Elmhirst’s Resort is a family-owned lakeside retreat, where authentic Canadian hospitality meets nature and adventure in the heart of the Kawarthas.
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About Us
Rooted in Family, Inspired by Nature
For generations, the Elmhirst family has welcomed guests to our lakeside retreat, sharing the beauty of Rice Lake and the spirit of true Canadian hospitality.
Experience locally inspired dining, outdoor adventures, and warm, personalized service—all part of a tradition that has stood the test of time.
From cozy cottages to curated experiences, Elmhirst’s Resort is more than a getaway—it’s a place where family history meets unforgettable memories.
Where Nature, Comfort, and Community Meet
Nestled along the shores of Rice Lake, Elmhirst’s Resort is more than a destination—it’s an experience. Here, we combine the tranquility of nature with the comforts of home and the joy of community. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or time to reconnect with loved ones, you’ll find it all in our family-owned retreat. From handcrafted meals featuring farm-to-table ingredients to year-round activities for all ages, every moment at Elmhirst’s is designed to inspire and delight.
Discover how every stay at Elmhirst’s Resort contributes to a greener future—where relaxation meets responsibility.
committed to a greener tomorrow
At Elmhirst’s Resort, sustainability is more than a practice—it’s a promise. From energy-efficient initiatives and eco-friendly operations to locally sourced ingredients and habitat preservation, we’re dedicated to protecting the natural beauty of the our 240 acre propoerty for generations to come. Learn more about how we’re making every step of your stay a little greener.
benefits of our sustainable practices
At Elmhirst’s Resort, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond preserving the environment—it’s about enriching lives. By prioritizing local partnerships, reducing our ecological footprint, and supporting community initiatives, we create a ripple effect of positive change. From fostering local economic growth to ensuring a pristine landscape for future generations, our efforts make every guest experience meaningful and impactful.
our sustainability initiatives
At Elmhirst’s Resort, we’re dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the Kawarthas through thoughtful, sustainable initiatives. From harnessing renewable energy and reducing waste to sourcing fresh ingredients from our on-site farm, every choice we make is rooted in care for the environment. Join us in embracing a greener way to travel and explore how sustainability is woven into every aspect of your stay.
sustainability at elmhirst’s
benefits of our sustainable practices
benefits of our sustainable practices
sustainability at elmhirst’s
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benefits of our sustainable practices
benefits of our sustainable practices
sustainability at elmhirst’s
benefits of our sustainable practices
benefits of our sustainable practices
Committed to a Greener Tomorrow
Sustainability
At Elmhirst’s Resort, sustainability is more than a practice—it’s a promise. From energy-efficient initiatives and eco-friendly operations to locally sourced ingredients and habitat preservation, we’re dedicated to protecting the natural beauty of the our 240 acre propoerty for generations to come. Learn more about how we’re making every step of your stay a little greener.
Benefits
At Elmhirst’s Resort, our commitment to sustainability extends beyond preserving the environment—it’s about enriching lives. By prioritizing local partnerships, reducing our ecological footprint, and supporting community initiatives, we create a ripple effect of positive change. From fostering local economic growth to ensuring a pristine landscape for future generations, our efforts make every guest experience meaningful and impactful.
Initiatives
At Elmhirst’s Resort, we’re dedicated to preserving the natural beauty of the Kawarthas through thoughtful, sustainable initiatives. From harnessing renewable energy and reducing waste to sourcing fresh ingredients from our on-site farm, every choice we make is rooted in care for the environment. Join us in embracing a greener way to travel and explore how sustainability is woven into every aspect of your stay.
Elmhirst's resort is an all season, cottage resort and conference facility.
the latest
Packages & Events
offers
60 Plus, Senior’s Discount

Join us for the perfect escape with no crowds.
Stay with us midweek and enjoy 15% off weekday daily rates* for those 60 years plus.
Embrace nature with walks by the lake, horseback riding, waterfront trail walks, bird watching and more. There is plenty to do indoors as well: swim, exercise in our fitness room, sit back for some cocktails in The Wild Blue Yonder or enjoy romantic dining in the Hearthside Dining Room. If staying in is more your speed, enjoy your own dock and deck or sit by the fire in your private cottage and enjoy country living at its best.
* Does not apply to weekly rates or packages. Available from September – May on midweek stays (Sunday - Thursday). HST Additional.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

September - May
60 Plus, Senior’s Discount
20241001
20250531
60 Plus, Senior’s Discount

