Elk Island Retreat glamping pod

Canada’s top-rated glamping resorts

July 29, 2025

With micro-cations on the rise, these luxe campsites prove you don’t need to go far to get away.

More Canadians are booking short, rejuvenating getaways close to home. According to a 2025 trends report, over 60% of Canadians say they plan to take a domestic trip this year, with many prioritizing two- to four-night escapes over longer vacations.

One big summer winner of this shift? Glamping. These upscale outdoor stays combine the immersive magic of nature with the comforts of a boutique hotel—think plush beds, private hot tubs, and well-designed shelters that take the hassle out of traditional camping. Whether you’re after forest bathing, coastal views or starry-night solitude, these Canadian glamping resorts should be on your radar.

Siwash Lake Star Camp 

Lake Thompson–Nicola, British Columbia

Star Camp, perched on a ridge above Siwash Lake, is an ultra‑private dark‑sky sanctuary with only three to four tents available at a time. Each “Star Gazer” tent has a skylight over the bed, wood-burning stove, and either a private outdoor shower cabin or access to shared luxury washrooms. Evenings are for soaking in your cedar hot tub, while stargazing guides host guests by the fire. You may even glimpse the Aurora Borealis from your bed—nature’s five-star entertainment.

Fronterra Farm 

Prince Edward County, Ontario

On a sprawling botanical farm in Prince Edward County, Fronterra blends Scandinavian minimalism with rustic elegance. Their luxury canvas tents feature king-size beds, hardwood floors, fire pits, private bathrooms with hot showers, and a summer kitchen with cookware and al fresco seating. Overnight guests can rent a canoe, swim at nearby North Beach Provincial Park (just 900 metres away), and soak up the full farmstead experience. Not staying the night? Day visitors are welcome to book a self-guided wellness ritual infused with botanicals grown onsite, or pick a colourful bouquet straight from the flower fields.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge 

Vancouver Island, BC

This high-end, fly-in-only retreat sits deep in the UNESCO-protected Clayoquot Sound. Its 25 upscale canvas tents line the shore of a tranquil inlet, each outfitted with heated floors, king beds, and cedar rain showers or soaking tubs. Days here include heli‑hiking, tidal‑zone wildlife tours, and evenings dining on wood‑grilled seafood paired with local vintages. The lodge’s design aesthetic blends handcrafted rustic furnishings with refined comfort for a true luxury wilderness escape.

Elk Island Retreat 

Fort Saskatchewan, AB

Just 45 minutes outside Edmonton, Elk Island Retreat is a peaceful, 60-acre woodland escape near Elk Island National Park. Its four geodesic domes are designed for two, each with a queen-size bed, plush linens, a gas fireplace, mini-fridge, and Nespresso setup. Outside, enjoy a private fire pit, picnic area, and access to the retreat’s newest addition: a stunning mirrored sauna imported straight from Estonia, which reflects the surrounding forest and offers a deeply tranquil experience. Add a deluxe charcuterie box and a bottle of wine (or sparkling juice) and you’ve got the perfect slow weekend in nature.

Dômes Charlevoix 

Petite-Rivière-Saint-François, QC

Modern design meets alpine views at this forest retreat near Le Massif. Sleek geodesic domes come with floor-to-ceiling windows, queen beds, kitchenettes, and private terraces with hot tubs overlooking the rolling Laurentians. From your perch above the St. Lawrence River, you’re minutes from ski trails, waterfalls, and one of Quebec’s most charming artistic towns: Baie-Saint-Paul. In the warmer months, hike through the surrounding forest trails or take the gondola up Le Massif for sweeping river views.

‘Ome 

Burlington, NL

On Newfoundland’s remote northwest coast, ’Ome blends wilderness and coastal charm with its handcrafted shoreline tents (plus a sleek wooden pod). Built from locally milled timber and dressed in home-sewn quilts, each tent is just steps from the sea. Spend your days paddleboarding in the bay, exploring nearby outport villages, or watching icebergs drift by (in season). Every stay at this eco resort supports the rural community.

One of Canada’s most prestigious mountain retreats set to reopen under luxury brand

June 30, 2025

Rimrock Banff, one of the most iconic retreats in the Canadian Rockies, is poised to redefine mountain luxury as the first Emblems Collection property in North America.

