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Valentine’s Day in Canada in mid-February. I can’t decide if that sounds interesting, intriguing, mildly amusing, or completely horrifying.
Why would you want to spend a romantic winter escape in the frozen tundra that is winter in Canada in February?
Because, dear Reader, Canada is a totally underhyped, totally underrated destination for romantic winter getaways. I get how intimidating winter in Canada can sound. As someone who’s born here, bred here, and who’s braced the cold here, I’ll tell you why solo travellers and couples should absolutely consider a winter escape in Canada in February.
Yes, the cold is inconvenient and unaccommodating, but it’s actually the perfect complement to snuggling by a wood-burning fireplace, soaking in saunas, or even taking a hike in the woods to spot deer. And it’s the perfect excuse to wear toques (a hat with a pompom; very Canadian). I’ll cover some winter retreats in Canada that are escapes for couples, but that also work perfectly for solo, self-respecting travellers who want to enjoy their own company first and foremost.
Valentine’s Day in February in Canada may seem trivial to travellers outside of the Great White North. But it’s a big deal here; prices do go up exponentially (astronomically, even). I’ll suggest places that are worth making reservations for ahead of time and worth the value for money. The last thing you want is to waste money for mediocre experiences in the frigid cold.
I’ve spent pretty much all my life here, and winter does have its charms, but you also have to be cautious. I’ll cover packing tips that’ll make sure you stay warm, dry and stylish, without bursting your carry-on.
Succeed at embracing the cold and you’ll cherish the memories you built around escaping to winter in Canada.
Know before you go
Language: Official languages are English and French. Canada is highly multicultural, so you’ll hear languages from all over the world.
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Voltage: 120V. See my post Essential Items to Pack in your Carry-on for sturdy international adapters to get for your next trip to Canada.
Major Train Stations: Union Station is the major train station in downtown Toronto (do not confuse it with Unionville Station in Markham, or you’ll end up pretty far from downtown Toronto).
Major Airports: Toronto Pearson Airport for international flights and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport for local flights, but they also fly to and from some close US destinations.
Short on Time? Your Valentine’s Day in Canada Cheat Sheet
Who This Guide Is For
❤️ Couples who want romance without fuss.
🧘 Solo travellers who prioritize self-care and independence.
Best Cities to Stay In
🏙️ Toronto – Big-city energy, museums, dining, and cocoon-worthy hotels.
🌲 Cambridge – Full country retreats with fireplaces, spa time, and gourmet dining.
🏘️ Niagara-on-the-Lake – Historic charm, boutique stays, and walkable village exploring.
Top Picks for Best Romantic Hotels in Toronto
💎 Four Seasons Hotel Toronto – Romance without braving the cold. Cocoon, dine at Café Boulud, then head back to your deluxe room.
🛁 SoHo Hotel Toronto – Solo-friendly city escape. Heated floors, spa-style bath, vibrant dining nearby.
Top Hotel Picks for All-Inclusive Retreats
🔥 Langdon Hall Country House & Spa – All-inclusive winter retreat. Fireplaces, tasting menus, surrounded by forests.
Top Hotel Picks for Semi-Inclusive Retreats
🏡 The Scotsman Hotel (Niagara-on-the-Lake) – Small-town charm with flexibility. Explore the village, then walk back to your cozy hotel room.
Winter Escapes with No Overnight Stay Required
🌾 Farm-to-Table Dining – Restaurant Pearl Morissette and Langdon Hall offer refined Canadian tasting menus worth the winter drive.
🇫🇷 French Fine Dining – Café Boulud and Cluny Bistro deliver warm, intimate romantic valentine evenings.
🌶️ Eastern Mediterranean Flavour – Byblos for bold, zesty dishes that reflect Toronto’s multicultural scene.
🍷 Winter Wine Tastings (Niagara) – Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery and Bella Terra Vineyards for snowy vineyard views and Canadian wines.
🍫 Chocolate Stops – Reid’s Chocolate (Cambridge) and SOMA (Toronto) for indulgent, heartwarming treats.
Prepping for Winter (Do Not Skip!)
🧥 Dress for real cold with Patagonia Women’s Downdrift Parka – Layer properly, invest in warm boots, and don’t underestimate –20°C.
🧤 Cover exposed skin – Frostbite is preventable. Protect ears, fingers, nose.
🚗 Winter driving matters – Install winter tires, bring snow scraper, fill gas tank, get roadside assistance insurance.
💧 Hydrate your skin – Mask, tone, moisturize, and don’t forget lip care.
Budget Reality Check
💰 February is dead of winter season. Hotels often offer retreat discounts, especially around Valentine’s Day.
📅 Book early for splurge-worthy stays without overspending.
Want More Detail?
Download my FREE 7-day travel planner to start noting down best hotel picks and gourmet stops before you forget. And keep scrolling for my personal reasons on why these are the best places to visit in winter in Canada for Valentine’s Day.
Where to Spend Valentine’s Day in Canada for a Winter Escape
Where you splurge, and what you splurge on, depends on the type of experience you’re looking for.
My main experiences revolve around Niagara, Toronto, and Cambridge (it’s on my bucket-list to spend Valentine’s Day in Montréal someday!). Each city has its charms: Niagara has a nice blend of small-town charm with some city conveniences. Toronto is a sprawling, multi-cultural city, with lots of options for cocooning in or for exploring. Cambridge is a small, historical town; perfect for a full-style country escape.
All 3 cities offer exceptional experiences. It all depends on whether you want to do more city exploring, or a mix of cocooning with some local sightseeing, or a full-on splurge-worthy retreat.
