Two empty beds in a charming hotel room

Thornbury | Penny’s Motel

Instagrammable accommodations in Ontario

Two empty beds in a charming hotel room

Thornbury | Penny’s Motel

Ontario is home to a wide variety of unique places to stay that push the boundaries of design, style and instagrammable charm. They range from bold and artsy urban hotels to cozy nature retreats and luxury glamping sites amid the stunning backdrop of Ontario’s iconic landscapes.

Plan a romantic retreat, a girls’ getaway or even a destination wedding at these insta-worthy accommodations.

Innovative and luxurious hotels in Toronto

Elevate your getaway with accommodations that celebrate art, innovation, sustainability and the height of style in Canada’s largest and most dynamic city.

Getting here: Upon arriving at Toronto Pearson International Airport, taxis, limos and car rentals are available. Or board UP Express, a convenient train service that will whisk you directly downtown in just 25 minutes.

An empty bar that showcases city views
Writers Room Lounge | Park Hyatt Toronto

Park Hyatt Toronto

Located in Toronto’s Yorkville neighbourhood, the Park Hyatt is the ultimate lavish getaway.

Utmost attention to detail is evident throughout the property, from the stylish lobby and luxury suites all the way up to the 17th floor Writers Room rooftop lounge and bar. Paying homage to literary legends and former patrons like Margaret Atwood and Mordecai Richler, rich wood panelling, leather armchairs, and mood lightening create a warm, intimate ambiance, while the cityscape view from the terrace is stunning.

Connect @parkhyattto
Location: 4 Avenue Road, Toronto

Hotel X

Hotel X provides a resort-style experience in the heart of the city.

Head to the top patio at Valerie Restaurant for cocktails, brunch and great views of Toronto’s skyline or lounge poolside with even more impressive views.

Location: 111 Princes' Boulevard, Toronto

The Drake Hotel

Channelling the artsy and edgy spirit of Toronto’s colourful Queen Street West neighbourhood, the Drake Hotel is a hub for contemporary art, culture, cuisine and entertainment.

In addition to uniquely designed guest rooms in the classic and modern wing of the hotel, enjoy finely crafted food and drink, thought-provoking art exhibits and vibrant live music and nightlife.

Connect @thedrakehotel
Location: 1150 Queen Street West, Toronto

1 Hotel Toronto

1 Hotel Toronto is a luxury, eco-chic hotel in the heart of Toronto’s King West Village.

With its calm, nature-inspired ambiance, the property is dedicated to sustainability and wellness. Spa-like suites are infused with natural elements and the hotel's restaurant, 1 Kitchen has a zero-waste policy. And photo ops abound from the light and plant-filled lobby to the stunning city views from Harriet's Rooftop restaurant.

Connect @1hotel.toronto
Location: 550 Wellington Street West, Toronto

St. Regis Toronto

Experience five-star luxury with butler service, elegant suites, onsite spa and exceptional dining at LOUIX LOUIS Grand Bar and Restaurant.

Of note is the stunning two-story bar inspired by the iconic cocktail parlours of New York and Paris that feature over 500 spirits. You’ll also want to experience the instagrammable King's Cake, a thirteen-layer chocolate delight and the champagne sabering ritual in Astor Lounge.

Connect @stregistoronto
Location: 325 Bay Street, Toronto

Shangri-La Toronto

This fashionable, Asian-inspired oasis in downtown Toronto features one of the city’s finest spas, a swanky lounge and a five million dollar sculpture called “Rising” in front of the property by Zhang Huan, an influential Chinese contemporary artist.

Connect @shangrilahotels
Location: 188 University Avenue, Toronto

W Toronto

A recent addition to the Toronto Yorkville neighbourhood, W Toronto embraces the electric energy of Toronto’s arts, cultural and music scene.

Enjoy Toronto inspired menus, bold artwork, mixology classes and Canada’s first W sound suite.

