A Fall Weekend Gourmet Escape at Elmhirst Resort

There’s something about arriving at Rice Lake in the fall. The air is crisp, the trees glow with autumn colour, and the pace of life slows just enough to let you breathe. At Elmhirst’s Resort, that breath comes with the scent of woodsmoke, fresh coffee, and the harvest bounty from our own farm.

This isn’t about luxury for show — it’s about comfort that feels genuine, food that tastes of the season, and wide-open space to reconnect with what matters most.

Why Elmhirst’s Stands Out

Family-owned for generations, Elmhirst’s Resort sits on the north shore of Rice Lake, where natural beauty meets cottage hospitality and farm-to-table dining. Guests return year after year for the water, the food, the quiet, and the warm, personal service that makes them feel like family.

Fall is one of the most rewarding times to visit — the pace is slower, the harvest is abundant, and cooler evenings invite cozy fireside chats and starry nights by the lake.

The Food: Seasonal, Local, Elmhirst’s Own

Food is at the heart of the Elmhirst experience. Much of it comes from our own farm — beef, poultry, garden vegetables, maple syrup, and honey — complemented by the best our community has to offer. Every dish is prepared with care and served without pretense.

Hearthside Dining Room

Our main dining room offers sweeping lake views and menus that change with the season. In fall, expect roasted duck with squash and cranberry compote, or wild leek risotto with local trout. Everything is sourced close to home — from beef raised on our farm and herbs grown on-site to locally sourced dairy, seasonal vegetables. Paired with a glass of Ontario wine, it’s a true taste of the season.

Wild Blue Yonder Pub & Patio

Relaxed and lively, the Pub is the place for casual meals done right — Elmhirst’s Own Angus burgers, crisp fish and chips, local craft beers, and hearty favourites. With its aviation theme and welcoming atmosphere, it’s a favourite for both families and friends gathering lakeside.

Wine Cellar & North Shore Wine Society

For those who love to explore flavour, our Wine Cellar showcases the best of Ontario and beyond. Private tastings and exclusive dinners pair local ingredients with VQA wines, guided by our chef, partner sommelier, and featured wineries. It’s all about connection to the land, the winemakers, and each other.

Where You’ll Stay

Your cottage becomes your home base — private, cozy, and right on the lake.

Expect:

• Lakefront views and fireplaces for cozy autumn evenings
• Full kitchens and BBQs for snacks, coffee, or your own meals
• Cozy living spaces are ideal for reading or relaxing, or spending time with family and friends
• Waterfront docks and patios (seasonal access)
• Quiet nights, with nothing but wind and waves outside

In the fall, cottages become the perfect place to slow down. Wrap yourself in a blanket, watch the mist rise off the lake, and feel the season shift around you.

Simple Packages for a Seamless Stay

Elmhirst’s makes it easy to plan your stay with packages that bring together accommodations, meals, and seasonal activities. From midweek retreats to specialty weekends, everything is designed to help you relax and enjoy the season without the stress of planning. View some options here.

The Spa: Quiet Time With a View

Perched beside the lake, the Spa@Elmhirst’s is a peaceful hideaway where nature meets nurture. Treatments feature vegan and sustainable products, including Éminence Organic Skin Care products. Whether it’s a hot stone massage or a customized facial, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and renewed.  

Make It Your Fall Tradition

Whether it’s two nights away or a longer retreat, fall at Elmhirst’s Resort is about slowing down, enjoying the harvest, and finding joy in the simple things. Walk the shoreline, sip coffee by the fire, and let us handle the cooking.

A fall getaway doesn’t have to be extravagant — it just has to feel real, thoughtful, and yours.

Book your stay online or call 1-800-461-1940 and experience the flavours of the season at Elmhirst’s.