Owned by Oxford Properties Group and a capital partner, the resort will undergo a fully transformative renovation beginning in October 2025 and will reopen in summer 2026 as a flagship for Accor’s newest luxury collection brand, blending its storied legacy with a visionary redesign.

Poised high above the Bow Valley, just minutes from downtown Banff, the property balances seclusion with proximity to the Banff Gondola and historic Upper Hot Springs. Though the current resort opened in 1993, this site has welcomed visitors since the early 1880s, when travellers first arrived seeking its natural springs for rejuvenation. For more than a century, this intimate retreat has embodied Banff’s spiritual calm, cultivating a legacy of timeless charm, renewal, and elevated hospitality.

For decades, Rimrock Banff has offered a sanctuary in the heart of Banff National Park — a place of sweeping mountain vistas and a deep, immersive connection to nature. Its reinvention marks a new era, one that elevates its essence while preserving the authenticity guests have long cherished. The Emblems Collection brings together exceptional properties, each one defined by a unique identity, intimate sense of place, and a refined, enduring elegance.

A visionary redesign

Studio Collective, renowned for its immersive and emotive design philosophy, is spearheading the visionary redesign at Rimrock Banff, Emblems Collection, shaping a contemporary retreat that seamlessly balances modern refinement and sustainability with raw natural beauty.

This evolution introduces captivating new elements that redefine the guest experience, including: a breathtaking mountainside infinity pool with sweeping views of the Bow Valley, vitality pools, ice immersion bathing, panoramic saunas, meditation rooms, movement studios, and an expedition centre designed to offer guests insight into the adventures and activities available in the iconic Canadian Rockies. Wellbeing at the resort will be prioritized through thoughtful curation, offering year-round, season-to-season immersion within the natural elements while fostering profound introspection and exploration.

Rimrock Banff, Emblems Collection will be a serene mountain retreat where nature and luxury exist in perfect harmony. Uninterrupted views of the national park’s wild beauty will be preserved and enhanced, immersing guests in a renewed sense of place that captures the charismatic allure of the Canadian Rockies.

At the heart of this new chapter are enhanced experiences centering on wellness, connection, and sensory-rich dining, with new restaurant and bar experiences drawing inspiration from the land and seasons, as well as the stories of Banff.

From panoramic alpine vistas to thoughtfully designed guest experiences, this is where outdoor exploration, culture, and deep restoration in nature converge. For more information, visit rimrockresort.com.

The Canadian government just introduced a new Canada travel pass—here’s what’s on it

June 16, 2025

This summer, Canadians can enjoy the very best Canada has to offer with the Canada Strong Pass.

From museums and railroads to national parks and camping spots, the federal government is making it easier for families to choose Canada as they make their summer plans—and enjoy the places and experiences that bring us together and make Canada strong.

“Transportation is more than just a means to get from one place to another—it’s a way to connect Canadians and help them discover the great beauty and history of our country,” said Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Transport and Internal Trade. “The Canada Strong Pass makes it easier and more affordable for families and young people to explore our country by rail this summer. Whether it’s discovering a new part of the country or revisiting a favourite spot, this initiative allows Canadians to travel, connect and celebrate what makes our country so special.”

From June 20 to Sept. 2, 2025, the Canada Strong Pass will offer expanded access to Canada’s nature and culture across the country, helping families discover and celebrate Canada throughout the summer.

The Pass includes:

  • Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25% discount on camping fees.
  • National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum: Free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
  • VIA Rail: Free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
  • Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries: Free admission for children and a 50% discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.

No registration or physical pass is necessary; just show up and enjoy the benefits offered at participating establishments.

The Pass is open to all visitors, whether you are Canadian or coming from abroad.

For questions on the Pass, visit: https://canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/canada-pass.html.

Staycation: Self indulgence awaits at The High Acre in Dundas, Ontario

May 14, 2025

Opened in 2023 inside a restored 1867 Victorian farm house in Dundas Ontario, The High Acre is an exceptional adults-only boutique inn that exudes quiet luxury.

With just four beautifully-appointed suites, The High Acre provides an opportunity to disconnect and enjoy an intimately personal getaway, with minimal disruptions.

