Two-Night Stays at Ontario’s Most Powersports-Friendly Resorts

Fall is an incredible season to travel—the bugs are down, the families are in school, and the resorts are quiet. There’s no line up for activities, and the cool weather makes it comfortable to be outside all day long. The days are a bit shorter, but there’s the added bonus of curling up by the fire and getting snuggly in bed after some time outdoors. If you head out early enough you get the added bonus of seeing the fiery reds and golden yellows of the autumn leaves changing colour.

And that’s why we believe the best time of year to take a quick trip to a resort in Ontario is fall. Whether you’re a motorcycle rider, looking for the best backroads before settling down for a couple of nights, or someone who wants to experience the outdoor in a more direct way by taking an ATV trip, these resorts are all powersports-friendly and good for a Friday/Saturday stay during the fall season.

Lake Herridge Lodge & Resort
27-inch walleye caught and released at Lake Herridge Lodge & Resort

Right off the Temiskaming Loop, and located in one of Northern Ontario’s most revered natural playgrounds, is Lake Herridge Lodge & Resort. It’s right off Highway 11 so there isn’t much gravel to travel to get to your accommodations.

Pinestone Resorts and Conference Centre
Walking the grounds of the Pinestone Resort & Conference Centre

The Pinestone Resort has the distinction of offering guided ATV tours and rentals through Backcountry Tours. Some people tend to think that ATVing is just for adrenaline junkies, but tours can be customized to focus on getting out into nature, especially to places you’d otherwise never assume you could reach. Pinestone is also on the Ride The Highlands motorcycle touring routes.

Bayview Wildwood Resort
Off-road vehicles are a familiar sight at Bayview Wildwood Resort

An easy trip up from Toronto, Bayview Wildwood makes a perfect two-night getaway for city folk who also want to get out into nature. Paved driveways right to the front door mean that motorcycle riders can get there easily, and their collaboration with Redline Outdoors for ATV tours means that if you want to get deep into nature, all you have to do is make a phone call. And Bayview has some pretty amazing places to get cozy when night falls.

Sunset on Sparrow Lake as seen from Bayview Wildwood Resort

An easy trip up from Toronto, Bayview Wildwood makes a perfect two-night getaway for city folk who also want to get out into nature. Paved driveways right to the front door mean that motorcycle riders can get there easily, and their collaboration with Redline Outdoors for ATV tours means that if you want to get deep into nature, all you have to do is make a phone call. And Bayview has some pretty amazing places to get cozy when night falls.

Couples Resort

On part of the Ride The Edge Big Loop motorcycle tour, Couples Resort is nestled on the eastern side of Highway 60 just outside of Ontario’s beloved Algonquin Park. A great place to stop for a few days while doing a motorcycle trip, get out and stretch your legs on the famous Algonquin park trails or make use of the complimentary bicycle rentals and their four local trails.

The hiking trails around Couples Resort are spectacular in the fall season
Bonnie View Inn
The ideal place for two riders to lay their heads after a day of touring

Just outside of Haliburton, the Bonnie View Inn has one of the best patios in Ontario, they’re on more than one of the Ride the Highlands routes, and they offer a connection to ATV rentals through Backcountry Tours. The terrain is varied here, so it’s pretty easy to get two days of forest time in, or do a hummer tour one day, and an ATV tour the next.

Regardless of what you choose, these resorts all give you good reason to spend two nights there—and in all cases, you’ll find yourself wanting to stay longer. Well don’t worry! There’s always next summer!

