and cozy, with free WiFi access, Second Cup is the place to go. In this warm and relaxing environment, the hardest decision you’ll have to make is which decadent coffee to order. Four armchairs are fitted around a traditional-looking gas fire, making it the perfect place to head to on the coldest of days. And with free WiFi access, it’s the ideal place to catch up on work or finish that essay, in a more inspiring environment.

The MacLaren Art Centre
(37 Mulcaster Street)
One of the city’s most beloved buildings, The Maclaren Art Centre, houses not only an abundant collection of fine art, along with a mixture of old and new architecture – it also houses a stunning lobby fireplace. The expansive natural stone fire is grand in size, but warm in feel, as a red and blue Asian-inspired rug helps pull the space together. The area is drenched in natural sunlight from the sprawling windows that run alongside the fire, down to the Radio Café. Patrons can grab a cup of coffee or a snack and relax in front of the fire in one the sleek, modern lounge chairs. Whether it’s a break after a morning of browsing or a coffee before one of the many activities, this fireside lobby is a fantastic part of the Centre.

Georgian Mall
(509 Bayfield Street)
With the holidays upon us, the malls are once again flooded with shoppers searching for the perfect gift. Yet, every good shopper needs to have a rest and the Georgian Mall offers the perfect solution. On the lower level, where the halls cross, a large top vented fireplace sits in the middle of a pedestrian courtyard. Chairs and couches, decorated in earthy tones, surround the fire, while large leafy plants encircle the seating, adding a little privacy. Natural sunlight pours in from the arched glass roof, making it the ideal location to grab a coffee, lean back and spend a few minutes rejuvenating, before hitting the stores again.

Snow Valley Ski Resort
(2632 Vespra Valley Road, Minesing)
If you have an active family that embraces the snow, Snow Valley Ski Resort offers up the best in wood-burning fireplaces. In true ski country charm, the chalet is picturesque and cozy, and models the interior of a log cabin. Vintage ski equipment hangs throughout, while rustic wooden tables and chairs complete the look. Two large wood-burning fireplaces are situated at each end with ample room to squish dozens of chairs around. Sopping wet mitts and hats often line the fires edge, along with defrosting toes. And both skiers and non-skiers alike can be found lingering about, huddled up with a book, a hot chocolate and a great view of the snow covered hills.t