Niagara on the Lake Romantic Getaway with Niagara’s Finest Hotels
Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picturesque destination that exudes romance from every corner. Making a Niagara on the Lake romantic getaway the ideal spot for couples.
From strolling the charming streets lined with quaint shops to sipping your way through the vineyards to taking a horse-drawn carriage ride, there are countless activities to enjoy with your significant other.
Whether celebrating an anniversary or simply looking for some quality time together, Niagara-on-the-Lake has something special to offer every couple. When it comes to romantic hotels Niagara on the Lake delivers!
Let me share my personal experience when I stayed at Niagara’s Finest Hotels. They will make sure you have the ultimate Niagara on the Lake couples getaway when you stay at any of their three boutique properties.
Table of Contents
Thank you to Niagara’s Finest Hotels for gifting me a free stay and dining. I only provide an honest review of my impressions and experience. As always, my opinions are my own.
Niagara on the Lake Getaway with Niagara’s Finest Hotels
Niagara’s Finest Hotels operates 3 boutique hotels, each with their own distinct charm and character.
Boutique Hotel 1: Harbour House
Tucked away from the main street in Niagara on the Lake, along the picturesque shoreline sits the charming Harbour House. This boutique hotel offers an intimate and comfortable retreat for couples.
As you step into the hotel’s foyer you’ll be greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere coupled with a friendly and attentive staff dedicated to ensuring your stay is nothing short of exceptional.
The space is homey, almost like you’ve stepped into someone’s home rather than a hotel. The lobby lounge is lined with bookshelves and conversational seating is centred around a large fireplace with doors leading out to a small terrace.
Checking in is a breeze. The polite and friendly Matthew hands me my room key and two freshly baked cookies, an extra touch to make every guest feel welcome (and I do!).
Now let’s check out Room 206 at Harbour House.
Room 206 Habour House
The best part of the room is the Juliet balcony.
I immediately swung open the doors to admire the view of the Niagara-On-The-Lake Sailing Club. I loved hearing the soothing sounds of the nearby boat harbour.
The cries of seagulls intermingle with the rhythmic lapping of waves against the dock, while the clinking of rope and rigging adds a touch of maritime ambiance.
Harbour House definitely lives up to its name!
My room is spacious (Room Type: Premium King Jetted Tub) with a fireplace, writing desk, and king-size bed. The bathroom was a good size too with a jacuzzi tub and walk-in shower.
I was lucky enough to get a tour of a couple more rooms and notice that each one is styled a bit differently, right down to the furniture. But the nautical theme is consistent as are the colours of white and varying shades of blue.
What Makes Harbour House Extra Special
I always travel with my dog, Henry and intentionally seek out places that are pet-friendly – whether that’s an overnight stay or a day trip like visiting dog friendly wineries. Unfortunately, this was a trip I was solo, and Henry definitely missed out!
At Harbour House Hotel, they go above and beyond and offer a comprehensive pet program designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay just for them.
Upon arrival, your pampered pooch will be welcomed with a plush doggy bed, doggie treats, a personalized toy, and water and food bowls for your puppy to keep.
At social hour at 4-5 pm while you enjoy your wine and cheese your dog will go on a long walk with a dog walker. And, so you can enjoy a romantic dinner Doggie Daycare is offered from 6-9 pm.
About Harbour House: the best couples getaway Niagara on the Lake with their dog
- 31 rooms – the decor is traditional with nautical touches with a couple of rooms featuring a Juliet balcony
- Breakfast is included
- Complimentary hotel parking
- Complimentary wine and cheese served between 4 to 5 pm
- No onsite restaurant
Boutique Hotel 2: Shaw Club
The Shaw Club Hotel offers a distinct blend of modern elegance and timeless charm. From the moment you enter the sleek lobby, you will notice the contemporary styling of this hotel.
The guest rooms at Shaw Club have a sense of understated luxury, featuring sleek furnishings, plush linens, and upscale amenities. The space is a bit dark and moody which lends itself to the contemporary decor.