Romantic and Solo-Friendly Winter Hotels in Canada
The Toronto Four Seasons Hotel for Valentine’s Day in Winter
Address: 60 Yorkville Avenue, Toronto, Ontario M4W 0A4 Canada
Winter escape style and best for: Get all-inclusive or semi-inclusive packages. Best for couples and solo travellers who want to cocoon and explore the city.
Price range: upwards of $1000 CAD per night.
The classic Four Seasons serves winter getaways exceptionally well during the frigid cold of February in Toronto. It’s perfect for couples, or independent travellers, who want the option of cocooning in and the option to explore the city’s highlights.
👉 Check availability and book your stay at the Four Seasons
For couples and solo travellers who want to explore Toronto, the Four Seasons in Yorkville is smack in the centre of the city. The Bay TTC subway station is right around the corner. Take the subway and you can get to the Royal Ontario Museum housing dinosaur skeletons to medieval relics. Or stroll through the Gardiner Museum specializing in artistic ceramics.
As for cocooning in, the Four Seasons is ideal for staying in and dining in. Enjoy the deluxe hotel room in all its glory all to yourself, or with your significant other. Indulge in fine French dining that’s refined without being stuffy.
Yes the Four Seasons is a famous hotel and yes it’s expensive. Why is it worth splurging here as a couple or as an independent traveller? First off, I hate wasting money more than spending it. I believe if I’m going to splurge (or recommend others to splurge) it has to be worth it. A one night stay at the Four Seasons in Toronto, at least once, is worth the moolah. Here’s why.
Let’s start with the room and why you’ll actually enjoy spending time here. The decor is sumptuous with warm, neutral palettes, and a sense of style. You feel the weight of the daily grind lift when you stroll into your room. The Four Seasons signature king-sized bed actually gives you a good night’s sleep. No back pain, no neck pain. You wake up wondering if you should take out that line of credit to purchase the bed for your own home.
The marble bathroom is spacious. The soaker tub fills up fast, and it’s big enough to soak in without feeling constrained. The full-sized vanity mirrors have soft lighting on each side that flatters your face. None of that harsh overhead light making it look like you’ve got perpetual dark circles under your eyes. You’ll admire yourself even more on Valentine’s Day when you look into this mirror.
Then there are regal, fluffy robes for you to get comfy in. There’s a cute sitting area with a view overlooking the city. On New Year’s Eve (the one time I had the amazing fortune to stay overnight here), we got a little surprise: a bottle of champagne and a handwritten note wishing us a wonderful New Year’s Eve celebration.
Now that is a good hotel room. Warm, alluring, and calming. There’s nothing dramatic or intense about it. The room primes you to relax and enjoy yourself.
And now for the food. Chef Daniel Boulud runs Café Boulud, the Four Seasons on-site formal dining restaurant. It’s modern French food that’s well-executed, and quite reasonably priced in downtown Toronto, Yorkville, of all places.
Now, I say formal as in refined because Café Boulud is quite inviting, unstuffy, and extremely friendly. Wood and leather banquettes exude warmth and coziness. The mood lightning and mirrors give the place a belle époque vibe. It’s classy, but not snobby; retro but of the times.
And the food? It’s classic French staples with inventive ingredients. Sometimes high-end restaurant food can be pretentious, foamy and dotty, with teensy portions that at times scream stinginess more than haute cuisine.
Café Boulud is the opposite. You get flavourful dishes in the right portion size (like Goldilocks: not too big and not too small). And you’re satisfied once you’re done. In other words, you won’t be crazing pizza afterwards. Promise. Dinner at Café Boulud will be a good night out.
For couples and solo travellers, I recommend the tasting menu. It’s 6 courses of pure delight, indulgence, and surprise. In the past (for your reference only and to tease your senses), I’ve had poached prawns, lobster spaghetti, roasted black cod, and homemade chocolates for dessert. It’s a rotating menu, so come with an open mind, an open heart, and a hearty appetite.
Then simply take the elevator and glide up to your room for a relaxing evening without ever being bothered by the cold.
👉 Check availability and book your stay at the Four Seasons
The Toronto SoHo Hotel Winter Escapes for Solo Travellers
Address: 318 Wellington Street West Toronto, Ontario Canada M5V 3T4
Winter escape style and best for: Solo travellers looking to explore the city, taste the local cuisine, and curl up in a cozy room afterwards.
Price range: varies from $350 – $450 CAD and upwards per night
The SoHo Hotel in downtown Toronto is apt for independent travellers looking for self-care, self pampering, and some city exploring. The hotel is in a prime location in downtown Toronto, which means you can hop on the TTC subway and get to the CN Tower, where you can walk on glass floors a hundred floors up. You’re also right next to Ripley’s Aquarium where you can admire sea animals before heading to a classical concert at The Roy Thomson Hall.
Easy. Convenient. No fuss, no muss. Like every winter holiday should be.
👉 See current rates and secure your room
How can a solo traveller put herself first and foremost here? Firstly, slip into the cozy, fluffy robe when you enter your spacious hotel room, and head straight to the spa-inspired bathroom. Notice the floors are heated. It’s something you’ll dream about installing in your own home once you’re done here. Fill up the marble soaker tub with steaming hot water and bubbles. While the tub is filling up, get your facial masks and scrubs ready. You’ll enjoy a spa-worthy DIY facial and scrub right in your hotel room; you’ll feel like a temple goddess once you’re done.
A tip is to ask the concierge to get the room ready with Aveda amenities. Their usual products are Molton Brown, which I find smells like mouthwash: it’s strong and overly fragrant in my opinion. If you’re sensitive to strong fragrances, absolutely get the concierge to provide Aveda products before you arrive.
