7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Burlington

Burlington, is a vibrant city with a rich cultural tapestry and a gateway to numerous weekend getaways that cater to the adventurous spirit of digital nomads. Whether you're looking for a quick escape into nature, a deep dive into cultural experiences, or an off-the-beaten-path adventure, there's something for everyone within a short distance from Burlington. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that offer a mix of popular and unique destinations to recharge your batteries and inspire your work.

Niagara Falls

Just an hour's drive from Burlington, Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic and popular destinations in the world. The thundering falls offer an awe-inspiring natural spectacle that's a must-see. Beyond the falls, you can explore the Niagara Parks, take a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist, or enjoy the many attractions on Clifton Hill. The region is also famous for its wineries, so a wine tour is highly recommended.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Niagara Falls from Burlington is by car, which takes about an hour via the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW).

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Journey Behind the Falls experience, where you can stand in the heart of the falls and feel the thunderous vibrations.

Where to Stay: The Marriott on the Falls offers stunning views of the falls, and the Embassy Suites by Hilton Niagara Falls Fallsview has rooms with exceptional vistas.

Where to Eat: For a memorable dining experience, visit the Skylon Tower Revolving Dining Room, which offers panoramic views of the falls and a fine dining menu.

Prince Edward County

A hidden gem for wine lovers and beachgoers, Prince Edward County is a quaint rural getaway with a burgeoning food and drink scene. Explore the numerous wineries, the arts trail, and the beautiful Sandbanks Provincial Park. The area's serene beaches and charming small towns make it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

How to Get There: Prince Edward County is best reached by car from Burlington, with a drive of approximately 2.5 hours via Highway 401 and County Road 49.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Sandbanks Provincial Park for its picturesque dunes and beaches.

Where to Stay: The Drake Devonshire offers a boutique hotel experience with a stunning lakeside location.

Where to Eat: The County Canteen in Picton offers a great selection of local beers and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients.

Elora Gorge

For those seeking an outdoor adventure, the Elora Gorge is a breathtaking natural area with towering cliffs, rushing waters, and scenic trails. It's a perfect spot for hiking, tubing, and camping. The nearby town of Elora is also a charming place to explore, with its artisan shops and historic architecture.

How to Get There: Elora Gorge is an easy drive from Burlington, taking about an hour via ON-7 W and Wellington County Road 18.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to go tubing down the gorge for an exhilarating experience.

Where to Stay: The Elora Mill Hotel & Spa offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the gorge.

Where to Eat: The Elora Brewing Company provides a great atmosphere, craft beers, and a menu with locally sourced ingredients.

Stratford

Stratford is renowned for its annual Stratford Festival, celebrating theater arts with performances of Shakespeare and other classics. The charming town is also known for its culinary scene, boutique shopping, and picturesque river walks. It's a cultural haven for those looking to indulge in the arts.

How to Get There: Stratford is about a 1.5-hour drive from Burlington, accessible via ON-8 W.

Travel Tip: Plan your visit during the Stratford Festival season to catch world-class theater productions.

Where to Stay: The Bruce Hotel offers luxury accommodations and is conveniently located for festival-goers.

Where to Eat: Bijou, a local favorite, serves a seasonal menu with a focus on fresh, local produce and fine dining.

Pelee Island

Pelee Island, the southernmost inhabited point of Canada, is an off-the-beaten-path destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Accessible by ferry, the island offers a tranquil retreat with wineries, nature reserves, and beautiful beaches. It's a perfect spot for bird watching, especially during migration seasons.

How to Get There: To reach Pelee Island, take a 3.5-hour drive to Leamington or Kingsville, then board a ferry to the island.

Travel Tip: Visit the Pelee Island Winery for a tasting and tour of the vineyards.

Where to Stay: The Wandering Dog Inn provides cozy accommodations and a chance to unwind in a peaceful setting.

Where to Eat: The Stone House 1891 offers a casual dining experience with a menu that highlights local ingredients.

Algonquin Provincial Park

For a true wilderness adventure, Algonquin Provincial Park is a vast expanse of forests, lakes, and rivers. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering canoeing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park's interpretive trails and visitor center provide insights into the natural and cultural history of the area.

How to Get There: Algonquin Provincial Park is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Burlington, taking Highway 400 N and Highway 11 N.

Travel Tip: Rent a canoe and paddle through the park's many waterways to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty.

Where to Stay: Killarney Lodge offers private lakeside cabins within the park, providing a rustic yet comfortable experience.

Where to Eat: The Portage Store on Canoe Lake has a restaurant with a deck overlooking the water, perfect for a meal after a day of exploring.

The Bruce Peninsula

The Bruce Peninsula is a stunning, less-traveled destination with crystal-clear waters, rugged cliffs, and ancient cedar forests. The Bruce Peninsula National Park and the Fathom Five National Marine Park are highlights, offering opportunities for hiking, diving, and exploring the unique geological formations like the Grotto.

How to Get There: The Bruce Peninsula is about a 3-hour drive from Burlington, heading north on ON-6.

Travel Tip: Take a glass-bottom boat tour to view shipwrecks in the Fathom Five National Marine Park.

Where to Stay: The Lion's Head Beach Motel & Cottages offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the parks.

Where to Eat: The Tobermory Brewing Company and Grill offers a great selection of craft beers and a menu featuring local flavors.

Each of these destinations offers a unique experience for digital nomads looking to balance work and leisure. Whether you're in the mood for a cultural excursion, a nature retreat, or an off-the-grid adventure, these weekend getaways from Burlington, Canada, are sure to rejuvenate and inspire.