LibbyThe Beach Motel in Southampton is home to Ontario’s loveliest lakeside escape. Located about 3 hours north of Toronto, this Lake Huron property underwent significant renovations to restore the motel. The property re-opened in March 2022.
Owned by Dane and Samantha Buttenaar, they always dreamed of opening their own boutique beach resort. The Southampton couple felt their quaint hometown was the perfect spot for their retirement plan. Lake Huron is famous for its mesmerizing sunsets, powder-soft sandy beach and rugged beauty.
THE BEACH MOTEL HAS A PASSION FOR HOSPITALITY
With their sights set on Southampton, the couple happened upon a neglected motel steps from Lake Huron. The couple couldn’t wait for retirement. With expertise in construction and project management, the couple married their skill sets together to accomplish the massive renovation, restoring and designing each suite for the new modern era.
Ranging from standard singles right up to a posh corner king room and a fully-equipped two-bedroom + kitchenette suite, there’s room for everyone at The Beach Motel. But first, check-in is a breeze a the bright and spacious lobby.
Each of the 17 suites come thoughtfully equipped with the comforts of home. European-plush Sealy mattresses, 300-count linens, Re:mind Wellness toiletries, a fully-stocked Nespresso machine, and Nunshen loose-leaf teas await. A decadent seep-soaker tub beckons in our tidy bathroom, with a backdrop of lush cedars echoing the sustainability tilt at this new property.
(Looking for some sustainability tips for summer fun- we have some ideas for that too….)
Our room boasted a lovely lounge area for catchups, a massive king-size bed and a big-screen TV. A built-in closet offers space for your stuff and includes all your required barware. No detail is too small, The Beach Motel even offers umbrellas to borrow in case of rain.
With a soft Scandi-feel, the design is comfortable and bright. Our room is spacious and cozy all at once. There is room to sprawl out for an extended stay, and the great outdoors certainly beckons. After dropping off our stuff, the panoramic view outside was calling.
Because the motel format lends itself to the breezy outdoors, its easy access to fresh air and fun. Beside each of the exterior doors is a deck ready for hangouts. Guests are encouraged to mingle and linger. Next to the stunning outdoor fireplace and deck are the Wellness Spahhh and The Lounge. Book ahead for aromatherapy sessions and massages, a perfect way to unwind upon arrival.
THE GREAT ESCAPE AWAITS AT THE BEACH MOTEL
Shared spaces embrace the vacation vibe. A complimentary breakfast is served daily in the Lounge, and everyone is invited to enjoy a cinq à sept before scoping out the sunset. Board games and a record player add to the rec room look. You can order drinks and more to enjoy in the Lounge or order outdoors at the SandBar Restaurant (seasonally open).
A short jaunt away is the picturesque small town of Southampton. Make reservations early if you can, we suggest Highview Food & Drink for nibbles and wine, don’t miss the Duck Pâté! The location of this property is situated perfectly for kids and families, and The Beach Motel has wheelchair-accessible suites.
BUILT FOR AN EXTENDED-STAY
A perfect backdrop for girl getaways, romantic rendezvous and family trips, The Beach Motel is a great spot to just relax and let it happen. The motel fully sold out last summer, so book now for the best availability. And with their thoughtful packages (Sip S’more or Explore the Shore) it’s easy to embrace small-town living, even if it’s just for a short escape.
Thank you to The Beach Motel + Team for hosting!
All photos by Libby Roach.