Many of us don’t have the funds or the job flexibility to simply jet around the world this summer. Luckily, this is actually an opportunity disguised as a disadvantage – a unique chance to become more familiar with the magnificent province we call home. Oozing with lakeside lodgings, quaint towns and wonderful wineries, our Ontario has something to satiate the appetite of even the most tough-to-please traveler. Take a short trip to any of these excellent Bed & Breakfasts not too far from the city.
At Home Bed and Breakfast, Welland
A charming gem, the B&B is within walking distance from the heart of Welland and close to Niagara-on-the-Lake. The newly restored home is warm and inviting; brought to life by gracious hosts Ellie and Gary. The veranda (our favourite part) is straight-out-of-a-movie perfection: overlooking the banks of the old canal and cozy to the hilt, it’s the ideal spot to relax with a good bottle of wine or a great read. Gourmet breakfast and attention to detail (elegantly decorated rooms assembled with love, complete with amenities like Egyptian cotton sheets and plush towels), your stay is guaranteed to leave you relaxed and rejuvenated.
Ellis House Bed and Breakfast,
Niagara Falls
Situated in the beautiful city of Niagara Falls, Ellis House prides itself on making sure your experience with them is warm and inviting, safe and secure, friendly and forever memorable. And judging by their rave reviews, they succeed in spades. With a newly designed dining room, a gorgeous guest patio and delicious home cooked breakfast, there’s something here for everyone – from families to newlyweds.
Tudor Creek
Bed & Breakfast, St. Catharines
Just a little over an hour from Toronto, in the center of the Niagara wine region, this is the ideal retreat for those looking for the suite experience in a bed & breakfast atmosphere (in either a self-contained 750 sq. ft. private bed and breakfast suite or a 1,200 sq. ft. holiday rental suite in a private wing of their home). With tons of green space, gourmet dinners and lunches, and the option to bring your pets, we can’t wait to give it a go.
Away in the Country, Prince Edward County
Located the tranquil shores of East Lake in the village of Cherry Valley, this elegant, more minimalist gem has been curated to perfection. Offering spacious guest rooms with well-appointed private baths and stunning views of lake and garden, an expansive marble terrace and “field to fork” breakfasts made of fresh ingredients from the Away gardens, local farms and bakeries, there’s really nothing not to love. Only 10 minutes from the beautiful beaches of Sandbanks Provincial Park, 12 minutes to the shopping village of Bloomfield and less than 10 minutes to restaurants, shops and the heritage Regent Theatre in the town of Picton, endless options await you.
Smiley’s, Algonquin Island (one of the Toronto Islands)
Mere minutes from Toronto by ferry, a “Garden of Eden” by the name of Smiley’s exists. Owner David Smiley makes for a marvelous host – cooking up wonderful breakfasts and offering unique insights on the island’s history and unique appeals. While it’s hard to get a room on weekends (they offer only two lodgings:
one room suitable for one person or two who want to really snuggle up, and a self-contained apartment fit for four) those who like it, like it a lot and book in advance for summer.