The Weekend Getaway

The preparation for a wedding can add its toll on even the most organized of bridal couples. Combined with life’s everyday challenges, it is no wonder many couples end up disconnected and at their wits end before the big day.

Smart fellows know that the right way to invigorate and rejuvenate their relationship is with a one-on-one weekend getaway. There are a variety of venues that provide different choices for couples to enjoy.

Niagara-on-the Lake
The Niagara Peninsula is one of the best spots in Ontario for a romantic weekend getaway. Home to wineries and wine tasting, you can cycle the Niagara Wine Route or you can join one of the guided tours to view the vineyards. In the small town, you can find an abundance of antiques, shops and teahouses to visit or for just a short walk away, you can stroll along the lakefront and watch the sailboats while you have a picnic lunch.

Niagara-On-The-Lake is known for its fine dining with some of the finest chefs in the country. For those who enjoy the theatre the Shaw festival is in walking distance from any restaurant in town.

For those who prefer tranquility, envelope yourself in luxury and pure relaxation at Secret Garden Spa with a couples spa. Escape to a private couple\'s suite for a relaxing 55-minute Swedish massage. An Aroma Essence facial for two leaves you both glowing, and grinning.

Book your romantic get away at one of the Niagara’s five star Vintage Hotels (Prince of Wales, Pillar and Post or Queen\'s Landing) located in the heart of Canada’s wine country.

Ottawa
Try something that is full of fun and adventure, a holiday that will invigorate and rejuvenate you and your relationship.

Spa Nordik, a professional team of holistic health and bodywork practitioners, offer you the chance to escape for a weekend break of luxury treats and pampering.  Located in the heart of nature, at the entrance of Gatineau Park, Le Nordik is a relaxation Spa that features Scandinavian baths in a unique setting.

Take the time to unwind for a few hours, relax and reenergize by enjoying their many services on site: outdoor hot tub, Finnish sauna, steam bath, Nordic waterfall, cold and temperate baths, along with Swedish, Californian and hot stone massage therapy to revitalize the senses.

After your spa you can take a stroll through Gatineau Park or rent bikes and go for a lovely ride along the canal. For the adventurous at heart rent a kayak and explore the Rideau canal or Dow Lake. Visit the Parliament Buildings or take in a performance at the National Arts Centre.

Algonquin Park
Just over three hours northeast of Toronto, you will find Bear Trail Couples Resort. Nestled in the woods of a very private and secluded spot on the shores of Galeairy Lake and the Madawaska River right next to Algonquin Park. This is a couple’s only resort and is great for a romantic getaway.

Here you can relax and get the ultimate luxury treatment you have been waiting for, with private in-suite spa treatments. Each five star suite comes with a private Jacuzzi in front of a wood burning fireplace where you can enjoy champagne and bubbles.

For those who enjoy nature, take a walk and view the wildlife or go for a hike in the wilderness. The resort has ten saunas, 27 walk-in steam rooms, 21 walk-in euro-showers, 23 outdoor hot tubs and a gorgeous pool.

Elora
Elora is an hour and a half northwest of Toronto, and just half an hour north of Guelph. The quaint village of Elora is home to scores of artisan - produced artwork, specialty foods from local St. Jacobs’s farmers and several local events such as the Fergus Highland Games, The Elora Music Festival and the Drayton Theatre Festival.

Nestled along the Grand River is the Elora Mill Inn, one of the most photographed properties in the province. The dramatic Elora Mill Inn setting, is created by massive limestone walls that rise from the rocky Elora Gorge. The thirty room inn features a romantic package that includes truffles and sparkling wine waiting for you when you arrive. With fine dining in the H20 restaurant and chocolate covered strawberries at turndown service, after your carriage ride around town - what more could you want for your special someone?

During the day there are trails for hiking and cross country skiing, fly-fishing, kayaking, golfing and cycling for you to take advantage of, which can be arranged by the helpful staff at the inn.

For the adventurous, Hot Air Balloon rides are available during the summer months half an hour before sunrise in the town of Elora. The sunrise flight, allows you to gain the perspective of the surrounding country and catch the deer grazing in the early morning as the sun rises; for the ultimate romantic experience!