Ontario may be yours to discover but chances are there are a few hidden gems you have yet to visit. Home to countless lakes, picture-perfect vistas and world-class wineries and restaurants, keep your passport tucked away and check in to some of Ontario’s best stays instead.

The clock is ticking on this tax-credit good up until December 31st, 2022. Here’s our favourite way to indulge your (local) wanderlust this holiday season.

PACK YOUR BAGS WE’RE READY TO DISCOVER ONTARIO’S BEST GETAWAYS

We tucked into the lakeside dreamboat The Pearle Hotel in downtown Burlington this year and loved the beautiful views from the gorgeous suites. Boasting Isabelle Restaurant right in house, as well as Earth to Table Bread Bar, and a full service spa, The Pearle Hotel also has a wonderful indoor pool (lead photo) with lakeside views. Park your car and stay and play, this restful property is meant for chilling.

Newcomer The Beach Motel is another gem by the water, this time, north on Lake Huron. Offering a few NYE themed packages, steal your sweetie away for a lakeside retreat to rejuvenate and restore for ’23. With 17 suites of varying size to suit you, this beautiful retreat boasts countless opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors, or indoors!

Get out of town, and look stylish doing it! We love this Trek Weekender Bag and Helvetia Half-Snap Fleece both from Columbia.

MORE UNIQUE ONTARIO DESTINATIONS

Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Prince Edward County, Wander The Resort is a wonderful space to soak up the sights of Lake Ontario. Cozy in your own little abode, this seaside retreat is super private, and well accommodated. A sauna, hot tub and fire pit make the outdoors areas super comfortable. Indoors, you have a full kitchen to create a magical meal sure to impress.

wander the resort-kitchen
Wander the Resort has curated every kitchen item to ensure for a seamless stay

Jaws are dropping for this super luxe looking heritage property in Picton. The Royal, also located in PEC, is a 28 room hotel. It’s been reimagined with a magnificent bar and top notch culinary led by Executive Chef Albert Ponzo. Enjoy a night in and wake up to in-room coffee or a short walk to one of Picton’s many cafes and restaurants. And Sandbanks Provincial Park is only a short drive away.

the royal
The Royal Hotel living up to its name- photo courtesy of the hotel

If you’re flying out of Pearson, hit up Gateway Sheraton ahead of your early-morning flight to start the holiday off on the right foot. This nifty hotel provides easy access to your ultimate destination. Enjoy drinks and nibbles in the &More bar before tucking in tight with the runways as your nightlight. Bliss.

sheraton gateway airport yyz-lobby lounge

Next month look for our winter travel feature with Expedia ✈️ 

All images by Libby Roach unless otherwise noted.