When Torontonians think of Collingwood - the hilly part of Georgian Bay that is home to Blue Mountain - they tend to think of snowboarding, not wake-boarding. Yet, this quaint area, widely loved for its alpine appeal, is just as good in its green guise. An all-seasons playground, Collingwood packs a big punch in the summer months, and at a mere two hours from Toronto, it's definitely a destination to add to your weekend to-do list.

The Kawarthas is a favourite weekend destination two hours east of Toronto. It's a cottage country region that rivals its neighbours to the North. So now that the weekend is once again upon us, I decided to take a closer look at a series of lakes named after an Aboriginal term meaning "bright waters and happy lands." From board sports to board games, there's a delicate balance of chill and thrill to be had here.

Here's my guide to keepin' on in the Kawarthas.