Northern Ontario Gems Places to Stay

Northern Ontario offers an incredible array of places to stay—from wilderness lodges and lakeside cabins to luxury resorts and rustic retreats. Here’s a curated pick across different regions and travel styles.

🎣Totem Resorts – Lake of the Woods

Nestled on the shores of Lake of the Woods in Northwestern Ontario, Totem Resorts offers an all-inclusive plan experience with gourmet meals, guided fishing, cozy 5-star cabins, and daily shore lunches on pristine islands. For true solitude, you can stay in their remote French Portage Outpost cabins—boat access only—and soak in the wilderness. A paradise for Ontarians seeking both comfort and adventure.

Activities to Enjoy

• Top-tier guided fishing for trophy catches.
• Post-fishing relaxation with white-sand beaches, hot tubs, canoes/kayaks/SUP, and a fitness centre.
• Family fun with mini-golf, gift shop browsing, quad-biking, live events—and in winter, ice-castle experiences.

🛶Rock Island Lodge – Wawa / Lake Superior

A cozy, boutique-style bed & breakfast lodge nestled on Lake Superior’s shore—serene, intimate, and naturally inspiring perches right on Lake Superior’s wild shore, just off the Trans-Canada Highway near Wawa. With only four guest rooms, it’s intimate and serene—ideal for nature lovers and creative travelers. They offer guided sea kayaking, canoeing, SUP adventures, art workshops, hiking, and wellness retreats. The perfect mix of comfort and raw natural beauty.

Activities to Enjoy

• Immerse yourself in guided sea-kayaking, canoeing, and SUP excursions.
• Try your hand at paddleboard lessons or eco-tours—great for novices and adventure seekers alike.
• Explore nearby scenic highlights like High Falls, the Wawa Goose monument, and Group of Seven vistas via hiking and sightseeing.

🐟Horwood Lake Lodge – Near Timmins

Discover the stunning, 14,000-acre Horwood Lake, known for its granite cliffs, clear waters, and trophy fishing. The lodge, established in 1953 and situated on a scenic peninsula, offers cozy cabins, various plans and housekeeping options, and guided fishing packages for walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass. A classic lakeside getaway for devoted anglers and nature appreciators.

Activities to Enjoy

• Guided fishing trips tailored for landing walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass with seasoned local guides.
• Outdoor adventure in every season—ATVing, snowmobiling, and boated excursions through rugged wilderness.

⛰️Killarney Mountain Lodge – Georgian Bay

Set against the iconic La Cloche Mountains and glimmering Georgian Bay shoreline, this historic resort combines rustic elegance with welcoming hospitality. It features lodge rooms, suites, and cabins with feather-down duvets, gourmet Canadian cuisine, live music, and open-log interiors with fireplaces. Amenities include a sauna, outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi, making it perfect for families, couples, and corporate retreats.

Activities to Enjoy

• Guided hikes, wilderness tours, and seasonal offerings like wine-tasting, yoga retreats, and holiday brunches.
• Water-borne adventures: sailing, cruising, and kayaking around Killarney Channel and scenic islands.

🏛️Prince Arthur Waterfront Hotel – Thunder Bay

Located in downtown Thunder Bay, this iconic 1911 hotel blends heritage charm with modern comforts. You’ll find elegant period architecture, gourmet dining, conference facilities, and sweeping views of Lake Superior and the waterfront. With amenities like a bar, hot tub, gym, and pet-friendly rooms, it’s a refined urban base for exploring the area.

Activities to Enjoy

• Relax in the heated indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, or stay active with the on-site fitness centre.
• Venture outdoors to Prince Arthur’s Landing for splash parks, sailing tours, yoga, festivals, and winter fun like snowshoeing and fat biking.
• Host or attend elegant events with superb catering in a waterfront venue—weddings, conferences, high-tea gatherings, you name it.

From angling for trophy fish to sipping wine at sunset, hiking rugged landscapes, or soaking up local culture, Northern Ontario has a destination to match your pace and passion—all set against breathtaking wilderness backdrops.