Get on the waiting list because these are some of the trendiest spots to stay at in Ontario right now. If you do not get lucky enough to snag a weekend stay, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for cancellations. These are all 5-star properties, all with stunning interiors, and provide you with everything you may need for your stay. Some feature lakeside views, others have pool access, while some are completely immersed in the forest. You pick your favourite.
Birchwood Kennisis
Location: Haliburton, Ontario
Price: $650 – $850/night
With magazine-worthy interior design, this sister cottage to Birchwood Redstone by the Birchwood Cottage Co. is an idyllic place to stay. This newly renovated cottage is located on the endpoint of one of the very few peninsulas on Kennisis Lake. It is well-positioned on a rugged Canadian Shield lot with natural granite outcrops, which make the views over the lake absolutely spectacular. This is the perfect retreat for couples or families who are looking for a getaway from the city expecting high-quality amenities. The Birchwood Redstone provides privacy, tranquillity, and pure relaxation. It also helps a lot that the hosts, Blair and Ryan, are so hands-on with their properties and are always available when you need them.
The property features an open concept living area with vaulted ceilings, with huge windows that let in tons of light. With rich reclaimed ash wood flooring and beams throughout the house, the cottage also features a gourmet kitchen. It is fully equipped with all the appliances or utensils you would expect to make any type of meal, from a simple dinner to an extravagant feast. The cottage sleeps six, across three perfectly-sized bedrooms. The master ensuite has one king-size bed, the second room, a queen-size bed, and the third smaller bedroom has two adult size twin bunk beds. There are two full bathrooms, with one located in the luxurious master suite. Last, but not least, enjoy the multi-tiered expansive deck that features a gas BBQ and a hot tub with some absolutely stunning views. The amazing fire pit area is a pure delight, perfect for summer nights.
Make sure to explore Lake Kennisis via kayak, paddleboard or 4 person pedal boat (all provided by the hosts).
NOTE: In the winter months, an AWD vehicle is necessary as the road to the cottage is very hilly and can be difficult to get to with lots of snow. From October to the start of June, the dock is removed and placed in storage. The Birchwood Redstone is dog-friendly!
The Baltic
Location: Algonquin Highlands, Ontario
Price: $349 – $379/night
Sleek and modern and located in the middle of the forest, this treehouse called The Baltic, is something out of an architect’s dream. Surrounded by windows on all sides, it feels like the forest is inside, giving you the overall feel of being immersed in nature. Warm-up by the propane fireplace in the open concept Scandinavian-style living room. The kitchen area is stocked with all the amenities you might need for a great home-cooked meal, or use the ground-level fire pit to BBQ. Also located on the main floor is a full bath, which even features a custom rain shower! Perfect for a couple’s getaway, with one loft bedroom which can be accessed via a ladder to the perfect king-sized bed.
This hideout was just completed by the company, Fort Treehouse Co. They plan to build more in the near future. These modern hangouts are the perfect escape to spend evenings snuggled up near the fire, with daytimes spent hiking in Algonquin and exploring the region. The Baltic was built using as many sustainable and natural materials as possible.
Rose Eh Chalet
Location: Harcourt, Ontario
Price: $300/night (for two guests)
If you’re dreaming of an open concept, spacious A-frame cottage that has scenic views from every window, this is the place for you. Only steps away from the no-motor, silent and crystal clear lake, it is perfect for a winter stay for winter sportsmen and those looking for a luxury getaway. It is equally as wonderful in summer for swimmers and fishermen as well as those seeking luxurious peace in nature. The cottage also provides canoe, kayaks, and a peddle boat, perfect for exercise, bird watching and exploring the lake. The modern kitchen has all the appliances you may need. You also have the option to cook on the BBQ located on the huge deck.
NOTE: Guests staying winter months will need a 4×4 or AWD, as the snow can sometimes cause the road could be slippery and snow-covered. The hosts provide duvets, pillows and blankets. They also provide septic-safe soap, shampoo and conditioner. It is pet-friendly by request!
The June Motel
Location: Sauble Beach, Ontario
Price: $250/night
The June Motel in Sauble Beach has become the coolest spot in town – also making the area even more desirable to visit. Two badass women converted this old motel into a trendy boutique hotel. This is their second location, with the first located in Prince Edward County. They’ve created a brand that reflects their love for delicious wine, food, and good vibes. They are only open from spring to fall, so they get booked up very quickly. Their property is an ode to 1970s beach town life, featuring a pool decked out with funky umbrellas. Sip on beverages or frosé as you bask in the sunshine. Their HeyDays Restaurant, located on the property, serves coastal classics like oysters, hot buttered lobster rolls, and obviously magnums of wine. Beach yoga is available every Saturday morning, followed by a cold-pressed juice or a canned cocktail back at The June.
