When I told my friends about the time I took my wife for a night’s stay at The Pearle Hotel and Spa in Burlington, Ontario, and how much of an amazing experience it was, they were taken aback.
They couldn’t believe that an hour outside of Toronto, there was an all-in-one romantic getaway that should never be anyone’s best kept secret. The combination of top-tier room, incredible fine dining, a variety of spa treatments, sauna and pool, doting staff, waterfront views, and much more, is really – no exaggeration – the stuff of Hollywood dreams.
From the moment you arrive, The Pearle sets the tone with warmth that feels personal. Staff greet you like old friends, seeing to every detail and ensuring each guest feels celebrated.
The room itself quickly dispels any doubt that this is just another hotel. Generous in size, with a spacious shower, a bathroom you can actually stretch in, a practical workstation, and a bed that feels engineered for deep, uninterrupted sleep—everything speaks to thoughtful design. Large, soft pillows make you covet, while the panoramic view from the window frames a waterfront so beautiful it’s almost a work of art on its own. The view sweeps across Lake Ontario, and the buzz of the hotel’s dining patio below.
The only critique I have (and it’s minor), is that I wasn’t super fond of the sink bar soap and the shower soft soap, in the bathroom. Not that I was turned off by them, just not a scent or lather consistency I really liked. I never thought to ask front desk at the time, but I wonder if they might consider back-ups in case someone asked for a different kind.
That said, my wife has never stopped raving about the bathrobes—fluffy and impossibly cozy, perfect for winding down after a day of pampering. Art on the walls elevates the space, subtle touches reminding you that this is no generic suite; every detail is meticulously considered.
Roaming beyond the room, the amenities were meant for indulgence. We found ourselves drawn to the indoor pool—a standout feature, with a powerful water jet that provided a true massage-like relief for tired muscles. And again, as my wife wants to note, the softness of the towels made her happy, in addition to how long they were.
The Hamman steam room proved an experience in itself. Initially intense with its heat, it eventually coaxed us into relaxation; we emerged both thoroughly refreshed and a little astonished at just how restorative a “good shvitz” can be.
No stay would be complete without a visit to the spa—a haven of pampering tailored for couples. We chose side-by-side pedicures, a romantic experience where we soaked our feet in baths scented to our preference (six options to spark the senses). But it’s more than just nail care: a sequence of foot scrubs, massages, and careful attention made our feet feel—and look—brand new. The staff brought a genuine warmth and friendliness, helping my wife discover a new favorite nail color to show off as she strolled about in her sandals.
When it was time to eat, Isabelle, the on-site restaurant, delivered a dining experience that continues to be the topic of our conversations. With its stylish patio overlooking the water, Isabelle draws an enthusiastic crowd—clearly a destination not just for guests but discerning locals, too.
The setting strikes a balance between celebration and intimacy, making it a place where you can savor conversation and culinary artistry.
Each starter—cashew and white bean hummus, beef tartar, and the dazzling green salad—was a burst of freshness and flavor. The mains surpassed expectation: roasted cauliflower with sunflower seed butter, chili garlic oil, and chimichurri transforming a vegan dish into a memorable treat; and the Ontario steelhead trout, paired ingeniously with aji verde, swiss chard, brown butter and lime—each bite an interplay of brightness and depth. Even the burrata, laced with honey, olive oil, and fresh herbs on grilled sourdough, was almost too beautiful to break apart. It’s the sort of restaurant you remember for ages, both for the way it delights your palate and the way it makes you feel happily surprised. Families are thoughtfully included, with kid-friendly menus and crayons (!), ensuring everyone finds joy at the table.
Morning at The Pearle is a gentle celebration of comfort. We used the in-room iPad to schedule breakfast delivery, and in mere taps, had a spread that would convert even the most reluctant breakfasters: warm croissants, vibrant fresh fruit, smoothies (the spinach-avocado-lime-coconut and the three-berry were both dream yummy), plus a Labneh parfait bowl adorned with berries, granola, hazelnut butter, and dark chocolate. The quality and creativity of the breakfast menu rivaled the best our travels have offered.
There’s plenty to discover beyond the confines of the hotel. Complimentary bike rentals encourage spontaneous adventures into Burlington’s clean and inviting streets, where boutique shopping and lakefront parks abound. The waterfront itself offers simple pleasures—a dip at the beach, a stroll through green spaces, or a stop at a unique local cigar shop. And, for a playful evening out, the legendary Yuk Yuk’s a minute’s walk away.
A full package like ours—accommodations, two pedicures, dinner, breakfast, two cocktails, valet, and gratuities—amounts to just over $1,100 for a couple. For the memories made and the luxury afforded at every turn, it’s an investment I’d make again in a heartbeat. The Pearle Hotel and Spa isn’t merely a place to stay; it’s a destination in the truest sense—a stage for romance, relaxation, and a kind of bespoke hospitality that leaves you feeling as though you’ve wandered into a movie moment. If you’re searching for the pinnacle of romantic getaways within reach of Toronto, this is where the fairy tale begins.
Check it out here: thepearlehotel.ca
