What the Hygge?Finding Cozy Winter Rituals in Westport

What the Hygge?Finding Cozy Winter Rituals in Westport - theHumm November 2020

By Sarah Kerr

On a beautiful day in October, I spent the day exploring the picturesque village of Westport with my two kids, aged 6 and 2, and hiking Foley Mountain. I wanted to write about finding your hygge (pronounced “hoo-ga”) — the Scandinavian ritual of seeking coziness and comfort in simple experiences — in Westport. I mean, Westport is the most incredibly cozy village in the hills, perched below Foley Mountain and overlooking Upper Rideau Lake. Just driving into town from Perth will take your breath away. Meet up with a friend, as we did, or go with someone you love and — bam – that’s all the hygge you need for a getaway this winter!

The Visit Denmark tourism site describes hygge as “creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people”. But also, “the warm glow of candlelight… cozying up with a loved one… and sitting around with friends and family and discussing the big and small things in life”. Okay, that’s a little vague. It says that their long dark winters, and Christmas, is hygge high season. So basically, everything that gives you that cozy, snuggly, you-are-loved feeling, in the midst of the darkness, is hygge? Yes! And Westport has got us covered with the cutest Inn, shops, and atmosphere to experience it. So I highly recommend that you go for the day to meet a friend, or go for three days if you can get your sister-in-law to stay with your kids. It’s been known to happen! And if necessary, just pack those kids up and take them. And here’s what you do when you get there…

First of all, we’re all growing pant sizes in quarantine (this is a team effort, right?). And look, I’m not suggesting you stop treating yourself. No, no, no, quite the opposite really. But one of the easiest ways to take in the spectacular views of the Village is by hiking Foley Mountain Conservation Area. And who knows, the fresh air and moving our quarantined bodies might just lead to feelings of well-being. It certainly surprised me. Now, just to be clear — I did this with two 2-year-olds and a 6-year old. This was not a vigorous hike! The well maintained (short and) sweet trails give you access to beaver ponds and lookouts, and you realize the $7 day pass it is well worth the time and money.

From there, we cruised down to The Cove Country Inn for lunch on their patio overlooking the Westport Pond and Upper Rideau Lake and had some tasty comfort food. The kids got chicken fingers and mac n’ cheese and us moms opted for noodle bowls and Caesar salad. And wine of course – it was after noon. Nearly. The Cove has been run by the Cowan family since 1988, and if you decide to take them up on their package to “Stay 2 nights, get the 3rd Night FREE”, then you’re likely to run into at least one of the three generations! The Cove boasts (nearly) nightly live music and comfortable rooms for you to snuggle in and experience village life. And all the COVID protocols are in place.

Now if you didn’t pack your slippers or PJs, not to fret. This village draws shoppers from far and wide, thanks to shops like the Village Green. You can pick up anything you need in buffalo plaid or that Canadiana grey sock material here for all of your Instagram-able winter fashion desires. They sell moccasins, scarves, pajamas, books, games, socks, blankets, home décor, stocking stuffers, puzzles and so much more. Basically, this place is a one-stop Christmas shop. But as I’ve been reading, hygge isn’t just about stuff, it’s about a feeling.

So if you want that feeling, grab a maple latte or your favourite hot drink and some delicious baked goods at The Cottage Coffee House while you pop over to Lake Effects and pick out your favourite Adirondack chair. These are no longer only for summer, folks — we need serious seating for around our campfires that will be going ALL winter long! Don’t forget to check out the Canadian art and pottery at the Dancing Moon Studio, Art On Centre, and Back Stairs Pottery. And, if you’re so lucky as to catch a break without the kids on the weekend, book a wine tasting and wood-fired pizza lunch at Scheuermann Vineyard and then dinner on the patio or in the taproom with reservations at Westport Brewing Co. Just note, pretty much the whole village is closed on Sunday & Monday, so I would recommend going later in the week for the best hygge in Westport.

These are unprecedented times, so we need to be kind to ourselves and others. As Albus Dumbledore reminded me while I was binge-watching my annual fall Harry Potter marathon, “happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light”. So spark up the bonfire, light about a thousand candles, and get your snuggle on. Please just be a good Covidizen and practice your S.M.A.R.T. (self-isolate if symptomatic, wear your mask, avoid touching your face, remain 6-feet apart from everyone outside of your household, and twenty-second hand washes) COVID protocols. Then go find your hygge in Westport!

Showing the Local Love for the Holidays! - theHumm November 2020

By Kris and Rob Riendeau

Here at theHumm we’re big on local economies. The retail and service businesses in the small towns that we cover play a huge role in the cultural life of those towns. Each store, restaurant, or small enterprise attracts and serves a particular clientele — some inside the community, some from outside. Some businesses host their own special events; others join together with local festivals to make the whole experience more vibrant. Many provide support in cash or in kind to local initiatives. ......

What the Hygge?Finding Cozy Winter Rituals in Westport - theHumm November 2020