The suites, which sleep two people, feature a private infrared sauna, a hammam-inspired steam room, and a free-standing soaker tub, meaning guests can skip the hassle of booking an appointment and enjoy spa-like relaxation at any time of day. The hammam is enhanced with a handcrafted essential oil blend from certified clinical aromatherapist Marianne Toupalik, promoting deep breathing and refreshing the senses using notes of eucalyptus, grapefruit and peppermint. Additionally, guests can practice self-care through yoga, meditation, and breathwork, with guided sessions available in the suite or the on-site studio. Other shared amenities include a heated outdoor hot tub and an outdoor heated pool, open May 1 to October 1. 

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Each of the spacious rooms features a blend of modern furniture, luxurious linens and cozy amenities like plush bedding, soaker tubs, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet, and individually controlled heating and cooling systems. Ensuite bathrooms are equipped with upscale toiletries, fluffy towels, and bathrobes for added comfort. All of the rooms also feature fireplaces, lounge areas, and a full kitchen, making them perfect for romantic getaways or extended stays. 

Guests can enjoy a breakfast spread of freshly baked croissants, farm fresh eggs, jam and butter, and a selection of coffee and tea from the comfort of their rooms, in the inn’s cozy dining area, or on the outdoor patio in the warmer months.

What to do in Dundas

Dundas, roughly 15 minutes from Hamilton, is a small town with a big personality.

It’s close to several hiking trails, including those within the famous Niagara Escarpment and Royal Botanical Gardens. For the best panoramic views, head to Dundas Peak, tucked along the Bruce Trail. Several waterfalls, including Tew’s Falls (the tallest waterfall in Southern Ontario) and Webster’s Falls, are less than a five-minute drive away from The High Acre.

Nearby cultural landmarks include the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Dundurn Castle, whose gardens boast beautiful blooms from May to October.

Downtown Dundas is home to a handful of restaurants, cafes and charming boutiques, making it a pleasant spot to spend an afternoon strolling, dining, and shopping.

Shawn & Ed Brewing Co. is the main brewery in Dundas, and it offers a fantastic selection of craft beers and their signature beer pie pizzas. Wine lovers can explore the abundance of vineyards found in Niagara-on-the-Lake, approximately an hour’s drive from Dundas.

This article first appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of OFFSHORE Travel Magazine. Click here to access the digital version. Click here to subscribe to the newsletter.

Nova Scotia’s Fox Harb’r Resort debuts new ocean golf course and luxury spa

April 9, 2025

As Nova Scotia gains ground as one of Canada’s top golf destinations, Fox Harb’r Resort, Eastern Canada’s only Four Diamond, Five-Star resort, is marking its 25th anniversary with a sweeping transformation designed to elevate the guest experience on and off the course.

Located about a 90-minute drive from Halifax and Moncton airports, or a convenient flight into the resort’s 5,000-foot runway, Fox Harb’r was founded in 2000 by the late Ron Joyce, co-founder of Tim Hortons. It was envisioned as a destination that would blend luxury, nature, and maritime hospitality onNova Scotia’s Northumberland Shore. Twenty-five years later, that vision is evolving under the leadership of his son, Steven Joyce, with major investments reshaping the property’s golf offering, spa experience, and luxury accommodations.

New golf offering for 2025

Now open for the season, Fox Harb’r Resort will debut its brand-new Ocean Course on May 7. This dramatic coastal layout, designed by top Canadian golf architects Doug Carrick and Tom McBroom, features ocean views, natural elevation changes, and strategic shot-making. The course draws inspiration from traditional links-style designs and stretches along the scenic Strait.

“Nova Scotia continues to grow as a golf destination, and Fox Harb’r brings something distinctive to the province’s landscape,” says Kevin Toth, President of Fox Harb’r Resort. “Whether it’s a round of golf, a weekend escape, or time at the spa, we offer a place to truly unwind and recharge.”

A second full 18-hole layout, the Vineyard Course, is under development and expected to open in 2027.

Expanded wellness facilities

Opening May 9, the reimagined Spa & Wellness Centre is a major addition to the resort’s guest experience.

It was developed in collaboration with Core Essence, a Canadian wellness design firm with international expertise and a portfolio that includes leading hospitality brands. The oceanfront facility includes a full hydrothermal circuit with sauna, steam room, cold plunge, and salt lounge. Signature treatments use marine ingredients from the Atlantic, and a new fitness studio offers recovery therapies designed for both golfers and wellness-focused travellers.