Connect @marriottbonvoy
Location: 90 Bloor Street East, Toronto

Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

Toronto’s sophisticated Four Seasons is the flagship property for the brand with luxurious features, such as floor-to-ceiling windows in its serene suites, a pool, spa and steam room and the celebrated Café Boulud serving authentic French cuisine.

Connect @fourseasons
Location: 60 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto

Ottawa and Kingston’s hip and historic hotels

Experience the perfect blend of historic charm and modern innovation in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city or Kingston, Ontario’s oldest city and Canada’s first capital.

Getting here: Ottawa’s International Airport is about a 25 minute drive from downtown and its train station is even closer to the city centre.

Getting here: Kingston is located 200 kilometres south of Ottawa, approximately a two hour drive or VIA rail train trip. From Toronto, Kingston is approximately a three hour journey east by car or train.

Views of a hotel lobby from above
Frontenac Club | Visit Kingston

Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market

In the heart of Ottawa’s most renowned dining and shopping district, the Andaz is a sleek, contemporary, Canadian-designed hotel.

In addition to being steps away from many of the top attractions in Canada’s capital, it also boasts the highest rooftop lounge in the capital with fantastic cityscape views.

Connect @andazottawa
Location: 325 Dalhousie Street, Ottawa

Fairmont Château Laurier

Located less than a kilometre from Parliament Hill, this historic limestone castle overlooking the Rideau is a defining landmark in Ottawa and the epitome of architectural grandeur.

Photo-worthy moments include the signature Afternoon Tea experience in Zoe’s Lounge and the sophisticated cocktails in the Reading Lounge.

Connect @fairmontlaurier
Location: 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa

The Smith Hotel

Built in the 19th century, this former church has been converted into a stylish boutique hotel outfitted with modern amenities such as a kitchenette and a private luxurious bathroom.

Loft suites feature limestone and brick walls, high ceilings and an open-concept design that allows for natural light and a spacious ambiance.

Connect @thesmithkingston
Location: 221 Queen Street, Kingston

The exterior of the Rosemount Inn framed by trees
Kingston | The Rosemount Inn

The Rosemount Inn

A gorgeous heritage Victorian mansion has been thoughtfully transformed into an elegant accommodation that reflects the historic character of the city.

Rich colours, stylish furnishing and warm hospitality, plus features like balconies and fireplaces, make this spot one you’ll want to return to.

Connect @therosemountinn
Location: 46 Sydenham Street, Kingston

Frontenac Club

What was once a bank, this limestone landmark property is now a tasteful boutique hotel that provides all the modern comforts, yet retains heritage elements, including a secret bank vault.

Snap pics of handcrafted cocktails at the Bank Gastrobar and views of downtown Kingston from the rooftop.

Connect @frontenacclub
Location: 225 King Street East, Kingston

Find more photogenic historic hotels in Ontario.

Trendy Prince Edward County hotspots

Deep rural roots, a celebrated culinary and wine industry and an active arts scene has put “The County” on the map for travellers looking for an elevated getaway.

Getting here: Prince Edward County is an idyllic lakeside destination located approximately three hours drive east of Toronto, just over 200 kilometres.

Two women relaxing in a sauna
Wander the Resort | South Eastern Ontario

Drake Devonshire

The country cousin to Toronto’s Drake Hotel, this lakeside hotel, bar and restaurant is a colourful ode to the carefree vacation vibe.

Fun activities and add-ons include a games room, bicycle rentals, wine tours, curated playlists, mixology programs and picnic baskets.

Just down the street, the Drake Motor Inn taps into the nostalgia of the classic road trip.

Connect:@drakedevonshire
Location: 24 Wharf Street, Wellington

Wander the Resort

Lakeside and poolside cabins blend minimalist design and Scandi aesthetic with luxurious comforts and privacy at this modern beachfront property.

Connect @wandertheresort
Location: 15841 Loyalist Parkway, Bloomfield

The Lakeside Motel

Enjoy expansive waterfront views over a glass of local wine or craft beer.

