Ontario is made up of a land area of 908,607.67 km squared, over 250,000 lakes, natural wonders, home to the nation’s capital and so much more.  No wonder it’s known to be Canada’s most popular province.  We might be biased, but we are sure you agree that there is so much to uncover/discover. Being under a global pandemic, it’s a golden opportunity to explore these hidden gems that are right here in our backyard.  Places that you may not have thought existed. These “hidden gems” are so close to your home you may have questioned why you’ve never been there before.  Discovering these hidden gems will not only expand your tourism knowledge about your home, but offer opportunities for your family and friends to build new traditions and experiences for years to come.   We are certain that these experiences will give you lots to talk about….sure you also can brag about this place you found to family and friends!

Join us as we start exploring all of these “hidden gem” resort properties over the next several weeks.  Get your bookmarks ready, you’re not going to want to miss these!

Canada’s largest Viceroy building, a perfect lakeside retreat set amidst towering pines, pink granite rock, rugged landscapes in a pristine natural habitat is where we begin our adventure in the beautiful Kawartha Lakes District. 

Buckhorn, Ontario is home to Westwind Inn, an all-inclusive vacation resort hotel that feels like a country inn. Nestled on 60 acres, this beautiful 34 bedroom rustic cottage, extensive perennial gardens and 1500 feet of scenic shoreline getaway is perfect for adults who need a break, need time to unwind and simply time to reconnect with each other.  Just a short 1.5 hour drive from Toronto, you wouldn’t believe this paradise is so close - a short drive, a world away!

The quiet beauty of this lakeside setting offers the perfect atmosphere where guests may enjoy nature, relaxation and comfortable accommodations.  Stroll through the gardens, hiking along canopied tree lined trails, admiring nature and wildlife or just relax and take in the tranquil view from the natural quarter mile of lakefront. 

Westwind Inn not only provides you with a perfect outdoor playground to enjoy but is a nature lover's paradise due to the resort's Kawartha location surrounded by thousands of acres of forest for visitors wishing to explore making it a perfect location for Forest Bathing!  If not sure what Forest Bathing is, a relaxation method that has been known to reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure, lower cortisol levels and enhanced immune function by simply exploring forest trails, breathing in the air, wander and wonder, touch, listen and heal both physically and spiritually.   Forests have a cheerful and tranquilizing influence which they exert upon the mind.  

Hike on a network of nature trails or explore the path less traveled. Along the way you may view local wildlife and sanctuaries that are home to many varied species. You will be enamored and fascinated by the abundance of indigenous plant and animal life seen and found in the Kawarthas.

Explore the serenity of the Kawartha Lakes in a Canoe or Kayak excursion.  With each stay, you have access to use canoes, kayaks, row boat, pedal boat, bikes, and nature trails.  If you are adventurous to explore the beauty of winter you can explore the trails on cross country skis or snowshoes, or lace up your skates and go skating on the lake under the stars. 

With Westwind Inn located in a wilderness setting, it’s just a stone’s throw from many quaint villages, shops, galleries and the new Peterborough Regional health Care Center. 

This family country inn has been in the Jensen family for three generations. They are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year.  Though they can’t celebrate it the way we typically could, they are inviting you to come explore and see for yourself.  They invested a $100,000 into enhancing the rooms to give it a fresh yet updated modern cottage feeling that will add to your cottage getaway experience. 

Other hidden gems exposed in the Kawartha’s region

Southview Cottages features waterfront rentals, RV park amenities and marina slips on Rice Lake. It’s the perfect place to escape to simpler times of picnics and relaxing by the water’s edge as you soak up the sun or fish from the pier or along the boardwalk. Other complimentary activities include paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and pedal boats.

Plug into nature and recharge as you experience cottage life at Lakefront Hideaway Resort on Shadow Lake, where 11 two- and three-bedroom cottages provide all the conveniences of home. Whether you like to curl up with a book by the beach, spend the day fishing or play a game of beach volleyball, there are endless opportunities to keep you as busy as you like.

The four-star, four-season Pine Vista Resort on Stoney Lake offers a choice of accommodation in completely self-contained and tastefully decorated traditional, deluxe or superior cottages and resort townhouses. On-site attractions include a multi sports pad, a heated outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a games room, a fitness room, nature trails, a boardwalk, spa facilities and a beach area. Later, relax with a glass of wine as you barbecue dinner on your own private deck.

More fun awaits you on Clear Lake at Clearview Cottage Resort where the Harrington family has treated guests to warm, personal service for 54 years. Choose from 22 cottages, equipped with an automatic propane furnace, a screened-in porch, a picnic table and a BBQ. Dock fishing, beach volleyball, a children’s playground and canoeing are just a few of the activities available here.

Join us next week as we expose more hidden gems in Ontario!