10 of the best bed and breakfasts in Ontario
A great Bed and Breakfast (B&B) can be the difference between a mediocre vacation and an unbelievable getaway. The best ones will offer luxurious lodging and warm hospitality in a picturesque place, setting the optimal scene for some good R&R. Even if you're just going to a neighbouring town for a night, a top-notch B&B can turn that trip into something unforgettable.
Ontario has no shortage of options when it comes to B&Bs. The province boasts a mixture of idyllic small-town locations and equally appealing urban spots. It's tough among such a diverse selection to whittle them down to 'top 10' list, but these are undoubtedly 10 of the best Bed and Breakfasts in Ontario (if you don't believe us, check out their flawless 5.0 Trip Advisor ratings).
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1) The Moose, Dorset
The Moose blends a pastoral exterior with modern rooms and amenities to provide the perfect place to stay at in one of Muskoka's most under-the-radar stunning locations. Situated smack in the middle between Bracebridge, Haliburton, Huntsville, and Algonquin Park, Dorset is a quaint gem of a town that is centred around two separate sides of a narrow bridge crossing over the bay. It is home to a handful of nice restaurants, a heritage museum, and Robinson's General Store (voted Canada's Best Country Store). Guests at The Moose will receive gourmet breakfasts every day and get to lounge in a spacious backyard adorned with comfortable lawn furniture and a gazebo. Those staying in the Birch Suite will also have hot tub access.
Rates: $135-$225 per night.
2) Serenity Ranch, Ancaster
You'll find Serenity Ranch in Ancaster, a suburb that's just a short drive from both the up-and-coming city of Hamilton and the waterfall-laden Dundas hiking trails that make for some of the most exquisite sights in Ontario. As its name implies, Serenity Ranch is surrounded by farmland and serves as a peaceful oasis that has been landscaped with a pond, veranda, and outdoor wood burning fireplaces. The hosts serve locally sourced breakfasts every morning, and with five suites available, guests are likely to have others on hand to chat with as they eat, should they desire it.
Rates: $159-$189 per night.
3) Shambhala, Buckhorn
All the feedback for Shambhala Bed and Breakfast indicates that it is a haven of calmness and warmth. Phrases like "a place of spiritual bliss" and "an abundance of peace & tranquility" especially stand out. Located near Bobcaygeon in the Kawartha Lakes region, Shambhala will really appeal to visitors who enjoy being in natural settings and exploring a well-maintained grounds. It is also known for its tea time, where guests can gather with the owners for homemade snacks and meaningful conversation.
Rates: Appr. $140 per night.
4) By The Park, Toronto
Staying in Toronto doesn't have to mean being overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of Canada's largest city. Booking at one of By The Park's two High Park locations puts you steps from one of Toronto's prettiest green spaces and a short walk from the relaxed Bloor West Village—not to mention minutes from Keele subway station, which easily connects guests to the rest of the vast metropolis. At BTP you'll get first-class accommodation and be staying somewhere that promotes environmentally conscious policies. Remember to check out some under-the-radar stops when you visit.
Rates: Appr. $97 per night.
5) Log Cabin Inn, Kenora
If, for whatever reason (perhaps traveling to/from Manitoba), you find yourself on the Western outskirts of Ontario, the Log Cabin Inn would be a fantastic B&B spot to check out. This modernized log cabin is right on the edge of Kenora, which self-identifies as "North America's Premier Boating Destination." The rustic lodging comes with easy access to the lake, and guests can go for a swim or paddle in the summer, and a skiing or snowmobiling jaunt in the winter. What makes LCI truly unique though, is the opportunity to pick the brains of hosts Tim and Deanna Treadway, who lived like pioneers for a year in the Manitoba prairies and were subjects of a History Channel/National Geographic feature.
Rates: $120-$125 per night.
6) Auberge King Edward, Ottawa
This restored Victorian-era home is tucked right into downtown Ottawa, easily accessible to all of the central attractions in the nation's capital. For an urban B&B there is a refreshingly strong focus on focus on plant life, with lots of greenery placed throughout the house and a well-maintained garden in the front and back. AKE's host, Richard, is known for being extremely knowledgable both about the history of the house, and on how to spend time in the city. There are three rooms to choose from and two of them have balconies/decks that you can unwind on. Also, parking is included, which is a major plus in the downtown core!
Rates: $110-$140 per night.
7) The Purple Frog, Lion's Head
The Purple Frog is your luxurious, country-esque gateway to the Bruce Peninsula. Its (ironically) blue exterior gives it an iconic feel, as does the property's goregous pond. You can laze away a sunny afternoon on the comfy hammock out back and then get a roaring fire going when night starts setting in—that is, if you aren't busy exploring the renowned sights at nearby Tobermory and across the Georgian Bay coast. For a little bit extra, Merv and Kathy will even put together a lunch for you to bring along on the road and a gourmet dinner to have upon re-arrival.
Rates: $127-$177 per night.
8) Birmingham Manor, Stratford
Right in the heart of premium theatre country, Birmingham Manor is exactly what you'd expect from a top-notch B&B in such an area. It was built back in the day for personal use by Colonel John Lant Youngs, who was a master wood carver and contractor, and his expertise shows. Other highlights of the property include its wrap-around veranda, meticulously maintained gardens, and inviting parlour space. With a wide array of sweet breakfast options, waking up at Birmingham Manor is one of the best ways to start a day in Stratford.
Rates: $165-$195 per night.
9) The Miller's House, Prince Edward County
This bright, pet-friendly B&B in Prince Edward County is a perfect place to set up camp as you experience everything the lovely area has to offer. Bob, the host at TMH, goes the extra mile to fix up guests with things they might need for their days, such as maps, passes to nearby Sandbanks Provincial Park, towels, beach chairs, etc. His residence is a Century Home, and it sits just beside a calming creek. Guests can choose between three renovated rooms that still maintain a distinct country charm.
Rates: $225-$400 per night.
10) Bee 'n Bee, Grand Bend
Bee 'n Bee B&B is the place to, well, be, when you're in Grand Bend. In the bustling southwestern Ontario tourist-magnet that is Grand Bend, BNB is a nice off-the-beaten-path alternative that gets you within a short drive of the beach and main strip, but also gives you the comfort of a more private, relaxed beach area. Another bonus is the proximity of Pinery Provincial Park, a readymade nature retreat. Back at BNB, visitors also get to unwind in the owners' pool or hot tub and rooftop patio area.
Rates: $125-$150 per night.