Ontario Resorts That Offer a Dose of Adrenaline

Enjoy the ride from Bayview Wildwood. Photo: Martin Lortz

A resort vacation appeals to those who want it all in one place, no planning, mapping or scheduling required. For many people “it all” means relaxing, dining, comfortable accommodations, a beach or pool, and fitness centre. But others want adventure as part of their hard-earned vacation, too. They want relaxation, but also a thrill. Fortunately, Ontario resorts have much more to offer than might be obvious, Ontario resorts have much more to offer than might be obvious, ATVing and PWC adventures among them. Both are popular outdoor activities for the modern adventurer, tourists from within the province and country, and those from across the US border can join in at any experience level. Maybe you’re booking a vacation for yourself, your spouse, and your teenaged children and you all want a bit of adventure? Maybe some of your group is more interested in taking it easy, and some want the option of a rugged ATV trail, or some time speeding along the water on a choice personal watercraft? If your version of “having it all” means thrills and comfort, or the group you’re travelling in—be it a family vacation or company retreat—requires both to balance out everyone’s wants and needs, you’re in luck. Here is a list of some of the resorts in Ontario that offer an endorphin rush, and luxury. (Please note this is not a complete list. For all bookings and the most up-to-date information available, please contact the resorts and/or rental companies directly.)  

Ontario Resorts That Offer It All

Pinestone offers meeting space of the conventional sort, and for those more interested in meeting on the trails. Photo: Virgil Knapp

Pinestone Resort & Conference Centre — Haliburton, ON One of the province’s most premiere destinations, the Pinestone may be best known for it’s spa amenities and golf getaways. Offering natural beauty and truly upscale accommodations, it will please thrill-seekers to know there is also opportunity for more hardcore fun in the form of PWC and ATV. The well-reviewed Back Country Tours is the resort’s official provider for off-road ATVs, Sea Doo and Jet Ski rentals (and, in winter, snowmobiles as well). Back Country is an easy 15 minutes away, and right next to a trail. Guided ATV tours are on offer and a popular activity for family fun and corporate bookings and safety and riding lessons are available.   Deerhurst Resort – Huntsville, Ontario Deerhurst is a high-end option for accommodations in Muskoka—so much so that the resort has played host to world leaders. On-site you’ll find golf and a spa, as well as numerous other seasonal activities for families or adults. Among them are fishing charters, an antique boat tour, an inflatable waterpark, tennis, paddleboarding, treetop trekking, indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Personal watercraft rentals are available on site. They’re booked through the resort’s activities desk and run through the ski school company Summer Water Sports (SWS). The company offers one, three and six-hour rentals. Guests can also take part in a Yamaha riding adventure, with the use of brand new 2016 Yamaha ATVs and Viking side-by-sides. The experience includes rider training and a guided tour; mini dirt bikes and youth ATV options are also available.   Ogopogo Resort on Mountain Lake – Minden, Ontario Enjoy the natural beauty of the Haliburton Highlands. This family-friendly resort offers screened lakeside dining in their gazebo, evening campfires and swim rafts off their dock. Summer at Ogopogo includes a heated pool, fishing, a sand beach, canoes, kayaks and paddleboats. Plus, there are five golf courses within a 15-minute drive. Ogopogo is the first on their lake to offer Sea Doo Spark rentals—guests can enjoy these 3-person PWCs, as well as single-person tubes and water skis for towing. Set on Mountain Lake in the Haliburton Highlands, Ogopogo Resort partners with Back Country ATV Tours to offer discounted rates on your accommodations when you book an ATV tour or rental. 

Family-friendly PWC fun awaits at Ontario resorts.