Yes there’s a spa on site (and hundreds of fancy spas around town). But the bathroom is so spa-like anyway that I recommend enjoying it at your leisure with no appointments to rush to. I find I’m doing myself a disservice if I don’t spend time here. When’s the last time you felt like that about a good bathroom?
And now for food. There’s the inhouse restaurant, Pizzeria Moretti, for Italian cuisine.
Skip it.
I find it overpriced and mediocre for the food it serves. The tartare was memorable; the pasta and pizza a bit under par. However, it’s an option if you enjoy Italian cuisine and you don’t want to leave the hotel.
My advice is to go to Byblos first for an early dinner. It’s an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant serving meats, fish, vegetables, and breads all reminiscent of the ancient silk road. It’s only a 9 minute walk from the hotel, but worth the walk (in the cold). If you’re an adventurous eater with a penchant for aromatic and boldly flavoured food, then this is where you must go.
The portions might be a bit big for solo travellers. But I recommend it anyway because you can taste the multi-cultural flavours that define Toronto cuisine. For solo travellers, I recommend starting with one of the dishes below:
Pear and arugula salad. Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette with a hint of spicy cumin to bring out the flavours. It all comes together with candied almonds. It’s a delightful dish and a nice reminder that spring always arrives.
Or try the Turkish manti dumplings. These are small, pasta pockets filled with pureed eggplants and rich spices. They’re delicious pockets of delightfulness and perfect for a heartier start to your meal.
For the main, I recommend either the harissa roasted half chicken or the whole grilled branzino. The harissa chicken is juicy, tangy, zesty, and completely satisfying. The chicken is perfect for a solo diner. Order a side of sweet jewelled rice to go with it. The whole grilled branzino might seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite light and satisfying at the same time. Perfect for a night if you’d like a lighter meal. I don’t recommend dessert here as they’re a bit big and a little too sweet.
And once you’ve relished your deeply savoury meal, you’ll be all warmed up to head back to your hotel for some solo time of reading with a glass of wine. Or whatever you enjoy that makes you feel wholly you. It’s your trip after all.
👉 See current rates and secure your room
Langdon Hall Country House and Spa for an All-Inclusive Winter Retreat
Address: 1 Langdon Dr., Cambridge, ON, N3H 4R8 Canada
Winter escape style and best for: For solo travellers prioritizing their self-care and their own company first, and for couples looking to indulge in each other in a deluxe setting. Langdon Hall is the optimal place for an all-inclusive stay for dining and pampering.
Price range: about $460 – $500 CAD per night and packages with dinner and breakfast range from $870 CAD per night and upwards.
Langdon Hall Country House and Spa in Cambridge is the spot to encapsulate yourself and indulge in winter. It’s great for solo travellers and couples because it’s a retreat in out-of-the way Cambridge, Ontario. Couples can enjoy a full winter retreat with overnight stay, gourmet dining, spa, and winter activities right on the property. Solo travellers get to enjoy all the same things while prioritizing their own company and self-care first.
👉 View rooms and reserve your escape
Let’s start with the food. Langdon Hall is where you dine country à la mode luxe when you’re in Cambridge; it’s the restaurant you make the trek for if you’re from out of town. For both solo travellers and couples, I recommend the Discovery Tasting Menu for about $215 CAD per person (booze extra, of course). It’s 9 courses of flourishing delights that gives you all the highlights their regular menu offers. Think foie gras, lobster tail, venison, ricotta gnudi (a rich mushroom pasta), rainbow trout. Classic, yet varied, and inventive.
(You might notice The Grand Tasting Menu on their website for $295 CAD per person. Avoid it. Wine pairings were sublime. Ingredients: top notch and truly exceptional. But extreme mediocre execution for what you’re paying for. It was not worth the splurge. And I despise wasting money more than spending it. This is where I truly thought it was wasted. Either get the Discovery Tasting Menu or order off the regular menu instead.)
And now for the stately rooms. Langdon Hall comprises the main home, stable rooms, and the cloister rooms. I’ve had the enormous privilege of staying in all 3 styles and here’s why it’s worth the hype and the splurge.
The rooms (regardless of which section of the property you stay in) are all tastefully decorated in vintage decor. It’s warm, welcoming, and relaxing. You know that I-can-finally-breathe-easy feeling when you enter a good hotel room? That’s this place. The real stand out is that most rooms have a wood-burning fireplace where you can literally cozy up to the fire. You should find some freshly baked brownies and pastries as complementary gifts on the coffee table. Langdon Hall does hospitality with an eye for detail.
Bathrooms are usually replete with rain-heads in the stand-in showers and a luxurious soaker tub. Small, but thoughtful amenities, include bath salts for your bath and take home soaps courtesy of Langdon Hall. And let’s not forget the Queen or King-sized duvet bed you can sink into after your sumptuous bath. The tiniest complaint I have is that the duvet comforter gets hot at night pretty quickly. I recommend turning down the thermostat down to about 18℃ for a cooler night’s sleep.
I highly recommend reserving a room with a fireplace. It’s the signature point of staying in a country home.
But which type of room should you splurge for?
Pick a room in the Cloister if you want to avoid the cold at all cost. The rooms in the Cloister are connected to the main manor by an underground tunnel, so you won’t have to brave the wind too much when you’re heading to the main house for dinner. Cloister rooms have larger options and there are ones available to accommodate wheelchairs. The spa, gym, and wine store are all attached to the Cloister building.
Pick a room in the Manor house if you want the most convenient access to the restaurant and the bar. The restaurants are all inside the main house and you won’t even have to put on a coat to get to dinner. The rooms in the manor house might have odd, low ceilings if they’re in the attic. This may pose a problem for tall people, but it doesn’t detract from the overall vibe.
