Explore the rural roads where the countryside nudges up against the city in York and Durham regions. Just thirty minutes north and east of Toronto, the rolling hills, farms, forests and historic villages stretch from King Township in the west where breeding and training racehorses is serious business to the scenic shores of Lake Scugog in the east, a popular fall colour cruise destination. The blue waters of Lake Simcoe beckon in the north, making the area a green getaway for many Toronto residents.

Left by retreating glaciers, the sandy hills of the Oak Ridges Moraine traverse much of the region. This protected landscape of woodlands and waterways, fields and farms seems at its best dressed in autumn colours. Kick up a pile of leaves on the Oak Ridges Trail. Gather mushrooms and look for deer tracks in the woods.

These rolling hills boast some of the province's great golf courses. Tee up for a game on a championship course, or enjoy a quick nine holes on a scenic executive course.

Nestled between hills and farms are dozens of historic villages where main street life harkens back to simpler times. Century-old church steeples pierce the blue autumn sky. Victorian main streets welcome visitors to browse art galleries, shop for antiques and enjoy afternoon coffee in a charming bistro.

Bite into a just-picked apple and taste the best of autumn. Pick a bushel of your favourites or stop at a roadside stand for orchard-fresh apples as sweet as the season. Visit a vineyard with a view, sample an award-winning fruit wine and come home with a fresh-baked pie. Farm country is made for culinary outings.