My partner, Nathan, and I took off for a quick trip to Elora at the end of January to relax and recharge. Elora is a short 1.5 hour drive from Toronto and equally beautiful in summer and winter (and spring and fall!). We were lucky enough that it snowed the night before our arrival so it looked extra picturesque.
Relax
The spa boasts river-views along with an outdoor hot tub, heated outdoor pool, sauna, steam rooms and lounges with views of the gorge.
The cookies in the tea room were the best cookies we have ever had; sesame, chocolate, I don't know what was in them exactly but I would go back just for the cookies.
We opted for a couples massage that was very relaxing and they also offer facials, manicures and pedicures.
Stay
We stayed at the Elora Mill Inn in a Coach House room. It featured a comfortable king-sized bed, fireplace, soaker tub, walk in shower with stone details, and river view. It felt spacious and was tastefully decorated. We loved the warm touches like the plaid rug, upholstered headboard, and wood beam details.
The staff was so lovely and accommodating to all our requests, including bringing us extra firewood for the wood-burning fireplace.
Eat
For dinner, we chose to walk down the street 2 minutes from the hotel to the Friendly Society. It had great reviews and did not disappoint. You have to walk downstairs to get to the restaurant which makes it feel like a little hideaway, decorated with vintage touches and interesting art. The vibe is cool and cozy. Everything was delicious and the staff was super friendly.
The Elora Mill restaurant is stunning and we will be sure to eat there during our next visit (because we will definitely be returning!).
Shop
One of my all-time favourite shops that I often buy gifts for friends and family as well as decor items for clients is LemonTree Interiors. They have an online shop but I would recommend popping in if you can to enjoy the ambience of the curated boutique. Sophia is currently training the cutest Labrador puppy as a service dog that sometimes makes an appearance at the shop!
There are plenty of other little design, decor and pottery shops along the main strip including Karger Life.
Hike
On this visit, we decided to fully relax and didn't fit in a hike. Last spring however, we hiked along the Elora Gorge which was gorge-ous. ;)
In the spring and summer, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for slack liners that walk across the Gorge at staggering heights!
Check out my Instagram highlights for more photos and videos of our stay. Feel free to send me a message on Instagram or email me at hello@studioAK.ca if you plan on going or have any questions!
Safe travels,
Amy