Choose a Stable room if you want the romance of a country-cottage getaway. These rooms are my favourite for vibe, access, and size. They’re located behind the manor house, just a ways away by the pond. I personally like the bit of distance for privacy. Each stable room has a mudroom, which is perfect for dropping off your winter gear (i.e. snowy, muddy boots, luggage, big winter coats) before entering the main hotel room.
The main drawback is that you have to put on all your winter stuff before heading back to the main manor for dinner. There’s the signature fireplace, comfy chairs, large soaker tub, walk-in closet, and even a terrace for outdoor sitting during warmer months. This is my favourite choice for privacy and size, but pick the room that best fits your needs and tolerance for the cold.
For a well-rounded winter retreat without any fuss or muss in the country, Langdon Hall fits that criteria exceptionally well.
👉 View rooms and reserve your escape
The Scotsman Hotel for a Winter Escape in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Address: 95 Johnson St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Winter retreat style and best for: Semi-inclusive retreat perfect for solo travellers and couples looking to explore the charm and gastronomy of a historical village with a chance to stay in for breakfast right at the property.
Price range: about $450 CAD and upwards per night. The hotel only offers breakfast, but there are lots of dining options in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Niagara is a cute village. If I had the chance to do a semi-retreat with a country feel and with the chance to explore a village, it would be at The Scotsman Hotel. Staying overnight once without rushing off would give me a chance to explore the town in-depth and catch a play.
👉 Plan your winter retreat here
It’s a quaint hotel, vintage, out of the way, but close to the main strip where the action is. Judging by the hotel’s location just off the main street, it looks private and serene. Each room is a semblance of a grand hotel in Scotland with decor to match. Think dark greens and reds with the signature tartan patterns as the main design theme.
Niagara historical village is a good winter escape if you’re looking for a country-style retreat, but with the flexibility to explore a small, charming town. Take a stroll after you check-in and visit the Niagara Home Bakery (for British goods and pastries). Enjoy delectable gelato at Il Gelato di Carlotta and check out the myriad of hat boutiques and souvenir stores. The old city hall and old clock tower are highlights to get a picture of.
I generally avoid eating right in Niagara village. The town is very charming, but I find the food offerings mediocre for the prices they charge. Instead, I recommend dinner at Inn on the Twenty.It’s unstuffy, fine-dining in Jordan Village, and with a dramatic view of the forest. The menu isn’t too inventive, but the dishes are classics and flavours are well-executed.
If you prefer to dine in the Niagara village, I recommend the Old Angel Inn. It’s tucked behind the streets and nope, it’s not candlelight romance. It’s a loud pub, but friendly and inviting, and the fare is hearty pub food with good beer. This is a fun choice if you don’t mind skipping the formal romance of roses and candlelight. Sometimes in the dead of winter, a shepherd’s pie or a good fish and chips is what you crave to warm up.
Solo travellers can enjoy a hearty solo meal with hype all around. But if going to a village pub alone feels awkward, then a finer meal at an Inn on the Twenty with a good book, warm decor, and quiet conversations could be a better option.
The best part about dining near your hotel is that you can walk back in no time at all, slip into the fluffy robe, and curl up with a good book.
👉 Plan your winter retreat here
Which Valentine’s Day Winter Escape is Best for You?
Firstly, book your retreats early! Keep in mind that hotels in February in Canada (a.k.a. dead of winter) usually offer retreat or package discounts due to the low tourist season. Even for the locals, it can be tough to venture out, which (ironically) can make it a great time to find a splurge-worthy hotel deal.
City Escape with Refined Dining and Cocooning
If you want full city exploration, refined dining on site with breakfast, but with the chance to head out and explore the major city attractions, then the Four Seasons in Toronto is your top choice.
It’s around the corner from the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), the Gardiner Ceramics Museum, and the Art Gallery of Ontario. All are accessible by the TTC. And there’s a plethora of dining options if you want to eat out.
👉 Check availability and book your stay at the Four Seasons
Solo City Escape with Spa Time and Vibrant Dining
Want to have a premium experience, but on your time and on your schedule? And do you want to eat at your leisure without being tied to the hotel restaurant? Then choose The SoHo Hotel in downtown Toronto.
Soak in the spacious tub in the modern spa-like bathroom with heated flooring. Do a DIY spa session and then head to Byblos for dinner for a richly spiced, flavourful meal of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine.
👉 Book this Valentine’s escape now
Small-Town Winter Escape with Historic Charm
Perhaps a winter escape to a charming, historical village, with a retreat at a sumptuous hotel slightly off the beaten path is more of your thing? For the best of cocooning and small-town convenience exploration, choose The Scotsman Hotel.
I’ve been eyeing this boutique hotel since it’s around the corner from the main strip. At Niagara-on-the-Lake, it’s the perfect blend of a country getaway with some evening city exploring. For finer dining, head to Inn on the Twenty for dinner. For something hearty and casual, try the Old Angel Inn.
👉 Reserve your romantic getaway
All-Inclusive Country Winter Retreat
For a complete one-stop-shop experience of a no-fuss-no-muss full country retreat, then choose Langdon Hall Country House and Spa. The fireplace crackles and the fine-dining restaurants are right at the hotel. You don’t have to brave the cold at all if you don’t want to.
Or you could hike around the Carolinian forest surrounding the property before warming up again in the manor. This is the place to choose for a true, all-in-one winter retreat.
👉 Start planning your stay
Valentine’s Day Experiences in Canada Without Overnight Stays
February in Canada to celebrate Valentine’s Day is just as special with some good food that doesn’t require overnight stays, big outings, or being dependent on the weather.
Sometimes you just need a break from the daily routine. Suggestions for great restaurants, wine tasting to try, and chocolate shops to visit that work for both solo travellers looking to indulge and couples looking to enjoy each other’s company.
