Photo courtesy Prince of Wales Hotel
Updated August 31, 2023 / Commissions may be earned from our affiliate partner links
It’s easy to see why Niagara-on-the-Lake is considered one of the loveliest towns in Ontario. As the name suggests, Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) is situated along the most south-easterly shore of Lake Ontario and borders the Niagara River, with New York State, and mighty Niagara Falls, just a stone-throw away. Nestled in the lee of the Niagara Escarpment, it boasts one of the most moderate climates in Canada, east of the Rocky Mountains.
Niagara-on-the-Lake’s unique value proposition is experienced when you take the time to unwind and savor the easy-going, down-to-earth vibe that is magical and sustaining. The charm of the Victorian era comes alive as you set foot onto the historic streets, walk the lakeside trails, or enjoy other fun things to do such as partake in a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Elevate your sense of culture by attending a show at the world-renowned Shaw Festival, relish an unforgettable farm-to-table meal, or visit Fort George and enjoy a musket demonstration.
Experience That Unique NOTL Lifestyle
If you like to shop, the boutiques along Queen Street and the huge open-air shopping outlet are sure to hit your sweet spot. And NOTL’s close proximity to wine country, with over 28 wineries, makes it the number one destination for wine and food tours (be sure to book a shuttle to transport you and your friends on a fun and safe outing).
Regardless of what season you choose to visit, this popular travel destination region in Canada has the perfect accommodations to suit your needs. Check out the following list of the best luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake Ontario to plan your stay… and have fun!
The Best Luxury Hotels Niagara-on-the-Lake Ontario
Pillar and Post Hotel & Spa
Built in the late 1800s as a canning factory, the Pillar and Post has been lovingly transformed into an elegant, charming inn, and frequently tops lists of the best luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Perfect for a romantic getaway, a girl’s weekend away or an executive retreat, this luxury hotel is located just a kilometre from the centre of the historical downtown and just a 15-minute walk to the vintage Queen’s Royal Park Gazebo on Lake Ontario.
The Pillar and Post offers sumptuous cozy rooms, a saltwater pool, a patio, a golf course, and an exotic hot spring pool, which is ranked as one of the top 25 spas in Canada. Hotel activities include aqua-fit classes, candlelight yoga, sommelier tasting, bonfires, and walking tours.
The regional flavors come together in three onsite eateries. The Cannery offers one of the best places in town for steak, along with other gastronomic options. Retreat to Vintages Wine Bar and Lounge where drinks are always poured to perfection; you can wine and dine with a fine vintage and an appetizer, or unwind after a day out on the town with a handcrafted cocktail and elevated pub fare. Or you can s sip and savour pub fare and cocktails by the only heated outdoor pool in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: To learn more about this iconic Niagara-on-the-Lake hotel, including rates and to make reservations, visit Pillar and Post Inn & Spa
Prince of Wales Hotel
You’ll feel like royalty as you take a step back to the Victorian era and experience the extravagant and indulgent amenities of the Prince of Wales Hotel. Whether you visit for business, a wedding, or pure leisure, your every wish is their command. This treasured landmark is located directly on the main street of NOTL and has long been regarded as one of the top luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Picture yourself enjoying one of the comfortable four-poster king bedrooms. Adorned with brocade draperies, you’ll be sipping aperitifs by the cozy fireplace while wrapped in ultra-soft bathrobes. Add to this the exceptional and attentive service by staff and you have defined ‘living in the lap of luxury’.
The onsite restaurant is top shelf, as is the classic high tea experience. If you prefer, drop by the lounge for a cocktail before heading out on the town. Don’t forget your bathing suits, too, because the indoor pool is bejewelled with a series of sparkling chandeliers and vintage paintings – how cool is that!
Check out the hotel activity packages, like the Trolley Wine Tour, which provides an overview of the history of Old Town along with tours and tastings at some of the local NOTL wineries.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: Learn more about this exquisite hotel from our preferred accommodation partner at the Prince of Wales Hotel.
