Canada is the world's second largest country, so it's no surprise that each province feels like its own little nation. The landscapes are so wildly different from one area to the next, from the sandy beaches on the east coast to the Rocky Mountains on the west, with the lush forests of Ontario and the Saskatchewan flat lands in between. The hardest thing will be picking the kind of honeymoon destination you want.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick, is a quiet little village on the southernmost tip of New Brunswick, just one mile from Maine. The Algonquin Resort is perched on a hill overlooking the picturesque town, and is every bit the majestic manor its Tudor exteriors suggest. You can arrange golfing, a day at the spa or dining on fresh seafood. Honeymooners will enjoy the “Let’s Fall in Love” package, including sparkling wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries, spa massages and breakfast in bed. Otherwise, take in the subtle splendor of St. Andrews at Kingsbrae Garden or go whale-watching on a boat. If there’s one thing that’s not missing here, it’s local charm.
The Algonquin Resort
184 Adolphus Street
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, NB
506-529-8823
algonquinresort.ca
Mont-Tremblant is Quebec’s most popular ski destination, but if you like to après-ski in peace, nearby Blueberry Lake Resort puts you in the privacy of your own chalet. Sprawled over 300 acres of forest, the property has 60 luxury log homes. Each is fully furnished (both indoors and on the patio), with high ceilings, panoramic balconies, a fireplace, a state-of-the-art entertainment center and a gas barbecue. Honeymooners can ask for accommodations with an outdoor hot tub. Spa services are available at the lakeside facilities or in your chalet. There is also a swimming pool, tennis court and lake on-site. Private chefs are available for a gourmet evening, or order from the grocery service for low-key intimacy.
Blueberry Lake Resort
4801 chemin St-Cyr
Labelle (Mont-Tremblant), QC
819-686-1413
blueberrylake.com
Just before getting on a boat and exploring the Thousand Islands, you’ll inevitably end up in the small Ontario town of Gananoque. The place is frozen in time, much like its Victoria Rose Inn. The historic mansion has been around since 1872 and lovingly restored by current owner Susanne Richter. Each of the 12 rooms is tastefully furnished in antiques, and most have an in-suite whirlpool tub and fireplace. After a healthy breakfast of fresh fruit and homemade pastries, it’s time to discover the area. Island cruises, biking, hiking and kayaking are all popular activities. Enjoy some live theater or a day at the spa. Pick Richter’s brain for tasty dinner recommendations.
The Victoria Rose Inn
279 King Street West
Gananoque, ON
888-246-2893
victoriaroseinn.com
This sleek resort is something of change of scenery in the otherwise chalet-covered region of Lake Manitoba. Located near the fishing town of Gimli, the Hecla Oasis provides modern comforts in a natural setting. Tee off on-site at the 18-hole golf course, or rejuvenate at the in-house spa. The Dead Sea water treatments come highly recommended. Visit the water park in the summer, or go ice-fishing and tobogganing in the winter. Relax at the Rok Lounge for some casual dining, or enjoy an enviable wine list and delectable eats at posh L’Enoteca. For a really special honeymoon, ask about the private villas.
Radisson Hecla Oasis Resort
Hecla Provincial Park, Box 789
Riverton, MB
800-267-6700
heclaoasis.com
Because it’s in the Okanagan Valley, Sparkling Hill Resort’s restaurants have boastful selections of local wine. While that’s a perk of the property, it’s most notable for the Swarovski crystal-inspired architecture and the innovative Kur Spa. It offers an impressive array of European spa treatments, but it’s the cryotherapeutic “cold sauna” that garners the most attention. Here, guests spend up to three minutes in a room set at minus 166 degrees Fahrenheit. The skin temperature drops and the blood vessels build a protective zone, boosting the immune system and relieving pain. Once you’ve had your fill of spa indulgence, take in the spectacular Okanagan outdoors, or retreat to your swanky room. Honeymooners should inquire about the “Golf/Spa” package.
Sparkling Hill Resort
888 Sparkling Place
Vernon, BC
877-275-1556
sparklinghill.com