Farm-to-Table Canadian Dining for a Winter Valentine’s Day
Restaurant Pearl Morissette (Jordan Station, Niagara Region, Ontario)
Address: 3953 Jordan Rd, Jordan Station, ON L0R 1S0
Dining style and best for: Fine-dining at a gorgeous farmhouse above a winery and best for both couples or solo travellers looking to indulge in their own company
Price range: About $240 for prix fixe menu. Note that they only serve set menus with optional wine pairings.
Make sure to book at the Restaurant Pearl Morissette (RPM) website (above) for their flagship tasting menus (not to be confused with the Pearl Morissette Estate Winery which serves its own wine tasting events).
This place is out of the way in the Niagara region in an area called Jordan. It’s about 2 hours from Toronto depending on the weather. Keep an eye out for the giant red steel cardinal. That’s the statue that marks the entrance to the restaurant.
It can be quite the trek to come out to Pearl Morissette depending on where you’re coming from. So why is it worth it? Firstly, it’s local Canadian cuisine served to refined standards at a farm where they grow and source most of the ingredients they need. Most of the wine they serve comes from the Niagara region and some from their own winery. It’s truly a showcase of how and why local Canadian cuisine can be a show-stopper.
And you get to dine on the top floor of the restaurant which resembles the vaulted ceilings of a large barn. It’s tastefully decorated to a warm palette with modern decor. Most importantly, you’ll eat well while relishing the view of the farm in snowy winter through its floor-to-ceiling windows.
Reservations are definitely required. RPM serves set menus only with optional wine pairing. Yes, it’ll be a blind tasting menu (they do say love is blind!), which also means it frees you from the burden of choice. It’s nice to let someone else drive. If you’re unsure of blind tasting menus, here’s a sample of what I got to try back in August 2023. Keep in mind seasonality is key for farm-to-table cuisine, so February tasting menus might vary a lot in terms of produce.
Here’s the sample tasting menu we had the good fortune of trying in August 2023:
- Grilled East Coast Lobster
- Smoked trout from Lake Huron
- Bison tartare with habanada peppers and horseradish
- Sourdough bread made with red einkorn
- Grilled scallops from Mahone Bay
- Grilled West Coast Honey Mussels
- Butter poached halibut
- Grilled Nubian goat
- Roasted Longhorn beef
- Alfred le Fermier cheese from Québec
- Raspberry sorbet
- Pear tart
- Apple hollowed out and filled with lemon verbena and pastry cream and blackcurrant wood oil.
Pretty extensive, right? And when was the last time you ate inside an attic of a barn while being served grilled east coast lobster with a view of over 40 acres covered in snow? It’s one of the features that make this trip for the food worth the energy. And letting master chefs dictate your meal for one night means you’ll be well taken care of. You’ll leave with an exceptional dining experience all in the middle of a classic Canadian winter.
Langdon Hall (Cambridge, Ontario)
Address: 1 Langdon Dr, Cambridge, ON N3H 4R8
Dining style and best for: Langdon Hall formal dining room for fine-dining (à la carte and prix fixe menu options available) or Wilk’s Bar for refined bistro-like dishes. A bit more casual but just as elegant.
Price range: Discovery set menu about $215 CAD per person and wine extra. Menu options range about $30 to $40 CAD for appetizers and closer to $60 to $80 CAD for entrées.
A country house in the idyllic and almost fairytale setting of Cambridge, Ontario. Surrounded by forest over a hundred years old, you can easily spot deer roaming the grounds. Langdon Hall focuses on seasonality and on serving ingredients while they’re in their prime flavours.
Here’s what I recommend to start your relaxed evening either as a couple or solo adventurer: Sip on a Tawse chardonnay made exclusively for Langdon Hall to whet the appetite.
Then relish the sourdough bread available all night long during your dinner.
To start your sumptuous dinner, make sure to order their truffle soup. The soup flavours are sharp, harmonious, and earthy; you’ll be glad they give you as much bread as you like to mop up every drop. Then get the foie gras parfait where it’s served to you like miniature gems and jewels on a plate of wine jelly and edible followers.
After that, savour the venison entrée. For dessert, finish with a pistachio ice cream on pistachio sponge cake with white chocolate ganache. Indulge in a bottle of wine from the hotel’s wine cellar of over 1400 bottles from around the world (Cake Bread Cellars wine is one great option. It usually comes in half bottles too — a little easier on the wallet). Wines by the glass are also available. You can easily do your own wine pairing with support from their friendly sommeliers. This way you still get a cohesive meal without necessarily having to open a bottle.
For a truly no fuss, let-yourself-be-taken-care-of dining experience, get the Discovery Menu for about $215 CAD per person. Yes, it’s a splurge for a 9 course dinner menu. And you’ll really get to taste the highlights Langdon Hall has to offer. This is a great option to try pretty much all the main acts from their regular menu, but in a tasting menu portion. Perfect for the traveller or couple who want to get the best of all worlds, especially if you’re coming from out of the town.
French Fine Dining in Canada for an Intimate Valentine’s Evening
Café Boulud at the Four Seasons Toronto
Address: 60 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 0A4
Dining style and best for: Fine-french dining that’s warm, cozy, and unstuffy.
Price range: À la carte options range from $25 to $40 CAD for appetizers and around $40 to $80 CAD for entrées. Tasting menu about $185 CAD per person with optional wine pairing.
This is a perfect city experience and winter getaway in Toronto for both couples and solo travellers. Café Boulud is accessible by TTC and easy to walk to. Valet parking is available at a discounted rate when you dine here.
French is often regarded as the language of love, so a fine-french dining experience is a great way to spend an evening as a couple or as a self-love moment for solo travellers.
