I visited this stunning destination 1 hour from Toronto and it was the dreamiest staycation

Ontario is home to some incredible getaway spots, and this beautiful destination is just an hour away from Toronto. I recently spent a weekend at the Pearle Hotel & Spa in Burlington, which is a dreamy lakeside escape.

Perched on the shores of Lake Ontario, the hotel offers modern amenities, waterfront dining, and access to nearby attractions.
It features 151 guestrooms and suites—many offering scenic lake views. It's also home to a spa, waterfront restaurant, and event spaces, making it an idyllic spot for a weekend retreat.

When I stepped into the Pearle's foyer, I was met with pristine, contemporary decor and views of the sweeping spiral staircase.

The Pearle Hotel foyer.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The staff was very friendly and knowledgeable. They even offered to bring my bags to the room while I headed to the spa for a treatment.

The spa

I was excited to experience the Pearle's day spa, recently recognized as one of the best in North America, and see if it truly lived up to the hype.

The venue offers a range of treatments, as well as a traditional Hammam steam room, lounge, and pool, for a full-day spa experience.

The women's spa locker room.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The locker rooms were spotless—just like the rest of the spa. I was given a locker and a cozy robe before settling into the lounge to await my treatment.

Here, I found little bites to eat and beverages like flavoured water, coffee, and tea. The room had a boho vibe with tall ceilings, sheer curtains, and beige furniture, including comfy lounge chairs.

The lounge area at the spa.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The facial treatment was so relaxing, and it was made better by the heated bed.

Afterwards, I headed to the Hammam steam room, which was complete with soft blue lights and curved benches for lounging. Despite it being a cold February day, the pool area felt like a tropical resort with its turquoise lake views and dreamy poolside chairs.

The pool.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

I left the spa feeling completely relaxed— the perfect way to kick off a weekend staycation. The venue is a great spot to unwind with a partner or friends, with a variety of packages and treatments to suit different preferences.

The food

Great food is essential to any getaway, and the Pearle Hotel & Spa did not disappoint.

Isabelle Restaurant & Lounge, located in the hotel, features coastal cuisine with beautiful lake views. The upscale, modern venue has "date night" written all over it and feels like a Mediterranean escape.

Short rib at Isabelle.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The menu offers a range of apps, entrees and desserts made with locally sourced Ontario ingredients.

Some of my favourite dishes include the beef tartare, apple sangria, and short rib. The restaurant was super accommodating when it came to dietary restrictions, and the staff was very friendly and attentive.

Madeline at Isabelle.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The hotel also has a cute eatery called Pearle's Cafe, perfect for grabbing a sweet treat, quick bite to eat, or drink.

Another place to check out is Spencer's at the Waterfront, another Pearle Hospitality venue.

Cocktail at Spencer's.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Located a short walk from the hotel, Spencer's offers beautiful lake views and brunch, lunch and dinner.

I enjoyed the fish tacos as well as the Caesar salad and sorbet for dessert.

The rooms

I stayed in a lake-facing room and loved the modern design and sleek amenities.

A room at the Pearle Hotel.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The king bed was so comfortable, and the shower felt like a private spa. I ended up spending quite a bit of time relaxing in the room, enjoying shows and reading. It was so lovely to unplug in such a serene environment.

French toast at the Pearle Hotel.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The cherry on top was breakfast in bed the next morning — I'm still dreaming about the eggs benedict and French toast.

The attractions

The hotel is conveniently situated in the heart of Burlington, making it easy to explore the city's shops, restaurants, and attractions. With everything just a short walk away, I was able to experience both the charming downtown atmosphere and the beautiful lakeside setting.

Village Square in Burlington.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

One of the spots I really enjoyed exploring was the Village Square. The tiny, European-like area has cobblestone streets and a red telephone booth, making it feel like a mini slice of London.

It's home to several shops and eateries, and while it isn't a huge area, it was a really unique spot to check out.

I also visited some of the local stores and cafes thorughout the surrounding streets. From clothing boutiques to cute bakeries, there was plenty to discover.

Village Square in Burlington.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The Brant Street Pier is just steps from the hotel and lets you wander right over the lake. It's situated in Spencer Smith Park, where you can enjoy water views and cherry blossoms during the spring.

The experience

The Pearle Hotel & Spa was a dreamy spot for a vacation. I loved that it was just an hour from Toronto—close enough for convenience but far enough to feel like a true escape.

Madeline at the Pearle Hotel.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The upscale, modern design and unique touches, such as the postbox where you can mail postcards to your family and friends, added to the experience.

The spa was so relaxing, and the room only added to the sense of escape. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway with your partner or a fun retreat with friends, the hotel offers an idyllic staycation just an hour away from Toronto.

The Pearle Hotel & Spa

The Pearle Hotel & Spa.

Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Price: $308 + per night

Address: 3 Elizabeth St., Burlington, ON

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The Pearle Hotel & Spa offered Madeline Forsyth the opportunity to experience the hotel with no expectation of coverage, positive or otherwise.
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