Pinestone Resort & Conference Centre — Haliburton, ON One of the province’s most premiere destinations, the Pinestone may be best known for it’s spa amenities and golf getaways. Offering natural beauty and truly upscale accommodations, it will please thrill-seekers to know there is also opportunity for more hardcore fun in the form of PWC and ATV. The well-reviewed Back Country Tours is the resort’s official provider for off-road ATVs, Sea Doo and Jet Ski rentals (and, in winter, snowmobiles as well). Back Country is an easy 15 minutes away, and right next to a trail. Guided ATV tours are on offer and a popular activity for family fun and corporate bookings and safety and riding lessons are available.   Deerhurst Resort – Huntsville, Ontario Deerhurst is a high-end option for accommodations in Muskoka—so much so that the resort has played host to world leaders. On-site you’ll find golf and a spa, as well as numerous other seasonal activities for families or adults. Among them are fishing charters, an antique boat tour, an inflatable waterpark, tennis, paddleboarding, treetop trekking, indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Personal watercraft rentals are available on site. They’re booked through the resort’s activities desk and run through the ski school company Summer Water Sports (SWS). The company offers one, three and six-hour rentals. Guests can also take part in a Yamaha riding adventure, with the use of brand new 2016 Yamaha ATVs and Viking side-by-sides. The experience includes rider training and a guided tour; mini dirt bikes and youth ATV options are also available.   Ogopogo Resort on Mountain Lake – Minden, Ontario Enjoy the natural beauty of the Haliburton Highlands. This family-friendly resort offers screened lakeside dining in their gazebo, evening campfires and swim rafts off their dock. Summer at Ogopogo includes a heated pool, fishing, a sand beach, canoes, kayaks and paddleboats. Plus, there are five golf courses within a 15-minute drive. Ogopogo is the first on their lake to offer Sea Doo Spark rentals—guests can enjoy these 3-person PWCs, as well as single-person tubes and water skis for towing. Set on Mountain Lake in the Haliburton Highlands, Ogopogo Resort partners with Back Country ATV Tours to offer discounted rates on your accommodations when you book an ATV tour or rental. 

Ontario Resorts Offering Personal Watercraft (PWC) Rentals

Viamede Resort – Woodview, Ontario Set on Stoney Lake in the Kawarthas, the Viamede makes it’s fun-friendliness evident from the get-go, with boat-up dining options and trailer parking. With 2,000 feet of shoreline, this full-service conference centre and resort has lots of space and lots to offer any type of traveller staying in their resort rooms or cottages. Mountain-biking, a water trampoline, disc-golf (Frisbee golf, essentially, if the term is new to you) and an on-site farm that grows food for the resort kitchens all set this spot apart. While Viamede doesn’t offer motorized rentals, guests can rent from a third party and have PWCs delivered; often opting for Town & Country Marine in Lakefield.   Severn Lodge – Port Severn, Ontario This premier lakeside resort offers all-inclusive vacations in the Muskoka and Georgian Bay Lake district, about three hours from the Detroit border and only 90 minutes from Toronto. Resort rooms or cottages are available, as are family and corporate packages. Distinguished Executive Chef Hubert Obermeier leaves an impression on resort guests with outstanding fare offered waterfront, often including local specials. Through the summer, supervised activities for children create the right balance between family, couple and solo time. Jet-ski rentals are available on-site for an additional charge.   The Rosseau: A JW Marriott Resort & Spa – Minett, Ontario A gem in the Muskoka area, The Rosseau offers rooms with full-kitchens, excellent fine and casual dining—with craft beers, an extensive wine selection and local “farm-to-fork” options—and a full-service luxury spa, with men’s and women’s facilities, as well as packages catering to couples. There’s a stone fireplace in every room of this, golf courses nearby, and a 24-hour fitness centre. Spend time on the exclusive beach, newspaper, enjoy a horse and carriage ride or Segway tour. And when it’s time for an adrenaline boost, 2-person jet ski rentals are available for one or three hour bookings, with fuel included in rental rates.   Bayview Wildwood Resort – Severn Bridge, ON Choose between suites, resort rooms or waterfront cottages at this stunning resort on Sparrow Lake. Upscale dining and suburb views make this a popular wedding spot for those looking for a rustic and elegant event. Whether it’s a gold trip, meeting destination or family vacation, a trip to Bayview Wildwood promises to be memorable. Though the resort no longer offers ATV rentals, thrill-seekers won’t be left in the dust, as jet ski rentals are made available through Summer Water Sports.   Living Water Resort – Collingwood, ON The Living Water Resort has lots to offer: golfing, spa treatments, and exclusive events amongst them. Theirs is the only waterfront restaurant in the area, and specializes in sustainable seafood. The Marina is one of the amenity landmarks at the resort, allowing you to explore all that Georgian Bay has to offer. Living Water Resort partners with Xtreme Adventures, offered exclusively at this resort in Collingwood, offering many ways to get out on the water: waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, boat tours, and jet ski rentals. To rent jet skis, drivers must be at least 16-years-old; a license is required.

