Niagara On The Lake, Canada

 

3 minute read:

Niagara On The Lake (NOTL) is a delightful quaint town located only minutes from Niagara Falls in the Province of Ontario. From the moment you enter idyllic NOTL you will feel as though you stepped back in time. Enjoy scenic drives passing by vineyards, historic homes, old fashioned country farm stands, and flowers everywhere! If you go during the summer months stock up on fresh cherries, the best pies & turnovers; they are delicious!

Watch the sailboats pass you as you dine outdoors at Queens Landing. Then grab an Aperol Spritz in Pillar and Post’s gorgeous garden. A gentle breeze from Lake Ontario provides a lovely respite from the summer heat. Autumn is another favorite time of ours to visit. Walk along paths by the banks of the river and enjoy a picnic lunch by the gazebo. In Queens Royal Park, streets are filled with lush trees, horse drawn carriage tours, and vibrant flowers. There is something beautiful at every glance and around every corner.

There is a British feel to the charming shops lining Queen and King Street, surrounded by 19th century architecture, pubs, and delightful bakeries. Our favorite is the Niagara Home Bakery. Don’t miss their delicious cinnamon buns, coffee, linzer tarts, and other savory items. Stroll through the Heritage District and enjoy shopping, dining, and browse unique shops to find that special gift for a loved one, or perhaps treat yourself! There are bed-and-breakfasts, cozy inns: many with fireplaces, thermal spas, outdoor and indoor pools and fine dining.


For the active traveler, you will delight in the bike paths, swimming pools, yoga classes, and golf courses. Play a round on the oldest operating golf course in North America, Niagara-On-The-Lake Golf Club, then grab a colorful Adirondack chair, and sit by the water enjoying a cocktail, dinner, and watching unforgettable gorgeous sunsets.

In this article we explore a drive through the Finger Lakes up to Niagara On The Lakes, Canada. A quaint small town with fabulous vineyards, picturesque Lake Ontario, a gorgeous golf course, and well appointed hotels. More on the finger lakes here: https://theparishouse.com/blog-1/canada-wine

Depending on your route you will drive by the Canadian Falls, the famous Flower Clock and the Botanical Gardens. Niagara Parks does an incredible job of maintaining everything impeccably. There are trolleys and transportation to get you everywhere effortlessly. We recommend three nights and four days to see the highlights.

What To See and Do

Queens Royal Park features trails and a gazebo that are meticulously cared for and a great pride of the community. Enjoy dinner and theatrics at Shaws Theater on Queen Street. Some of our favorite vineyards include Ice Wine, Ravine, Two Sisters, and Pellars. Sights and adventures await at Niagara Falls, The Flower Clock, Botanical Gardens, Gorge, & Butterfly Conservatory.

Nearby Niagara Falls there is something for everyone, from the adventurous to the foodie to the photographer! There are zip lines over the falls, tours, and more. There are easy & affordable modes of transportation to get you everywhere.

Where to Stay? We recommend Pillar and Post, a well appointed hotel with many amenities. Queens Landing offers elegant decor, waterside dining, trolley pickups, and complimentary shuttles for guests. For a chic contemporary vibe with courtyard dining try 124 Hotel and Spa. There are also inns by the golf course, overlooking the lake and wine trail like Oban Inn. 

Inspired by Claude Monet’s garden in Giverny, France. Take note of the underplanting of nasturtium flowers. Enjoy a stroll through acres of immaculately landscaped gardens. Walk over the bridge to admire the water Lillies and enjoy an aperol spritz from the nearby garden cafe.

Interested in creating your own rose garden at home!! Check out our lovely rose garden article here: https://theparishouse.com/blog-1/2023/6/25/a92mrvwy2hcr3v29c3fp5puzyver13

Hotel Spotlight: Pillar and Post & Queens Landing

We have stayed many times at both Queens Landing & Pillar and Post. The service is wonderful. Pillar and Post has both indoor and outdoor pools, thermal spa, poolside cafe and fine dining. Enjoy complimentary shuttle service into town and their sister properties. The hotel will be more than happy to arrange your dinner at their hotel or perhaps outside on the patio overlooking the water at Queens Landing just moments up the road. They also have door to door service on the trolley, which is a great way to explore and do the wine trail! The hotel is about 10-15 minutes into town and a quick shuttle ride to the lake. We would be happy to help you plan your getaway to Niagara On The Lake.

