10 Canadian Weekend Getaways That Belong on Your Summer Bucket List

Few staycations compare to a summer weekend spent on Prince Edward Island. The charming city of Charlottetown captures the imagination, is rich with history… and you can’t beat the island’s red beaches. Spend a night or two at The Great George, a boutique hotel in downtown with lavish suites that’ll make you forget you’re in the centre of it all.

If you’re anything like us, you’ll be perusing Charlottetown’s historic downtown before you check-in at your hotel. Don’t miss Cottage Industry, a locally-owned decor mainstay featuring coastal-inspired furnishings and accents.

The tiny maritime town of Mahone Bay in Nova Scotia is one of our country’s most beautiful places, boasting waterfront views, historic buildings, boutique shops and more. For the ultimate seaside getaway, stay at Fisherman’s Daughter. The designated heritage home functions as a B&B, and is as colourful and charming as they come.

Mahone Bay’s Main Street is peppered with restaurants and one-of-a-kind shops. Be sure to stop into Here Nor There, a freshly opened decor shop stocked with stylish home goods like pretty earthenware and patterned toss cushions.

For more of an into-the-woods retreat, head to Trout Point Lodge, a five-star wilderness resort that’s a short drive from Yarmouth. Stay here to hike, fish, stargaze and ultimately disconnect.

Trout Point’s rustic interior mimics that of its natural surroundings with earthy hues and amazing look-out points.

The delightful town of St. Andrews (often called St. Andrews by-the-Sea) is a popular vacation spot located in New Brunswick’s Charlotte County (think sandy beaches and whale watching). Live in luxury and book an overnight stay at The Algonquin Resort, which boasts stylish suites as well as a modern spa, multiple pools, a golf course and a private beach.

While St. Andrews may be known for its scenic shorelines, it’s also a botanical beauty. Kingsbrae Garden is a 27-acre horticultural destination with over 2,500 species of perennials and shrubs. The grounds also feature an elegant restaurant and cafe that overlook the garden and offer dishes crafted from locally-sourced ingredients.

Take a trip back in time with a weekend getaway in Old Montreal. Historic and full of culture, it’s a great spot for foodies, history buffs or anyone craving a European vacation minus the travel. Keeping true to the old-world charm is Hotel William Gray, which is tucked into a historic building and houses rooms with a decidedly modern edge.

When you slip away from your hotel to explore Old Montreal’s quaint cobblestone streets, Tommy should be your first pit stop. The must-visit cafe is a decorator’s dream, decked out with elaborate mouldings and drooping boughs of ivy. The brunch menu (from gourmet toast to decadent pastries) is not to be missed.

No trip to Prince Edward County (about a two-and-a-half hour drive from Toronto) is complete without a stay at the already iconic Drake Devonshire Inn. The vibrantly-outfitted boutique space brings artistic appeal to a more rural setting. While there, sip on the bartender-approved “Paris of the Prairies” cocktail while lounging lakeside on the outdoor patio.

After you’ve soaked in the hotel’s charm, explore vineyards and antique shops throughout the county. When you need to break for lunch, head to The Vic Café in the town of Picton. The eatery’s wholesome fare is just as appealing as its trendy interior… #weekendgoals complete!

Niagara-on-the-Lake is the other wine-centric destination just a short drive from Toronto, where you can sip on some of the best vino in the country. Step up the sophistication factor and treat yourself to a stay at the elegantly-appointed Oban Inn.

A weekend spent in one of the hotel suite’s gorgeous bathrooms (that tub! those floors!) will have you relaxed and ready to take on the world before heading back to the city.

Stratford may be the hometown of pop sensation Justin Bieber, but the city is worthy of fame in its own right. Boasting a vibrant arts and culture scene, it’s a must-visit locale for theatre shows, art festivals and more. Vacation at the hip Mercer Hall Inn, a renovated heritage hotel in the heart of downtown.

Wills & Prior

is Stratford’s newest home decor destination, which just opened its doors last month. Stop in and browse its curated collection of gorgeous goods, from locally-made furnishings and artwork to dipped seagrass baskets and vintage nesting bowls.

Drive up to Canmore, Alberta (one-hour west of Calgary) for a great long-weekend summer getaway, where you’ll be surrounded by views of the Canadian Rockies. We recommend a stay at the stylishly rustic Solara Resort, a mountain retreat that still offers a slew of modern amenities, including a full-service spa.

Aside from Canmore’s surreal views, the former coal-mining town has a vibrant downtown brimming with restaurants and boutique shops. Head to Communitea Cafe for a nourishing breakfast or lunch while listening to live music and admiring the eatery’s cheerful interior.

Any place that’s decked out in Swarovski crystals and is home to the largest spa in Canada (40,000 square feet of bliss) seems like an excellent way to spend a weekend to us. It’s all about rejuvenating at this luxe resort in Kelowna – which is especially nice after a trip through BC’s wine country.

The suites at Sparkling Hill may not be adorned in crystals, but they’re still just as sleek thanks to a streamlined and contemporary design with glorious mountain views.