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 firepit flames under the stars to rejuvenate before heading back to your every day.
Circa 1894 B&B and Day Spa
Where: Lanark, Ontario
Perfect For: Couples looking to be pampered.
Highlights: With a Romantic Getaway Package that includes time for yourself and time for each other, this is a place to rejuvenate and reconnect. Snuggle into cozy robes and slippers, bask in the serene atmosphere of the spa, indulge in a candlelit dinner, and tuck into a comfortable bed. Don’t forget to call ahead to book your massage or Reiki treatment to truly unwind.
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 lifted as you embrace a state of peaceful tranquillity at the WaterSpa on site at this year- round county 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 luxurious views.
Highlights: Spend your time wandering the trails, taking a dip in the lake, or enjoying exclusive use of the indoor hot tub and sauna room. Savour an escape from everyday stress, where one of the hardest decisions you’ll have to make is which delectable meal to enjoy at the on-site restaurant overlooking Twelve Mile Lake.
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Storyteller: Jennifer Gilmer. Hometown: Port Hope, ON
Jennifer is a lover of cats, small towns, and everything chocolate. When she isn’t looking for opportunities to try out new recipes or dishes, or reading countless books, she’s busy planning her next road trip and encouraging others to search out hidden gems. Some of her happiest moments include basking in the sun at the end of a dock, laughing the day away at a backyard barbecue, or letting her creativity flow during an evening of sketching with a glass of wine at her side.