19 Top-Rated Resorts in Ontario

Author Bryan Dearsley lives in Ontario and frequently travels across the province, often visiting the destinations included in this list of resorts.

Ontario is not only home to some of North America's best places to visit, with natural attractions such as spectacular Niagara Falls topping the lists of visitors from across the globe, it's also where you can experience some of Canada's best resort vacations.

Sprinkled across this vast province, which is many times bigger than the UK, for instance, you'll find everything from luxurious wilderness lodges to beautiful country estate-style accommodations just begging you to stop awhile as you explore the surrounding areas.

Ontario attracts a good number of overseas visitors eager to explore its vast stretches of heavily forested and unspoiled scenery. There are also options close to larger urban centers.

Much, of course, depends upon the season. While some areas cater to guests wanting to experience activities such as skiing and snowmobiling in winter, others, such as Muskoka and Algonquin Park, tend to focus on experiences such hiking and canoeing in the summer months.

Whatever your preference and whatever time of year you visit, we're pleased to bring you this list of the best resorts in Ontario, Canada.

1. JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa, Lake Rosseau

Accommodation: JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort and Spa

Highlights: Beautiful location on Lake Rousseau, a variety of room types, outdoor activities

Ontario is blessed in so many ways when it comes to choosing a place to stay. Leading the pack in terms of resorts in Muskoka is the impressive JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa. Only the second Canadian resort to be graced with the prestigious JW Marriott moniker, this top luxury resort is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in cottage country for those wanting an unparalleled high-end vacation experience.

The resort's hillside setting offers superb views over Lake Rosseau, a body of water that's famous for being the summer home to Hollywood stars and billionaires. If available, be sure to request a lake view when booking.

Accommodations range from bright studios and deluxe rooms that come with separate living and dining areas to spacious one- and two-bedroom suites. The largest of these measures 117 square meters and comes with a private balcony or patio.

There are plenty of fun things to do on-site, too. Book a meal in one of the resort's restaurants (better still, on the patio), lounge poolside, or spend time being pampered in HydroSpa Muskoka. Add to this mix canoe and kayak adventures, hiking and biking, nature programs, and year-round kids' activities, and you'll not want to leave!

Address: 1050 Paignton House Road, Minett, Ontario

2. Fairmont Chateau Laurier, Ottawa

Accommodation: Fairmont Chateau Laurier

Highlights: Luxurious rooms and suites, world-class dining, a great central location

Since being opened in 1912, Ottawa's Fairmont Chateau Laurier has pretty much ruled the roost for luxury accommodations in Canada's capital. One of a number of landmark Canadian hotels built to resemble a European chateau, this elegant landmark luxury hotel is located just steps away from the top attractions in Ottawa.

On-site amenities include fine dining, in-room dining options, an attentive concierge service, as well as chic lounge areas. Those wanting to squeeze in some exercise can choose from the large indoor swimming pool or the well-equipped gym.

Perfect for a fun romantic weekend getaway in Ontario, you're spoiled for choice when it comes to accommodations. Popular options range from hotel-style rooms to spacious suites, each sumptuously decorated and appointed, it's also the perfect location for family vacations. Whatever size accommodation you opt for, you'll be spoiled with luxurious bedding, cozy bathrobes, and superb city views.

Address: 1 Rideau Street, Ottawa, Ottawa

3. Great Wolf Lodge, Niagara Falls

Accommodation: Great Wolf Lodge

Highlights: On-site waterpark, kids' programs, fun themed family-friendly rooms

When it comes to year-round family fun, Great Wolf Lodge in Niagara Falls certainly delivers. A mix of water park excitement and great accommodations, Great Wolf Lodge offers plenty of fun on-site, and is close enough to all the dining, shopping, and attractions in Niagara Falls.

On-site amenities include a vast array of water-based rides, pools, and games; multiple dining options; kids programs; and mini-golf and bowling. There's also a large fitness center and both an adults' and kids' spa.

Come bedtime, youngsters are going to love settling down for the night in one of the themed "Kid Kamp" suites. Capable of sleeping up to six guests comfortably, these fun suites consist of a tent-themed area with bunk beds just for the kids, along with a queen bed for mom and dad, plus a sofa bed if it's needed. Standard features include large-screen TVs, private balconies or patios, fridges, and coffee makers.

Other accommodation options include suites with two queen beds and a pullout, and a loft suite with a cozy separate living area.