Ontario resorts offering ATV rentals:

ATV parking at Bayview Wildwood. Photo: Martin Lortz

Couples Resort – Algonquin Park, ON Spend a kid-free weekend at this 5-star luxury couples resort in the heart of Algonquin Park. First-class five-course meals, and rooms equipped with Keurig coffee makers, private outdoor hot tubs and wood-burning fireplaces are only some of the perks of this resort. While the resort has stopped offering private ATV rentals onsite, they remain ATV-friendly and suggest Back Country Tours or Highland Wilderness Tours for rentals during your stay.   Lake Herridge Lodge & Resort – Temagami, ON With a tagline like “where adventure meets relaxation,” you know the people operating this resort understand what you’re looking for. Stunning rock formations, vast forests, and plenty of wildlife adorn the area. Fish on the remote lake, hunt game, go out on a kayak or chow down on a locally-sourced meal or baked-from-scratch dessert. When you’re ready for the mud, there are hundreds of miles of trails to explore—with rough terrain for the more experienced rider, or more tame trails for those just starting out. Bring your own gear and go out with a guide or on your own.   Beauview Cottage Resort – Huntsville, ON This down-to-earth lakeside resort will appeal to those looking for a more laid-back vibe. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a romantic weekend away or a longer family trip. Starting May 1st each year you can ride ATVs from the resort to the Lake of Bays trails, only five minutes away—look out for moose as you ride!   Bonnie View Inn – Haliburton, ON This family-owned and operated resort is situated on a luxurious waterfront with suites, chalets and cottages available. Only two hours from Toronto, you’ll be in awe of your surroundings—the unique countryside offers the best in “big resort” activities and down-to-earth ambience. Expand on your standard resort package at Bonnie View by booking adding on a package from Ski Mazing Watersports, which offers watersports, parasailing, flyboard and jetovator options. ATV and Hummer excursions can be booked through Back Country, and with owners who ride you know you’ll get good advice about local trails.   Cedar Grove Family Resort – Tobermory, ON A family resort with a sense of serenity and adventure! These cottage rentals offer a home away from home; each offer an equipped kitchen and backyard propane BBQ. Boat rentals are available onsite—canoes, solo and tandem kayaks, paddle boats, and motorized fishing boats. In town, you’ll find many quality pubs and restaurants; nearby are unique attractions including The Grotto and Flowerpot Island, and glass bottom boat tours that will take you there. Book your ATV or jet ski rental with Back Country Tours (first) and a discount will be applied to your resort booking.   Horseshoe Resort — Barrie, ON With treetop trekking, Segway tours, rock climbing, zip-lining, cross-country and downhill bike trails and a water ramp that gives high-performance freestyle skier and snowboarders a training facility during the off-season, you’d think you were signing up for an adventure camp, rather than a luxury resort. A man-made lake with wakeboard cable park, upgraded golf facilities, and beach volleyball are all new offerings at the much-loved Ontario staple. Join a Yamaha adventure, with two-hour and half-day options available. Or, opt for motorcycle training and/or riding for two hours, half or full-days (dual-sport options are available for full-days). The website boasts natural trails through rugged forest and a wide range of terrain—“hills and valleys, snow peaks and grassy meadows, mud and gravel pits and much more!” Anyone over the age of six who can ride a bicycle very well is welcome.

