Looking for the perfect getaway without straying too far from home? The Peterborough and Kawarthas region offers an array of staycation spots that combine natural beauty with unique accommodations. Whether you’re in the mood for a lakeside retreat, a cozy cabin in the woods, or a luxurious bed and breakfast, there’s something for everyone right here in our own backyard. In this blog, we’ll explore five top staycation destinations in the Peterborough and Kawarthas area that promise relaxation, adventure, and a much-needed escape from the everyday.
Westwind Inn
37 Fire Route 21, Gallery on the Lake Road, Buckhorn
705-657-8095
Westwind is a cozy cedar lodge nestled under towering pines on pink granite rock, located right at the water’s edge in a stunning wilderness setting. Located in Buckhorn, it offers both easy accessibility and a peaceful escape from city life. Casual, unpretentious, and comfortable, Westwind is a family-owned and operated retreat open year-round, providing guests with a unique opportunity to experience nature, tranquility, and relaxation.
The main lodge features 30 cozy, log cabin-style bedsitting rooms, each furnished with a sofa, fireplace, balcony, antiques, and original artwork. Six of these rooms also include heart-shaped jet tubs for two, ideal for a romantic getaway. Guests can unwind in the common living room, which enhances the lodge’s warm and inviting atmosphere.
For those seeking more luxurious accommodations, the chalet offers four larger suites, each featuring pine floors, cedar ceilings, four-poster beds, overstuffed sofas, larger balconies with scenic views, spacious jet tubs, fireplaces, and refrigerators. These suites are especially popular for honeymoons, special occasions, or executive retreats and conferences.
Westwind is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with complimentary activities available throughout every season, friendly staff, breathtaking natural surroundings, and exceptional lakeside dining. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a peaceful retreat, Westwind provides the perfect setting for any occasion.
Elmhirst Resort
1045 Settler’s Line, Keene
705-535-0731
For those seeking a safe and enjoyable lakeside getaway, fully contained lakeside cottages provide the perfect setting for a year-round retreat. These cottages are fully equipped with all the modern comforts, including fireplaces, kitchens, TVs with DVD players, and Wi-Fi. Each cottage also features a BBQ deck and a private dock, offering a complete lakefront experience.
The resort itself boasts a wide array of amenities, such as indoor and outdoor pools, an on-site dining room and pub, and boat and motor rentals. Golf is conveniently located next door, with tennis, sightseeing flights, horseback riding, and scenic walking and biking trails all nearby. A full-service spa is also available on-site, offering a range of treatments designed to enhance the overall experience.
Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including wine tasting, farm visits, sleigh rides, kiteboarding, and corporate team-building events. The resort is ideally suited for family vacations, romantic getaways, weddings, group gatherings, and corporate meetings. Family-owned and operated, the resort is known for its welcoming atmosphere and caters to both local and international guests. Additionally, it is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along for the fun.
Whether the goal is to relax by the lake, explore nearby attractions, or spend quality time with loved ones, these lakeside cottages offer a comfortable and convenient base for any getaway.
Viamede Resort
595 Mount Julian Viamede Road, North Kawartha
705-654-3344
Viamede is more than just a resort; it’s a personal retreat tailored to each guest’s unique experience. For some, Viamede feels like a home away from home, a cozy lakeside cottage where evenings are spent grilling on the patio and making friends with neighbors. For others, it transforms into a bright and airy boardroom, offering the perfect setting for productive meetings, complete with fresh air, natural light, and hearty team lunches. And for those seeking a romantic escape, Viamede becomes a secluded haven where couples can reconnect over exquisite meals and glasses of local wine.
What sets Viamede apart is its flexibility and friendliness. Whether you’re bringing your pet, your family, or just yourself, Viamede welcomes everyone with open arms. The resort is free from strict rules, complicated pricing, or rigid policies, ensuring that every guest can enjoy their stay exactly as they wish. At Viamede, the focus is simple: creating an environment where you can have a great time, whatever that means to you.
Burleigh Falls Inn
4791 Highway 28, Burleigh Falls,
705-654-3441
Escape to a year-round playground of sparkling waters, nature trails, and pristine forests at the newly renovated Burleigh Falls Inn & Suites. Located just two hours from Toronto and less than twenty minutes from the many attractions in the Kawarthas, this charming retreat offers the perfect blend of convenience and natural beauty.
Continuing a century-old tradition of warm, family-friendly service, the Burleigh Falls Inn & Suites is dedicated to creating memorable experiences for every guest. Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family vacation, a romantic getaway, a launching pad for an exciting fishing trip, or a picturesque setting for a special event, the Burleigh Falls Inn & Suites promises to exceed your expectations.
Come and discover the magic of our scenic surroundings, enjoy our exceptional hospitality, and make the most of all that the Kawarthas has to offer. The Burleigh Falls Inn & Suites is ready to welcome you and ensure that your stay is nothing short of delightful.
Kingfisher Bay Resort
150 Fraser Estates Lane, North Kawartha
705-313-5112
Nestled in the heart of nature, Kingfisher Bay Retreat is more than just a beautiful setting—it’s a sanctuary where individuals from all walks of life come to escape their daily routines and discover a deeper sense of peace and renewal. Spanning 27 acres of lush forest, winding trails, and vibrant wildlife, the retreat offers a unique space for stillness, restoration, and fresh perspective.
At Kingfisher Bay, every guest finds their own way to rejuvenate. The serene environment, complemented by waterfront activities and the comfort of our inviting lodge, creates the perfect backdrop for personal reflection and growth. Some visitors cherish the lively conversations around the dinner table, while others find solace in the quiet embrace of nature. Regardless of personal preference, everyone is welcomed with open arms.
The retreat’s ambiance varies from tranquil moments punctuated by the sounds of birds to lively evenings filled with music from impromptu jam sessions or a guest at the piano. This dynamic atmosphere reflects the diverse experiences and creative expressions that flourish here.
The sense of gratitude we feel living in this special place is something we are eager to share with others. Over the past thirteen years, Kingfisher Bay has become a hub for partnerships with those dedicated to making the world a more compassionate and just place. As we align with our true selves, creativity and joy naturally flow, manifesting in delightful and unexpected ways. We are honored to witness these transformations and contributions regularly.
At Kingfisher Bay, strangers quickly become friends, and every visit is an opportunity to connect and grow. We look forward to welcoming you to our retreat and sharing the unique serenity and inspiration that Kingfisher Bay has to offer.
Peterborough and the Kawarthas offer a wealth of staycation options that cater to every preference, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or quality time with loved ones. From charming lakeside retreats to cozy cabins and luxurious inns, these five destinations represent just a glimpse of what the region has to offer. Each spot provides a unique experience, ensuring that every staycation can be tailored to your desires. And while these recommendations are a great start, there are many more fantastic places to explore in Peterborough and the Kawarthas, each promising its own special blend of comfort and charm. So why not start planning your next staycation and discover even more hidden gems in this beautiful area?