If you’ve been craving a getaway that’s all about slowing down and savouring the simple things, Ontario’s Southwest is full of stays that invite you to disconnect from your busy life and reconnect with your peace. 

So, if you've been craving a trip where you can sip wine by the fire, soak in a hot tub under the stars, or wander quiet trails, you're in the right place.

1. Nature’s Oasis Retreat – Southwold

 

A couple wearing robes stands on an indoor balcony overlooking a pool area in a unique brick-walled retreat at Nature's Oasis Retreat. The space features a mix of rustic and modern design elements, including exposed brick walls, wooden ceilings with ceiling fans, hanging plants, and large windows letting in natural light. Below the balcony, there’s a lounge area with chairs and a dining table, and the pool is partially visible in the foreground.

 

Nestled about 25 minutes away from the new and impressive Skye Chase Estate Winery, Nature's Oasis Retreat features a fireplace and indoor pool that invite guests to enjoy some well-deserved luxuries. 

 

Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

  • St. Thomas Elevated Park – Canada’s only elevated park with panoramic views.
  • Pinafore Park – A lush escape perfect for a picnic or gentle walk.

2. Oliver’s Tiny Home in the Forest – Simcoe

 

Two people relax in a round wooden hot tub at Oliver’s Tiny Home in the Forest. It's dusk, surrounded by trees and string lights. Next to them is a barrel-shaped wooden sauna with a softly glowing interior light. A stone path leads to the sauna, and the cozy scene is set in a peaceful forest setting.

Image courtesy of Oliver's Tiny Home's Facebook page. 

 

Tucked among the trees, Oliver’s Tiny Home features a sauna and hot tub, ideal for a secluded, relaxing getaway.

 

Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

  • Delhi Rail Trail – Great for walking or biking through quiet countryside.
  • Brook Conservation Area – A peaceful woodland walk.

3. Clock Tower Inn – Strathroy

 

A warmly lit, elegant hotel room in the Clock Tower Inn featuring a large wooden four-poster bed with black bedding and decorative pillows. The room has tall arched windows with gold curtains, exposed brick walls, and red patterned carpet. Two pink armchairs sit near a fireplace and flat-screen TV, and a cozy bathroom with vintage-style fixtures is visible through an open doorway. The ceiling has ornate molding and a fan, adding to the room’s classic charm.

 

For those who love small-town charm and historical buildings, the Clock Tower Inn offers that and more. Book one of their Executive or Deluxe Suites to have access to a cozy fireplace. 

 

Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

4. Lakeside Haven Cottage – Blenheim

 

A stylish bedroom at Lakeside Haven with a modern design featuring a large bed with white linens, brown leather accent pillows, and a rust-colored knit blanket draped across the foot. The dark green accent wall behind the bed is framed with warm wood paneling. Two matching bedside tables hold lamps with white shades, round mirrors, small green plants, and decorative objects, creating a cozy and contemporary atmosphere.

Image courtesy of Lakeside Haven's AirBnb listing.


The Lakeside Haven Cottage offers a perfect blend of comfort and seclusion. Envision cozy nights in the hot tub, surrounded by a private setting.

 

Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

  • Erieau Marsh Trail – Perfect for lakeside strolls.
  • Harrison Trail – Quiet, scenic, and great for cycling.

5. The Walnut Grove Bed and Breakfast – Harrow

 

Two people smile and toast with glasses of white wine while standing in a cozy, well-lit bedroom at the Walnut Grove Bnb. The room features a neatly made bed with patterned bedding, warm lighting, and wall art of a bicycle above the headboard, creating a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Image courtesy of The Walnut Grove Bed & Breakfast's Facebook page.


Elegant yet welcoming, The Walnut Grove features a private hot tub and peaceful surroundings.

 

Where to Eat:

  • El Diablo – Creative cuisine with bold flavours.
  • Eclectic Love – A cozy brunch spot with artistic flair.
  • 106 Wigle - A hidden speakeasy where you can also get delicious food.

 

Where to Wander:

6. Twisted Lemon Restaurant & Boutique Inn – Cayuga

 

A couple relaxes on a neatly made bed in a cozy, modern bedroom at the Twisted Lemon Boutique Inn. They are smiling and looking at each other warmly while holding a book or pamphlet. A tray with fruit, water, and glasses rests on the bed in front of them. The room features soft lighting from hanging pendant lamps, a large abstract painting on the wall, and neutral decor with a blue bench and plaid blanket at the foot of the bed.

 

Tucked in the heart of Cayuga, the Twisted Lemon Restaurant & Boutique Inn is a culinary hideaway with cozy accommodations and an inviting fireplace. They also have many experience packages to choose from to elevate your stay. Plus, it’s just steps from Cayuga Calm, a local wellness studio offering massages, facials, and even trendy permanent jewellery sessions for you and your besties.

 

Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

7. Door 25 – Selkirk

 

A scenic lakeside deck in Selkirk Ontatrio featuring a bubbling blue hot tub in the foreground. The wooden deck is furnished with cushioned seating, Adirondack chairs, and a round table set with wine glasses, surrounded by string lights along the railing. Lush green trees frame the view, and the calm lake stretches out in the background under a soft, overcast sky. A sliding glass door leads inside the house on the right.

Image courtesy of Door 25's Facebook page.


The Lakehouse by Door 25 is a charming retreat that features a hot tub and lakeside views perfect for stargazing nights. Just minutes away, Cottonwood Mansion offers elegant teas (including their festive Christmas afternoon tea events) that are as beautiful as they are delicious.


Where to Eat:

 

Where to Wander:

  • Hoover’s Point – A peaceful lakefront trail with stunning views.

Ontario’s Southwest offers endless ways to take it slow. Looking for more trip inspiration? Check out the blog posts below!