11 Getaways in Ontario that Feel Like a Tropical Getaway

Going in and out of lockdowns and stay-at-home orders for over a year has people itching for a getaway. And luckily, as vaccines roll out, jumping on a flight is a closer reality than before. 

But many people are anxious to travel, even as things open up. With two week quarantines waiting for people returning home and a level of discomfort for travelers having to adjust back to the old normal, local travel remains appealing for many. 

To help you make the most of the local travel bug, we’ve rounded up a list of the best hotels, motels, and airbnbs to give you that “catch flights, not feelings” vibe, even from within the province. 

Juniper Waterside Inn

St. Catharines, ON

This boutique hotel is so well decorated, you won’t want to leave the room! There are six rooms that are named by letter – they include Z, M, F, R, P, and C. Depending on the letter you get, your room theme will be based around that. For example, Room F is themed around flamingos (and is super cute!). 

Time from Toronto: 1h 15m

Drake Devonshire Inn – The Drake

Prince Edward County, ON

No doubt you’ve heard of The Drake Hotel that is a staple in downtown Toronto, but this brand has a few gems hidden out in Prince Edward County. The hotel offers so much more than beautiful rooms. In the heart of PEC, you can enjoy great food , all while capturing the perfect Instagram in such a picturesque area.

Pro tip: if the Drake Devonshire Inn is fully booked, you can check out the Drake Motor Inn – another hotel in PEC under the Drake brand!

Time from Toronto: 2h 10m

June Motel

Sauble Beach, ON

If you’ve ever sighed dramatically while announcing that you were born in the wrong generation, the June Motel in Sauble Beach is the perfect getaway from you. Designed to feel like a 70s beach town, you’ll be location and time traveling. Every corner of this beautiful boutique hotel is an Instagram moment waiting to happen. 

Time from Toronto: 2 h 45 m 

The Walper Hotel 

Kitchener, ON

Lockdowns have made everybody a little bit antsy, so the Walper Hotel is the perfect choice if you need to just get away for a night! All of their rooms are beautiful and bright, making it an even cozier getaway, no matter which room you decide on. The locally-owned team has been working hard to put together great staycation packages you can enjoy when restrictions open up, as well.

Time from Toronto: 1h

48 King West

Brockville, ON

If you’re looking for something different, checkout 48 King West. This hotel is a renovated Bank of Toronto, which was operational nearly 100 years ago! At this spot, you are just steps away from Brockville’s beautiful waterfront, unique stores, and Canada’s first railway tunnel! Another cool feature is the fact check in is person-free. You’re given a code to get into the hotel contactless.

Time from Toronto: 3 h 10 m

JW Marriott: The Rosseau

Muskoka, ON

There is nothing better than a Muskoka getaway to give you that “resfreshed vacation” feeling, and the JW Marriott delivers that every time. Located in the heart of Muskoka, on Lake Rosseau, any water sport activity is available to you. Once you’ve tanned and swam all day, the dining can’t be matched. 

Time from Toronto: 2h

Whispering Springs Wilderness Retreat

Grafton, ON

Looking for a getaway where you’ll capture the perfect Instagram post and recharge? No further than Whispering Springs. Located an hour and a half East of the city, you’ll get the great nature from the outdoors without sleeping on the ground. They say it best: “king-sized beds instead of sleeping bags, mood lighting instead of flashlights, and a wine glass instead of a canteen”.

Time from Toronto: 1h 30m

Northridge Inn & Resort

Strong, ON

Looking over the world’s largest freshwater lake with an island, Northridge Inn is located at the southernmost tip of Lake Bernard. The resort accommodates seasonal events from winter to summer and has room types for everybody – from chalets to glamping tents. They pride themselves on feeling “small enough to make our guests feel as if they are vacationing at a boutique hotel but large enough to offer all the amenities one expects to find at a large Muskoka Resort”.

Time from Toronto: 3h 5m

Floating Wine Barrel Cabin

Essex, ON

If you’re ever heading towards Essex to explore the vast wineries, why not stay in a wine barrel to keep on theme for the trip? This floating red cedar barrel is actually a tiny cabin with an airy patio tied to the shore, providing a great place to enjoy a glass of wine after a day of wine tasting (hey, it’s the purpose of the trip!). 

Time from Toronto: 4h 15m

The Cabin at Hunter Grey House

Petrolia, ON

This cabin is a glamping experience to the highest level. Nestled deep in the woods, you get the relaxation of being surrounded by nature without compromising on the luxuries often passed up on for a camping trip.The Cabin is also a great four-season adventure – imagine how cosy it would feel tucked indoors and watching the snowfall in the woods. Truly magical!

Time from Toronto: 2h 40m

Treehouse Getaway

Port Perry, ON

Remember how cool staying in a treehouse seemed as a kid? Well, you can experience that feeling now with all the luxuries you would want as an adult. Located on 300 acres, you have access to a swimming pond, beautiful trails, and fire pits all to enjoy throughout your stay. Talk about off-grid!

Time from Toronto: 1h

Checking any of these out for your next getaway? Let us know how it goes!