Horseshoe Resort is popular with many types of thrill-seekers, motorcyclists included. Photo: Virgil Knapp

Motorcycle-Friendly Resorts of Ontario

You’re planning a motorcycle tour in Ontario and there’s lots in store: diverse scenery from region to region, sprawling terrain and some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll see. The days will be long, in the best of ways, and when you’re done riding for the day, you’ll want to relax. There’s no reason not to do that in a clean, comfortable, way. One that will have you well-fed and well rested for the days ahead. Whether it’s your first tour or your thirtieth, you can rest assured that there’s an Ontario resort (or a few of them) that’ll suit your motorcycling—and other—needs. The best of both worlds is possible with rugged days out on the road, delicious meals and high-quality accommodations. Here are some recommendations.

FOR RIDING THE HIGHLANDS LOOP

The Highlands Loop is a must-ride; so much so that you’ll hear it called “the ultimate motorcycle playground.” You’ll want to budget three days for this tour, as there are many stops to make along the way as you travel through small towns; there’s Algonquin and Bon Echo parks, caves, museums and a couple of breweries. From artisan bread at The River Bakery and Patio in Tamworth, to locally roasted coffee or homemade gelato at The Little Coffee Shop & The Scoop in Cobden, to traditional taverns and chip trucks (Wilno’s, Charlie D.’s) there’s something for all, no matter what your tastes are. Resorts along the route include:

Calabogie Peaks Resort – Calabogie, ON  Ride the uncrowded Ottawa Valley and stop—in a motorcycle-reserved parking spot—at this country boutique hotel. A staging area for the late-summer Calabogie Boogie Trail Ride, this resort offers some well-deserved comfort after a long ride, including a health club, hot tub and swimming pool. Nearby riding is full of elevation changes and S-turns, winding you through the stunning scenery.

Sir Sam’s Inn & WaterSpa – Eagle Lake, ON  This inn comes complete with an on-site spa, the perfect antidote for your ride. Top-quality food, tennis courts, a huge hot tub, and nightly bonfires. The owner himself rides, so won’t be thrown by the state you might arrive in (or your gear), and has a particular interest in making upscale accommodations available to those taking in the area on two wheels. 

Blue Spruce Resort – Dwight, ON  Let the winding roads lead you to the Blue Spruce Resort, a tasteful option in Muskoka, with cottage and motel options available. Blue Spruce is located on Oxtongue Lake—offering swimming, boating and calming views. Laundry facilities are available, so you can plan to pack less, and full-housekeeping services are included.  

Spectacle Lake Lodge – Barry’s Bay, ON Tour the Madawaska Valley and make the rustic Spectacle Lake Lodge your short-term home with a stay in the lodge or cottages. Spectacle Lake welcomes sledders and ATVers in the winter, and motorcycle riders in the summer, ensuring a good night’s sleep and full belly is part of your trip. The Friday night buffet is not to be missed—plan your travel dates accordingly.

Pinestone Resort & Conference Centre – Haliburton, ON  A short drive from the more active areas of Haliburton, this golf and spa resort is a spot of bliss in the wilderness. The resort features high-end rooms, with a Jacuzzi option, and amenities such as pools, a fitness centre and a business centre. After a long day on the road, you deserve luxury like this.

Heather Lodge – Minden, ON  This motorcycle-friendly lodge has been in business since 1942 (with many upgrades made over the years!) is a charming and elegant family-run business, dedicated to offering the comforts of home while you’re on the road. Contemporary dining by the Twelve Mile Lake includes a local wine list, and top-notch cuisine. With only 24 guests at any given time—when fully booked—you can count on a peaceful stay.

Port Cunnington Lodge and Resort – Dwight, ON  First off, there’s a private parking lot. Motorcycle washing facilities are available upon request, and you’re right by the Lake of Bays in Muskoka and many scenic roads en route. Smaller and larger accomodations are available, depending on the size of your group. To top it all off, both managers are motorcycle enthusiasts and will be able to share their knowledge of the area on two wheels.

View of the 1000 Islands area from the air.

