July 29th, 2010
Great Lake Swimmers
Not many Niagara vintages make it to Quebec, so we head west to Niagara-on-the-Lake. This twee town on the banks of Lake Ontario is steeped in history and swimming in wine.
sleep
Set in a former cannery the cozy Pillar and Post is the perfect wine-country hideaway with exposed brick walls, giant skylights and terracotta floors. The summer Duos Package includes overnight stay, bottle of local wine, chocolate-dipped strawberries, vineyard tasting, tours and breakfast (from $120/pp until August 31). Pillar and Post, 48 John St. W., 905-468-2123, www.vintage-hotels.com/pillarandpost
sip and swirl
Try a flight of wines at herbicide-free Lailey Vineyard. We loved the citrusy 2008 Riesling, while the Queen herself sipped glasses of 2007 Canadian Oak Pinot Noir ($35/bottle). If it’s good enough for Her Majesty, it’s good enough for us. Lailey Vineyard, 15940 Niagara Parkway, 905-468-0503, www.laileyvineyard.com
spa
Too many sips of Cab Franc? Book in for a refreshing Bamboo and Wine Scrub ($85) at the Pillar and Post’s 13,000 square foot 100 Fountain Spa. After your skin has been soothed and smoothed with locally harvested grape seeds, take a dip in the outdoor hot springs and dream of wineries yet to be conquered. 100 Fountain Spa, Pillar and Post, 48 John St. W., 1-888-669-5566, www.vintage-hotels.com/pillarandpost/spa.htm
do
Stop and smell the flowers at a Neob Lavender Boutique. Take a tour of the fields and see how they distill Rose Geranium, Lemongrass, French and English Lavenders into sweet smelling essential oils ($5.50), pillow sprays and shampoo ($15). 758 Niagara Stone Rd., 905-682-0171, www.neobboutique.com
