Getting away from it all doesn’t have to mean getting on airplane—finding something out of the ordinary close to home can evoke a similar sense of surprise. That’s why we chose to highlight a few of the accommodations around Kawarthas Northumberland that are off the beaten path. Whether it’s the décor, the location, or the associated activities, here are some unique offerings from the region.
Shambhala Bed and Breakfast
If you’re seeking a break from chain hotels, Shambhala is a very good bet. Situated on 40 acres of woodland outside Buckhorn, the property is studded with artful accents and serene yet cheerful Buddha sculptures. Exposed logs walls in the King and Queen suites foster a sense of connection to nature, and you’re not far from other outdoorsy attractions like Petroglyphs Provincial Park and the Kawartha Highlands Signature Site. Breakfast options are diverse, and range from vegan to the classic Full English. It’s kid and pet-friendly too, so the whole family can enjoy.
Whispering Springs Glamping
If you’ve ever wanted to combine the fresh air feel of camping with the luxury of a king-size bed, this is the spot for you. Whispering Springs offers cabins, log-framed safari tents, and treetop tents on a forest property outside the small community of Grafton. On-site amenities include a saltwater pool, hot tub, and cedar barrel sauna, as well as yoga sessions with a certified instructor. Opt for the all-inclusive package and get the works, beginning with breakfast delivered to your tent through to live music around the campfire.
Island Spirits Rice Lake
Grasshopper Island is a 25-acre private island offering solar-powered eco cabins for your glamping pleasure. Island Spirits trips begins with a short ferry ride, and after disembarking you’ll meet the seasonal residents—free-roaming sheep, goats, and more. Other attractions include the outdoor pizza oven, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, hiking trails, and a volleyball court, so you’ll have everything you need to make your own fun in one of Northumberland’s most scenic areas.
Haute Goat
You’ve heard of a yurt—how about a yome? Haute Goat’s combination yurt/dome is just one of their unique offerings. Bundle a stay in the yome with other guided experiences like a sunset walk with alpacas or goat yoga (turns out goats are a surprisingly fun addition to a yoga routine). You might also try the bunkie or farmhouse suite accommodations. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy farm-fresh dining in picturesque Northumberland County.
Fells Meadows
Fells Meadows is another superb option in Northumberland County. Situated on more than 100 acres of country property, staying here affords an opportunity to ramble through forests and wide, sunny spaces. Overnight guests can choose between a stay in the renovated 1860 farmhouse, cabins, a yurt, or a safari tent. A stay here offers a contemplative natural sanctuary, complete with a stone labyrinth and optional wellness workshops.
Honey Cove by N2 Adventures
Get off the grid with N2 Adventures’ solar-powered cabin on a beautiful property outside Keene. When produce is in season, pick your own food straight from the farm and cook over an open flame. Your hosts can also curate a basket of local foods for you, so you can savour a taste of place beside the river just steps from the cabin.
Unique Parks Canada Accommodations
Parks Canada has been hard at work developing fun new options for visitors. In Kawarthas Northumberland, you’ll find the teardrop-shaped Ôasis Pods, which afford charming way to enjoy the Trent-Severn Waterway. The A-frame oTENTik cabins are another great way to combine a camping experience with comfortable amenities—and if that doesn’t float your boat, there’s always the Rosedale rustic cabin, just across from Dewey’s Island Nature Reserve in the quiet beauty of Kawartha Lakes.
R&R Houseboats
So far we’ve stuck to dry land—but if you want to set out down the historic Trent-Severn Waterway, R&R Houseboats has comfortable, mobile accommodations. These fully equipped houseboats come with lock passes included, so you set out from Bobcaygeon with everything you need for overnighting on the water.
Egan Houseboat
Egan Houseboat Vacations’ fleet of 32 houseboats offers four different sizes of boat, so you’ll be able to accommodate a variety of preferences and party sizes. Cruise the Trent-Severn and you can stop at several TSW Trail Towns along the way, enjoying everything the region has to offer.
Escape Maze
If you’re the type who always brings board games to the cottage or card games camping, you’ve got to try Escape Maze. We’ve written about them on the KN blog before, so check out the feature article to read more about their ingenious themed escape rooms. When you’re ready to indulge your playful side, you can book a stay at the Riverside Glamping site. The package comes with four escape games of your choice included, so you can head back and relax by the Otonabee River after a day’s work solving devious puzzles.