Taking full advantage of its scenic, rocky beach, this laid-back property features a large viewing deck, sunken fire pits, a sparkling swimming pool with loungers, cabanas and a bar and even a luxurious eucalyptus scented sauna.

Connect @thelakesidemotel
Location: 349 Main Street, Wellington

The Royal Hotel

The beautifully restored Royal Hotel in Prince Edward County still maintains its Victorian character from the 19th century. The spacious main hotel has 28 rooms and suites and an additional five rooms in a former stable, the Royal Annex.

There’s no shortage of photo-worthy details, like the soft wood bar in the Parlor, the dramatic drop lightening in the Dining Room, the sunny Terrace and freestanding soaker tubs.

Connect @theroyalhotelpicton
Location: 247 Picton Main Street, Picton

Search for more farm stays and winery accommodations.

Classic, elegant Niagara-on-the-Lake hotels

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming community famous for its heritage Victorian-style architecture, farm-to-table dining and an expanse of scenic vineyards and award-winning wineries.

Getting here: Niagara-on-the-Lake is about 130 kilometres south of Toronto along the shoreline of Lake Ontario, a two-hour drive time. GO Transit provides train service to the city of Niagara, with WEGO shuttle to and from Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Rose petals scattered next to a pool of water
100 Fountain Spa | Pillar and Post Hotel & Spa

Pillar and Post Hotel & Spa

One of Ontario’s exceptional Vintage Hotel properties, Pillar and Post exudes the ultimate country elegance and comfort.

Located in the heart of wine country, you’ll want to sample vintage wines. And be sure to visit the pools and hot springs at 100 Fountain Spa, which is as pretty as it is relaxing.

Connect @pillarandpostnotl
Location: 48 John Street West, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Harbour House Hotel

Harbour House Hotel is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway to enjoy quality wine, food and photography.

Just steps from the waterfront, detailed nautical-inspired design elements celebrate its portside heritage.

Connect @niagaras_finest_hotels
Location: 85 Melville Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Relaxing, small town and country inns near Toronto

Flex your photography skills as you relax and rejuvenate at these upscale, spa-inspired hotels and inns just a short drive from Toronto.

A building on top of a hill next to a river
Elora Mill Hotel and Spa | Destination Ontario

Elora Mill Hotel & Spa

Perched atop the thundering Elora Gorge in one of Ontario’s prettiest small towns and affording stunning panoramic views, the restored Elora Mill Hotel is indeed “anything but ordinary.”

Rooms and suites are unique in design and rich in detail, making the most of that gorgeous view with large windows and walk-out terraces.

Connect @elora_mill
Location: 77 Mill Street West, Elora

Getting here: The town of Elora is 125 kilometres west of Toronto, approximately an hour and a half drive.

Langdon Hall Country House, Hotel & Spa

Surrounded by beautiful lawns, gardens, nature trails and Carolinian forest, the colonial revival-style mansion is quite a scene to behold as you drive up the winding road to Langdon Hall.

And that’s just the start. This property has been recognized for its award-winning, five-Diamond cuisine from celebrated Executive Chef, Jason Bangerter, rejuvenating spa services and seriously comfy rooms with feather beds and down duvets, wood-burning fireplaces and soaker tubs.

Connect @langdonhall
Location: 1 Langdon Drive, Cambridge

Getting here: Located about 100 kilometres west of Toronto and just over an hour drive, Langdon Hall is approximately a 10 minute drive from the town of Cambridge.

The High Acre

Check into your personal oasis at the High Acre, just outside of Hamilton.

Each of the four rooms in this renovated farmhouse includes a private infrared sauna, a fireplace, a bathroom with a heated floor and a soaker tub. Dream away in a king-size bed and wake up to a fridge stocked with breakfast essentials. Stretch in the yoga studio, splash in the pool and cozy up by the outdoor fireplace.

Connect @thehighacre
Location: 667 Harvest Road, Dundas

Getting here: Dundas is a suburb of the city of Hamilton, 70 kilometres west of Toronto. GO Transit provides service between Hamilton and Toronto, with local transit, Hamilton Street Railway (HRS) providing bus service to Dundas.

The Dorchester Collingwood

One of Collingwood’s oldest hotels, the heritage brick building has been lovingly restored into a modern boutique inn, while retaining its historic charm.

Customized packages with local partners include spa day, vineyard visits and even helicopter tours.

Connect @thedorchesterhotelcollingwood
Location: 172 Hurontario Street, Collingwood

Getting here: Collingwood is 150 kilometres north of Toronto (just over two hours driving) on the southern shore of Georgian Bay.

The Dover George

Be among the first guests at this recently renovated boutique hotel in the lakeside town of Port Dover.

Choose from four luxurious, uniquely designed suites full of photo-worthy custom fittings and curated artwork.

Connect @thedovergeorge
Location: 323 St. George Street, Port Dover

Getting here: Port Dover is located 135 kilometres southwest of Toronto (about a two hour drive) on the shore of Lake Erie.

Explore more relaxing spa retreats in Ontario.

Fun, beachy motels on Ontario’s west coast

Find the perfect place for a beach-inspired girls’ getaway on the shores of Lake Huron and capture unforgettable memories.

Four women socializing in front of a fireplace
Southampton | The Beach Motel

The Beach Motel

The Beach Motel is an eco-friendly motel that embraces the warmth and happiness of beach life.

Snap pics of the pale blue, linen white and natural wood design palette, as well as the

egg-shaped swings that add character to the wraparound bar on the rooftop patio. Enjoy snuggling up and roasting s'mores around the fire pit.

Connect @thebeachmotel
Location: 21 Huron Street South, Southhampton

Getting here: Northwest of Toronto, Southampton is about 230 kilometres away, approximately a three hour drive.

Penny’s Motel

Penny’s Motel is a boutique motel that offers bright and beautifully designed suites furnished with a mix of modern and 1970s nostalgic décor.

Relax at Après Snack Bar with friends over a charcuterie board or signature oysters served with mignonette.

Connect @pennysmotel
Location: 141 King Street East, Thornbury

Getting here: Thornbury sits on Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay, 175 kilometres north of Toronto, roughly a two and a half hour drive.

The Kiwi Motel

You and your Instagram account will love this beachy getaway with its fresh vibe and suites themed after tropical fruit.

Take a walk along the beach at Grand Bend, one of Ontario’s most popular beach destinations. Back at the motel, hang out by the pool or relax in the hot tub.

Connect @stayatthekiwi
Location: 40 Main Stret East, Grand Bend

Getting here: 220 kilometres west of Toronto, Grand Bend is approximately a three hour drive.

The June Motel

With its 1970s-inspired design and pink colour palette, The June Hotel makes a perfect Instagram addition.

Embrace the pink trend with a glass of complimentary rosé at check-in. Soak in the sun, splash in the pool, relax in a hammock or listen to tunes on a vintage record player in Sauble Beach.

In addition to this location, The June Motel has another property in Prince Edward County.

Connect @thejunemotel
Location: 11 Sauble Falls Parkway, Sauble Beach

Getting here: Sauble Beach is just north of Southampton in Bruce Peninsula, about 220 kilometres and a three hour drive from Toronto.

Discover more beach-inspired vacations in Ontario.

Nature-inspired resorts and retreats

Let the peaceful surroundings of Ontario’s wilderness landscapes and minimal aesthetic of these accommodations inspire your photos. Explore iconic destinations like Muskoka, Algonquin Park and beyond.

Two empty chairs facing a calm lake
French River | The Lodge at Pine Cove

The Lodge at Pine Cove

The beauty of Canadian wilderness is on full display at the Lodge at Pine Cove.

This seasonal resort on the French River delivers the ultimate rustic elegance, from the romantic log cabin cottages with handmade wool rugs, luxury bedding and copper soaker tubs to breathtaking views of the forest, lake and star-studded night skies.

Location: 1013 Highway 528A, Noelville

Getting here: The French River is 400 kilometres north of Toronto, approximately a four hour drive. Operates seasonally.

Somewhere Inn Calabogie

Somewhere Inn is a boutique motel in Ottawa Valley that encourages guests to reset and connect with the great outdoors. Canadian-inspired rooms offer forest and nature views.

Nearby hiking trails, a lake and beaches offer plenty of outdoor adventure and photography opportunities. Or just soak in the surroundings from the comfort of a hammock.

Connect @somewhere.inn
Location: 5254 Calabogie Road, Calabogie

Getting here: Calabogie is 100 kilometres west of Ottawa, just over an hour’s drive.

The Finch Resort

Mid-century-inspired design, beachside vibes and the zen of Northern Ontario scenery combine to make these four cottages overlooking Lake Nipissing perfect for photographers.

Connect @atthefinch
Location: 585 Banner Avenue, North Bay

Getting here: North Bay is a four hour, 400 kilometre drive north of Toronto. Alternatively, one hour flights to the Jack Garland Airport in North Bay are provided by Air Canada.

Northridge Inn & Resort

The impeccable Canadiana cottage country design and beautiful lakeside setting make this gorgeous resort a popular wedding destination.

Accommodation options include rooms in the main lodge, private chalets, luxury glamping tent suites and even a vintage airstream.

Connect @thenorthridgeinn
Location: 712 South Lake Bernard Road, Sundridge

Getting here: Northridge is located just outside the border of Algonquin Park, 280 kilometres north of Toronto, approximately a three hour drive. Operates seasonally.

Arcana

Experience one of Muskoka’s newest and most unique properties.

Surrounded by forest and close to water, secluded cabins feature large custom windows and a mirrored, stainless steel exterior that seamlessly reflects and blends into the scenery.

Connect @findarcana
Location: Muskoka (physical address shared upon booking)

Getting here: The region of Muskoka is about 220 kilometres (two and a half hours driving) north of Toronto. Operates seasonally.

Anupaya Cabin Co.

Located close to the eastern border of Algonquin Provincial Park and surrounded by forest, this beachfront wilderness retreat is the perfect place to unplug and enjoy the outdoors.

From cozy studios to three-bedroom cabins designed for your ultimate comfort with campfires, books, blankets, candles and even essential oils.

Connect @anupaya
Location: 1696 Moores Road, Deep River

Getting here: The retreat is about a 10 minute drive from the town of Deep River, which is 200 kilometres north of Ottawa (just over a two hour drive) and 430 kilometres northeast of Toronto (a five hour drive).

Ontario is home to a variety of eco cabins and natural wellness retreats.

Gorgeous glamping sites

Go camping in Ontario without sacrificing comfort or style. Explore the outdoors and connect with nature while staying in a cozy tent or geodome at these glamping resorts.

An empty bed in a luxurious and rustic setting
Whispering Springs | Destination Ontario

Whispering Springs

Stylish prospecting-style tents invite you to embrace the beauty and serenity of nature, while enjoying boutique-quality comforts, like soaker tubs, fine linens and mood lighting.

With Muskoka chairs overlooking private views of the spring-fed ponds and forest, a saltwater pool, bar and deck to lounge and gently swaying hammocks, the ambiance is set to relax.

Connect @whispering_springs
Location: 141 Mercer Lane, Grafton

Getting here: Whispering Springs is located 10 minutes north of Grafton, which is approximately 130 kilometres (approximately a 90 minute drive) east of Toronto. Operates seasonally.

Among the Trees

Enjoy the comforts of luxurious camping in Ontario’s boreal forest and the sights and sounds of nature from your private geodome.

With each season, the scenery transforms from the lush green of summer to winter, when you’ll feel like you’re living in a life-size snow globe. Units are equipped with a kitchenette, private shower and outdoor deck.

Location: 131 McGregor Bay Road, Birch Island

Getting here: Just under 500 kilometres north of Toronto, the drive to Birch Island will take about five hours.

Find more stylish Ontario glamping sites.

Last updated: June 6, 2024

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