Join us for the perfect escape with no crowds.
Stay with us midweek and enjoy 15% off weekday daily rates* for those 60 years plus.
Embrace nature with walks by the lake, horseback riding, waterfront trail walks, bird watching and more. There is plenty to do indoors as well: swim, exercise in our fitness room, sit back for some cocktails in The Wild Blue Yonder or enjoy romantic dining in the Hearthside Dining Room. If staying in is more your speed, enjoy your own dock and deck or sit by the fire in your private cottage and enjoy country living at its best.
* Does not apply to weekly rates or packages. Available from September – May on midweek stays (Sunday - Thursday). HST Additional.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

retreats
Book Club Weekend

Featuring Greenwood by Michael Christie
January 23-25, 2026
Join us for an inspiring literary escape on the shores of Rice Lake as Elmhirst’s Resort welcomes Michael Christie, acclaimed author of Greenwood. Over this special weekend retreat, book lovers will enjoy intimate discussions, engaging workshops, and personal insights from Christie on his celebrated novel and the craft of storytelling.
Between sessions, unwind in the resort’s lakeside setting with farm-to-table dining, nature trails, and time to connect with fellow readers. Whether you’re deepening your appreciation for Greenwood or simply seeking a rejuvenating getaway, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation, conversation, and inspiration.
Your 2-night package includes:
- Accommodation in a cozy, lakefront cottage that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
- Author experience and a copy of Greenwood
- Nourishing farm-to-table meals, including Breakfast and Dinner on Saturday.
- Sunday Brunch
- $50 Spa Credit
CALL TO BOOK: 1-800-461-1940
2 person minimum per cottage.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

January 23-25, 2026
Book Club Weekend
20250221
20250223
Book Club Weekend

Featuring Greenwood by Michael Christie
January 23-25, 2026
Join us for an inspiring literary escape on the shores of Rice Lake as Elmhirst’s Resort welcomes Michael Christie, acclaimed author of Greenwood. Over this special weekend retreat, book lovers will enjoy intimate discussions, engaging workshops, and personal insights from Christie on his celebrated novel and the craft of storytelling.
Between sessions, unwind in the resort’s lakeside setting with farm-to-table dining, nature trails, and time to connect with fellow readers. Whether you’re deepening your appreciation for Greenwood or simply seeking a rejuvenating getaway, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation, conversation, and inspiration.
Your 2-night package includes:
- Accommodation in a cozy, lakefront cottage that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
- Author experience and a copy of Greenwood
- Nourishing farm-to-table meals, including Breakfast and Dinner on Saturday.
- Sunday Brunch
- $50 Spa Credit
CALL TO BOOK: 1-800-461-1940
2 person minimum per cottage.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

stay, dining
Couch Potato Package

Enjoy discounted accommodation rates and inclusive meals at Elmhirst’s.
Slow down, get cozy, and let yourself truly relax. The Couch Potato Package is designed for those who need a break from the hustle and bustle for a night, a weekend, or a longer escape.
Stay in one of our comfortable waterfront cottages and enjoy 15% off regular accommodation rates, plus daily breakfast and dinner* from our Wild Blue Yonder menu.
The package includes:
- Accommodation in a comfortable waterfront cottage
- Breakfast and dinner daily* from our Wild Blue Yonder Menu
- Service charge
- Access to all available recreation facilities
*Weekend stays include breakfast and dinner on Saturday and Sunday Brunch. Available from Sept-May. Not available on long weekends. Cannot be combined with any other offer or special.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

September - May
Couch Potato Package
20250212
20250321
Couch Potato Package

Enjoy discounted accommodation rates and inclusive meals at Elmhirst’s.
Slow down, get cozy, and let yourself truly relax. The Couch Potato Package is designed for those who need a break from the hustle and bustle for a night, a weekend, or a longer escape.
Stay in one of our comfortable waterfront cottages and enjoy 15% off regular accommodation rates, plus daily breakfast and dinner* from our Wild Blue Yonder menu.
The package includes:
- Accommodation in a comfortable waterfront cottage
- Breakfast and dinner daily* from our Wild Blue Yonder Menu
- Service charge
- Access to all available recreation facilities
*Weekend stays include breakfast and dinner on Saturday and Sunday Brunch. Available from Sept-May. Not available on long weekends. Cannot be combined with any other offer or special.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

retreats
Book Club Weekend

Featuring Greenwood by Michael Christie
January 23-25, 2026
Join us for an inspiring literary escape on the shores of Rice Lake as Elmhirst’s Resort welcomes Michael Christie, acclaimed author of Greenwood. Over this special weekend retreat, book lovers will enjoy intimate discussions, engaging workshops, and personal insights from Christie on his celebrated novel and the craft of storytelling.
Between sessions, unwind in the resort’s lakeside setting with farm-to-table dining, nature trails, and time to connect with fellow readers. Whether you’re deepening your appreciation for Greenwood or simply seeking a rejuvenating getaway, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation, conversation, and inspiration.
Your 2-night package includes:
- Accommodation in a cozy, lakefront cottage that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
- Author experience and a copy of Greenwood
- Nourishing farm-to-table meals, including Breakfast and Dinner on Saturday.
- Sunday Brunch
- $50 Spa Credit
CALL TO BOOK: 1-800-461-1940
2 person minimum per cottage.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

