Wedged between Niagara Falls and Lake Ontario, Niagara-on-the-Lake has rightly earned its title as one of Canada’s prettiest towns. Visit the vineyards, peruse the shops on Queen Street and stroll down its tree-lined lanes. When you want to rest your head, there’s a slew of stylish hotels to choose from – we detail our favorites below.
Built in 1864, the Prince of Wales should be your top pick if you’re looking for charming Victorian aesthetics. While the exterior is much like the original, rooms have a modern twist – some boast floral wallpaper, others have four-poster beds and antique Tiffany lamps. After a dip in the indoor pool, head to the drawing room to dine on the famed afternoon tea or to the charcuterie and panini bar, if that’s more to your taste.
The sister property to the aforementioned Prince of Wales, the Pillar and Post Inn & Spa is a more modern offering. Set within a former canning factory, decor is rustic, thanks to the preservation of the original post and beam construction. Rooms meanwhile are chic with cream walls and four-poster beds. No visit here is complete without a trip to its 13,000sqft spa; hop between its three separate pools.
With spectacular views across Lake Ontario and the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Course (the oldest golf club in North America), Oban Inn is a true country haven. While most rooms boast the aforementioned views, some offer sunrooms, others have deep-soak tubs and crackling fireplaces. If you’re in need of some pampering, opt for a treatment at the in-house OSpa. Our favorites are the vitamin C facial and the grape seed body wrap.
As its name suggests. Harbour House has beautiful vistas across the Lake Ontario harbour. Behind its shingled facade, interiors are reminiscent of an upscale English country pile – think light-filled rooms, leather-clad furnishings and fireplaces in almost every suite. Breakfast in the conservatory is included; with options like homemade granola, freshly baked breads, scones and croissants, you may find it hard to leave.
Tucked away from the tourist-heavy streets, but close enough to explore the town by foot, The Charles Hotel has been a Niagara-on-the-Lake landmark since 1832. A reservation at the in-house Hobnob Restaurant is a must; choose the six-course tasting menu if you can. While rooms are modern, the beautifully preserved features such as the original chandeliers and ornate fireplace mantels add a touch of old-world elegance.
Set among 17 acres (7ha) of vineyards and manicured gardens, the Riverbend Inn feels as if it’s plucked from another era. A stately Georgian mansion, the rooms mirror its grand exterior with plenty of period features, crystal chandeliers and wood burning fireplaces. Days here should be spent tasting the Inn’s in-house wines before dining on the chef’s seasonal menu come nightfall.
While Niagara-on-the-Lake is filled with Victorian-era gems, those looking for something more modern should make a beeline for The Shaw Club Hotel. It’s designed to feel like a private club. Rooms are eclectic with stainless steel sinks, river rock fireplaces and the option to have pet fish in your room, if you like. Dinner at Zees Grill is a must before heading across the road to the Shaw Festival Theatre, one of the region’s main draws.
Equidistant from Niagara Falls and the fringing wine region, Hilton Garden Inn offers contemporary lodgings outside of the main town. Rooms are spacious and minimal in design but have usual mod-cons. Marvel at the area’s attractions, nip down to the indoor swimming pool or dine on a hearty breakfast at the Garden Grille & Bar.
Flanked by the leafy Rye Heritage Park, this aptly-named, luxury B&B has just three suites. When you’re not playing tennis on the court next door or lapping the outdoor pool, unwind in your room. Each one has a four-poster Stearns and Foster bed and a roll-top bathtub. There’s also an in-house spa.
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