Ontario

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About Ontario

Ontario has some of Canada's biggest areas of wilderness yet is also the country's most cosmopolitan province. How can this be? Because it's huge. Larger than France and Spain combined, it has acres of forests, miles of empty hiking trails, dozens of towering waterfalls and over 250,000 lakes. Yet over a third of Canadians also live here, most in either, Toronto, or Ottawa. The best places to stay in Ontario make the most of either its cosmopolitan cities or its wild beauty; sometimes both. With everything from charming secluded stays with farm-to-fork dining to modern luxury hotels, there’s really something to fit any holiday here.

Where to stay - which region/city?

Top of the 'natural-beauty' sights has to be Niagara Falls, easily visited in a day-trip from Toronto, though we'd recommend you stay in either Niagara by the Lake or Niagara Falls itself if you want to overnight. But the province boasts other spectacular waterfalls. Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park, for example, near the vibrant city of Thunder Bay in the south-west, has 40-metre high falls. South-western Ontario is also the area to head to for freshwater beaches, water sports and fantastic bird-watching.
Ontario has dozens of Provincial Parks to satisfy outdoor adventurers. Killarney Provincial Park is considered to offer some of the world's best kayaking with over 50 lakes, while hikers may prefer Mississagi Provincial Park, north of Elliot Lake, with its mix of hemlock forests, aspen woods, sandy beaches and empty backcountry. Equally, Quetico Provincial Park is a wild and empty destination with over 2000 lakes, hiking trails through forests and towering cliffs, plus cross-country skiing trails. Good bases for outdoors adventurers include Wellington on Lake Ontario, Kemble on Lake Huron and Port Carling on Lake Joseph.
Ontario's cities offer a striking contrast to the wild beauty of the backcountry. Toronto's iconic sight is the soaring needle of the 533-metre-high CN communication tower with its revolving restaurant and stunning views. But it's also a buzzing cosmopolitan city with a vibrant nightlife and of course it hosts the annual Toronto Film Festival.
Ottawa is no less exhilarating with Parliament Hill's Victorian architecture, the striking-looking National Gallery and the contemporary-designed Canadian War Museum. Leave plenty of time to explore the Canadian Museum of History, full of hi-tech exhibits tracing the country's history.

One thing's for sure, the best places to stay in Ontario guarantee you will always have plenty of things to do, right on your doorstep, whether you want to explore the great outdoors or enjoy a chic city break.

The best places to stay in Ontario

For a lakeside location

On the shores of Lake Ontario, the contemporary, chalet-style Drake Devonshire in Wellington, offers 13 chic, light-filled rooms, some with balconies, and all with glorious views. Dine outside or in, borrow a bicycle to explore or just relax on the outside decking.
With just 10 rooms, The Inn at Cobble Beach is deliciously hidden-away overlooking Georgian Bay on Lake Huron. Rooms are contemporary-classic, plus there’s an indoor pool, spa, gourmet restaurant and next-door golf course.
On the shore of Lake Joseph, Sherwood Inn is a traditional, white, clapboard property set amid mature gardens - where you can dine in summer months - with on-site tennis, watersports and walking trails. Rooms are light and fresh plus there’s a spa and Jacuzzi.
With plenty of activities, Arowhon Pines is a rustic chic resort in the centre of Algonquin Park on the shores of Little Joe Lake. Cabins feature a range of hand-painted french style furnishings, fireplaces and private lakeside patios. All inclusive meals are served in a hand-hewn log dining room. A totally off-grid wilderness escape!

For the Niagara Falls

The homely and traditional Pillar and Post offers large and comfortable rooms plus an outdoor pool, spa, All-American-style restaurant and activities galore. Situated in Niagara on the Lake, a short drive from the iconic Falls,
Perfect for a relaxing retreat, Sterling Inn & Spa's proximity to Niagara Falls and nature gives this contemporary spa cum Inn the edge for die hard explorers or mini-breakers. Modern rooms with sizeable baths and luxury products. Chef Cory Linkson whips up seasonally inspired dishes paired with the famous regional wines.

For romance

Old Mill Toronto is a boutique getaway nestled in the Humber Valley surrounded by walking trails, parkland and the tranquil sound of the Humber River, yet just a quick metro ride from the centre of town. Romantics will love the four poster beds, huge jacuzzi bathtubs and superb restaurant, loved by residents and locals alike.
Le Germain Maple Leaf Square is the one to book for a romantic city hotel with sharp, chic style. Modern rooms provide all the mod cons: rain showers, music and DVD players, tea and coffee making facilities and access to the hi-tech gym. Lobby Lounge offers tapas and cocktails to get the evening started.
Harbour House: Sunset over Niagara-on-the-Lake leaves a warm glow on this red brick mansion with stunning waterfront views. Fireplaces and light interiors make the modern rooms homely. Breakfast is served in the dining room overlooking the lake.
Set beside Lake Ontario, Shaw Club is an elegant small hotel offering exceptional service, prime location and a fabulous restaurant. Large, contemporary rooms are a great base for your days exploring Lake Ontario, local history and vineyards. For a romantic stay book the KIng Suite which boasts a jacuzzi bath for two!