Every room features pool views and has a patio to sit and enjoy that bubbly while you watch the sunset. Pop on a vinyl record while you sip on your morning coffee. You can literally shop your room and discover products that are from their favourite female founders, all located in the gift shop. Stay here for the pink doors and retro beach vibes.
Kabin Paudash Lake
Location: Bancroft, Ontario
Price: $400 – $650/night
This brand new four-season Airbnb is the perfect mix of modern luxury with picturesque lakeside views. The cabin has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and an extremely cozy lounge area with a fireplace (obviously!). If this place doesn’t have relaxation written all over it, what does?
The kitchen features a Smeg pink fridge and has a Nespresso coffee maker, Smeg coffee maker, pizza oven and BBQ. There is also plenty of entertainment for those rainy days with snug bean bag chairs where you can stream a show or play Xbox.
NOTE: Guests are even allowed to bring their dogs with an additional cleaning fee!
Monett Bay
Location: Emsdale, Ontario
Price: TBD
Booked years in advance (pretty much), this spotless property has absolutely everything you’re looking for! The hosts, Brad and Erin, are very active on Instagram and show you how hands-on they are with their property – especially when it comes to cleaning! We also just heard they even added a hot tub. Ok, there is one thing wrong with Monett Bay – it needs to be winterized! The hosts also always provide a unique welcoming package which is tailored towards you and your stay, which features local items! Check out their other A-Frame property which is equally as perfect, the Trott Cottage.
It’s located on a semi-private bay with 340 feet of water frontage, with a stream that runs through the entire property. Once you arrive at the newly renovated cottage, you will be surrounded by the privacy of the forest. Feel free to warm up by the indoor fireplace once you arrive inside and turn on the record player to set the mood. Monett Bay has an extremely well thought out layout with gorgeous, high-quality furniture. There are two beautiful bedrooms, one with a queen bed and the other with twin beds, along with one bathroom. The waterfront is absolutely gorgeous, with beachside access. There is a kayak and two canoes that are available for your use. This cottage has everything you could possibly need and more, with a thought-out interior design and any amenity you might want.
Summer House
Location: Southampton, Ontario
Price: $360 – $475/night
Stay at this recently renovated boutique vacation rental, which is located only an 8-minute walk from Lake Huron. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed (by professionals), from the fully equipped kitchen and open concept living space to every bedroom. You can expect to be cozy and warm all winter long with a gas fireplace, and AC to cool you down on those hot summer nights. Enjoy your meal in the picture-perfect bistro-style dining nook. The three bedrooms are all outfitted in luxurious organic cotton bedding, yet vary in size. The first bedroom is located on the main floor with a queen-sized bed, the second is on the top floor and considered the master bedroom with a large closet and dresser, and the third bedroom features two double beds.
The grassy front and back yards make it an ideal space to play, picnics, or suntanning in the summer. Sit back and relax on the two large, fully furnished decks that feature a propane BBQ and dining space. There is also an area to lounge while you have your morning coffee or take an afternoon nap in the shade. Spend the evenings by the camp fire-pit and roast up some gooey s’mores.
NOTE: There is a strict 7 night Saturday to Saturday rentals in the summer (June 14 – Sept 13), with a minimum 3-night stay at other times of the year.
Glen Oro Farm
Location: Hawkestone, Ontario
Price: $350/night
This is definitely something you want to experience if you are looking for a new adventure and a new point of view on life. Stay in the Stargazer Dome which has an integrated loft space that is reachable via ladder, featuring a king-sized bed located directed below the huge skylight. On a clear night, you will fall asleep to the stars in the sky and wake up to morning light, all while keeping toasty by the wood fire. Each dome has its own cedar shower, farmhouse-style sinks, and environmentally friendly chic composting toilet. The farm works hard to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize the amount of waste they produce. There is also a kitchenette which is made up of what they consider to be “essential.” This includes a BBQ outside, with a mini-fridge, electric burner, and a toaster oven inside. Cooking items, like a pot, frying pan, skillet, kettle, salt, pepper, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, cutlery, dishes, glassware, locally crafted mugs, tinfoil, matches and a cutting board are also available.
If you’re looking to make your stay even more special, there are privately guided horseback rides through their beautiful trails. Another option is hiring your own chef to provide you with a one-of-a-kind dining experience while you stay at Glen Oro Farms. All the food is locally sourced and prepared from scratch over an open fire.
Disclaimer: All information and prices are accurate as of the time of the posting. All opinions expressed are completely my own. This post is not sponsored.
*All images are copyrighted by Julia Melcher (@adventureontario) or credited to their owners. Please do not use or re-post without written consent and provide credit where applicable
So many great places and hosts on this list! We happen to think our little Muskoka Sweet Escape is pretty special too 🙂 @sweetescapemuskoka
It looks pretty amazing! I’d have to agree – hopefully, I can experience it myself one day 🙂