Once Upon a Lake

In need of little spring break? At this time of year,
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a quiet little haven of friendly locals and
simple indulgences.

stay
If
you prefer sleek and stark over fussy and floral then check into The
Gate House Hotel. Rooms are spartan and clean with splashes of bold
colour (our room had lipstick-red carpet). The Gate House Hotel, 142
Queen St., Niagara-on-the-Lake, 905-468-3263, www.gatehouse-niagara.com

do
Take a stroll down to the waterfront for a
glimpse of Toronto from afar. Peruse the main high street, check into
the spa, take a
drive to any one of the local
wineries and catch a show at the Shaw
Festival.

eat
Visit the Stone
Road Grill now and youll have the place to yourselves. Summer is a
different story with lineups stretching out the door. Serving carefully
crafted dishes like foie gras poutine and beetroot risotto, this
intimate spot away from the main drag is a favourite among locals. Stone
Road Grill, 238 Mary St. (in the Garrison Plaza), Niagara-on-the-Lake,
905-468-3474, www.stoneroadgrille.com

shop
From charming tea houses to the famous
Christmas shop, Niagara-on-the-Lake is littered with cutesie retail
picks. Indulge in some scrumptious fudge from Maple
Leaf Fudge before scouring through books, lamps and pottery at Lakeshore
Antiques and Treasures.