“Country Elegance in Niagara-on-the-Lake

This five-star hotel in a 19th century building boasts a rich history and features all the modern comforts to make your stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake first-class.’ -  Pillar and Post

‘Indulge in the Niagara Resort Experience

Everything you need for a refreshing hotel stay is well within reach at Pillar and Post. With an on-site spa spanning 13,000 square feet, a fine dining restaurant serving the best steak in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and the contemporary comforts of crisp linen and plump pillows, and plenty of fine vintage wines, all you need to do is don a robe and relax.” - Pillar and Post

“Soothe Body, Mind & Soul

Escape into tranquility with a trip to our 13,000 square foot Niagara spa resort where you’ll find an extensive menu of spa services to soothe from head to toe and mind to soul. As a spa guest, your visit includes access to the fireplace lounge in our interior seating area as well as our heated indoor saltwater pool, hot tub, outdoor pool, hot spring pool, and fitness center. If you need assistance choosing a spa treatment, our spa concierge would be happy to guide you. “ - Pillar and Post

“An Elegant Ode to Wine Country

Enjoy farm-to-table flavours, fine wine and indulge in a unique Niagara dining experience.” - Pillar and Post

“Dreamy Garden Wedding Venues

Tie the knot surrounded by fragrant florals and historic elegance at Pillar and Post in Niagara-on-the-Lake.” - Pillar and Post

https://www.vintage-hotels.com/pillar-and-post/100-fountain-spa/

If you are looking for a travel planner, we are happy to plan your itinerary. Contact us at michele@theparishouse.com 

Thank you to Vintage Hotels for upgrading us and impeccable service during our stay.

Where To Dine? We love Ravine Vineyard! The farm to table is delicious. It has a smaller, more intimate vibe. Two Sisters has a gorgeous covered terrace overlooking the vineyards. For a lovely spot on the water, try the patio at Queens Landing. Sitting poolside at Pillar and Post is always fun and as their guests can enjoy cocktails and snacks. As mentioned, no visit to NOTL would be complete without our daily visits to Niagara Home Bakery, it is charming and delicious. The Spinach puff pastries are so yummy! Always call ahead for reservations and to make sure if they are open.



Vineyard Transportation? Take a shuttle from several hotels, a car service, or hop on the trolley, and visit as many vineyards as you like ! We have also rented a private limousine service which was so much fun and tailored to our itinerary. The vintage hotels such as Pillar and Post and Queens Landing provide an amazing shuttle service with knowledgeable drivers to let you in on the best spots in town.



Shopping? Check out Queens Street and Kings Street along with the vineyards for wine, wine glasses, artisan gifts, food and more.



What To Pack? Comfortable shoes, wedges, stylish flats, sneakers, heels for dining at night. Sun dresses, scarves, stylish blazers, dressy shorts, sweaters for evenings by the water, bathing suits, coverups. Polo style shirts and tailored pants take the men from wine tasting, golf course, dining and more. Please note: passports or a special New York state license is required when entering into Canada. Always check on all restrictions and proper travel documents in advance.



To read MUCH MORE on Niagara On The Lake, Vineyards, Finger Lakes and our Recipes please click here: https://theparishouse.com/blog-1/canada-wine



Recipe

Nutella Strawberry Crepes

  • Make your favorite crepe batter. After they are prepared. Add nutella to taste. Top with thinly sliced strawberries. And a little whipped cream



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Trailer for our new series!

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We will share Travel, Luxury Hotels, Fashion, Floral Design, Cooking & Lifestyle! Launching very soon!

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Brooklyn Pizza, Museums, & Rooftop Cocktails at Loopy Doopy

Out And About With Paris House Brooklyn Edition

By, Michele Rosenthal

We love traveling both near and far and sharing our adventures with our readers. We have been writing on travel for over 30 years & are excited to continue sharing what to do, what to see, where to eat, shop, stay, what to pack in your suitcase and much more. We offer a full service travel, fashion styling & event planning business to help you plan Unforgettable Events & Trips!

