This resort near Ottawa is like a mini Caribbean vacation with warm pools and sandy beaches
You don't need to hop on a plane or pack a passport to feel like you're taking a Caribbean vacation. This dreamy resort near Ottawa is the ultimate summer escape, and it'll have you feeling like you're lounging in a tropical paradise — no international travel required!
If you're craving a vacation but don't have travel plans just yet, consider adding Estérel Resort to your summer itinerary. Located just two hours from Ottawa, this lakeside gem serves up major vacation vibes with soft sandy beaches, fancy cocktails, and crystal-clear waters wrapped in lush greenery.
While the Caribbean sun might sometimes be a little out of reach (it's still in Quebec, after all), this spot radiates an easy-breezy island feel. While Estérel Resort is nestled in the heart of the Laurentians, you might just forget you're even in Canada at all.
When it comes to relaxation, the Lido Thermal spa experience combines luxury and nature, featuring several hot tubs, a polar bath and shower, a dry sauna, a steam sauna (hammam), and even a lakeside barrel sauna.
Guests also get access to two heated outdoor pools that are open year-round (who needs Caribbean conditions?), plus the lake itself is always there for a spontaneous dip.
What's more, all these facilities are exclusive to guests staying at the resort, making it feel like your own private oasis.
If sipping drinks in the sun is your idea of peak vacation mode, the Lido Bar is calling your name. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the summer months (provided the weather is on-side), it's the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail in hand.
The resort also features two sandy beaches — one on the Émotion side near the spa, and another on the Évolution point. With beach chairs provided, all you need to do is sit back and soak up the rays.
For those who like a little adventure with their relaxation, the resort offers summer fun like paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, pedal boating, and scenic biking around the Laurentians. You can even rent a motorboat and cruise around the lake for the whole island experience.
When it comes to accommodations, Estérel Resort has two options. The Évolution Hotel has cozy, nature-inspired vibes with modern suites that feature fireplaces and giant beds. What's more, this building stretches out over Lake Dupuis like a cruise ship, offering breathtaking panoramic views during the summer months.
The Émotion Hotel, on the other hand, is designed with date nights in mind. Suites come with cozy fireplaces, open bathtubs, and canopy beds— everything you need for a romantic getaway.
No tropical-style vacay is complete without delicious food, and Estérel's got that covered, too. Le Voilier offers a laid-back bistro setting with fresh, local eats, while Le ROK lets you sizzle your own meat, seafood, or fish on hot volcanic stones. And the lakeside views? Chef's kiss.
For something a little fancier, there's the five-course Discovery Menu in the cozy wine cellar, which is a romantic, elevated dining experience complete with wine pairings and dreamy views of the Laurentians.
Estérel Resort
Price: From $229 per night, per suite
Address: 39 Chem. Fridolin-Simard, Estérel, QC
Why You Need To Go: If your dream summer includes cocktails, sand between your toes, and relaxing by turquoise water, you don't actually need to fly south. This spot is serving full-on Caribbean energy, and it's just a short drive from Ottawa.
These prices are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.
