Niagara-on-the-Lake during the holidays feels suspended in time—candlelight strolls, heritage homes dressed in evergreen garlands, and the quiet romance of a village that loves the festive season. Recently, we partnered with Tourism Niagara on the Lake to host our winter installment of “NOTL in STYLE: The Holiday Edit” a 3-day press trip that brought together influential journalists, digital creators, and tastemakers to experience the best of NOTL through the lens of style, culture, food, wine, and heritage. Here’s where our time was spent sharing in the love for our charming town, and we can’t wait for you to visit soon too.
STAY
Oban Inn
Photo: Oban Inn
Perched at the water’s edge in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Oban Inn & Spa feels less like a hotel and more like a quietly elegant lakeside retreat where time slows in the best possible way. With sweeping views of Lake Ontario, the inn blends old-world charm with understated luxury—think fireplaces glowing in the winter, sun-drenched terraces in the summer, and rooms designed for deep rest rather than distraction. The spa adds a layer of thoughtful indulgence, encouraging guests to truly exhale, while the inn’s intimate scale creates a sense of calm that’s increasingly rare. Perfectly positioned at the historic towns core, Oban Inn invites you to experience NOTL not as a tourist, but as someone who belongs there, if only for a little while.
FOOD & DRINKS
High Tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel
Photo: Pillar and Post
An iconic Niagara-on-the-Lake ritual: High Tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel. A grand dame of Victorian architecture, the hotel set the tone for the trip with its opulent interiors and old-world charm. Delicate finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones with clotted cream, and jewel-toned pastries were paired with fragrant teas, served beneath crystal chandeliers and richly patterned wallpaper. It was a moment of pause and indulgence—an elegant nod to tradition and the perfect introduction to the refined pleasures ahead.
RÊVE
Photo: REVÉ
We gathered at RÊVE for a multi-course dining experience that felt both artistic and deeply thoughtful. Each plate was meticulously composed, showcasing seasonal ingredients through inventive techniques and striking presentation. Dinner at RÊVE was not merely a meal, but a culinary narrative—one that unfolded slowly, inviting us to savour each course and appreciate the craftsmanship behind every detail.
Silversmith Brewing Company
Photo: Danika Harris Photography
Silversmith Brewing Co. is one of those classic Niagara-on-the-Lake experiences that feels both relaxed and a little special. Housed in a beautifully repurposed 1890s church with soaring ceilings and warm reclaimed wood, the vibe is welcoming and unhurried—perfect for lingering over good conversation and a flight or pint of their house-brewed beers, especially the award-winning Black Lager. Pair it all with thoughtful, comforting lunch fare like pretzel bites, whipped feta, or hearty sandwiches, and a simple midday meal turns into a celebration of good food, craft beer, and community.
Trius Winery Restaurant
Photo: Trius Winery Restaurant
Dinner at Trius Winery Restaurant was a celebration of Niagara’s bounty. Executive Chef Frank Dodd’s philosophy—letting nature lead—was evident in every dish. Working closely with local farmers, the menu showcased inspired wine country cuisine designed to complement Trius’ celebrated wines. The result was a dining experience that felt thoughtful, seasonal, and deeply rooted in the land. Each plate arrived with a sense of intention, highlighting ingredients at their peak while allowing their natural flavours to shine. Paired with views over the vineyards and impeccably matched wines, the evening unfolded as both refined and effortlessly welcoming.
Bella Terra Vineyards
Photo: Danika Harris Photography
At Bella Terra Vineyards, we were welcomed into a world of rich, expressive wines set against sweeping vineyard views. Each tasting highlighted the winery’s commitment to craftsmanship and terroir, offering bold yet refined profiles that felt unmistakably Niagara. The guided tasting experience, paired with insightful stories about each varietal, made every sip feel both educational and indulgent. It was an effortlessly luxurious experience—one that captured the essence of wine country living.
Strewn Winery
Photo: Danika Harris Photography
Our afternoon continued at Strewn Winery, where artisanal winemaking meets warm, down-to-earth charm. The wines unfolded with quiet elegance, each glass telling a story of place, patience, and passion. Strewn’s intimate setting made the tasting feel personal and unpretentious, a reminder that true luxury often lies in authenticity. With each pour, the knowledgeable staff guided us through tasting notes and pairings, turning the experience into a journey of discovery as much as enjoyment.
EXPERIENCES:
Skating at the Pillar and Post Outdoor Rink
Photo: Pillar and Post
From tea cups to ice skates, we embraced the magic of winter at The Pillar and Post’s outdoor skating rink. Twinkling lights, crisp air, and the soft sound of blades gliding across ice created a scene straight from a holiday film. Whether skating hand-in-hand or sipping something warm rink-side, the experience captured the cozy romance of the season.
Shopping Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake
Photo: Danika Harris Photography
No visit to NOTL is complete without a stroll through its storybook downtown. Lined with heritage buildings and locally owned boutiques, the streets offered the perfect opportunity to window shop, explore, and soak in the town’s festive atmosphere. A special stop at STYLE Canada’s boutique added a personal touch, where guests received a cozy Niagara-on-the-Lake sweater to commemorate the trip.
Horse & Carriage Ride Through Old Town
A horse and buggy ride through Niagara-on-the-Lake offers a relaxed and engaging way to experience the town’s historic charm. From the carriage, you can take in the well-preserved 19th-century homes, local shops, and carefully maintained gardens at a comfortable pace. The driver often shares insights into the town’s history, providing context that brings each street and landmark to life. By the end of the ride, you gain a deeper appreciation for NOTL’s unique character and heritage.
