Summer is here, which means it’s time to make use of Ontario’s staycation tax credit while you still can. Until the end of 2022, Ontario residents can take advantage of up to $1,000 off their getaway at any hotel, motel, campground, B&B, or cottage rental in the province.
Through the program, Ontarians who have a 2022 staycation in the province can get a 20% personal income tax credit on eligible stays (of up to $1,000 per individual & $2,000 per family) over the course of the year.
The tax credit only applies to leisure stays of less than a month, and you’ll be able to claim the amount when you file your personal Income Tax and Benefit Return for 2022.
With so many stunning accommodations to choose from here in Ontario, you may not know where to start. So here’s a list of some of the most unique and picturesque places to stay in the province with availability this summer.
Sherwood Inn
View this post on Instagram
A beautiful setting to enjoy the sounds of nature, Sherwood Inn sits right on the shores of Lake Joseph in Muskoka. Described as the most romantic resort in the region, the Sherwood Inn is the spot to indulge in some luxury on the lake.
There are several room types and cottages to choose from which you can book on a weekend from November to April and 7 days a week from May to October.
Where: 1090 Sherwood Rd, Port Carling
The June Motel
View this post on Instagram
As featured in Netflix’s Motel Makeover TV series, both June Motel locations in Ontario’s picturesque Sauble Beach and Prince Edward County have rooms available to book this summer.
Whether you’d rather spend a weekend exploring wine country or laying out on the beach, this adorable boutique motel is the ideal spot to come home to. Plus, you’ll want to make use of the amenities like the outdoor pool in Sauble Beach and morning yoga classes and complimentary coffee at the Lobby Bar in Prince Edward County.
Where: 12351 Loyalist Pkwy & 11 Sauble Falls Pkwy
Penny’s Motel
View this post on Instagram
Penny’s Motel opened in June and is a classic motel with a twist. It’s been completely renovated from a classic roadside motel into a picture-perfect, clean, and aesthetically pleasing spot to kick back and relax. Inside the rooms, you’ll find tasteful decor, floral wallpapers, and even photographs by Canadian photographer Richard Johnson.
While the big draw of staying here is of course the beautiful space, it also happens to be located right by Ontario’s stunning Georgian Bay. That means you have a whole plethora of activities you can do including kayaking, charter fishing, and of course laying on those sandy beaches. If you want a little more activity you can also go horseback riding, climbing or even explore some caves.
Where: 141 King Street E, Thornbury
The Juniper Waterside Inn
View this post on Instagram
The Juniper Inn is located in the historic Port Dalhousie. Mere steps from the Marina, beach, Martindale pond, and Royal Henley rowing course, this amazing spot has all the waterside amenities you could dream of.
Each room has its own theme, with the corresponding decor to fit the bill. The themes include Room Z for Zebra, M for Murphy’s (the former hotel residence), F for Flamingo, R for Rock and Roll, P for Palms, and C for Cactus. Seriously, you’ve got to see this place to believe it.
Where: 38 Lakeport Rd, St Catharines, Ontario
Astrid Park
View this post on Instagram
A new camper motel called Astrid Park has opened in Ontario and it’s the retro escape we didn’t know we needed. The off-grid campers are pet-friendly and fully restored to offer a peaceful escape to nature in a gorgeous setting.
There are several campers, trailers, and buses you can stay in at Astrid Park, in addition to glamping bell tents, each of which has its own name. Billie the Bluebird is a 1994 BlueBird school bus turned RV, Winnie is a classic ’70s Winnebago, and Stevie the Shasta is a funky ’60s trailer with an outdoor solar shower on-site.
All three are parked at the Cartwright Springs Brewery, which has amenities like beach volleyball, nearby hiking trails and a spring-fed pond. The campers come with patio furniture, books, games, a French press with local coffee, and more of what you need to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Where: 239 Deer Run Rd, Pakenham
Somewhere Inn
View this post on Instagram
This gorgeous boutique accommodation is nestled among the forests, lakes, and mountains of the Ottawa Valley. It’s the ultimate destination for an outdoorsy weekend, complete with hammocks, fire pits, an outdoor lounge, lawn games, outdoor yoga classes, and beach access right outside your door.
There’s plenty to do during the summer around Somewhere Inn, including paddle boarding, kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, ATVing on the trails, cycling, golf, and exploring the many local shops, breweries, cafes, and restaurants in the Calabogie area.
Where: 5254 Calabogie Rd, Calabogie
Wander the Resort
View this post on Instagram
This isn’t your average lakefront resort. Comprised of sleek Nordic cabins on the water, this spot in Prince Edward County offers a classic Canadian getaway with a modern twist. Each cabin sleeps 5 people and comes with every amenity you could dream of.
The resort hosts all-inclusive Wander Weekend packages with the very best that the County has to offer, including access to its Beach Club during the summertime.
Where: 15841 Loyalist Pkwy, Bloomfield
Kimpton Saint George
View this post on Instagram
The Kimpton Saint George is described as a design-focused boutique hotel where sophistication meets playfulness. It’s located in an ideal part of Toronto steps from Yorkville and The Annex, a short walk to Kensington Market, the charming U of T campus, Chinatown, and some of the best art galleries in the city.
The hotel hosts a complimentary wine hour and offers Ontario residents up to 20% off the current Best Flexible Rate, plus a special discounted parking rate of $20 per night.
Where: 280 Bloor St W
The Pearle Hotel & Spa
View this post on Instagram
A new spot for getaways, spa days, and dinner dates with water views has opened near Toronto. The Pearle Hotel & Spa is now welcoming the public for spa treatments and overnight stays on the shores of Burlington.
Described as an urban retreat where luxury meets lifestyle, The Pearle’s amenities include a Hamman steam room, an indoor pool and a Techno-Gym, a California-inspired spot called Isabelle with a year-round terrace and delicious coastal cuisine, and the Earth to Table Bread Bar.
The Pearle has a Staycation Package which includes a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival, a $100 spa or dining credit, a $50 breakfast for two, and valet parking for one vehicle. Rates start from $489 per night.
Where: 3 Elizabeth St, Burlington
