Ontario Winter Wonderland

Not all winter holidays have to involve hurtling down a mountainside on a pair of skis or a snowboard. Sometimes it’s ok just to wander in the snow, gaze at a frozen lake or cosy up in front of a log fire. Our Ontario winter wonderland lets you do just that – and if you want the big city sights and lights on a day or two then it’s not too far away.

Elmhirst’s Resort

Imagine a place where all you can hear is the sound of the birds when you wake in the morning, where all you see when you pull back the curtains is the wide expanse of a tranquil lake… welcome to Elmhirst’s Resort. Set on the peaceful shore of Rice Lake in the Ontario heartland, this family owned resort has a history going back five generations. Country-style cottages set amongst trees, facing the lake, boast a wood burning fireplace, outdoor deck and BBQ. Surrounded by gardens, the resort boasts the ideal setting for enjoying nature on the waterfront. In the evening relax in the pub over a light meal and drink or try the renowned cuisine in Hearthside with its lake views. Whichever you choose, you can be sure the food will be superb and has come from the Elmhirst’s farm, or their close neighbours wherever possible. Elmhirst’s is located nearby the town of Keene, a 90 minute drive from Toronto.

In an Ontario winter the lake can freeze over, so ice skating is a possibility, and the trails are covered in pristine snow, making winter walks that extra bit special. 

Facilities: Hearthside dining room, Blue Yonder pub, indoor swimming pool, sauna, mountain bikes & helmets (for trails on resort, 1st hour is free), horseback riding lessons and trail rides*, horse drawn wagon ride and pony rides*, guided ATV safaris*, coin laundry, FREE parking. “Experience Programme” of FREE on-site guided experiences, (*local charge and weather dependent) 

Cottages: 30 1, 2 or 3 bedroom cottages feature wood-burning fireplace, living area, TV, DVD, fully equipped kitchen, CD player, phone, FREE Wi-Fi, outdoor deck with barbecue, lake view.