We started off at The Brooklyn Museum for the Andy Warhol exhibit, (I found this very interesting, especially everything from his earlier years, prior to his 80’s fame, I loved this exhibit & TBH I was skeptical, as I have very mixed feelings on him) I enjoyed learning more about his childhood and I learned a lot from this exhibit. (Please check online for dates of gallery exhibits, restaurant hours, rooftop bar hours before going to ensure an enjoyable outing)

Then it was off for pizza & local beer in Brooklyn -my 2nd favorite pizza in the world, (Naples Italy being my favorite but honestly this is truly just as delicious. I’m Italian so my love of Italy is immense),

Barboncino is outstanding, we love the soppressata with a side of chili honey, it’s fabulous (thanks @todddurm for telling us about @barboncinopizza - It was our 2nd time & can’t wait to return. I cook & bake often so I’m a bit fussy & I’ll always be honest with you - this pizza is FABULOUS!

We then headed back into Manhattan for cocktails at Loopy Doopy rooftop at The Conrad Hotel. The weather was absolutely gorgeous & I had so much fun with my son Sam. They limit the amount of people on the roof, and we have found going early or on a weekday is best. You must try their spiked popsicles in Prosecco! They have a bar menu & you can also dine downstairs in the hotel & weather permitting there are plenty of outside cafés. It feels like a touch of Europe in the financial district of NYC!

Nearby attractions are the waterfront, Freedom Tower, plenty of shopping, and more! We will share more restaurants in the area soon!

Dress is by significant other. Follow our LTK - like to know- Theparishouse to shop our fashion & more! Tap into the pink “learn More” button to peruse our site!

We hope you enjoyed this edition!

Mayflower Inn & Spa

By, Michele Rosenthal

 
 

Mayflower Inn & Spa Auberge Resorts Collection

Calm, peaceful, beautiful, exquisite — just a few words you’ll use to describe the lush natural wonder of Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut. Whether you’re on a ski trip, a hike, a shopping spree, or simply stopping by, Mayflower is full of rich history, integrity, and serenity, you’ll want to visit every season.

Situated on dozens of acres, this inn and spa welcomes you into a secret world, a getaway that only exists in New England. The Mayflower is a renowned resort that was converted from a school in 1920. Drawing upon the natural scenery, historic nearby towns, and stunning eclectic designs, beauty is everywhere you look. Recently design icon Celerie Kemble revitalized the interiors of the inn, combining historic Victorian architecture and 19th century artwork with a modern freshness. It’s safe to say your room and the Shakespeare garden alone will wow you.

 
 

The Inn also has countless amenities. Are you in the mood for a massage or facial? Step into THE WELL to get lost in your wildest dreams, receiving treatment from only the best professionals. You can also receive holistic treatments from doctors and health practitioners. After you feel revitalized and ready to go, take a swing on the tennis courts. When we stayed, my husband got lost in the game as I relaxed in the spa.

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Next, stop by The Garden Room to have carefully crafted, farm-fresh meals from expert chefs. The openness and country atmosphere will feel like a breath of fresh air. When your stay comes to an end, pop into the shop The Huntress. You’ll find gorgeous, high-quality clothes and sentimental souvenirs to remember for a lifetime. Then, make your way through the quaint village, where you can shop for one of a kind finds to bring home as a beautiful reminder of your journey to New England. From snowfall and spring renewal to summer activities and fall foliage, Mayflower Inn & Spa has an abundance of refreshing activities, peaceful musings, and beauty to fulfill your ever need.

 
 
 
 

Our beautiful Paris House Cocktail ring is designed and made in NYC.
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Blueberry Lemon Thyme cake

Asparagus Gruyere Tart baked in a warm buttery puff pastry, is the perfect addition to a brunch table. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Rollout thawed puff pastry- we love Dafur. Gently press in 2 rectangular tart pans & sprinkle shredded Gruyere cheese over. Then add your asparagus on top. Make sure to remove the bottom woody parts of asparagus. Sprinkle lightly with sea salt & fresh ground pepper. Option you can, if you like, use a pastry brush and brush a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the puff pastry, before adding the cheese. I prefer it without but it does add a nice flavor. Bake for 20 minutes OR until golden and bubble

The Perfect Sunday Brunch addition to your buffet! Blueberry Lemon Thyme Pound Cake or Asparagus Gruyere Tart; we love our cakes and pastries!