Address: 3950 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, Ontario

4. Inn at Cobble Beach Resort & Spa, Kemble

Accommodation: Inn at Cobble Beach Resort & Spa

Highlights: Lake views, golf course, luxurious accommodations

Located on a 574-acre parcel of land on rugged Georgian Bay, the all-season Inn at Cobble Beach near Owen Sound offers guests an outstanding Canadian vacation experience. In addition to having access to Cobble Beach Golf Links, the resort also boasts great dining and world-class spa facilities.

Other amenities include a fitness center, indoor golf facility, and a 14-kilometer trail network to explore. For winter sports enthusiasts, most of this expansive trail network is accessible with snowshoes and cross-country skis.

The inn's accommodations consist of 10 elegantly appointed suites plus an additional five stand-alone cottages. In-room features include spacious bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, comfortable upgraded bedding, free Wi-Fi, HD TVs, fridges, and great views over Georgian Bay or the golf course.

When additional space is needed, request a room with a pull-out sofa bed, or opt for the loft suite, capable of sleeping up to eight guests comfortably and with an additional bathroom. Larger groups should also consider renting one of the two-bedroom open-concept cottages, each with two bathrooms, separate living rooms with pull-out sofas, and great waterfront views.

Address: 221 McLeese Drive, Kemble, Ontario

5. Deerhurst Resort, Huntsville

Accommodation: Deerhurst Resort

Highlights: Year-round outdoor activities, kids activities, on-site spa, and dining

Set in the heart of Ontario's cottage country region of Muskoka just a few minutes' drive from the quaint town of Huntsville, Deerhurst Resort has been synonymous with great Canadian hospitality since it opened in 1896. Since then, Deerhurst has grown into one of the largest resorts in Ontario, offering everything from great family vacations to romantic couples' getaways and corporate functions.

It is widely considered among the best resorts in Huntsville and can handle groups of any size, whether in its nicely finished standard hotel rooms or in its larger open-concept suites. If your budget can handle it, consider opting for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom unit, many of which boast their own private kitchens.

Where Deerhurst outdoes most resorts, however, is on the activities front. On-site amenities include a large beach area with water toys, indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, two golf courses, horse riding, hiking and biking trails, and treetop trekking.

Deerhurst also boasts a wide variety of indoor activities for when the cooler winter weather arrives, including fun things for kids, such as a play zone and rock climbing wall, while adults can enjoy indoor tennis and squash. The resort also has a large fitness center, spa, and great on-site dining options.

Address: 1235 Deerhurst Drive, Huntsville, Ontario

6. The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain

Accommodation: The Westin Trillium House, Blue Mountain

Highlights: Proximity to ski hills, spacious accommodations with full kitchens, year-round fun

Part of the huge Blue Mountain Village development near the town of Collingwood, Westin Trillium House is about as close as you can get to some of the best ski action in Ontario. Just steps away from the slopes, guests can buy their pass and enjoy any one of 42 trails spread across 360 acres of skiable terrain.

In addition to ski schools and programs for kids (they'll love the nearby aquatic center), fun things to do in Blue Mountain include snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing adventures, along with snowmobile rentals or ice fishing. In summer, the slopes become perfect terrain for mountain biking and hiking, while other sports include golf, sailing, and waterskiing. The resort also has a large fitness center and restaurant.

Accommodations at the Westin are suited to parties of all sizes, and are perfect for everything from romantic couples' getaways to family gatherings and corporate retreats. One-bedroom suites feature separate family rooms and living areas with a pull-out couch, fireplaces, kitchenettes, and balconies. The larger two- and three-bedroom units feature larger kitchens, a dining area, plus an en-suite bathroom adjacent to the master bedroom.

Address: 220 Gord Canning Drive, The Blue Mountains, Ontario

7. Sir Sam's Inn & Spa, Eagle Lake

Accommodation: Sir Sam's Inn & Spa

Highlights: Ski resort in winter, mountain biking in summer, fall colors in autumn

Located on Eagle Lake in the beautiful Haliburton Highlands northeast of Toronto, the adults-only Sir Sam's Inn is the perfect getaway spot for couples needing some alone time. A highlight of any stay is the chance to lounge about in your luxuriously appointed room or private stand-alone cabin while admiring the views over the lake.

Whichever you choose, you'll enjoy deluxe oversized bathrooms with large tubs, as well as real fireplaces with an ample supply of wood and kindling - a real treat for those traveling in fall or winter. Honeymooners in particular are drawn to the cozy two-story suites with cathedral ceilings.

