Tina Kessler, alex.canadianspecialevents.com, OnSite Reporter
Where can you get a year-round resort destination ideal for corporate and private events with a golf course, ski runs, spa and authentic gourmet cuisine in the heart of a picturesque countryside away from the hustle and bustle of the city? Hockley Valley Resort.
Located in the Hills of Headwaters, only an hour’s drive from downtown Toronto, Hockley Valley Resort recently underwent a $5 million transformation which includes a two-acre fruit and vegetable garden, three new restaurants and a strong commitment to local fare. The 300-acre resort has year-round appeal, featuring 104 luxury rooms and suites, 14 meeting rooms, an 18-hole golf course, 15 scenic ski and snowboard runs and a 8,000 sq ft. European inspired full-service spa.
I had the pleasure of attending a fam tour of Hockley Valley Resort on May 24th 2011 along with 4 meeting and event planning professionals. As we toured the resort, checking out the meeting rooms with state-of-the-art on-site AV, modern guestrooms and suites, luxurious spa and the fabulous restaurants I was impressed by its uniqueness and versatility.
At Hockley Valley Resort, they’ve got corporate event packages down to an art. They’re the perfect mix of business and pleasure with bright and functional meeting rooms with great views, delicious corporate menus and teambuilding activities such as mini Olympics, snowshoe expeditions and group golf events. The possibilities for events at Hockley Valley Resort are endless. No matter what time of year, whether corporate or private, intimate or large Hockley Valley Resort has it all.
I have to admit, I’m a total foodie. So lunch at Tavola, the chef’s table with seating for up to 14 people and a view into the kitchen was the perfect way to conclude our tour. Prepared by executive chef Rabii Jaouhari and restaurant chef Daniel Mezzolo, our dining experience featured asparagus and porcini mushroom risotto with speck and brie cream and a dessert tray of pistachio crème brûlée, raspberry mousse with Limoncello foam and vanilla lemon cake served on a warm cedar plank and was a feast for the senses. But don’t just take my word for it; the walls of the kitchen speak for themselves. It’s become a tradition for guests to sign a wall in the kitchen to show their appreciation. Whether you’re looking for large dinner for up to 180 or a private dinner for two in the wine cellar, you’ll find culinary excellence at Hockley Valley Resort.
Hockley Valley Resort is the kind of venue that inspires events; where you constantly reach for your notebook to jot down your visions before you get distracted by another great idea. You owe it to your client, and yourself to choose Hockley Valley Resort.
I didn’t come to Hockley Valley Resort looking for a venue to host a specific event, but I left with a smile on my face and a notebook full of inspiration.
Contact: Antonella Giancarlo, Pilot PMR for Hockley Valley Resort antonella@pilotpmr.com