I make the two-hour drive from Cambridge, Ontario, to get to Café Boulud for dinner; I think it’s worth it. When you step into the restaurant you’ll notice the chandeliers, glassed mirror banquettes, and leather seats. They provide a retro, but modern atmosphere. The place exudes the ambience of a Lyonnaise brasserie. Most importantly, you can sit down, relax, and enjoy your own company, or the company of others.
I highly recommend their tasting menu as it’s the perfect taster version of many of the dishes served on their regular menu. It encapsulates all the star dishes in one sitting, which can make it a great, comprehensive, one-night dining experience.
Some memorable highlights I had include the poached prawns, lobster spaghetti, roasted black cod, and homemade chocolates for dessert. Note that the tasting menu is always changing, but the options are always intriguing and delectable.
Play dress up when visiting this restaurant. It’s the perfect excuse to wear some outfits you save for special occasions. Indulge in yourself and in your companion, if you’re bringing one, in the splendour of French cuisine in Toronto.
Cluny Bistro and Boulangerie (Toronto)
Address: 35 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
Dining style: Elegant, friendly, no-pressure French dining.
Price range: Around $18 to $30 CAD for appetizers and $30 to $60 CAD for mains.
Cluny French bistro is tucked into Toronto’s Distillery District. The Distillery District is filled with boutiques, galleries, and lots of restaurants. Some good, some not so. And Cluny’s is one of the places where it’s not just good; it’s actually worth eating at in the Distillery.
Step inside Cluny and you’re met with classic Parisian bistro charm without the stuffiness. Sit on leather banquettes, dine on marble top tables and counters, and admire the wooden wine shelves in the room.
Cluny’s is particularly good for couples looking for an understated Valentine’s escape or for solo travellers who are perfectly content in their own company. If you’re dining alone, take a seat near the kitchen with a good book. Catch up on some reading and watch how the dishes come together.
For solo travellers or couples, I say start with the chicken liver pâté. It’s served in a teacup with perfectly buttered slices of toast. It’s rich without being heavy; indulgent without being overdone. Then order the bread basket. It comes with homemade focaccia, sourdough, and baguette.
(Feel free to skip the bread basket though, if you think it’s too much bread in one meal. Keep in mind you can always take the bread home and save it for breakfast or lunch. The leftover baguette would make a great sandwich for the next day.)
Once you’ve prepped your palate with the liver pâté, order the baby spinach and shaved fennel salad. It’s a smart intermission to help with digestion before your mains arrive. For a hearty and satiating dinner, get the steak frites. It’s perfect for a cold evening. For couples, pair it with the grilled branzino for a DIY surf-and-turf dinner.
For solo travellers, I recommend either the steak frites or the grilled branzino as the main course. The steak is cooked perfectly medium-rare and hearty for winter. The grilled branzino is juicy, tender, and it’s the lighter option that’s still satisfying.
Then sip a cup of espresso to finish off your elegant, refined French dining evening.
Byblos Downtown (Toronto)
Address: 11 Duncan St. Toronto, ON
Dining style: Refined Eastern Mediterranean with lots of dips, breads, meat, and fish options.
Price range: $15–20 CAD for appetizers and $45–80 CAD for mains.
Byblos is where you go in downtown Toronto for zesty and aromatic Eastern Mediterranean cooking. It’s easy to get to, which makes it a convenient escape for a winter Valentine’s evening.
The menu reflects the ancient Silk Road made modern. Dishes are aromatic, bold; fiery enough to wake everything up. Byblos works for both couples and solo travellers. Couples can share plates like dumplings, dips, salads, and pide (a Middle Eastern flatbread-pizza hybrid) before moving on to mains like meat, fish, and richly spiced sides. If you’re visiting Toronto and want one restaurant that captures the city’s multicultural scene, this is a great place to start.
Solo diners; don’t feel ripped off. Portion sizes are generous, so you get to be more selective. I still recommend the Turkish manti dumplings to start. They’re little pockets of wonder. Then enjoy a pear and arugula salad, tossed in a preserved lemon vinaigrette with candied almonds and grapes. From there, continue with a shareable dish like hummus or pide, or commit to a main dish such as the half roasted chicken with fennel. You’ll walk out warm and satisfied.
Where you sit matters for your dinner here. Choose the ground-floor dining room for a quieter, calmer experience. Start with a relaxed, soothed mind before your food even arrives.
Getting here is easy if you’re in downtown Toronto. Byblos is easily accessible on foot or by TTC. Parking in Toronto is notoriously expensive. If you do drive, park in the Mirvish Theatre parking lot for a fuss-free, albeit pricey, option. If you’re paying for it anyway, park early and stroll the neighbourhood to make the most of it.
Winter Wine Escapes in Niagara
Would I purposely drive around the Niagara wine region in the winter time? Probably not, as the roads can get icy and perilous. But if you happen to be staying in the area, a wine tasting in the crisp Canadian air with Canadian wine show-stoppers is a great way to cap your Canadian Valentine’s winter retreat.
How many wineries do you get to see covered in an ocean of snow while sipping something crisp? Pack a few bottles to take home to make the trip even more worth it.
Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery
Address: 3210 Staff Avenue, Jordan, ON L0R 1S0
Notable mentions: 2019 Robert’s Block Riesling, 2018 Louie Pinot Gris, 2018 Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc
Brix, the winery’s Bernese Mountain dog and company mascot, will greet you at Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery. You’ll spot his sticker on every bottle produced by Sue-Ann Staff and her team. Brix is almost as recognizable as the wines themselves.
The winery sits in Jordan, Niagara, reached by a long and winding road that climbs into the Niagara Escarpment, a distinct micro-climate. As you make your way up or back down, you can catch a glimpse of the CN Tower and downtown Toronto on a clear day.
Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery brings over 125 years of winemaking experience, but these bottles aren’t mass-produced. I seek out independent producers like Sue-Ann who create limited quantities you won’t find at the LCBO. These are wines you make the drive for.
As for what bottles to taste and pack home: the 2019 Robert’s Block Riesling captures the essence of a Niagara summer’s day with limestone minerality. The 2018 Louie Pinot Gris is bigger and bolder, ideal for drinkers who enjoy texture and chew. For red lovers, the 2018 Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc has depth and intensity. This is the bottle you open deliberately on a winter Valentine’s Day in February.
Bella Terra Vineyards
Address: 925 Line 2 Road, RR 2, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0
Notable mentions: 2019 Bella Terra Chardonnay, 2020 Bella Terra Viognier, 2020 Meritage, 2019 Cabernet Appassimento
A gem located seemingly in the middle of nowhere in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Follow Line 2 Road via Google Maps and the winery suddenly appears by the roadside.
Wine tastings are available by flight or by the glass. Their menu includes creative bites to pair with tastings and offers a surprising range.
The fermented mushrooms and cheese dish pairs beautifully with wines like the 2019 Bella Terra Chardonnay, which embodies the aromas of fresh fruit. The 2020 Viognier stuns with tropical notes of exotic fruits and spices. Don’t skip the reds, especially the 2019 Meritage, and finish strong with the 2019 Cabernet Appassimento for velvety notes of figs and dates.
Bella Terra is an independent winery with smaller production runs. Some bottles are available at the LCBO, but the ones worth buying are the ones you make the drive for.
Heartwarming Canadian Chocolates for Valentine’s Day
Reid’s Chocolate Shop
Address: 42 Ainslie Street North, Cambridge, ON
Notable highlights: Milk and dark assorted chocolates, chocolate tortoises, cajun crunch nut mix.
Reid’s is a refined and upgraded version of a Willy Wonka candy store. assorted chocolate boxes are beautifully packaged and many include small souvenirs of Cambridge. You might find postcards or illustrated maps of Cambridge tucked inside your chocolate box purchase.
Pick up an assorted box of milk and dark chocolates with hard and soft centres. The truffles are especially good, and if you’re a fan of peanut butter, try the peanut butter milk chocolates or peanut butter sandwiches. Salty treats include the cajun crunch mix of cheese fries, praline, and peanuts, which works well as a snack on its own or as something to nibble alongside with beer.
SOMA Chocolatemaker
Address: 32 Tank House Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4
Notable mentions: Mayan chili and spice hot chocolate, sea salt dark chocolate truffles.
Located in the Distillery District inside a corner warehouse, SOMA is the place for sumptuous, sultry, and luscious chocolate. Their chocolate is refined and intense, and this is where to go when you want flavours with depth.Visit the Distillery District and stop into SOMA to try the Mayan chili and spice hot chocolate.
You can also watch how the chocolate is made behind glass windows. Pick up a set of mini dark or milk chocolate bars to sample their range of flavours. Their gelato is also quite good and makes for a sweet finish to your winter Valentine’s escape in Canada.
Packing for Canada in Winter and Staying Safe and Healthy
Winter temperatures in February can range anywhere from 0°C to –30°C.
Yep, you read the minus sign right.
Winter in Canada is no joke. Dressing appropriately allows you to enjoy the cold without feeling the cold. When you dress well, winter becomes part of the experience rather than something to endure.
Why You Should Protect Exposed Skin in Extreme Cold
Frostbite is when ice crystals form under the skin and damage nerves, cells, and tissues. This usually happens when skin is exposed to extreme cold weather.
You can tell if you might have frostbite if the area is:
- more pale than the surrounding skin
- the skin stings and there’s pain and numbness
- the skin starts to feel waxy
If frostbite is in its early stages, warm the area of skin with gentle heat. Let the skin slowly rewarm itself.
Head to the nearest emergency hospital immediately if the frostbite doesn’t clear up. Being safe is always better than being sorry. Dressing well helps you avoid the scary parts of frostbite altogether.
What to Pack to Stay Warm and Dry in Cold Canadian Winters
Pants, Socks, Winter Boots
Fleece-lined leggings
They’re a winter staple for cold-weather travel. They’re warm, insulating, and more effective at retaining heat than jeans. They’re a bit bulky when folded, but they keep your legs toasty warm. Pack two pairs to mix and match with outfits.
👉 Pack warmer and travel smarter
Wool socks
Absolutely non-negotiable for winter comfort. They’re thick, sturdy, breathable, and keep your feet dry. The right socks also help with stability while walking in heavy boots on snow and ice.
👉 Dress for winter the right way
Royal Canadian Collective winter boots
A good pair of boots is a must. These boots strike a balance between practicality and aesthetics. They’re fully waterproof, yet breathable, with merino wool and Australian shearling lining around the ankles. Your feet stay warm without being sweaty.
They work reliably up to –20°C and have strong tread traction for icy sidewalks. The ankle-height version is tough enough for city walking but refined enough for dining out.
👉 Find boots built for real Canadian winter
Winter Jackets Worth the Investment
Patagonia Women’s Downdrift Winter Parka
One of the most dependable mid-temperature winter coats. Best for temperatures around –15°C to –20°C, making it ideal for most urban winters without tipping into extreme expedition-level parkas.
It’s insulated with 600-fill recycled down and feathers, wind- and water-resistant, and loose enough to layer warm sweaters underneath. It features a snug hood, large exterior pockets that double as hand warmers, and inner and outer storage pockets.