“This transformation is more than an investment in luxury wellness. It’s about creating a world-class retreat where guests can fully immerse themselves in renewal and relaxation,” says Toth. 

In addition to golf and spa, Fox Harb’r offers a wide range of activities across its 1,400-acre property. Guests can enjoy a deep-water marina, sport shooting, kayaking, and archery. The resort’s Cape Cliff dining room features seasonal menus showcasing Nova Scotia’s finest ingredients, while accommodations include 88 ocean-view suites and a collection of multi-bedroom townhomes ideal for group stays. This year, Fox Harb’r will also unveil a new collection of 18 golf-side luxury residences, designed by Atlantic Canadian architect and Order of Canada recipient Brian MacKay-Lyons.

Travel offers for 2025

With many Canadians reconsidering travel to the U.S. this year, Fox Harb’r is promoting two new packages for spring and summer:

Stay & Play Golf – Includes one or two rounds, access to the Golf Academy, a 20% discount on spa treatments, and deluxe breakfast in the Cape Cliff dining room. 

Fourth Night Free – Guests booking three nights receive the fourth night complimentary. This offer provides extra time to explore the nearby communities of Tatamagouche and Malagash, known for their wineries, distilleries, and artisan shops, or simply unwind with more time on the course and at the spa.

For bookings or packages, visit www.foxharbr.com.

Prince Edward County’s hottest resort just opened a spa

January 20, 2025

 Wander The Spa, the first-ever lakefront Nordic spa in Ontario, is officially open.

A place for intention and restoration, disconnect to reconnect in the tranquility of a 10,000 square foot thermotherapy circuit, nestled among the tall grasses of Wander The Resort on West Lake in Prince Edward County (15841 Loyalist Pkwy, Bloomfield). Passes start at $95 and bookings are now open.

Since opening in 2021, Wander has received international acclaim as one of the top travel and design destinations in the country. The addition of the nordic spa culminates an experience of peace and connection for locals and overnight guests alike, as one of the few in the province to offer onsite accommodations.

“Wander The Spa was built to give our guests what we all desperately need, a place to disconnect and reconnect. Somewhere to experience time standing still for a moment, designed to be an oasis of intention and restoration,” said Shannon Hunter, owner, Wander The Resort. “Opening the first-ever lakefront Nordic spa in Ontario has been years in the making and, together with our award-winning restaurant Gather, culminates the Wander experience of peace and connection.”

Relax and retreat

Begin with a hot session (over 100 F) in the 32-seat sauna (dry heat, beneficial for detoxification and improved circulation), steam room (moist heat, beneficial for opening pores and soothing muscles), or hot soak pool (ideal for easing muscle tension).

Next to the steam room, visit the scrub area to exfoliate and refresh your skin before quickly cooling down with a 1 to 3 minute cold plunge (50 F) to invigorate the senses and enhance circulation. Rest in the sunken fireside lounge or the Terrace lounge overlooking the spa, with views of sparkling West Lake.

An equally restorative experience, skip the full circuit to spend more time unwinding in any of the amenities, which also include two warm soak pools (98 F); and the temperate dip pool (temperature adjusted to the season), where guests are soothed by the sounds and views of two waterfalls and multiple fireplaces year-round. 

Whisper Beach on West Lake offers 200 feet of waterfront exclusively to spa guests for a natural cold plunge experience, with two more intimate saunas and cozy Hygge Huts nearby.

Laidback luxury lives here

Wander’s acclaimed attention to detail continues in the spa and here the laidback luxury transitions to an oasis of serenity. Curved interior walls and domed ceilings are hand parged in parchment-toned microcement and highlighted by soft indirect lighting, reminiscent of candlelit hallways. This textural subtlety is juxtapositioned against the clean and simple lines of white oak millwork and black iron hardware.

Finishing touches such as arched doors featuring black pane glass, custom backlit LED mirrors, acoustic panelled ceilings in Treatment rooms, and integrated speakers throughout encourage contemplation and reverie.