There are also many things to do around the inn. Highlights of this all-season resort include the use of bikes, kayaks, and canoes; tennis courts; a private beach; plus direct access to plenty of good hiking trails. In winter, many guests will head next door to Sir Sam's Ski/Ride Park, which also offers ski rentals and lessons.

The inn also offers excellent dining, and for those wanting to splash out on a little pampering, their full-service spa offers massages and other treatments.

Address: 1491 Sir Sam's Road, Eagle Lake, Ontario

8. Totem Lodge, Sioux Narrows

Accommodation: Totem Resorts

Highlights: Superb lake fishing, stand-alone cottages, year-round outdoor activities

Ontario's a big, big place. So big, in fact, that people will travel more than 1,800 kilometers from Toronto to destinations north for a spot of fishing... without ever leaving the province. That fishing spot? Totem Lodge, part of the Totem Resorts property in Sioux Narrows.

One of three vacation properties that make up the sprawling Totem Resorts complex, Totem Lodge offers a luxurious take on the traditional Canadian fishing lodge, offering visitors a superlative wilderness retreat experience.

Guests can choose from a variety of guided fishing packages that include state-of-the-art fishing boats and lunches. On-site amenities include a beach with diving platform, various dining options, and plenty of comfortable places to lounge about in the main lodge.

Consisting of attractive stand-alone cabins, the lodge's modern accommodations include plenty of great reasons to skip the occasional fishing trip: exquisite marble bathrooms with large Jacuzzi tubs, authentic stone fireplaces, full kitchens with the latest appliances, as well as large HD TVs which you'll likely not watch thanks to the incredible lake views.

For those into winter activities, the resort does offer some all-season accommodations, along with fun adventures including snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Address: 120 Totem Road, Sioux Narrows, Ontario

9. Killarney Mountain Lodge, Killarney

Accommodation: Killarney Mountain Lodge

Highlights: Luxury rooms and suites, located on the Killarney Channel, great hiking nearby

One of the most northerly resorts on Georgian Bay, the fully renovated Killarney Mountain Lodge offers guests a choice of 87 luxurious accommodations. Among the most popular for couples are the large, comfortable queen or king suites with views over Killarney Channel plus outdoor seating.

Larger groups should consider opting for one of the delightful cabins. Highlights include rich pine-clad interiors, spacious bathrooms with separate bathtubs and showers, plus rollaway beds when extra guests are expected.

The delightful accommodations at Killarney are certainly matched by the resort's public spaces and amenities. Overlooking Killarney Channel, the main lodge building is where you'll find comfortable lounge seating in which to relax, as well as on-site dining. A variety of personalized meal plans are available.

Summer activities available for guests to enjoy include exploring nearby hiking trails, endless miles of boating on Georgian Bay, with boat rentals available from the adjoining marina, as well as guided cruises, canoe and kayak adventures, a games room, barbecues, plus live music and entertainment. Popular winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing, to name but a few.

The resort is also handily located for those looking to explore nearby Killarney Provincial Park.

Address: 3 Commissioner Street, Killarney, Ontario

10. Severn Lodge, Port Severn

Accommodation: Severn Lodge

Highlights: Large lakefront property, family units, all-inclusive dining

One of a number of great family-run businesses offering traditional cottage country vacation experiences, Severn Lodge boasts more than 700 meters of pristine shoreline for its guests to enjoy.

The lodge overlooks Gloucester Pool, which connects directly to Georgian Bay and the Great Lakes, and guests are often surprised to see the occasional yacht pass by as they relax (you could in fact sail all the way to the Atlantic Ocean from here).

For those wanting to get out on the water themselves, the resort offers Jet Ski rentals, as well as the use of kayaks and canoes. Tours aboard the resort's vintage wooden boat can also be arranged.

A variety of first-rate accommodations are available in the main lodge building, while those with a larger budget and needing extra space should consider one of the resort's larger units. A favorite for families are the well-appointed two-bedroom suites, which come with a great deal of additional space thanks to their living rooms. Each comes with a full kitchen, pull-out sofa bed, and large decks or terraces with screened-in porches and lovely water views.

Although closed in winter, Severn Lodge makes for a great base from which to explore the magnificent fall colors in this corner of Ontario.

