Have you ever considered sleeping in a tree house surrounded by lovable rescue animals? How about spending a night floating atop a peaceful lake in your own little abode? Is photographing animals in the wild or (safely) watching wolves at play in the moonlight on your bucket list? If so, you don’t have to travel far to explore these extraordinary immersive experiences that let you get in touch with Ontario’s flora and fauna first-hand — and in style.
Spot moose on a Canadian safari
Spend three days with a professional nature guide and photographer on Voyageur Quest’s Algonquin Moose Safari. Meet new friends and learn expert photography tips and tricks before venturing by canoe through the backwaters of Algonquin park. Snag magnificent photos of moose in their natural habitat and spot wildlife along the way. Spend one night in a log cabin and the second camping in the great Canadian wilderness. Paddle through glassy lakes, hike lush forests and stargaze at night. Relax by the campfire and feast on hearty meals prepared with love. This adventure is sure to satisfy any wanderlust spirit. voyageurquest.com
Unwind in nature among the Ontario wildlife
Pamper yourself with time at the spa, soak in the steamy Nordic baths, and indulge in gourmet dining experiences at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa. Pack a camera and a sense of wonder and explore 100 acres of spectacular parkland by wagon. Delight in close encounters with moose, elk and bison along the way and appreciate the tranquility of the forest. Choose from several comfortable suites to feel at home in, or rent an entire chalet. Outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking the rejuvenating effects of nature will absolutely love this northern Ontario travel destination.
Sleep with wolves an hour outside Ottawa
OK, so you’re not actually sleeping with wolves, but you’re pretty close. An hour outside Ottawa in Quebec’s Parc Omega, guests get an immersive opportunity amid 2,000 acres of Canadian parkland with more than 20 wildlife species. Sleep in a whimsical stilt house in the forest or cosy up in a comfy pod. During your stay, observe several varieties of wolves and bears from an observation walkway, or explore the grounds and come upon caribou, moose and arctic foxes. For an up-close encounter with wolves, reserve one of several luxury cabins offering intimate panoramic window views of the park’s lively wolf enclosure.
Glamp alongside adorable rescue animals
A refuge for animals such as chickens, pigs, dogs and Hyland cows, travel to Ontario’s Taiga Animal Sanctuary for an unforgettable overnight experiences amid an idyllic farm setting. Sleep in an enchanting tree house surrounded by birdsong, or opt for a peaceful bell tent in the woods (or something a little more close to home if you’re new to glamping — a two-bedroom apartment with space for six people). Forest bathe amid 10 acres of hiking trails and come upon curious woodland creatures. Relax in the barrel sauna, soak in a hot tub surrounded by trees, and dine in the beauty of nature. Enjoy plenty of games, campfires and quality time getting to know the adorable animals that call this sanctuary home. According to the owners, the rescue animals love to say hi, so you don’t need to enjoy the cuteness from afar — guests are encouraged to interact with and feed the animals, and apparently the baby pigs love belly rubs. It’s hard to imagine anything cuter.
Be like the water and overnight on Lake Temagami
Surrounded by beautiful Lake Temagami, Chic Shore’s Water Villas offer an experience that’s nothing short of magical. You can get lulled to sleep by a chorus of bullfrogs and rise to the song of the loon. With each villa built atop a spacious and secluded floating dock, this unique glamping experience connects guests with nature in luxury and style. Stargaze the night away in a chic bubble dome that sleeps five, or opt for an A-frame villa for an intimate couple’s getaway. Enjoy private outdoor space with lounge chairs, a BBQ and water access for those who love to swim.