Holiday Gift Guide: Weekend Retreats
A cozy retreat in Canada’s great outdoors is the perfect holiday gift, like this amazing spot at Trout Point Lodge.
Research into the psychology of gifting has consistently shown that people are happier when they receive experiences rather than material goods. Part of the joy of receiving experiences is the anticipation of an adventure and the joy of a shared journey. Â We are all in need of reconnecting with our friends and family so this holiday season let’s skip the scarves and sweaters and instead give the gift of connection — a weekend getaway that will rejuvenate the soul and create many happy memories.
Whether you’re looking to take someone on an adventure or gift a trip to another couple or family, we invite you to browse our collection of experiences suitable for gift-giving this holiday season. We’ve picked out some of our favourites to serve as inspiration.
Not sure what to get? Pick up a Landsby gift card and let them choose their own adventure. You’ll be supporting small Canadian companies and they’ll be thrilled to plan a getaway!
Note: All of our weekend retreat suggestions are Ontario-based. If you are buying for someone in another province, we have some wonderful getaways available in other parts of Canada, including a romantic getaway in Nova Scotia and a family paddling adventure in Quebec. Visit our site for more info or reach out and we will happily guide you to an experience worthy of gifting.Â
The Ontario government has created a temporary Staycation Tax Credit for 2022 that will allow Ontario residents to recoup some of the accommodation costs of travel within the province. Families can claim up to $2000 (for a $400 refund) and individuals can claim up to $1000 (for a $200 refund). It is a great incentive to book or gift an Ontario getaway in 2022.
Southwestern Ontario: Cozy accommodations and a guided hike
This overnight experience features a stay at the historic Seven Gables Tillsonburg Bed & Breakfast, located in Oxford County about 50 kilometres from London. The accommodations are lovely (set on five acres but just steps to downtown Tillsonburg) and include a delicious breakfast. Also included in this experience is a guided walk through the Long Point World Biosphere to discover old-growth Carolinian forest and learn about the flora and fauna that call this incredibly diverse place home. A wonderful gift for an active couple.
Check out our other experiences in Southwestern Ontario.
Algonquin: A cozy couples winter retreat
What could be better after a busy holiday season than escaping to a cozy and remote chalet with your sweetheart? Surprise your significant other with a post-holiday winter retreat to a private chalet in Algonquin. You’ll enter a winter wonderland with stunning water and forest views. Use the alone time to snowshoe or cross-country ski through a peaceful forest trail and still have lots of cozy time to reconnect indoors. Enjoy a drink by the wood-burning fireplace, indulge in delicious meals and enjoy the quiet of this off-grid (solar-powered) wilderness vacation.
Check out our other Algonquin adventures.
South Eastern Ontario: Country charm in Prince Edward County
Do you have a foodie on your list? You can’t go wrong with a retreat to Prince Edward County. This experience has all the hallmarks of a perfect County weekend: a stay in a charming historic home with an iconic red barn, surrounded by acres of beautiful countryside. Enjoy a delicious hot breakfast served each morning. Centrally located in Prince Edward County and just a short drive from all the best restaurants, wineries, cideries and cafes. The experience also includes a private tour of an alpaca farm (think of all the fuzzy snuggles) or a gourmet smores evening served next to a roaring outdoor fire.
Check out our other South Eastern Ontario getaways.
