I have to confess, there’s little I find more romantic than nestling in with my special someone in front of a warm fire while the cold outside presses at the windowpanes. Planning a cozy winter getaway is something I look forward to when the cold winter months begin to drag too long.

And even though a part of me wishes I could jet off somewhere tropical when the snow starts to fly, the truth is I would miss my winter weekend getaways, the warm glow of the fire on a cold winter’s night, a warm cuppa something delicious cradled in my hands, and the scent of woodsmoke lingering in the air.

Don’t settle for the fireplace channel to warm you up this winter, hold out for the real thing. Warm up your winter in Ontario’s Highlands with a getaway to one of these snug inns where sitting in front of a crackling wood fire can be the highlight of your adventure. Romance is optional (but encouraged).

Heather Lodge

When it comes to coziness, Heather Lodge is off the charts. A member of Ontario’s Finest Inns and Resorts, Heather Lodge is tucked in the wilds of Haliburton Highlands, overlooking scenic Twelve Mile Lake. Sigh in snug bliss in one of the Lakeside Studio suites where you won’t need to worry about going out to split wood – they provide a pre-fab fire log daily to give you that cozy warm glow without the effort. Heather Lodge has plenty to keep you warm outdoors, too – head out into the frosty outdoors to explore their winter wonderland by snowshoe or cross country ski, then unwind with a romantic evening where the only lighting is the glow of the fire. #romance

Don't Miss:

Indulge in a culinary experience with a local focus in the large on-site dining room and savour dishes made with ingredients from local producers like Abbey Gardens or Wintergreen Maple Products.

Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa

Haliburton Highlands offers the picture-perfect setting for this winter getaway. Imagine yourself relaxing in a whirlpool bath after a hard day on the slopes, a glass of wine in hand. At Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa you can spend all day enjoying winter’s bounty, then cozy up indoors in front of a crackling fire in your own private suite. Talk about opportunities for romance! This is the place where romance is born.

Don't Miss:

Earn your cozy retreat at the end of the day by spending time on the slopes or trail at Sir Sam’s Ski/RIDE.

Black River Retreat

You don’t need to worry about crowds at Black River Retreat – here you and your partner are the only guests. This award-winning retreat is tucked cozily on six acres of prime Ontario woodlands, bordering the Black River. The Great Room will be your romantic haven where you can snuggle up in front of the fire. When the night air turns chilly, head outdoors to soak in your very own cedar hot tub and tip your head back to make a wish on the first star of the evening.

Don't Miss:

Check out the wild west saloon overlooking the Great Room, and have fun with some lighthearted games before or after your four-course gourmet dinner.

Pinestone Resort & Conference Centre

This resort offers the best of both worlds – the cozy factor of a country cottage but with big-city amenities to keep you busy. Stay and play on 160-acres in beautiful Haliburton Highlands, and choose from more than 100 rooms, suites, villas and chalets for the perfect place to lay your head and snuggle up. Spend your day at the spa, then sit back and enjoy the propane fireplace in the one or two-bedroom villas. And at Pinestone Resort, you can cuddle with your four-legged family members, too – there are pet-friendly accommodations on the first floor.

Don't Miss:

Dine at the on-site restaurant, Stone 21, and explore the delicious menu created by Chef Adam Raposo, and quench your thirst at the award-winning micro-brewery, Haliburton Highlands Brewing.

Pleasantview Lodge

The view alone is worth every penny at Pleasantview Lodge. Make memories on the 5,000 kilometres of ATV and snowmobile trails that run right past your front door, then relax in a rustic two-story log cabin with a glassfront wood stove. Head to the lodge for a full range of indoor activities, then sit back in your cabin and take in the phenomenal view over Brule Lake, only #inFrontenac.

Don't Miss:

Make the short drive to the nearby Dark Sky Preserve and do some star gazing on a clear winter’s night.

Storyteller:

Amy Hogue

Amy has a passion for discovering unspoiled locations and anything that will make her snort when laughing. She is always on the hunt for the perfect crème brulée, anything gluten-free, and a dedicated fryer. She is anyone’s plus one for a canoe trip, loves to pedal, paddle or hike, but (fair warning) will need a snack (or two) during outdoor adventures. Her perfect day would involve a glass of wine, a patio with a sunbeam that’s just right, and a smutty romance novel (don’t judge).