7. Harbour House Hotel
Set in Niagara-on-the-Lake – about 14 miles north of Niagara Falls – Harbour House Hotel provides a quiet respite from the tourist-choked Niagara Falls area. Recent lodgers adore this property’s bed-and-breakfast feel, from the complimentary (and guest-approved) «Breakfast in the Conservatory» to the gas fireplaces in the guest rooms. Each room or suite also features a whirlpool tub or multi-head shower, Frette bathrobes, a flat-screen TV and complimentary internet access. When you’re ready to satiate your appetite, take a stroll or short shuttle ride to HobNob restaurant & wine bar for afternoon tea and scones, or to Zees Grill for an Italian-inspired menu. The Harbour House Hotel is part of the Niagara’s Finest Hotels brand, meaning visitors will have access to the dining and spa options at associated properties like the Shaw Club Hotel and the Charles Inn.
8. Prince of Wales
Originally established in 1864, this Victorian-style hotel sits at the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a small town located about 15 miles north of Niagara Falls. Inside, guests are greeted by an old world ambiance enhanced with modern-day amenities. Guest rooms feature period pieces like canopied four-poster beds (in some rooms) and antique light fixtures, as well as Nespresso coffee makers, Bose Wave systems and high-speed wireless Internet access (included in the $15 CAD daily resort fee). Visitors are especially impressed with the property’s cuisine: Noble, the on-site restaurant, serves local specialties paired with wines from the region. But to really get a taste of the Victorian lifestyle, savor Traditional Afternoon Tea in The Drawing Room. Most previous visitors say the decadent experience is worthwhile, praising the charming atmosphere and tasty cuisine. Indulge even further with a rejuvenating body treatment or massage at the Secret Garden Spa. Guests are also invited to explore the nearby facilities at the Prince of Wales’ sister properties, Queen’s Landing and Pillar and Post.
