.jpg)
.jpg)
A staycation is the perfect solution for honeymooners looking for a mini-vacation that’s unique, low-key and budget-conscious.
Many couples are choosing to stay close to home after their wedding day, saving their big trip for a later date. The Ottawa region has some incredible options for couples wanting to make the most of a vacation without having to get on a plane, especially during the summer months.
Here are five honeymoon staycation ideas for couples looking for a mini escape:
ALT HOTEL OTTAWA
Alt, one of Ottawa’s newest downtown hotels, is perfect for couples wanting to stay in the centre of it all. This modern, hip hotel is within walking distance of the city’s best restaurants and is only a few blocks from Parliament Hill.
Alt Hotel has partnered with Le Nordik Spa-Nature to offer guests an extra special stay. Honeymooners staying at Alt can choose from three packages with Le Nordik, including access to the thermal experience, bathrobes, Kalla treatment and a three-course dinner. After a day of relaxation at the spa, couples can retreat back to Alt for a comfortable and memorable night overlooking the city’s downtown core.
AUBERGE OLD CHELSEA B&B
For a peaceful stay, Auberge Old Chelsea B&B is the perfect place to escape. It’s a little home away from home in a beautiful, rural setting. Couples can choose rooms with either a garden view or a private courtyard. Honeymooners staying at Auberge Old Chelsea B&B will be welcomed with a bottle of wine and chocolate-covered strawberries; and of course, no stay at a B&B is complete without the delicious and complimentary continental breakfast, which can be enjoyed indoors or outdoors.
Auberge Old Chelsea is within walking distance of several restaurants and Le Nordik Spa-Nature. There are also numerous trails in Gatineau Park for couples to hike through, enjoy a picnic, and end the day with a swim in Meech Lake.
THE BALDACHIN INN
The Baldachin Inn in Merrickville is a great place for couples who love history and stunning architecture. The Inn, overlooking the Rideau Canal, makes for a perfect summertime mini-honeymoon. Couples can enjoy Harry MacLean’s Pub, the Courtyard Garden Patio (which serves local, organic food), and the quaint accommodations reminiscent of small-town living.
Merrickville—one of the oldest and most historic towns in Ontario—has more heritage designated buildings than any other village its size in the province. The Baldachin Inn is close to many charming locally-owned boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. Couples can enjoy long walks through the Victorian streetscape and retreat to the Inn for a quiet and relaxing evening.
SIR ISAAC BROCK BED & BREAKFAST
Sir Isaac Brock B&B in Brockville is a beautiful inn just a short drive from Ottawa. Couples on their honeymoon enjoy a bottle of wine or champagne and chocolates in their room upon arrival, and can choose from a number of spacious suites.
Weather permitting, breakfast is served on the outdoor patio overlooking the property’s garden. The menu includes vegan and vegetarian options as well. After filling up on breakfast, couples can walk along the waterfront to the nearby arts centre and theatre, enjoy lunch at one of the town’s numerous restaurants and pubs and check out the railroad tunnel—the oldest in Canada. Brockville is also home to many unique shops, and has beautiful walking and biking trails too.
LE GERMAIN HOTEL
Honourable mention goes to Ottawa’s brand new downtown hotel, Le Germain. Already a much-loved hotel in various cities, Le Germain offers exceptional service, spacious rooms, suites with spectacular views and complimentary continental breakfast. Honeymooners at Le Germain can work with the hotel to customize their stay (wine or champagne in their room upon arrival, access to the hotel’s courtesy car, and more). The hotel’s artful design complements the newly-opened Ottawa Art Gallery, adjacent to the hotel.