For a city break

In the heart of downtown Ottawa, the Arc Hotel offers sophisticated styling and a perfect location; sights and restaurants are all walkable. Rooms are boutique-chic in pale, neutral tones plus there’s a gym and concierge service.
For old-school glamour, head to Toronto’s Windsor Arms Hotel, a grand 1920s red-brick hotel with a glittering, modern-European interior of chandeliers and leopard-print sofas. Rooms are reassuringly grand and classic, with panelling and wood floors; some even have pianos.

For foodies

The Ivy at Verity is an 1850s chocolate factory, home to an award winning restaurant, four enchanting rooms and a spa in downtown Toronto. Unique and vibrant, the luxurious rooms capture original features with marble bathrooms. The old fashioned meets the contemporary in the restaurant decor, a popular spot with locals.

For a lively property

The Gladstone is a red brick Victorian building turned art-centric boutique in the bustling cultural district of Toronto. Each artist-designed room offers an aesthetically pleasing and luxurious stay. Grab a table at Melody Bar, enjoy the live music and seasonally inspired dishes.
Excellently located, Le Germain Toronto's chic, sharp stainless steel and glass exterior, lead in to a library come espresso bar reception area. Expect views, gadgets and luxurious linens in the rooms. The French cuisine served at Chez Victor is the cherry on the cake as it gains recognition across town with its pull of regulars.

For luxury

The lively, Shangri-La is a chic five star hotel between downtown Toronto's Financial and Entertainment Districts. Plush rooms with an elegant oriental twist, enormous marble bathrooms and floor to ceiling windows. The luxurious on-site spa and trendy bars and restaurants follow the eastern theme. Oozing opulence and style
Excellently located, Hazelton Hotel is a high end boutique home of plush interiors, indoor pool and spoil-yourself-spa. Sizeable rooms boast city views, fine linens and all the mod cons. One restaurant pulls the locals in with its exquisite menu, cocktails and a great atmosphere. Enjoy a film in the cinema room, or relax at the spa.
With everything from cooking classes to hiking trails, Langdon Hall Country House is a spectacular 1902 five star hotel and spa nestled in the Carolinian forest. Tastefully decorated suites with original sash windows, fine fabrics, feather and down beds and antique furnishings. Award winning restaurants serve gourmet dishes paired with fine wines. Classically stylish.
Well-located, Four Seasons Toronto, the renovated flagship Four Seasons stands tall over Victorian mansions overlooking Lake Ontario. Luxurious large rooms with city views, plush linens and bathroom treats. Café Boulud offers global cuisine. Both business and leisure guests meet at Dbar over delicious cocktails.

For an apartment

If you'd prefer a self-catering option this holiday - don't hesitate to visit our online partner, Booking.com for a diverse range of properties to suit holidays of all types.

Travel Information

Fly to Toronto Pearson International Airport located 26km (16 miles) from Toronto with a wide range of international flights.
Alternatively, travel by train to and round Ontario with rail links across the region and to the U.S.
If you want to rent a car to explore this diverse and beautiful region - for prices and booking visit our online partner, Rental Cars.
Best time to visit - the summer months from June to August for typically pleasant weather, ideal for enjoying all the outdoor pursuits the area has to offer.

Still Not Sure?

Browse our list of the best places to stay in Ontario,
Expand your search to include our recommendations in British Columbia or Alberta
Or contact one of our gurus for advice.

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The best hotels in Ontario

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Inn on the Twenty

Jordan (Ontario)

Charming village in Twenty Valley makes this boutique the perfect country getaway. Fireplaces complete the homely rooms, along with bookshelves and arm chairs. “On the Twenty” adopts the farm to fork approach and whips up local cuisine matched with a cellar full of regional wines.

Great walks - Take a picnic along the Bruce Trail and the Niagara Escarpment and find a spot to dine while looking over the waterfalls.
Sights nearby - Do not miss the majestic Niagara Falls.
Full of character
Restaurant

from $86 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Harbour House

Niagara-on-the-Lake (Ontario)

Sunset over Niagara-on-the-Lake leaves a warm glow on this red brick mansion with stunning waterfront views. Fireplaces and light interiors make the modern rooms homely. Breakfast is served in the dining room overlooking the lake. HobNob Restaurant and Zees Grill are both walking distance.

Great walks - Awarded the prettiest Town in Canada Award. A good enough reason to explore it by foot and capture it all.
Local markets - Local markets area a great way to explore any town. Check with reception for dates.
Back to Nature - See one of the natural wonders of the world.
Sights nearby - Head to the marina for a buzzy atmosphere.

from $112 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

All Suites Whitney Manor

Kingston, ON (Kingston )

This historic Manor house is nestled in beautiful gardens, just minutes from Kingston. The self catering suites vary from charming to spectacular, with chandeliers, private balconies and indulgent bathrooms. This is the perfect base for exploring the 1000 Islands National Park. A real gem.

Other Activities - The manor is just minutes from the centre of Kingston, take a tour of the sights and learn about its history
Local markets - Ontario's oldest and longest running market is located in Springer Market Square, just a short walk away
Theatre - The Kingston Grand Theatre offers a range of ballet, comedy, musical, and modern dance
Families - The large and spacious self catering apartments are ideal for a family gathering

from $124 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees