Bask in Romance

I’ve been a romantic comedy fan as long as I can remember. I’ve laughed with Julia Roberts, ugly cried with Rachel McAdams, and fallen hard for Ryan Reynolds more than once. I know these movies are fictional and that real relationships aren’t always filled with hearts and flowers, grand gestures, and epic relationship montages, but sometimes a break from everyday reality to embrace a little romance is a nice treat.

So my advice: treat yourself and your partner to a romantic getaway, where you can laugh together in the sunlight, reconnect over leisurely meals, and truly enjoy each other’s company. Here are my suggestions for five places to visit with that special someone to uncover your own movie-moment.

Black River Retreat

Where: On the shore of the Black River in Tweed, Ontario.
Perfect For: Couples looking not to lift a finger.
Highlights: A quiet, woodland retreat to rest from the chaos of city life where you and your partner have the property to yourself to wander trails, glide down the Black River in kayaks, soak in the hot tub, and roast gooey marshmallows over a roaring fire. With fires pre-built for you, and your own private chef, you can escape your responsibilities and focus on each other.

Stuart Log Cottage

Where: On the shore of Mink Lake in Eganville, Ontario.
Perfect For: Couples looking to be together in nature.
Highlights: Your own personal log cabin where your neighbours are the trees, and rippling water greets you outside your front door. Take the time to paddle the undulating shores of Mink Lake; collect stories and local objects together from boutiques in Wilno; and absorb the warmth of fire pit flames under the stars to rejuvenate before heading back to your every day.

Grey Gables Inn

Where: Pembroke, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples looking to be pampered.
Highlights: Steep yourself in romance at this old-fashioned inn in the heart of Pembroke where there will be plenty of activities to keep you connected. Head out on the town in downtown Pembroke and pamper yourselves with a pedicure for two or a cozy lunch at one of the downtown eateries. Book the romance package and savour a three-course dinner served in the privacy of your suite.

Clyde Hall B&B

Where: Lanark, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples  looking for some added luxury.
Highlights: With luxury and relaxation ingrained in every corner of this B&B, this is an incredible place to rejuvenate and reconnect. Enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine on your arrival before soaking together in the hot tub, or going for a refreshing dip in the saltwater pool (in warmer months). Let their delectable breakfasts chase any thoughts of calorie-counting from your mind as you indulge with Eggs Benedict and maple bacon.

Almonte Riverside Inn

Where: Almonte, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples looking for luxury.
Highlights: Couples will love the luxurious setting for this cozy and historic inn tucked away on the shores of the Mississippi River in downtown Almonte. Spend your day touring Almonte's cute downtown core for some unique shopping and a romantic dinner at one of Almonte's fantastic eateries (pro tip: check out Joe's Italian Kitchen or Cafe-Postino for maximum ambiance). 

Sir Sam's Inn & Spa

Where: On the shore of Eagle Lake in Haliburton Highlands, Ontario.
Perfect For: Couples looking to soak away their worries.
Highlights: Soak your worries away and feel your spirits lift as you embrace a state of peaceful tranquility at the Water Spa on site at this year- round inn. Enjoy the magnificent view overlooking the lake and treat yourselves to a couple’s massage followed by a glass of wine by your private fireplace before cuddling into cozy beds for the night.

Heather Lodge

Where: On the edge of Twelve Mile Lake in Minden, Ontario.
Perfect For: Couples looking for incredible views.
Highlights: Spend your time wandering the trails, taking a dip in the lake, or enjoying exclusive use of the sauna room. Savour an escape from everyday stress, where the hardest decision you’ll need to make is which delectable meal to enjoy at the on-site restaurant overlooking Twelve Mile Lake.

Grail Springs Wellness Retreat

Where: Bancroft, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples looking to rejuvenate together.
Highlights: Be rejuvenated - together - for a fun alternative to a spa getaway. Focus on each other while you detox at this wellness retreat. Spend your days doing yoga, soaking in mineral tubs, relaxing in a warm sauna, or strolling through 100 acres of trails. This is a unique getaway sure to foster romance and connectivity.

Deacon Escarpment

Where: On the shores of Golden Lake, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples looking for privacy.
Highlights: Pristine woodlands are the setting for this rustic accommodation in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.  This is the perfect place if you are looking for a quiet and private oasis. Reconnect in one of their cozy cabins and snuggle up in front of a warm fire. You'll have plenty of time to catch up on your busy lives with this nature retreat.