January 23-25, 2026
Book Club Weekend
20250221
20250223
Book Club Weekend

Featuring Greenwood by Michael Christie
January 23-25, 2026
Join us for an inspiring literary escape on the shores of Rice Lake as Elmhirst’s Resort welcomes Michael Christie, acclaimed author of Greenwood. Over this special weekend retreat, book lovers will enjoy intimate discussions, engaging workshops, and personal insights from Christie on his celebrated novel and the craft of storytelling.
Between sessions, unwind in the resort’s lakeside setting with farm-to-table dining, nature trails, and time to connect with fellow readers. Whether you’re deepening your appreciation for Greenwood or simply seeking a rejuvenating getaway, this retreat offers a unique blend of relaxation, conversation, and inspiration.
Your 2-night package includes:
- Accommodation in a cozy, lakefront cottage that offers breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding area.
- Author experience and a copy of Greenwood
- Nourishing farm-to-table meals, including Breakfast and Dinner on Saturday.
- Sunday Brunch
- $50 Spa Credit
CALL TO BOOK: 1-800-461-1940
2 person minimum per cottage.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

dining
Cozy by the Fire NSWS Dinner

Join us for Cozy by the Fire: A North Shore Wine Society Experience
Join us for the next North Shore Wine Society Dinner, Cozy by the Fire, where Chef Darwin Bell will craft an inspired menu that celebrates the warmth and richness of the season.
This intimate evening will feature cozy comfort food elevated with Chef Darwin’s creative touch, paired with exceptional wines from deep in the cellar. Enjoy house-made charcuterie and preserves, seasonal ingredients that capture the essence of late winter, and perfectly matched wine pairings that bring every bite to life.
$125 per person, reservations required.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

March 7, 2026
Cozy by the Fire NSWS Dinner
20250405
20250524
Cozy by the Fire NSWS Dinner

Join us for Cozy by the Fire: A North Shore Wine Society Experience
Join us for the next North Shore Wine Society Dinner, Cozy by the Fire, where Chef Darwin Bell will craft an inspired menu that celebrates the warmth and richness of the season.
This intimate evening will feature cozy comfort food elevated with Chef Darwin’s creative touch, paired with exceptional wines from deep in the cellar. Enjoy house-made charcuterie and preserves, seasonal ingredients that capture the essence of late winter, and perfectly matched wine pairings that bring every bite to life.
$125 per person, reservations required.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

Offers
Stay Longer, Save More

Make the most of your time at the lake with a longer stay — and a little extra savings. When you book 7 nights or more in one of our cozy waterfront cottages, you’ll enjoy 25% off your accommodation rate.
Embrace nature with walks by the lake, horseback riding, waterfront trail walks, bird watching and more. There is plenty to do indoors as well: swim, exercise in our fitness room, sit back for some cocktails in The Wild Blue Yonder or enjoy romantic dining in the Hearthside Dining Room. If staying in is more your speed, enjoy your own dock and deck or sit by the fire in your private cottage and enjoy country living at its best. Take your relaxation even further with a visit to the Spa @ Elmhirst’s — offering massages, facials, and rejuvenating treatments inspired by nature.
Whether you’re working remotely, reconnecting with family, or simply taking time to recharge, a week at the lake lets you truly unwind.
* Only applies to accommodation rates on 7 nights or more. Based on availability. HST Additional. No meals included.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.

Year Round
Stay Longer, Save More
20241001
20250531
Stay Longer, Save More

Make the most of your time at the lake with a longer stay — and a little extra savings. When you book 7 nights or more in one of our cozy waterfront cottages, you’ll enjoy 25% off your accommodation rate.
Embrace nature with walks by the lake, horseback riding, waterfront trail walks, bird watching and more. There is plenty to do indoors as well: swim, exercise in our fitness room, sit back for some cocktails in The Wild Blue Yonder or enjoy romantic dining in the Hearthside Dining Room. If staying in is more your speed, enjoy your own dock and deck or sit by the fire in your private cottage and enjoy country living at its best. Take your relaxation even further with a visit to the Spa @ Elmhirst’s — offering massages, facials, and rejuvenating treatments inspired by nature.
Whether you’re working remotely, reconnecting with family, or simply taking time to recharge, a week at the lake lets you truly unwind.
* Only applies to accommodation rates on 7 nights or more. Based on availability. HST Additional. No meals included.
Cottage Check-in begins at 4PM. Check-out is at 10AM.
Rates are quoted in Canadian Dollars. H.S.T. additional.We have a select number of pet-friendly cottages available. Packages and special rates cannot be combined with other offers.
