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Winter Escapes: 8 Unique Hotels Worth Visiting During Frosty Months

close up of 2 queen beds at the 1 Hotel Toronto
1 Hotel Toronto
Escape the frigid weather and check into a warm, welcoming hotel for a staycation. How does that sound? To make the most out of the Canadian winter (we just need to embrace it), spend the weekend away in a cozy yet fun hotel can offer lots of comfort, but requires little planning. From boutique hotels to winter resorts, here are eight unique hotels worth visiting during these cold, gray months.

The bisha hotel room
The Bisha Hotel

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The Bisha Hotel

It’s hard to escape the city — especially when the weather outside is frightful — but this city stay is worth it because you don’t have to go far. The Bisha Hotel is a luxurious home away from home in the heart of downtown Toronto. Once you visit the Bisha Hotel, you’ll see why this is an excellent staycation option during winter. Every corner of the hotel is luxurious yet warm — black marble bathroom, heated floors, sophisticated patterned geometric carpet and playful wall art. Each room is carefully crafted and designed by Lenny Kravitz or Studio Munge. And if you’re hungry, visit the rooftop restaurant KOST with an incredible view of the CN Tower. The seasonal Chalet winter menu features a tasty and curated selection of French food. 

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Millcroft Inn heated outdoor pool
Millcroft Inn and Spa

Millcroft Inn and Spa

Leave the city behind and make the trip down to the Millcroft Inn and Spa. Prepare to unwind and indulge in self care at the luxurious award-winning spa and hot spring pools. Aside from the spa, the Millcroft Inn also has a wellness centre. It includes a Eucalyptus steam room, cedar sauna, indoor pool and fitness room. Plus, the hotel offers plenty of activities in the winter like snowshoeing and yoga. There’s something for everyone, whether you want to venture out in nature or just stay warm and cozy indoors. For those looking for a restful getaway, there are a few accommodations to choose from.

The Main Mill overlooks the shimmering Shaw’s Creek Falls and the Millpond, while the Manor House offers more space and privacy for those prefer a quiet, intimate experience. Guest rooms have a private veranda perfect for sipping on morning coffee. Suppose you want a spacious, more contemporary stay, the Crofts is a chalet style two-storey room that features a separate bedroom, a wood-burning fireplace and a ground-level walk-out patio overlooking the wooded gardens. What’s not to love?

Related: The Best Hotels for Solo Travelling

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The bisha hotel room
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort

JW Marriot The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa

If you’re looking for a lakeside retreat, the JW Marriot The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa has your name on it. For starters, this tranquil location is directly on the lake in Muskoka. You just know that the views are going to be beautiful even in the winter! The resort’s rooms offer luxury and warmth while still giving you a taste of cottage country. There are also plenty of local attractions nearby that will guarantee you an adventure or a unique winter escape. Get ready to be immersed in Muskoka beauty and unwind in a cozy suite for a good night’s rest.  

1 Hotel Lobby
1 Hotel Toronto/Brandon Barre    

1 Hotel Toronto

Enjoy a staycation this winter in downtown Toronto at 1 Hotel Toronto. This sustainable sanctuary is inspired by the city’s diverse natural environment and expanse of Lake Ontario. Every detail in the interiors, furnishings and restaurant tables is designed using local and reclaimed materials including driftwood and timber. For a little city escape, this is the place to go. Did we mention that it even made the Michelin Key Hotel list?

Bright hotel room in the 1 Hotel Toronto
1 Hotel Toronto/Brandon Barre

There are plenty of amenities including fitness centre. It’s also pet friendly so you can bring your fur baby along the ride. All rooms include a plush pillow top mattress, sustainably sourced bedding, filtered water taps, soft cotton robes, plus in-room greenery. Don’t forget about a relaxing rain shower. If you’re a foodie, enjoy a delicious farm-to-table meal at the 1 Kitchen Lounge or dinner at Casa Madera. Round off the day with a drink at Harriet’s Rooftop Restaurant and stunning city views. 

Related: Our Favourite Michelin Guide Hotels in Canada

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Two people walking through the VanderMarck hotel
VanderMarck Hotel

VanderMarck Boutique Hotel

Collingwood is known for being one of the most popular winter spots in Ontario. Aside from all the winter activities it has to offer — like hiking, snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding in Blue Mountain — the small town has unique accommodations and experiences you won’t want to miss. One place to stay is the VanderMarck Boutique Hotel in the heart of downtown Collingwood. Here, privacy, comfort and style come together. Plus, there’s no front desk for a unique stress-free, private experience. You can choose from nine luxury suites across three floors, all of them homey yet still contemporary. If you want to feel like a local and avoid crowds at the ski resorts, this hotel is pretty close to perfect! 

The Beach Motel

If you have your eyes set on staying at the beach during busy summer months, try a winter beach getaway. You can find The Beach Motel in the quaint, adorable town of Southampton, ON, sitting right on the beach of Lake Huron (about a three-minute walk). From single and double-queen suites to spacious two-bedroom suite with a kitchenette and living room, there is something for everybody. Each nook is picturesque and Instagrammable. There are rattan bubble chairs outside your room, so be sure to get your camera ready. 

Related: Ontario’s Newest French-Inspired Boutique Hotel is the Staycation of Your Dreams

Superior room of the Prince of Wales Hotel
Prince of Wales Hotel

Prince of Wales Hotel

Experience a royal, elegant stay at the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Decorated with bespoke art, the building is steps away from Niagara boutiques, shops, restaurants and theatres. During the winter, you can expect special offers like sipping on ice wine while visiting Niagara’s best wineries. Perhaps a romantic winter day is more your speed, the Prince of Wales also offers top-notch unique experiences. Go skating or enjoy a delicious three-course meal. There are six different rooms and suites fit for a queen (or king). From traditional rooms to royal suites, the Victoria decor and extra details are highlighted throughout. 

Hotel Nelligan in the heart of Old Montreal
Hotel Nelligan

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Hotel Nelligan

If your heart is set on Europe but don’t have the time or money to make the travel, look no further than Hotel Nelligan. Here, you’ll feel like you’ve travelled to Europe thanks to the hotel’s historic buildings, dating all the way back to the mid-to-late 1800s. This boutique hotel features 105 rooms and sits in the heart of Old Montreal — near the Notre Dame Basilica and the St. Lawrence River. It’s no surprise Hotel Nelligan was voted the “No. 1 Best City Hotel in Canada” in 2023 by Travel and Leisure. 



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