👉 Invest in winter pieces that work
Winter Sweaters and Base Layers
Merino Wool Sweaters
They balance style and practicality. Warm without being bulky, easy to pack, and polished enough for dining while still comfortable for all-day wear. And odour-resistant to boot.
👉 Layer smart before you land
Uniqlo Heattech Turtlenecks
Thin but surprisingly warm. Designed to regulate temperature rather than trap heat, making them easy to layer under sweaters without adding bulk.
👉 Stay warm without overpacking
Hats, Scarves, Neck Warmers
Fleece-lined toque
A fleece-lined toque goes a long way in keeping your head warm. Heat escapes quickly from the head, so keeping it covered is essential. Gap has solid options in fun colours and patterns that add personality to winter outfits.
👉 Shop hats built for real winter wind
Merino wool Neck Warmer
Wool scarves add warmth and style, but can add bulk. In that case, a neck warmer might be more practical. A loop-style neck warmer can be pulled up over the nose when windchill becomes brutal.
👉 Invest in a neck warmer that block the wind
Gloves or Mitts
Leather gloves with fleece lining are ideal when you want warmth without sacrificing dexterity for phones, doors, and bags.
Mitts keep fingers together, which keeps them warmer overall. Choose based on whether you prioritize mobility or maximum warmth.
👉 Find gloves that actually keep your fingers warm
Sunglasses
Sun reflecting off snow can be surprisingly blinding. Sunglasses are a year-round accessory in Canada and help protect your eyes from glare and ice reflection.
👉 Shield your eyes from snow glare
Winter Skincare for Cold Canadian Winters
Winter in Canada is relentlessly hard on the skin. It strips moisture from your skin and leaves it dry and uncomfortable. Simple ways to protect your skin are to hydrate, replenish, and seal.
Hydrating Facial Mask
A deeply hydrating mask is essential in winter. Kiehl’s Calendula Facial Mask is particularly effective for rehydrating your skin. It replenishes lost moisture, calms itchiness, and is lightly fragranced. After a few uses, your skin feels soothed, nourished, and refreshed.
👉 Restore moisture before winter strips it away
Replenishing Facial Toner
After using the facial mask, apply Kiehl’s ultra facial toner. This step tightens and preps the skin, allowing it to absorb moisturizer more effectively.
👉 Seal in hydration before facing the cold
Sealing Facial Moisturizer
Finish with a Kiehl’s hydrating moisturizer to lock everything in. This step prevents freshly hydrated skin from drying out again once you step back into cold and icy air.
👉 Lock in moisture that lasts all day
Moisturizing Lip Care
Don’t forget your lips. Burt’s Bees Lip Balm works best when applied continuously throughout the day. This helps prevent cracks and the pain that comes with them. Vaseline also works exceptionally well. Apply it generously, especially before bed.
👉 Prevent cracked lips before they start
90 Second Course On What To Know About Winter Driving In Canada
Don’t skip this section if you’re planning to drive in Canada. In the dead of winter. For Valentine’s Day. This section isn’t meant to scare you, but winter driving in winter in Canada can get hazardous really fast. Preparation matters, especially if you don’t drive regularly in the snow and ice.
First off, Install winter tires. This is non-negotiable. Winter tires provide proper traction on snow and ice. All-season tires simply do not work. You are putting your safety in the hands of your equipment, so make sure it’s the right equipment.
Bring a snow scraper and brush. Clear exhaust pipes of snow before starting the car. Blocked exhaust pipes can cause carbon monoxide to flow back into the vehicle.
Top up windshield washer fluid so visibility stays clear. Get roadside assistance such as CAA. If your car breaks down, stay inside with the heat running while you wait for help. Make sure your gas tank is full before driving.
Drive reasonably. Keep a good distance, avoid tailgating, brake before turning, and brake early in icy conditions. Winter travel is far more enjoyable when accidents are avoided.
Valentine’s Day in Canada Is Worth the Winter Chill
Valentine’s Day in Canada in mid-February sounds, dare I say, mildly threatening? And yet, it’s exactly the kind of winter escape that’ll surprise you in a good way.
If you want romance without the fuss, choose the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto where you get to cocoon and dine without braving the cold. If you want independence, self-care, and a city escape on your own time, pick the SoHo Hotel in downtown Toronto that lets you relax and reset before you head out for a meal that reflects Toronto’s multicultural flavour.
If you want the full country retreat experience, go to Langdon Hall Country House and Spa where the fireplace crackles on demand and the dining is right inside the manor. And if you want small-town charm with flexibility, choose The Scotsman Hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake where you can explore a historic village, eat well nearby, and walk back to your hotel and slip into a robe and lose yourself in a book.
Pick the experience that matches how you want to feel. Then do the practical part, because spending winter in Canada means being prepared. Pack to stay warm and dry, take frostbite seriously, and do not skip skincare in February. If you plan on driving, be smart about it. Check for winter tires, a snow scraper, and top up washer fluid. Get roadside assistance for your trip. These are non-negotiables.
And remember, a great Valentine’s Day in Canada doesn’t require an overnight stay. You can still make February feel special with these experiences: farm-to-table dining, refined French dinners, zesty Eastern Mediterranean meals, winter winery tastings in Niagara, and chocolate stops that make braving the cold worth it.
There’s also a not-so-secret perk here: winter in Canada can be easier on the wallet. Hotels often run retreat discounts in February because it’s the dead of winter, even if Valentine’s weekend is still in demand. Book early and you can land some splurge-worthy deals without robbing a bank.
Want to keep it all organized without the overwhelm? Grab my free 7-day travel planner and map out your stays, dinners, and little indulgences in one place.
Winter in Canada is chilly, yes. But it has a funny way of making warmth feel earned, whether you’re sharing it with someone you love, or with yourself (who always deserves your love first).