The hotel’s prime location puts you near the renowned Shaw Festival Theatre, where you can indulge in world-class performances. Also, it lies on the main street of Niagara-on-the-Lake close to all the quaint shops.
Shaw Club Hotel sets the stage for an unforgettable romantic getaway, offering a seamless blend of contemporary sophistication, comfort, and unparalleled hospitality.
About Shaw Club: one of the best hotels in Niagara on the Lake for its downtown location near the shops and the Shaw Festival Theatre
- 30 rooms – contemporary decor with some rooms having access to a balcony
- Complimentary hotel parking
- The onsite restaurant is Zee’s Grill serving breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Upon request, you can have pet fish in your room during your stay
Boutique Hotel 3: The Charles Hotel
The Charles Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake holds a captivating historical legacy that adds an extra layer of intrigue to its already charming ambiance.
This historic gem was built in 1832 as a stately residence for a prominent lawyer and has gracefully preserved its architectural grandeur over the years.
With only twelve rooms, this intimate boutique hotel provides an exclusive and personalized experience for its guests.
That includes its location, sitting right next to the oldest golf course in North America.
As one of Niagara on the Lake luxury hotels guests can relish the elegant ambiance of the Charles Hotel and its beautiful gardens.
Whether exploring the nearby historical sites, enjoying the scenic beauty of Niagara-on-the-Lake, or simply indulging in the hotel’s refined amenities, the Charles Hotel offers an enchanting experience that pays homage to its fascinating past.
About The Charles Hotel: one of the best hotels in Niagara on the Lake
- 12 rooms – refined ambiance with contemporary antique decor (some rooms will have a private veranda)
- Complimentary hotel parking
- An onsite fine dining restaurant, HobNob, serves breakfast, lunch or dinner
Romantic Getaway Niagara on the Lake The Niagara’s Finest Hotels
All three of the exclusive boutique hotels offer the following amenities:
- Ivy, a text messaging service designed to provide seamless convenience and assistance to hotel guests. With Ivy, you have a dedicated platform at your fingertips to request shuttle service, make reservations, and seek any assistance you may require during your stay. Simply send a text message, and the friendly staff will swiftly attend to your needs. No need to wait in line or make a phone call – Ivy is there to ensure your experience at any of the three hotels is effortless and tailored to your preferences.
- Guests have the convenience of the Zoom BikeShare program giving you easy access to Niagara’s finest selection of bicycles. Whether you’re looking to explore the picturesque trails, visit the nearby wineries, or venture out to discover the town’s attractions, Zoom Bikes has you covered. The BikeShare program provides a range of premium cruiser, hybrid, tandem, and power-assist bikes, ensuring there’s a perfect option for everyone.
- Every guest has access to the convenient and dedicated shuttle so you can effortlessly travel between the hotels and dining establishments without the worry of transportation logistics or the worry of indulging in too much wine over dinner.
- Watch for Niagara’s Finest Hotels special or themed Niagara on the Lake Romantic Getaway packages for couples. Popular packages that run all year include ‘Niagara’s Finest Escape’ which includes breakfast and dinner at Bed & Breakfast or Puppies in Paradise.
Romantic Getaway Niagara on the Lake: Dining with Niagara’s Finest Hotels
In addition to their three boutique hotels, Niagara’s Finest Hotels operates four restaurants in town.
1. HobNob Restaurant & Wine Bar
Stepping inside HobNob, you are greeted by a cozy and intimate setting adorned with refined decor, soft lighting, and a crackling fireplace creating a welcoming ambiance that sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.
The restaurant’s menu showcases a tantalizing array of dishes crafted from the finest locally sourced ingredients.
From expertly prepared seafood delicacies to perfectly cooked steaks and mouthwatering vegetarian options, HobNob’s culinary offerings cater to every palate. Complemented by a well-curated selection of wines from the Niagara region, the dining experience at Hobnob is elevated to new heights.
My dining experience at HobNob restaurant was truly delightful.
To start, I savoured a velvety cream of broccoli soup that was rich in flavour and perfectly creamy. For the main course, I opted for the vegetarian special dish of orzo pasta dish, which featured a delightful combination of earthy mushrooms and tender asparagus with truffle oil.
