Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Toronto
25
items Whether you’re craving a relaxing weekend by the lake, scenic hiking trails, charming small towns, or incredible local food, these Ontario destinations have a little bit of everything. These are the places I know best, the ones I’ve visited for years...
Sections
3
Prince Edward County
Haliburton Highlands
Kawartha Lakes
Prince Edward County
From award-winning wineries and incredible bakeries to long afternoons at the beach, Prince Edward County is one of Ontario’s most charming weekend escapes. These are the stops I’d build my perfect itinerary around.
A beautifully restored boutique hotel that’s equal parts luxurious and inviting. The perfect home base for a relaxing County getaway.
The Claramount Club
I’ve heard nothing but wonderful things about this winery, and my mom still talks about how much she enjoyed her visit. It’s a must-stop for anyone exploring Prince Edward County’s wine scene.
Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard
While I’m not much of a beer drinker myself, nearly everyone I know who’s visited recommends Prince Eddy’s. It’s a local favourite that’s worth adding to your itinerary.
Prince Eddy's Brewing Co.
The coffee is reason enough to visit, but it’s the carrot cake muffin with brown butter icing that has completely caught my attention. It’s firmly on my must-try list.
Rise Coffee House
A beautiful farm-to-table dining experience that celebrates local ingredients and the slower pace Prince Edward County is known for.
Littlejohn Farm
Being gluten free means I can only admire the display, but if I could indulge, I’d be ordering the jalapeño rye bread and the apple fritter croissant without a second thought.
PECish Baking Company
I’ve been visiting Sandbanks since I was a child, and it’s still one of my favourite beaches in Ontario. Between the soft sand, clear water, and incredible dunes, it’s easy to see why so many people return year after year.
Sandbanks Beach
Every great small town deserves an independent bookstore, and this one is worth lingering in. It’s the kind of place where you’ll leave with a new book and probably a few more than you planned.
The Wandering Albatross
Haliburton Highlands
Think winding scenic roads, towering forests, peaceful lakes, and some of Ontario’s best fall colours. Haliburton is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and spend more time outdoors.
A classic lakeside inn that’s perfect for a quiet weekend away. Whether you’re visiting for fall colours or a summer escape, it’s a beautiful place to unwind.
Sir Sam’s Inn
I’ve been visiting the Sculpture Forest for years, but it’s something I’ve appreciated more and more as I’ve gotten older. I usually make a trip to Haliburton every September, and wandering through the forest surrounded by changing leaves is one of m...
Haliburton Sculpture Forest
A Canadian icon that’s been around since 1961. I’ve loved browsing their stores since I was a kid, and it’s also one of the best places to rent a canoe or kayak for a day on the water.
Algonquin Outfitters
Whether you’re hiking through the forest or visiting the Wolf Centre, there’s so much to explore here. It’s one of my favourite places to reconnect with nature.
Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Centre
A must-visit any time of year, but it truly shines in the fall. The panoramic views of the colourful forest make the climb well worth it.
Haliburton Skyline Park
A great local spot to refuel after a day spent hiking, paddling, or exploring. It’s the kind of restaurant that fits perfectly into a relaxed Haliburton weekend.
Hook Line & Sinker
I’m not much of a beer drinker myself, but I’ve heard wonderful things about Boshkung from friends. It’s a popular stop if you’re looking to sample local craft beer after a day outdoors.
Boshkung Brewing
Kawartha Lakes
Life moves a little slower in the Kawarthas. Spend your days on the water, wander through charming small towns, grab an ice cream by the locks, and end the evening watching the sunset from the dock.
A charming lakeside stay that’s perfect for a relaxing weekend away. It’s the kind of place where mornings are slow, coffee tastes better, and every day ends by the water.
The Saucy Willow Inn
One of my favourite local businesses. The family who owns Buckeye is incredibly kind, and they make getting out on the lake so easy with pontoon boats, fishing boats, and jet ski rentals. They’ll even deliver your rental if needed.
Buckeye Rentals
No trip to the Kawarthas feels complete without stopping at Lock 32. Whether you’re watching boats pass through, strolling along the waterfront, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it’s one of Bobcaygeon’s most iconic spots.
Lock 32
A Kawarthas tradition with generations of history behind it. If it’s your first visit, Moose Tracks is a must-try, but I’ve been loving the newer Peaches & Cream flavour this year.
Kawartha Dairy
I haven’t had the chance to visit yet, but my parents go regularly and always rave about it. The steak sandwich is at the top of my list for my next visit.
The Locker At The Falls
Even though it’s just outside the Kawarthas in Peterborough, it’s absolutely worth the short drive. The setting alone makes it a fun stop during a weekend away.
100 Acre Brewing Co.
One of those classic Kawartha stops that’s become part of the tradition. It’s a fun place to browse, especially if you’re looking for local treats, cottage favourites, or a souvenir to bring home.
Bigley Shoes and Clothing
Whether you’re hiking, boating, fishing, birdwatching, or camping, Balsam Lake is one of the best places to experience everything the Kawarthas has to offer.
Balsam Lake Provincial Park
One of my favourite coffee stops in the area. I usually order a caramel latte, but the mint chip cold brew have both caught my eye for my next visit.
Kindred Coffee Bar
The perfect place to finish your day with something sweet. Every visit to the Kawarthas deserves a stop for dessert, and this bakery makes it easy to treat yourself.
Cake by the Lakes