Address: 116 Gloucester Trail, Severn, Ontario

11. The Briars Resort & Spa, Jackson's Point

Accommodation: The Briars Resort & Spa

Highlights: Proximity to Toronto, romantic setting, couple's spa treatments

One of the closest country resorts to Toronto, as it's less than an hour from the city's outskirts, the Briars Resort & Spa in Jackson's Point on Lake Simcoe is a delightful getaway destination for groups of any size. Able to trace its beginnings as far back as 1840, this historic location consists of a conference center, luxury spa, and elegant accommodations set amid a beautiful lakeside backdrop.

Other great reasons to visit include gourmet cuisine and plenty of year-round outdoor activities: in winter, it's all about cross-country skiing and ice fishing, while summer fun includes nature hikes and kayaking. Also worth checking out are the resort's indoor/outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, sauna, and fitness center. Other fun things to do include tennis, badminton, basketball, and volleyball. There's also a nearby golf course.

The resort's accommodations are impressive, too. Favorites include the quaint studio cottages overlooking the golf course or lake, each with a fireplace, four-piece bath, fridge, and fire pit. Assuming cost isn't an issue and you want to bring friends or family, why not splurge on a two- or three-bedroom cottage? These larger units offer separate living rooms and large decks. Pet-friendly units of all sizes are available.

Address: 55 Hedge Road, Jacksons Point, Ontario

12. Bayview Wildwood Resort, Severn Bridge

Accommodation: Bayview Wildwood Resort

Highlights: Family-friendly, all-inclusive meals, lakeside setting

Ranked as one of Ontario's top family resorts, Bayview Wildwood Resort in Severn Bridge is located mid-way between the towns of Orillia and Gravenhurst. It's also just a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Toronto and a little less from the city's international airport.

Though a popular spot for corporate groups, weddings, and romantic couples' getaways, the resort does an exceptional job of looking after the vacation needs of families and provides plenty of fun activities for all ages to enjoy together.

Outdoor winter fun includes ice fishing, skating, and snowmobiling, while summer activities include swimming at the beach or in the heated pool, hiking, boating, canoeing, tennis, and ATV rentals. Those looking for things to do indoors won't be disappointed, either. Highlights include supervised kids' programs, an indoor swimming pool, evening entertainment, and excellent dining.

When it comes time for bed, guests are spoiled for choice. A popular option are the resort rooms with their lake views, which can be combined for larger groups and families. For guests wanting something to themselves, a number of stand-alone cottages are also available. Among the most popular are one-bedroom units with private balconies, and larger two-bedroom cottages with their own fireplaces, kitchens, and decks.

Address: 1500 Port Stanton Pkwy, Severn Bridge, Ontario

13. Elmhirst's Resort, Keene

Accommodation: Elmhirst's Resort

Highlights: Huge stand-alone cottages, cozy couple suites, lengthy shoreline, and boardwalk

Located on the shores of Rice Lake near the pretty country town of Peterborough, family-owned Elmhirst's Resort offers a relaxing vacation in pleasant waterfront cottages.

You can choose from a stay in the one-bedroom honeymoon suite, complete with king bed and large bathroom with separate shower and Jacuzzi tub, right up to a huge five-bedroom cottage with a wood-burning fireplace, full kitchen, two large bathrooms, a large deck with a barbecue, plus its own private dock. There are also a number of three-bedroom cottages available. Pets can be accommodated with prior notice.

Elmhirst's offers a great deal of fun around its 240-acre property, too. Highlights include taking a pleasant stroll along the lakeside boardwalk, swimming in the resort's pools, working out in the gym, enjoying on-site dining using ingredients from the resort's working farm, or relaxing in the full-service spa. Kids also have space of their own to run around at the playground, with a selection of kids' programs available during the summer.

The resort also offers a number of off-site experiences, including guided nature hikes and horseback trail rides, sightseeing by air, fishing trips and boat rentals, and golf. Live music is frequently available, and an on-site art gallery showing works by local, national, and international artists adds a dash of culture to your stay.

Be sure to also check out the resort's winter packages, which include a popular Rice Lake fishing getaway.

Address: 1045 Settlers Line, Keene, Ontario

14. Sherwood Inn, Port Carling

Accommodation: Sherwood Inn

Highlights: Located in Muskoka, nearby shopping and golf, romantic boathouse suite

Those looking for a stay with an added sprinkling of luxury should consider Sherwood Inn. Located near the beautiful cottage country village of Port Carling and a scenic 25 minutes' drive from the pretty town of Bracebridge, this historic inn sits on the shores of lovely Lake Joseph, one of the most sought-after vacation destinations in Muskoka.