Queen’s Landing
As you enter the gated driveway of Queen’s Landing, four majestic white pillars welcome you to an opulent experience in this luxurious Georgian mansion. Located right on the water and close to the sights and sounds of the town, it’s an ideal location. Whether you want grown-up time or time with the kids, this picture-perfect setting makes it happen.
It’s so convenient to have a choice of restaurants on-site. If you’re craving a five-star meal, consider the Tiara Restaurant which features locally sourced ingredients wherever possible. If traditional pub fare is your preference, then you will be delighted by locally inspired flavours at the Bacchus Lounge, which also offers award-winning regional wines. Queen’s Landing earns extra points because both eateries enjoy panoramic views of the river along with the surrounding lush gardens and fountains.
Many enjoy staying at Queen’s Landing for the extra-large rooms and suites, all of them immaculate and bright with either vintage or contemporary décor. Other amenities include a fitness centre, indoor pool and jacuzzi, and an enormous curved bar with a wine cellar that is sure to satiate the palate.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: To learn more about what is undoubtedly one of the best luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake, visit Queen’s Landing.
124 on Queen Hotel and Spa
Relax, restore, and rejuvenate are buzz words describing the benefits of staying at 124 on Queen Hotel and Spa, one of the top hotels in NOTL. 124 on Queen will redefine how you celebrate special occasions, corporate events and couple retreats as you choose to stay at this resplendent hotel located right in Old Town. The hotel recently added new rooms, and underground parking, and expanded the spa for an unforgettable experience.
The newly renovated wedding and event space at The Gate House, one of the most historic buildings in town, is now the perfect space for your special upcoming occasion. The Gate House now hosts weddings of up to 140 guests and has everything to make the experience memorable, from cocktail receptions on the beautiful patio overlooking Queen Street, to seasonally inspired cuisine by Treadwell, including horse-drawn carriage rides through town.
The array of comfortable accommodations includes deluxe rooms to two-bedroom villas. The villas include a dining room, living room, fireplace, fully equipped kitchen, stainless steel appliances and washer/dryer.
124 on Queen Hotel and Spa consistently ranks as one of the top hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: For the latest rates and info, as well as to make a reservation, visit 124 on Queen Hotel
The Charles Hotel
This luxurious old manor house was established in 1832 and provides 4-diamond level accommodation and dining in an intimate and friendly setting. Located on Queen Street in the historic district, The Charles Hotel is one of the most popular Niagara-on-the-Lake hotels for luxury stays and is surrounded by gorgeous flower gardens, verdant lawns, and mature trees that provide a canopy of dappled light and shade. From the moment you walk through the doors, you will know that it is truly a special place.
The Charles prides itself on individualizing your stay and takes steps to go beyond your expectations. Staff are happy to customize your stay by mapping a winery tour, reserving a patio restaurant in the region, booking a golf game, preparing a ‘to-go’ picnic hamper, or renting bikes.
After an enjoyable day in NOTL, relax in your room with a wood-burning or gas fireplace, glass-enclosed rain-head showers or jet-air tubs and private verandahs that look out to the gracious property.
And finally, consider dining at The HobNob Restaurant which offers elegant historic charm, Whether you’re in the mood for an afternoon treat or a multi-course meal, nothing could be more convenient or delightful.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: Visit The Charles Hotel for rates and reservations.
Oban Inn
A luxury 26-room boutique hotel in the heart of Old Town Niagara-on-the-Lake, the historic Oban Inn is located on Front Street, overlooking Lake Ontario and the Lake Golf Course. It is surrounded by flourishing English gardens, outdoor hot springs and a swimming pool, and still just a short walk to the shops, the Shaw Festival, and walking trails.
All Oban guest rooms are designed for optimum comfort and relaxation. They are well-appointed, with high quality modern amenities and lavish décor. Some rooms offer fireplaces, walkout balconies, as well as garden and lake views.
