Cozy Winter Getaways at Elmhirst’s Resort

Winter at Rice Lake has a beauty all its own. Just 90 minutes from Toronto, the shoreline sparkles with frost, the air feels crisp and clean, and life slows down just enough for you to really take it in. While some people dream of escaping the cold, winter is a season worth celebrating.

At Elmhirst’s Resort, it’s the perfect time for cozy cottage living, outdoor adventures, and evenings spent by the fire. If you’re planning a winter escape this year, here’s why Elmhirst’s is the ideal place to experience the magic of the season.

Cozy Cottages with Lakeside Views

Something is comforting about waking up in a cottage on a snowy morning. At Elmhirst’s, you’ll open the curtains to see Rice Lake shimmering under a blanket of white. Each lakefront cottage is fully equipped with a cozy fireplace, full kitchen, and all the comforts of home—ideal for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking to reset in nature.

Picture yourself snuggled under a blanket, sipping a warm drink as the fireplace glows. Step outside, and the crisp snow crunches with every step. Whether you’re here with family, your partner, or on a solo retreat, our cottages offer the perfect blend of peace and adventure.

A Snowshoeing Getaway Through Private Trails

Snowshoeing is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to explore winter—and at Elmhirst’s, it’s right at your doorstep. The private trails around Rice Lake transform into a quiet winter playground. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and wander through forests where the only sound is the snow beneath your feet.

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the sport or a seasoned pro; snowshoeing is an activity anyone can enjoy. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe deeply, and see the world from a different perspective.

Ice Fishing on Rice Lake

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, Rice Lake is a fantastic spot for ice fishing. In winter, the frozen lake comes alive with huts scattered across the ice and lines dropping into the cold, clear waters. The best part? When you stay with us, you can simply step off the lake and into the comfort of your cottage — no need to pack up and drive home after a long day outdoors.

And for even more winter fun, we flood a rink on the lake each year, perfect for skating or a casual game of hockey right outside your door. After a day on the ice, unwind by the fire and enjoy the cozy warmth of your cottage retreat.

More Winter Fun at Elmhirst’s

Winter at the lake isn’t just about fishing and snowshoeing. Guests often lace up their skates for a spin, try cross-country skiing, or explore the area by snowmobile. A gentle walk along the shoreline feels magical when fresh snow blankets everything.

Prefer a slower pace? Our on-site spa offers treatments designed to melt away tension. There’s nothing quite like stepping into a warm, relaxing space after spending the day in the crisp outdoors.

Comfort Food Made with Local Ingredients

At Elmhirst’s Resort, we’re proud of our farm-to-table dining. Winter is the season for comfort food—think hearty soups, roasted vegetables, freshly baked bread, and desserts that evoke a sense of home. Many ingredients are grown right on our farm, making every meal feel rooted in the season.

Join us in the Elmhirst’s Own Dining Room for a farm-fresh culinary experience, or cook in your cottage kitchen if you prefer. Guests often enjoy making big pots of chilli or hot chocolate piled high with marshmallows. Somehow, food always tastes better after a day outside.

Evenings by the Fire

After a day of adventure, evenings are all about slowing down. Gather around an outdoor fire pit and roast marshmallows under the stars. Or settle inside by the fireplace with a board game and a blanket.

It’s often the little things —laughing with loved ones, watching the fire glow, or listening to the silence of a snowy night —that make winter so special.

Your Cozy Cottage Escape Awaits

Winter doesn’t need to be something you hide from. At Elmhirst’s Resort, it’s a season to enjoy. From peaceful snowshoeing through private trails to the excitement of ice fishing on Rice Lake—and from farm-fresh dining to cozy nights by the fire, we make it easy to embrace the best of winter.