In addition to exploring the many boutique shops, art galleries, and dining options of Port Carling, also accessible from the resort by boat, guests can enjoy on-site amenities that include a full-service spa, a well-stocked games room, a fitness center, canoes and kayaks, and a restaurant.

Nearby activities include golf, boat rentals, and water-ski schools. For those interested in fun things to do in Ontario in winter, special weekend packages are available that include accommodations, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.

The accommodations at Sherwood Inn are well-suited to both couples and larger groups and include a selection of spacious suites and private cabins. While each of the well-appointed and elegant suites features a queen bed and bathroom with separate shower, some of the larger units also come with separate living areas with pull-out sofas and their own balcony.

For a little added indulgence, splurge on one of the resort's lakeside cabins, each with a wood-burning stove, or the quaint boathouse suite right on the lake.

Address: 1090 Sherwood Road, Port Carling, Ontario

15. Wander the Resort, Bloomfield

Accommodation: Wander the Resort

Highlights: Bright modern accommodations, quiet location perfect for adults and couples, large private beach

Set in the heart of Prince Edward County, one of Ontario's most unique lakeside landscapes, Wander the Resort opened in 2020 and has already made a name for its quality accommodations. The resort's 10 individual cabins are each designed with luxury and comfort in mind, featuring trendy modern décor with warm natural-wood accents and plenty of light and great views through their floor-to-ceiling windows.

Capable of sleeping up to six guests, each cabin also includes a full kitchen with appliances and plenty of space to entertain, including a living room area and furnished terrace. There's even a barbecue for when the urge to cook outdoors strikes.

Topping the resort's amenities is its large beach area adjacent to West Lake. Plenty of beach seating is provided, as well as a lakeside campfire. While small, the clubhouse provides another area in which to hang out, and offers refreshments and pastries. A variety of children's programs are available, along with a babysitting service.

Should you wish to explore the area, Sandbanks Provincial Park is a short drive away, as are numerous dining experiences.

Address: 15841 Loyalist Pkwy, Bloomfield, Ontario

16. Smoothwater Outfitters & Lodge, Temagami

Accommodation: Smoothwater Outfitters & Lodge

Highlights: Wilderness tours, canoeing and kayaking, fire pits, and campfires

One of the most-visited vacation spots in northeastern Ontario, Temagami is just a two-hour drive northeast of the city of Sudbury and an ideal location for those wanting to get a taste of the province's vast wilderness.

While a number of excellent outfitting businesses have sprung up to satisfy this demand, Smoothwater Outfitters & Lodge has set the bar somewhat higher by providing guests with an opportunity to experience this abundance of nature without having to sleep under the stars - unless they choose to.

Accommodations include cozy private rooms perfect for couples, and larger dorm-style bunk rooms for groups of friends and families. Camping, of course, is also available. On-site amenities include unlimited use of a large public space that's perfect for relaxing, playing games, or planning the day's adventure; a lakeside sauna; fire pits for campfires; and canoes.

Meal plans are also available and are well worth including in your stay, as all dishes are made using fresh local ingredients wherever possible, some of which are grown on-site.

As a full-blown outfitter, Smoothwater can also provide everything that's needed for overnight expeditions into the surrounding provincial parks and the neighboring areas of unspoiled crown land. The lodge is closed during the winter months.

Address: 34 Smoothwater Road, Temagami, Ontario

17. Bondi Village Resort, Dwight

Accommodation: Bondi Village Resort

Highlights: Large private sandy beach, hiking trails, close to Huntsville

Bondi Village Resort near Dwight in Muskoka has been proudly family-owned and operated since it opened in 1905, and has offered great cottage country vacations ever since. Highlights of a stay include having access to the resort's large sandy beach, and mile-after-mile of navigable waters on the beautiful Lake of Bays.

Many family-friendly activities are available at Bondi, including boat rentals (canoes are free), a play area for kids, a games room, shuffleboard, and volleyball, plus a fun Frisbee golf course, to name but a few. In addition to the resort's own beach, you're only a short drive or boat ride away from Dwight Beach, one of the very best beaches in Muskoka.

Guests can also access endless hiking trails through more than 600 acres of adjoining, unspoiled wilderness. Come winter, some of these same trails are groomed for cross-country skiing. The resort is also very close to Algonquin Provincial Park, popular for its many outdoor adventure opportunities and scenic hiking trails.