Dine in Oban’s delightful sunroom overlooking the English gardens and cozy historic Shaw corner or in the elegant fireside dining room. Savour delicious modern gastronomy, focused on fresh Niagara ingredients, married with outstanding Niagara wine.
Nourish your body, mind and soul at The OSpa, one of many highly respected Niagara-on-the-Lake spas in the region. It celebrates wellness through its philosophy of harmonizing a peaceful mood with the sun, moon, earth, and water. Proud to be an Aveda Spa, its products contain pure essential oils, connecting beauty, environment and well-being (open seven days a week, year-round).
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: For rates and details, visit Oban Inn
White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa
Located on the outskirts of NOTL, just off the Queen Elizabeth Highway (QEW) and centrally situated in the Niagara Region, resides the first-class called the White Oaks Conference Resort & Spa. Niagara area attractions such as wine country, Casino Niagara, Niagara Falls, and more, are all within easy reach. A large, open-air outlet mall is just across the street.
Set on 13 acres, the property’s outstanding amenities include world-class conference facilities, luxury hotel service, a deluxe spa, and a pool and state-of-the-art fitness and racquet services at The Club of White Oaks.
The accommodation is the perfect antidote after a busy day of fun. Beautifully appointed rooms feature comfy duvets, down-filled pillows, sumptuous linens and thick bathrobes wrapping you in comfort.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: You can learn more about what is one of the top luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake, including room rates and availability, at White Oaks Resort.
Harbour House Hotel
As the name of this hotel implies, Harbour House revels in its rich port-town history. And it’s just mere steps from sailing and fishing charters, fantastic waterfront activities and a spectacular view of Lake Ontario. This on-the-water property embraces the essence of historic NOTL and is within easy walking distance to the Shaw Festival theatres, and many fine restaurants, shops and galleries.
With a design reminiscent of maritime life in the 1880s, it’s a picture-perfect blend of bright, airy comfort with high-end details such as wrought-iron exterior lanterns, delicate China tea sets, and quality furnishings. The 31 guestrooms and suites feature king-size feather-top beds, whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and entertainment centres.
Included in your stay is a European-style breakfast served in the conservatory and featuring the best of Niagara’s produce and baked goods. In the afternoon, make your way to the enclosed veranda for a cheese plate and a glass of local wine. From the moment you arrive, you’ll wish you could spend every day here.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: For the latest rates, details, and to make reservations visit Harbour House
Riverbend Inn and Vineyard
This list of the top luxury hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake would be incomplete if it did not include a luxury hotel paired with a vineyard. Riverbend Inn and Vineyard harmonizes 12 acres of vineyards, manicured lawns and gardens with a 21-room Georgian mansion located along the pretty Niagara Parkway, just minutes from NOTL.
Nestled in a unique wine sub-region by the Niagara River, this estate provides guests with a memorable up-close and personal wine experience. Preparation of the Inn’s vineyards began in 2002, and today the vineyard consists of blocks of Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Vidal. All wines are estate-bottled using only grapes that are exclusively produced onsite, and about 2,000 cases of wine are produced each year.
This intimate historic mansion hotel features uniquely designed guestrooms and suites with the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Secluded from everyday distractions, the hotel provides a relaxing, stress-free and productive environment, whether visiting for business or pleasure.
Coupled with 4-diamond cuisine and, of course, an array of wines, what could be more perfect? Be sure to check out the one- and two-night packages, and ask the staff for assistance with your itinerary – they love to arrange tickets, tours, and team-building experiences.
LuxuryNiagaraFalls Recommends: Check out Riverbend Inn and Vineyard for further details.
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Contributor Sue Kelly is a frequent visitor to the island paradise of St Martin and St Maarten. She’s also a radio host, educator and author of Still Sexy After Sixty (www.stillsexyafter60.com)