Natural materials are carried outside where cedar establishes warmth and intimacy in The Cove, the spacious subterranean pool deck that provides a protected all-season experience. Here, natural Baltic Ivy-covered concrete is the backdrop to renewal, and guests can disappear among the 10’ by 10’ waterfall, or reconnect around one of three fires.

Ascend the floating concrete staircase to the Terrace Lounge or venture inside the Clubhouse for access to The Market, where the signature Wander x Sunday’s Company spa scent, with notes of eucalyptus and wild spruce, is available to take home as a diffuser, a candle or as Wander’s new line of body products. Enjoy the resort’s award-winning culinary offerings at Gather, where Chef Justin Tse’s balanced menu takes cues from the seasons and highlights the flavours of the County, marrying global influences with locally-sourced ingredients.

With two private treatment rooms, Wander The Spa is launching with Reiki, an ancient Japanese method of healing that uses light to touch to channel energy into the body; as well as a Relaxation Massage that aims to restore balance, using gliding strokes of varying pressure to stimulate circulation, to smooth tight muscles and reduce stress. Wellness practitioners will also offer daily Aufguss sauna rituals, infusing essential oils, heat, steam, and sound for a 10-minute multisensory experience.

Wander The Spa is open daily and is also available for private bookings. Visit wanderthespa.com for more information.

Whales, trails and Viking tales await in Newfoundland and Labrador

December 6, 2024

Western Newfoundland and Labrador have long been on my list of places to visit for barren wilderness–and remarkable human migration history at its furthest reaches. When it’s not about flavourful seafood, sweet berries and sweeping history, Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula is all about wild, wild nature. Whales breach and icebergs glisten just offshore a tuckamore laden coastline. Add in Labrador—a landscape with granite boulders strewn like a giant’s marble game—and you have an incredible drive.

WALK THE MANTLE OF THE EARTH

Heading north up the 526-kilometre Viking Trail (Route 430), the first detour for our carful of friends was Gros Morne National Park to stroll the UNESCO-designated Tablelands Trail.

With its red, Mars-like terrain, a half billion years ago, the Tablelands lay below sea level, until shifting plates forced ancient continents together and thrust up the ocean floor.

In the park’s northern section, we walked an orchid-dotted trail to reach a boat tour on Western Brook Pond, the most dramatic way to experience this inland fjord, where waterfalls descend from green 600-metre cliffs higher than Toronto’s CN Tower.

A BASQUE WHALING STATION ON LABRADOR

Continuing to St. Barbe, we traversed the Strait of Belle Isle to Labrador and loaded our car onto the Blanc-Sablon Ferry, which takes roughly two hours to cross. Fares range from $9.50 for a senior to $35.25 for a vehicle and driver and depart morning and afternoon every day from May 1 to Jan. 7 and once in the morning Jan. 8 to April 30.

Here, we spotted our first berg. Rapt by the dramatic coastal bluffs, we drove an hour north along Labrador’s Expedition 51 route to Red Bay Basque Whaling Station National Historic and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the best preserved example of early industrial scale whaling anywhere in the world.

Inside the station, a massive 400-year-old bowhead whale skeleton, as well as an original whaling boat are on display. On the site’s west side, a couple of us climbed 689 steps up Tracey Hill for an expansive—and very breezy—view of the sheltered harbour.

WHALE WATCHING IN NEWFOUNDLAND

Back on Newfoundland, we continued north up the Viking Trail to where the road meets the saltwater at St. Lunaire-Griquet.

Clad in flotation suits and looking like a waddle of orange penguins, we marched into Zodiacs with local tour operator, Dark Tickle Expeditions, and headed out into the heart of Iceberg Alley. Operating from mid May to Oct.1, the company runs public tours (private charters are also available) for viewing icebergs, whales, dolphins or birds.

Peak viewing season for icebergs is typically from late May to early July for icebergs, early June to late August for humpbacks, minke and fin whales, late July to late September for Atlantic white beaked dolphins and early June to mid-August for Arctic terns, guillemots and kittiwakes.

We circled a massive one glistening in the sunshine, revealing contoured blue and white striations.

While zooming out to another unique berg, guide Mo Hyduk, declared “I think we have whales, people!”

Motoring up the coast, we watched in awe as two humpbacks fed in White Cape Harbour, one breaching in front of us.

