The secret to surviving Canadian winters is focusing on the season’s upsides: hockey, skiing, road closures – and curling. But if you’ve never slid a stone down the ice, cold beer by your side, then you’re simply shirking your duty as a Canadian. Get it together this winter by heading to one of Toronto’s best curling clubs.
High Park Club
The flat yearly fee for this West End institution is reasonable (from $350), and it offers access to lessons and competitive play. Corporate rentals are available here, too, if you feel the team needs some ice time. 100 Indian Rd., 416-536-8054.
East York Curling Club
With six professionally maintained sheets and amenities including locker rooms and full service bar, all your needs are covered in an deluxe but unpretentious atmosphere. Watch out for learn to curl seminars, geared toward total newbies. 901 Cosburn Ave., 416-396-2816.
Toronto Cricket Skating and Curling Club
Folks have been curling at this recreational club for nearly 60 years. The facility is excellent, featuring six impeccably groomed sheets of ice. 141 Wilson Ave., 416-487-4581.
Tam Heather Curling and Tennis Club
While old-school curling clubs often offer gender-specific leagues, Tam Heather offers a seven-week co-ed curling beginners program for a mere hundred bucks. 730 Military Trail, 416-284-9251.
Leaside Curling Club
With eight sheets of ice – often available for rental – Leaside gears its league play toward serious curlers: The first weekly game is $423; the second is $97; third is $70; and it’s free after that. Dabblers need not apply. 1073a Millwood Rd., 416-338-4793.
Image courtesy of bensonkua.