 
 

After you leave the dreamy Mayflower Inn, why not make a beautiful and delicious cake to take the memories home with you! no worries if baking is not your thing! have your local grocery store make you 3 round vanilla cakes or use a box cake mix. If you enjoy baking there are many delicious recipes on line! Barefoot Contessa has several. Then layer with a homemade Chantilly whipped cream, fresh strawberries and top with edible flowers such as pansies.

Imagine wearing this spectacular dress while enjoying a cocktail in the Shakespeare Garden!
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Tennis Anyone!! hit the courts in style!
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The most gorgeous dress with caplet we have ever seen!
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Recreate your own little getaway at home with these carefully selected finds from Paris House!
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You can continue your adventure to The Long Island Sound in Westport CT. There is a great shopping and dining! one of our favorites is Mrs Londons

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Èze, France

 
 
 

By Teddy Rosenthal & Michele Rosenthal
At every turn in the wondrous world of France, you are guaranteed a unique experience. In the stunning village of Èze in the south of France, you’ll find just how vast and historic even the smaller locations in this country can be. From jaw-dropping views to mouth-watering seafood, Èze is the destination of your dreams.


It’s not every day that you get to experience such a well-rounded landscape. At the edge of the village, dip your toes into the clearest salty sea, blue and deep enough to wash away the rest of the world. As you travel throughout the town, check out the local shops and architecture. built into the historic stone cliffs, Château de la Chèvre d’Or and Château Eza are two five-star hotels where you can stay during your visit. Moving to the top, you’ll want to grab a pair of comfortable shoes as you hike up Nietzsche’s Path, and once you get there, make sure to take in the sight — the view of where the Côte d’Azur (French Riviera) meets the Mediterranean sea is one you will never forget. Also at the top, a must-see stop awaits you. Le Jardin Exotique d’Èze is a vast world of succulents and stunning flowers that can only thrive in such a welcoming climate.

 
 
 
 
 
 

When you’re ready to explore a bit more, there’s still plenty of ground to cover. If you’re hungry, dine at the local restaurants for the freshest of seafood. We recommend trying the bouillabaisse, a delectable fish stew that comes right from the ports. After making your way through everything Èze has to offer, you can still take a quick ride to the nearby cities of Nice, Monaco, and Cannes (the latter of which is home to the famous Cannes Film Festival which takes place in May). Each of these cities provides unforgettable shopping trips for fashion, home decor, and just about anything else you can think of.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

With a population of less than 2,500 people, Èze is a hidden gem. You can explore this glorious nook year-round and choose the south of France as your newest inspiration.

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shop our looks on our LTK page Theparishouse

 
 

Rome, Italy

 
 

It was wonderful returning to Rome, The Eternal City. The weather was around 65 degrees & sunny the entire week. I went in February so that felt very mild compared to the NYC winter weather. It wasn’t crowded & the comfortable temperatures made walking very enjoyable. I love Italy so much, I am 80% Italian and whenever I am there I feel so at home and close to my heritage! The Italians make EVERYONE feel welcome and at home in their beautiful country.

I love to travel, I create travel and fashion content for my business Theparishouse.com , scout locations for photoshoots, meet wonderful people, take incredible informative tours, bring home local recipes & fully immerse myself in the culture. Travel is my greatest passion and I love to share our adventures with my readers. I am a luxury travel writer, however all trips can be curated and enjoyed at every budget.

 
 
 
 

Day 1 -I flew from the NYC area nonstop to Rome

I stayed at Hotel Splendide Royal, located across from the Borghese gardens & in walking distance to Harry’s Bar, museums, restaurants & more. It is also a quick ride to all the Roman highlights! The concierge at the hotel were excellent and made my stay very enjoyable. I would highly recommend Hotel Splendide Roma. Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Vatican and cocktails on their rooftop with a view of Vatican City. It’s gorgeous.

 
 
 
 

Tours- https://www.shopltk.com/explore/The%20Paris%20House/posts/a8d66d28-951d-11ec-a91d-0242ac110002


Day 2- I took a floral design class in Rome, it was lovely. I own a Floral and Event Design Business and love to style with other designers on my travels around the world. Its so fun to share and learn new ideas. Martina hand-selected each flower at the local flower market, in the loveliest shades. The seasonal tulips, ranunculus, and flowers she chose were in the prettiest hues! They looked so pretty all week in my hotel room.