FOR RIDING THE GEORGIAN BAY COASTAL ROUTE

Touted as “the road less travelled,” this route around Georgian Bay offers welcoming locals, clear blue waters, and a high likelihood of meeting other friendly riders at your various stops. Scenic and unique, with gift shops boasting local crafts and delicious cuisine—take your pick of the many pubs, grills, fine dining and, of course, fish ‘n’ chips spots. Resorts along or near to this route include: Christie’s Mill Inn & Spa – Port Severn, ON  Three meals a day surrounded by beautiful woods in a waterfront dining room, the Avalon Spa—a relaxation-focussed facility with registered massage therapists appointments available, and clean guest suites with HD TVs and wifi are only a few of the reasons to stay at this country inn. Enjoy a ride through Muskoka, and start and end your days with the conveniences of home also available to you.  

‘Blue Mountain — The Blue Mountains, ON  Just outside of Collingwood, this mountain village resort is known primarily as a ski resort. But, its summer offerings are not to be missed, especially if you’re out riding in the Georgian Bay area. Blue Mountain offers the best of all worlds: proximity to nature and great riding, nightlife and events, casual and fine dining and shops all within the resort area. Beaches, caving, wine-tasting—it’s easy to turn your motorcycle trip into a multi-activity trip here.

Killarney Lodge – Algonquin Park, ON  On the north shore of Georgian Bay, here’s a spot where moose-sightings are as much a given as fine country dining. Waterfront cabins situated within Algonquin Park, on the Lake of Two Rivers, offer tranquility at the end of the day, but you’re still close to the road for when it’s time to head out again.  

Killarney Mountain Lodge – Killarney, ON  This wilderness resort offers it all: fishing, dining, a pool and sauna, even boat and sailing cruises are offered. Stay in a cabin, lodge or chalet as part of what the resort calls “your wilderness therapy.” Having gone through a huge revitalization only a couple summers ago, this is a one-of-a-kind accommodation option after days spent riding by pristine blue waters and sloping red granite rocks.  

Sportsman’s Inn – Killarney, ON  Ride Highway 637, or whichever way you arrive, to Killarney and stop at Sportsman’s Inn for space, comfort and gorgeous views of the North Channel. The La Cloche Mountains and pink granite rock are some of the scenic highlights, making the sometimes-bumpy roads well worthwhile. Fine dining, a dockside patio (with live entertainment on Saturday nights) and a pub option should keep you fueled and satisfied. It’s entirely appropriate to have high expectations here.

MORE MOTORCYCLE-FRIENDLY RESORTS 

 

If you’re travelling to or within Ontario for good riding, there are many routes you might find yourself taking. There’s good riding throughout the province, and many upscale places to stay that are close to good riding. Here are some of our favourites:

Elk Lake Eco Centre – Elk Lake, ON  This spot is a premiere, one-of-a-kind facility. The Boreal Forest backdrop is not surprisingly a pick for many weddings and high-end retreats. Local food is served on-site and a chalet option is also possible. This is a good choice to accompany the The Temiskaming Loop Tour.

Golden Beach Resort – Roseneath, ON  This gated, family-oriented resort on Rice Lake in Northumberland County comes up in many an online recommendation for motorcycle-friendly resorts. Covered parking comes along with your stay, whether that’s in a condo or campsite. There’s a licensed restaurant on-site, sports facilities, and an in-ground swimming pool and hot tub to take advantage of.

Saucy Willow Inn – Coboconk, ON  A great choice for the full bike season, this spot offers cottages and a B&B and off-road parking. A fine place to rest after riding through Kawartha Lakes or Halliburton Highlands.

Bayview Wildwood Resort – Severn Bridge, ON This resort has graced the village of Port Stanton for over 100 years. The upscale casual dining room overlooks Sparrow Lake, and suites, resort rooms and waterfront cottages are available options for your stay. Music festivals, farmer’s markets, concerts and sports events are all area staples—don’t miss out on a fishing excursion during your stay. Our pick for when riding the Big Loop/Explorer’s Edge.