The Best Cottages to Rent and Places to Stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada

If proximity to the lake is what you’re after, Maple Tree Cottage has that covered – its shimmering waters are only a 12-minute walk away. Pop down for a morning walk; then, return to whip up your own brekkie; this homely self-catering stay has everything you need to do so. With three bedrooms, it’s a natural choice for families, but, given that the Shaw Festival Theatre is also close by, this great-value cottage is also a winner with culture-vulture couples.

With its floral wallpaper, wooden four-posters and time-warped wood burners, this wee cottage channels old-world vibes effortlessly. It feels appropriate given the location in the heart of Niagara: the historic old town is lined with Victorian architecture (the town was once a British military base). In the summertime, grill your own dinner on the Weber barbecue in the garden; then, walk over to nearby Queen Street to pick up an ice cream cone from popular Cows for dessert.

The Charles Hotel prides itself on its service, and, whether you’re after a recommendation for a great local winery or reservations for one of the most popular restaurants in Niagara, the staff will sort it. Built in 1832, the hotel has obvious historic bones – gilded frames and sculpted cornices – offset by funky contemporary art and quirky sculpture. Top tip: you simply must have at least one romantic candlelit dinner at the HobNob Dining Room, culminating in a decadent dessert and glass of local icewine.

The name is fitting: Harbour House Hotel is just steps from the swirling Niagara River, by the historic town’s lighthouse and sailing club. The maritime influences don’t stop there, as this attractive old building incorporates touches of the sea into its rooms; think model sailboats in bathrooms or fish-print armchairs in the lounge. Cozy up by the roaring fire with a good book, or, in the warmer months, sit out on the veranda with a cheese plate and glass of local pinot noir.

Explorers will appreciate the location of Ravenwood: it’s right on the main artery of Lakeshore Road, so you can get in and out of Niagara-on-the-Lake old town with ease. It means you can nip off to a winery or the falls as and when you please. Breakfasts are a fairly major affair, with fruit plates and compote-drizzled crepes; you can also bag afternoon charcuterie boards if you’re feeling peckish after a day’s exploring. Rooms, meanwhile, are simple and comfortable and sleep two to three people.

Grape-seed body wraps, vitamin C facials, deep tissue massages – at Oban Spa, the treatment list alone is enough to have you booking in for your next holiday. But it’s not only wellness lovers who come to this riverside pad in Niagara-on-the-Lake. With the town’s golf club right next door and an outdoor pool, it’s prime for active travelers, too. Foodies love the place as well – the restaurant has been serving Niagara diners since 1824, and its lobster spaghetti with fennel and tarragon is a must-try.

For a contemporary stay with plenty of room to spread out, your best bet is White Oaks Resort & Spa. Find it south of Niagara-on-the-Lake, near roaring Niagara Falls. It’s the business, with event spaces, a rambling spa and three great places to eat – the beef tenderloin at Liv Restaurant doesn’t disappoint; nor does the club sandwich at Play Bar + Grill. The bedrooms? Slick and modern, as you might expect, with neutral tones and handy workspaces. The top suites also wow, with crackling winter fires and four-posters – this is your ideal romantic setting, honeymooners (or other cozied-up couples).