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF VIKINGS

Continuing even further north up the Great Northern Peninsula, L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site and UNESCO World Heritage Site —remains of an 11th century basecamp—depict the Vikings earliest landing on North America about one thousand years ago.

The visitor centre leads you through the tales of exiled murderers and Viking explorers who came from Greenland to establish an outpost. While the centre is full of intriguing artifacts—such as Icelandic fire starters and bronze cloak pins—the Viking encampment in the distance beckoned. This place at the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula felt like the end of the world.

Past the low berms—remains of what would have been sod dwellings—a large, reconstructed sod hall is filled with weapons and sheepskins. Viking interpreters sat around the fire, telling stories while crafters wove sailcloth and spun wool.

History in Newfoundland and Labrador, whether cultural or geological, is captivating. Being outdoors at these sites, however—walking a windswept point, climbing ancient granite, or cruising a sheltered bay—was what entrenched me fully in the experience. And what made the Great Northern Peninsula memorable.

This story first appeared in the Winter 2024 issue of OFFSHORE. Click here to read the digital magazine. Click here to subscribe to the print magazine.

All-day pampering awaits at the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

October 14, 2024

Suspended on limestone cliffs above the rushing rapids of the gorge below, the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa provides an indulging, five-star retreat in the heart of nature.

Walking through the streets of Elora, you’d be forgiven for thinking you might be anywhere else but a small, Ontario town. All along Metcalfe and surrounding streets, stores housed in 19th century limestone sell everything from handmade silk lampshades spun in art deco designs, to locally-made home furnishings and used books.

Like any good small town, there are also a handful of comfortable cafes and ice cream shops selling those nostalgic Moosetracks and Bubblegum scoops.

But the lifeblood of the town is the Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, a five-star, luxury boutique property with a fine-dining restaurant and full-service spa that’s perched above the rushing waters of the Elora Gorge.

About the Elora Mill

Opened in 2018 under the Pearle Hospitality Group, the Elora Mill has a long and colourful history that dates back nearly 200 years, to 1832 when William Gilkison, a Scottish naval captain, purchased 14,000 acres of land and settled the town on the banks of the Grand River. In 1833, Gilkison constructed a sawmill which served the town until the early 1900s.

Over the years, the property also had stints as a distillery (the site of the hotel’s present-day kitchen), as well as a flour mill that ceased operations in 1974, when it was converted to the Elora Mill Inn. Following the old inn’s closure in 2010, a $27 million renovation project saw the property reopen eight years later in June 2018 as the four-storey Elora Mill Hotel & Spa, turning the tiny town of Elora into a full-fledged luxury destination flanked year round by guests from all over the world.

Farm-to-table dining

On the first floor of the hotel, you’ll find the two-storey restaurant which features floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the rapids. Using a farm-to-table dining approach that extends to all menus, highlights include the lobster and smoked halibut agnolotti with seasonal hand-picked chanterelles and the field greens salad with pan roasted chicken, made using locally-sourced produce from the Pearle Farm.

Down below, guests can visit the restaurant’s recently opened wine cellar, which is home to more than 4,000 bottles. The Elora Mill’s team of friendly in-house sommeliers can also provide expert pairing advice on any dish.

Rooms with a view

Working with the original footprint of the mill, luxury interior designer Lori Morris was picked to decorate all 30 rooms in three styles—rustic, modern and French. There are eight room categories to choose from, with no two designed identically. Soft neutrals blend harmoniously with the natural limestone walls and exposed wooden beams. Lavish touches create an atmosphere so indulging, you find yourself longing for just one more day on a weekend getaway. 

Throw open the balcony doors of the Terrace Suite and gaze at the rushing rapids of the Elora Gorge below. Additional in-room highlights include a king-sized bed, a seasonal indoor wood burning fireplace perfect for autumn nights, and a Nespresso coffee machine. At the end of the evening, retreat to your terrace and lounge by the outdoor fire with a glass of wine, or one of the afte rdinner cocktails that can be ordered to your room—we recommend the Campfire Nightcap, made with a smoky Sombra mezcal, sweet Amaro Montenegro, Crème de Cacao, cold brew espresso and agave. Or, slip off your oversized plush robe and into the soaker tub.

