25 things we’re looking forward to at the cottage this winter

Light the fire, add a blanket, and you won't have to move until spring.

Whether you've got kids or not, playing in the snow is just more fun when you're surrounded by peace and quiet.

That feeling when the snow muffles all the sounds and everything is totally still.

Looking for (and identifying) animal tracks in the snow can make an everyday hike super interesting.

Snow is especially gorgeous before anyone's had a chance to step on it.

As long as it's not landing right on your head, the phlumph of snow falling off of forest trees is a classic sound of winter in the woods.

Whether you have old-fashioned wooden snowshoes or modern fibreglass ones, they'll guarantee you can trek through the winter woods without sinking up to your knees in snow.

With no leaves on the trees, you'll get a whole different view of the landscape.

The thrill of walking across a frozen lake never gets old.

Hot drinks just feel hotter -- and more soothing -- when you pack them in a thermos and drink them while you're waiting for the fish to bite.

There's usually so much snow at the cottage that snowball fights can reach truly epic proportions.

It's winter, so there's no need to feel guilty for downing all the soup, pasta and stew you want. It's cold out there!

Winter landscapes make it easier to see birds and animals, so make sure you've got your binoculars handy.

OK, maybe it's not great for long-term reading, but there's something definitely romantic about reading by lamplight.

There's no better time to brush up on your chess or Settlers of Catan skills than during a blizzard. Or a cold snap. Or light snowfall. Any time, really.

Even if you use a snowblower or a plow for most of your snow clearing, nothing beats that pleasantly achy feeling after shovelling. Follow up your efforts with a warm bath.

Yes, winter driving can be a little hair-raising -- but if you put on your snow tires and take it slow, you might find yourself enjoying a trip to the cottage that's traffic free.

Why get out of your pajamas? You're just going to have to get back into them at the end of the day anyway...

OK, you could eat marshmallows for dinner -- but you can also bake potatoes, roast chestnuts, toast bread and bake apples. Why bother heading to the kitchen when a fireplace will do?

No mosquitoes and a view of the stars you just won't get in the summer -- that's the joy of winter campfire. Bring out some hot chocolate and add roasted marshmallows for extra decadence.

No matter how old you are, flopping backwards into soft, fluffy snow is fun. Snow angels optional.

If the snow's right, an igloo is a great project for a winter's day.

Because no matter how much we love winter, it's always a thrill when the signs of spring start popping up.

You've worked hard all summer -- so go ahead and put your feet up and discover what it's like to actually relax at the cottage.

Whether you're with family or enjoying some glorious solitude, there's no better place to feel cozy than the cottage. Enjoy!