(This was a private class & I had a driver arranged by my hotel. We can plan all your excursions for you and have linked all our tours here & below in our “shop this story” section ).

 
 
 
 

Day 3 - We began our private tour at the Underground Coliseum - The newest attraction to the Coliseum is the fascinating underground, which was not open the last time I was in Rome. It was incredible to see the mechanics of the elevators, which were used to bring the animals up to the arena, many of these pulley systems are still used in various ways today. It’s interesting to see and learn about the masterful architecture, aqueducts and designs by the Romans. Of course the history of the Coliseum dates back to nearly 2,000 years and if not for the earthquake, would still be fully in tact. Like the saying goes “they don’t make them like the used to”!!! It is quite shocking to be there and try and picture the barbaric games that drew thousands of spectators -and the occasional hungry animal who escaped up into the spectators section!! I also highly recommend visiting at night when it is illuminated in light, it is spectacular and a perfect spot for photos. Rome is indeed the Eternal City. More on that below.

 
 
 
 
 
 

Then it was off to the Sistine Chapel with Bea my guide for the day. Bea was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable about everything we did that day! (This was another private tour & I had a driver arranged by my hotel- taxis and public transportation are also readily available).

 
 

Seeing this Masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel, by Michelangelo never fails to leave me in awe.

Day 4- I took a private tour of the Borghese Gardens & Villa Borghese (I booked this with Viator, I always enjoy their tours and guides)

Marco was enthusiastic & incredibly knowledgeable. This was a quick pleasant walk from our hotel ( we popped into Harrys Bar for a late lunch and bellini before our tour). We have linked all of our tours here & below

Tours- https://www.shopltk.com/explore/The%20Paris%20House/posts/11047ace-9817-11ec-a066-0242ac110004

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Day 5- Evening walking tour with Amira

Amira was a ray of sunshine, she was an absolute joy from the moment she picked me up at my hotel. We drove to see all the famous spots at night, Amira went above and beyond to ensure we had the most wonderful evening.

We began our tour at Piazza Navona, built in the 1st century AD on the site of the Stadium of Domitian. We then went to see the Vatican illuminated in evening lights, we visited the Pantheon, The Coliseum, The Mouth of Truth (which you might remember from Roman Holiday) Theater of Pompey where Julius Caesar was murdered, the Temple of Hercules, The Spanish Steps, The Trevi Fountain and Amira pointed out many more sites along the way. We had the most delicious dinner outside in piazza Navona, the Cacio e Pepe and red wine were incredible! I returned to my hotel around 11 pm and had sweet dreams of the most enchanting evening in Roma.

 
 

Temple of Hercules 

 
 

Coliseum 

 
 

Mouth of Truth 

 
 

Trevi Fountain https://www.shopltk.com/explore/The%20Paris%20House/posts/a8d66d28-951d-11ec-a91d-0242ac110002

Tour Links - https://www.shopltk.com/explore/The%20Paris%20House/posts/a2f0dade-980a-11ec-9aa4-0242ac110002


Day 6- explored Rome nearby by the hotel, had lunch on the Spanish steps with pizza & Campari Cocktails at the top of the steps. 

 
 

Campari Spritz 

 
 

Top of The Spanish Steps 

 
 

Delicious fresh fruit and sorbet 

 
 

Day 7- returned to Newark


Scroll to bottom to shop this blogpost, we have added many fashion, beauty, and travel items.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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I plan all our trips & excursions. I studied travel & tourism in college my first semester in college and I am a professional travel planner & who can assist you in your future trips!



Fashion

Be mindful of the cobblestone & bring comfortable shoes. I love heels so I opt for a chunky heel boot, wedge, espadrille, fashionable sneaker, etc. I’ll wear my high heels in the hotel typically at the rooftop bars.


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Philadelphia Travel Guide

We recently styled and produced a fashion photoshoot in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. I always research before for we shoot on location and am fortunate to have traveled to Philly many times. Philly is a city rich in history, culture, food, sports, and shopping. Inhabited by the Lenape and then founded in 1682 by William Penn, Philadelphia became an important city in the American Revolution.

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