Elements of relaxation continue throughout the hotel, starting on the first floor at the spa, where cliffside views immediately transport you away from the stresses of daily life. Recently, Elora Mill introduced a series of day packages which include the Daybreak ($350 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.), with a complimentary breakfast; the Midday ($425 from 12 to 5 p.m.) which includes lunch, and Seize the Day ($750 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.), which is perfect for those looking for a full day of pampering.

Along with a signature body treatment, highlights of all three packages include use of the Nordic dry sauna, eucalyptus steam room, hot tub, and heated rooftop pool, which stays open year round. Cocktails, wine by the glass and small bites, like warm marinated olives, can be enjoyed pool side or in the relaxation lounge.

For rates and availability, visit eloramill.ca.

 

This article first appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of OFFSHORE travel Magazine. Click here to subscribe to your free copy.

Luxury motels are trending—but should you book a stay?

March 13, 2024

Boutique motels, with their modest room count, old school hospitality and all-around affordability are an ideal choice for travellers from all walks of life.

A few years ago, if you’d told me that I would be willingly spending my weekend at a motel, I probably would have laughed.

If countless road trips across Canada—and one too many reruns of Alfred Hitchcock’s 1960 horror flick, Psycho, taught me anything— it was that these places, whose flickering neon signs beckoned slyly from the parking lot, offered cheap rates for a reason. 

It didn’t used to be like that, though. Motels as we know them started dotting North American roadways in the 1920s. Their origins were primitive at best, offering weary travellers a place to wash up and lay their heads. 

The term “motel” was actually coined from the words “motor hotel” because these accommodations primarily targeted travelling motorists. After the Second World War, motels spiked in popularity, as more attractive features, like outdoor pools or kitchenettes were introduced. But by the 1960s, as chain hotels emerged, motel bookings tanked. While hotel brands continued to reinvent themselves to cater to an ever-changing clientele, motels remained entrenched in the past. 

Now, decades later, motels have entered their renaissance era.

Motel mania

A far cry from the seedy, roadside fixtures with their often sleazy connotations featured in Hollywood cinema, boutique motels are having a moment. Often refurbished or completely gutted from the ground up, these new motels include thoughtful amenities, sought-after perks and contemporary decor that give select high-end hotels a run for their money.

From on-site wine bars and farm-to-table eateries, to full-fledged room service and generously stocked minibars, in-room spa treatments and on-site after-hours socials, these motels leave dingy stereotypes in the dust. 

And so, on a Saturday afternoon, I found myself checking into The Beach Motel. 

As a travel editor, I’ve lost count of the five-star hotels I’ve stayed at around the world. From private infinity plunge pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea, to signature scents in-room and even pillow menus, luxury properties are constantly coming up with new ways to make your stay feel extra special. But after stepping into the lobby and receiving a signature welcome drink and a hot towel during check-in, The Beach Motel immediately felt very on par to the level of hospitality I’ve come to expect from those high-end properties.

An elevated stay

Stepping into my suite, the elevated hospitality continued—there were chocolates on the bed, the heated floors had been turned on, and general manager, Amanda Deer, was eager to help answer any questions or attend to special requests.

Located on the shores of Southampton, one of Ontario’s best summer beach towns, the property is owned and operated by Dane and Samantha Buttenaar. With backgrounds in landscaping and real estate, the couple opened The Beach Motel in March 2022, successfully transforming the old Huron Haven motel that occupied the lot years before.

“I think since the shift to hotels, motels have been neglected and always been a ma and pa type establishment. Normally owner occupied, they were understaffed and not well kept,” said Dane Buttenaar, co-owner, The Beach Motel. “More recently, there’s been a shift from hotel accommodations to Airbnb and boutique properties that allow a more personal touch. We enjoyed embracing a guest-focused experience that allowed guests to not only have great service, but the chance to all interact and converse about travel and our beautiful town, Southampton.”

Home to 17 suites, each room is outfitted with either a king or queen-sized bed, a soaker tub and a rainfall shower and heated bathroom floors. Additional in-room, hotel-like amenities include a Nespresso machine stocked with a selection of coffees and teas, matching robes, a hair dryer, a mini fridge and even an ice bucket as well as wine and cocktail glasses. 