Accommodations include a choice of traditional Muskoka-style housekeeping cottages, some winterized for year-round use. They range in size from a cozy two-bedroom unit above the resort's boathouse (great water views included) to larger three-bedroom affairs sleeping up to eight guests. Features may also include private decks and docks, direct beach access, real fireplaces, and barbecues.

Address: 1260 Fox Point Road, Dwight, Ontario

18. Heather Lodge, Minden

Accommodation: Heather Lodge

Highlights: Adults-only, cozy and romantic, lakeside dining

Situated in the scenic, rolling countryside of the Haliburton Highlands, adults-only Heather Lodge in Minden can trace its roots as a holiday destination back to its founding in 1942. Set overlooking Twelve Mile Lake, this picturesque all-season resort consists of just 12 studio accommodations, ensuring the kind of peace and quiet that's perfect for a great romantic getaway.

While all suites include comfortable king beds, fridges, coffee makers, satellite TVs, and cozy bathrobes, a number of larger options provide additional space and privacy, along with real fireplaces and a private balcony.

Guests have full access to the resort's amenities, including its never-crowded shoreline, outdoor seating, and swimming dock. Getting out and about on the water is also easy thanks to the provision of complimentary kayaks, canoes, and a paddleboat; a motorized fishing boat is available for rent.

Come winter, your stay includes free use of cross-country ski equipment and snowshoes. Indoor amenities include a combined hot tub and sauna room available for private use, along with an intimate dining room serving three meals daily.

Address: 14483 ON-35, Minden Hills, Ontario

19. Tomahawk Resort, Sioux Narrows

Accommodation: Tomahawk Resort

Highlights: Wilderness setting in northern Ontario, large premium cottages, all-inclusive fishing packages

Another of Ontario's superb wilderness lodges, Tomahawk Resort in Sioux Narrows has been a popular fishing destination in Ontario for more than 70 years. Located on the fishing paradise of Lake of the Woods, which is famous for its excellent fishing thanks to an abundance of pike, walleye, bass, and lake trout, Tomahawk Resort offers a variety of all-inclusive packages, along with options for those bringing their own gear and boats.

Other things to do include swimming and sunbathing at the private sandy beach, use of canoes and paddleboats, a full-service marina, volleyball court, horseshoe pits, and a playground for the kids. There's also a nearby golf course, plus a fun mini-putt attraction. The resort is especially popular among snowmobilers and ice fishers during the winter months.

The resort's unique accommodations include a number of "floating cottages." These houseboats come complete with bathrooms, full kitchens, and comfortable beds, and can sleep up to six guests. Best of all, you can untie your lake home and sail away to the next great fishing spot. Larger groups of landlubbers should consider one of the resort's premium cottages.

The largest of these consists of five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a spacious kitchen, separate living room, gas fireplace, and a barbecue. The smaller two-bedroom units are equally well appointed, and perfect for families and groups of friends.

Address: Sioux Narrows, Ontario

Map of Resorts in Ontario

Best Time to Visit Resorts in Ontario

Summer is the best time to visit the resorts in Ontario. Summers in Ontario include the months of June, July, and August, and while a relatively short season compared to many other destinations, you're guaranteed long days with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

That said, some parts of Ontario are known to harbor numerous biting bugs such as blackflies and mosquitos during the summer months. Though blackflies are usually only present for a short period in late May and early June, in some of the province's more remote wilderness settings, mosquitos can be a nuisance at dusk and on cloudy days in non-urban settings. August onwards is mostly bug-free and perhaps the best month for a resort stay.

Autumn, which includes the months of September and October and is generally considered to start after Labor Day, is a fantastic time to visit Ontario resorts. In September, temperatures in southern Ontario are still warm enough for swimming and water sports. In October, the province's famous fall colors create a beautiful backdrop for fun day trips, hikes, and scenic drives.

Winters, which typically include the months of November, December, January, February, March, and even into early April, are typically long and cold with plenty of snow. While not so great for those simply wanting to kick back and relax, this abundance of white stuff is a bonus for downhill and cross-country skiers, snowmobilers, and ice-fishers. While some of the best Ontario resorts do cater to these activities, not all do, so check that they're open and operating during the winter months, as well as what they offer in terms of activities and packages.

Travel to Ontario in early spring isn't for everyone. In most areas of the province, April is still a little wintery, and you're unlikely to see leaves or flowers out in force until early to mid-May. Also, many hotels and resorts don't open up for the season until the "May Two-Four" (May 24) long weekend, which is generally considered the closest weekend on which this calendar date falls.