Remote retreats: private places to stay in South Eastern Ontario

Rosanne Lake

Tune out the world and tune into yourself in South Eastern Ontario. Whether you’re getting away from the bustle of life or you’re bringing a special someone, the region is known for offering the perfect private places to unwind. If there are no distractions, in the middle of nature and nowhere sounds like your ideal spot to stay, then read on for some remote and peaceful accommodation ideas in SEO.

Owl’s Nest Suites, Carrying Place PEC
A picturesque country setting, this rustic-chic B&B promises a quiet and private place to stay in the countryside – a straw bale homestead in Prince Edward County built with the intention of sharing it. With only two suites on the six-acre rural property, visitors are encouraged to roam the trails and take in the tranquil surroundings. Each suite has its own kitchenette, private washroom, queen-sized bed and wifi.  

Shanti Yoga Retreat on Wolfe Island
Find peace on 11 serene acres on Wolfe Island. The spacious century inn and cabins at Shanti Yoga Retreat are on a private shoreline of the St. Lawrence River – we hear the sunsets from the waterfront patio are gorgeous! The inn’s timbered ceilings and wood stove provide a natural country charm so curl up with a book and connect with kindred spirits. Hosts here have been studying, practising and living yoga for more than 25 years.

Yurt at Springfield Farm Organics in SDG Counties
This off-grid yurt is surrounded by nature, with the Beaudette River running right through the property. Enjoy a stay free from the hustle and bustle of city life and revel in the areas surrounding the barns of this certified organic farm and sitting areas near an orchard. Glamping in paradise! This Mongolian-style, 100% Canadian-made yurt also has an 18-hole disc golf course to add to the experience!

Lake Escape: Classic Cottage at Camp Watercombe
This classic 1920s cottage with a beach is nestled in a beautiful mature wooded lot with 350 feet of private lakefront. Take in incredible water views from the sunset facing dock during all four seasons. Have a friendly pooch? Bring him along – this place is pet friendly. Enjoy a beach campfire, stargaze from the hilltop firepit, or stay in and get cozy by the woodstove. This is a home away from home!

Romantic Riverboat in Yarker
You won’t forget this memorable experience! A 1974 River Boat has been lovingly transformed into a whimsical all season cabin. Come for the fantasy then bask in the comfort and romance of it. The houseboat is tucked into the woods with many amenities and the lakefront park is just across the road. Explore the playshed full of seasonal outdoor toys!

The Island Mill Waterfall Retreat
This is the definition of an oasis. Unlike any other place to stay in the area, The Island Mill Waterfall Retreat is simply that: a magical place to escape and soak in life’s pleasures. Nestled on an island in the Salmon River, this one-of-a-kind converted limestone mill dates back to the early 1800s and is waiting to welcome you. With a private entrance, weeping willows, a patio at the river’s edge, waterfalls, watercraft, a park pass, bikes, an outdoor fire and even a year-round outdoor hot tub, it’s the perfect place for finding some calm.

Lil Crow Cabin in Tyendinaga
Private retro cabin with so much comfort! Spacious, perfect for a weekend for two, this retro cabin includes a breakfast nook, bistro kitchenette, luxury bed, open-concept entertainment room all brought together with vaulted ceilings and pine interior. A shower room and private reading room accents a private courtyard with a hot tub – and even a towel warmer and screened-in heated gazebo lounge! Every detail is a thoughtful addition.

The Berm House in Mallorytown
This very private house is on a quiet end of Graham Lake with super waterfront for swimming, fishing, boating, winter skiing and more. It’s a gem catering to families with a large, flat yard for kids to run and play games as well as a screened-in clubhouse at the shoreline. Look for the farmhouse table that seats 12!

South Suite at Abbott Road Suites
Looking for privacy? You’ve found it at this beautiful, spacious suite without any shared areas. Marvel at the walk-in slate shower, in this bright, modern self-contained suite, with separate entrance. Enjoy nature on this rural property – guests have access to the grounds for hiking, cross country skiing, snowmobiling or walking your dog.

Mozie Park in Shannonville
If paradise is what you’re after, look no further! This cabin is located on more than 60 areas of hand, including a private lake available for swimming paddle boarding, kayaking and beach volleyball and outdoors games. Explore the marked trails featuring huge rocks as well as 20 acres of spring fed wetlands and Parks’ Creek.

Rideau River Cottage Kemptville
Nestled in the trees right on the river is a rare and secluded year-round log home – only five minutes from Kemptville, yet it feels absolutely private. This place has waterfront with a sandy beach and is ideal for boating, swimming, hiking and paddling in the summer, along with ATV and snowmobile trails at the end of the driveway for other season fun! Try ice fishing off the dock or snowshoeing – or curl up and stay in and make use of the private hot tub overlooking the river.

Glamping cabin in Plantagenet
This extraordinary cabin is in a secluded spot on top of an escarpment offering amazing views. It’s on a working farm, making for the ultimate glamping experience for those yearning for adventure and a unique getaway. The cabin has been integrated into the forest, with trees forming part of the structure, hand-hewn materials, and window walls that offer incredible views throughout the cabin. The large open-concept rooms are perfect for relaxing or sit at the dining table that overlooks the forest. Note: this is a hike-in cabin. Guests can inquire about working on the farm if they wish to help out and experience organic farm life!

Robin’s Nest on Howe Island
The Robin’s Nest is a stunning off-grid cabin with loads of privacy, incredible stargazing, and wildlife. Located on an 80-acre nature retreat on Howe Island in the 1000 Islands, Robin’s Nest is a fully equipped cabin that allows easy mornings on the deck, cozy nights by the hearth, and wonders of nature along groomed trails. It is perfect for birdwatchers, cyclists, and those seeking a peacefully private getaway.

Soul Horse and Nature Retreat in Frontenac County
Stay in an amazingly renovated century-old barn with all-natural materials, right down to the sheets. Relax and revel in the crisp country air - this one-bedroom studio is unique through and through. Warm in the winter, cool in the summer; light-filled year-round. But what’s more is that the host here offers a guided introduction to horses on site, which can be a powerful and nurturing experience.

Timmerman Island Cottage
This tranquil piece of paradise is located on a 150-acre private island only accessible by boat! The ultimate private getaway – it’s a family-owned cedar cottage on one of Ontario’s largest wilderness lakes and yet has all modern amenities to make your time there worry-free and relaxing. Sip coffee on the screened-in porch, walk the island’s trails, swim from the beach, fish off the dock, or enjoy pedal boats and canoes available for guests. Exhale and spend quality time with your loved ones.

The Eagle on Bob’s Lake
For the ultimate cottage experience, look to The Eagle at Bob’s Lake Cottages – in all four seasons. This is a special spot away from it all, with swimming, hot tub, and much more. One stay, and it will soon be your go-to. It’s pet-friendly, too!

South Eastern Ontario is the perfect place for a private getaway – unwind, appreciate nature, and embrace the stunning serenity.