The Beach Motel also houses a spa that offers massages and facials, a two-person sauna and an on-site restaurant, with a weekly farm-to-table menu executed by chef Carey McLellan. Inside the restaurant, which doubles as a lounge, guests can take their pick of complimentary board games and plenty of paperbacks, and on cooler nights, enjoy a drink by the cozy stone fireplace. It’s that smaller setting coupled by its communal spaces, that make you feel so much more connected to the property and the staff. 

Of course, it’s important to also point out a few key differences between a high-end motel, such as The Beach Motel, and a true five-star hotel, too. With fewer rooms and a lower guest-to-staff ratio, you can expect an intimate atmosphere and a more personalized approach to service. However, many boutique motels don’t offer a 24-hour concierge; instead the front desk follows a dedicated hourly schedule. Parking may also be limited in busier months, and on-site restaurant hours close earlier than the restaurants in town. 

But if it’s small town hospitality and a charming experience you’re after, give the humble motel another chance.

More motels to explore in Ontario

The Drake Motor Inn

Dubbed Prince Edward County’s most retro inn, The Drake Motor Inn is operated by the same owners of Toronto’s beloved Drake Hotel and Wellington’s Drake Devonshire. Wrapped in bright, funky colours, this pet-friendly motel features 12 guestrooms, all decked out with art and photography. Guests can enjoy plenty of perks, including complimentary use of Polaroid cameras for the perfect selfie, as well as a plethora of dining options at the Drake Devonshire.

thedrake.ca/drakemotorinn

Penny’s Motel

A laid back, old school vibe, minus the bubblegum pink bathtub awaits at Penny’s, located in Thornbury, Ont. on the coast of Georgian Bay. The swanky-looking motel offers 13 pet-friendly rooms, stocked with Malin + Goetz bath products, heated floors and rainfall showers. Locally-sourced food, including build-your-own s’mores abound at Apres, Penny’s snack bar. Other amenities include complimentary bikes, communal fire pits and heated patios.

pennysmotel.ca

Somewhere Inn

Outside of Ottawa in Calabogie, Somewhere Inn, opened in August 2021, breathes new life into an old motel from the 1970s. Its oversized, dog-friendly rooms that can sleep up to eight are TV-free (encouraging you to explore somewhere new, duh) and furnished with comfortable queen and king-sized beds. Nespresso machines, soaker tubs, Endy mattresses and fluffy duvets make this spot feel just like home for you and your furry friend for as long as you’d like.

somewhereinn.ca

ARHOME is a design-forward guest suite like no other

January 15, 2024

Experiential hospitality brand arcana is excited to announce the launch of its infinite arcana experience with ARHOME, design-Forward guest dwellings delivered fully assembled, available for individual purchase.

To celebrate the launch, ARHOME is offering an introductory limited release of 25 guest suites starting today, built in Canada and delivered Spring 2024.

All elements of ARHOME are intentionally designed to orientate guests towards nature while ensuring complete comfort. The combination of fine craftsmanship, hospitality grade finishes, and materials chosen with sustainability at the forefront, results in a one-of-a kind, fully assembled, prefabricated alternative to those looking to add guest accommodations.

About ARHOME

ARHOME is 275 square feet and designed with hospitality in mind. It can be your very own private weekend hideaway, the perfect guest house or short-term rental and is custom built in Canada and arrives fully assembled. 

ARHOME starts at $225,000 CAD and can be delivered and shipped across Canada within eight to twelve weeks from purchase. Hookup to electrical, water and waste is required for use.

Canadian-designed and built, ARHOME is conceptualized with sustainability in mind by award-winning Vancouver-based architect, Michael Leckie of Leckie Studio and built by Oakville-based Hummingbird Hill Homes and Toronto-based Studio Morro.

 

About ARHOME

ARHOME highlights include:

  • Red oak interiors, heated floors and air conditioning
  • Premium kitchen appliances: Porter Charles stove-top, oven and hood range, complemented by a whisper-quiet, 4.1 cubic feet built-in Vitrifrigo fridge
  • Built-in Sonos speaker system, controlled through smart panels
  • Rain shower and private water closet
  • Lunos system that filters air and eliminates the need for in-wall ducting
  • Discrete storage solutions
  • Choice of three exterior finishes: Corten steel and natural or black stained wood cladding. The arcana iconic mirrored steel cladding is available upon request.

For pricing and additional information, visit findarcana.com.