Ontario, Canada, is just the place for a wonderful weekend getaway. But where to go? If you love hidden gems and unique stays, you’ll want to add these three places to your bucket list. And each is ideally located in a small town that you’ll love exploring.
Start planning your weekend getaways in Ontario with these unique accommodations.
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The Wilf Jones
The Wilf Jones is a historic loft in Port Hope, one of the most picturesque towns in Ontario. From the moment you enter, you’ll fall in love with the stunning decor: gorgeous rugs, wall-to-wall bookcases and the deep teal hue of the walls.
I didn’t want to leave! It’s the perfect place to cuddle up and lose yourself in a good book. But get out and explore! The Wilf Jones is on Port Hope’s Main Street, and everything is within walking distance.
Check out Milly’s Market, a bistro and bakery with must-try cookies. Or take in a performance at the Capital Theatre, which opened in the 1930s as a talking picture house.
If you’re considering a weekend getaway in Ontario, imagine strolling through Port Hope with its charming century-old architecture. It’s so cute that it’s been featured in several TV shows and movies. Check out the town’s unique boutiques and cute coffee shops, or chat with the helpful staff at Furby House Books. You’ll find plenty to do, see and eat in Port Hope and the surrounding area.
But, warning, leaving the Wilf Jones and its cozy luxury is difficult. The thoughtful hosts have considered every detail, including a hot tub and outdoor deck. There are two bedrooms so that the space could be shared with a friend, another couple or perfect for a family. And there’s a gorgeous kitchen that you’ll wish was your own.
Port Hope is an hour and a half drive from Toronto.
Penny’s Motel
Penny’s Motel in Thornbury is not what you’d expect from a roadside motel. It feels cozy with beachy decor and a totally laid-back vibe. And it’s not just the rooms that you’ll love.
Even before you arrive, Penny’s Motel sends out its local guidebook. There is so much to do! From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and beach time in the summer. Or exploring the nearby villages at any time of year. Spoiler alert: Thornbury is adorable.
Recommend the wood-fired pizza at Bruce Wine Bar. Or grab your morning coffee at Good Grief Coffee Roasters.
Penny’s Motel is dog-friendly and has an outdoor area where you can chill around the firepit. You can roast marshmallows, borrow a bike, or challenge your friends on the bocce ball court.
Penny’s Apres Snack Bar is the place to grab a glass of wine or try a local cider. Don’t feel like leaving the charming property, order a charcuterie board or indulge in a platter of oysters. Combine the terrific location and the truly welcoming staff, and you have a dream weekend getaway spot in Ontario.
Penny’s Motel is located in Thornbury, Ontario, 20 minutes from Collingwood and just over a 2-hour drive from Toronto.
Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie
If you love a beach town, Port Dover on Lake Erie is a great place to visit this summer. Swim in the waves before checking out one of the town’s old-school restaurants, like the Erie Beach Hotel. For over 70 years, it has been famous for its fresh perch dinners. And don’t miss their delicious celery bread.
While it’s a doable day trip for many southern Ontarians, Port Dover’s beachy charm makes it a worthy place for a weekend getaway in Ontario. But unless you plan to arrive by motorcycle, avoid Friday the 13th. Since 1981, this tiny town of just over 8,000 has swelled exponentially every Friday the 13th for a motorcycle rally.
Luxe Lodges on Lake Erie is just minutes from the beach and Port Dover’s shops and restaurants. You would be hard-pressed to find a better location that is both quiet and walkable.
The magic happens when the day-trippers leave Port Dover. You’ll have the beach pretty much to yourself, and you can take in the sunset or a show at the Lighthouse Theatre.
Pick one of Luxe Lodge’s one—or two-bedroom apartments as your base. Each unit includes all the amenities you could want, and it was lovely to be greeted with a bag of saltwater taffy from the thoughtful host.
Want to add on to your weekend getaway in Ontario? Check out these three lovely lavender fields.