To end the evening on a sweet note, I indulged in a blueberry custard tart that was a true treat. To complement the meal, I chose a glass of Reisling from Cave Spring, a refreshing wine that perfectly complemented the flavours of the dishes.
The attentive and knowledgeable staff provides impeccable service, ensuring that every guest feels pampered and well taken care of. This is truly the perfect setting for a romantic dinner for two in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
2. Zees Grill
Zee’s Grill is a sophisticated and inviting ambiance, characterized by the same contemporary décor of the Shaw Club Hotel. For breakfast, I opt for the more casual seating that overlooks the gardens.
My breakfast experience at Zee’s Grill was truly exceptional.
As a vegetarian, I appreciated their flexibility and willingness to accommodate my dietary preferences. I ordered the classic eggs Benedict with a twist – instead of the traditional peameal bacon, they substituted it with fresh and vibrant spinach.
The poached eggs were perfectly cooked, and the hollandaise sauce was creamy and flavourful, enveloping the dish with a luscious richness. The accompanying potato galette added a delightful crispiness and a satisfying texture to the meal.
The friendly and attentive service further enhanced my dining experience, not to mention the view I had of the gardens overflowing with tulips.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a romantic dinner, or simply looking for a memorable culinary experience, Zee’s Grill at the Shaw Club Hotel promises a dining adventure that will delight the senses and leave a lasting impression.
3. Masaki Sushi
The Masaki Sushi restaurant is a culinary haven for sushi enthusiasts like me.
This tiny indiscreet restaurant can be found on the main street in Niagara on the Lake. The menu at Masaki Sushi showcases a great selection of fresh and expertly crafted sushi rolls, sashimi, and other traditional Japanese dishes.
I went for the lunch special which gives you a choice of two Maki rolls, Miso soup and salad with ginger dressing. I have to say it’s been some of the best sushi I’ve had in a long time! And of course, each plate is a work of art, prepared with precision and attention to detail.
4. Niagara’s Finest Thai
Niagara’s Finest Thai restaurant, located at the Shaw Club offers a fusion of authentic Thai flavours. The menu at Niagara’s Finest Thai restaurant features a diverse array of traditional Thai dishes, from savoury curries to fragrant stir-fries.
I’ll be back to try this restaurant very soon.
Niagara on the Lake Romantic Getaway: 7 Things to Do
Beyond strolling downtown, here are 7 of the best romantic things to do in Niagara on the Lake.
- Witness the magic of live theatre by attending a captivating production at the renowned Shaw Festival.
- Embark on a delightful wine-tasting journey as you visit some of the best wineries in Niagara on the Lake, indulging in the region’s world-class wines.
- Take a stroll through the enchanting Niagara Parks Botanical Garden, immersing yourselves in the beauty of its meticulously manicured landscapes and vibrant floral displays. Or, visit the Monet-inspired gardens at Pillar and the Post, where you can wander hand in hand amidst the serene surroundings and exquisite blooms.
- Pamper yourselves with a rejuvenating spa experience, allowing relaxation to wash over you as you unwind and recharge together.
- Indulge in the timeless tradition of afternoon tea at the elegant Prince of Wales Hotel, savouring delectable treats and aromatic teas in a refined setting.
- Step back in time and embark on a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride through the charming old town streets, basking in the nostalgic ambiance while learning more about the intriguing stories.
- Take a romantic day trip to the enchanting nearby village of Jordan for more quaint shops and nearby wineries.
As a Holidaymaker
Niagara-on-the-Lake is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway and especially staying and dining with Niagara’s Finest Hotels.
If you enjoy visiting Niagara on the Lake, let me share a couple more Ontario small towns I think you will equally enjoy:
- one of Ontario’s prettiest towns, Perth Ontario – is another romantic couples getaway in Ontario
- Ontario’s favourite theatre town, Stratford, is a foodie hotspot, making this a great destination for couples to go for a weekend
- Prince Edward County, Ontario’s other wine country destination is a popular weekend getaway with couples
For all my articles, visit my Canada Travel page.