The best piece of advice I was given before I got married and gave birth to Little L was to make a concerted effort to carve out alone time for me and Hubster. I didn’t understand the words of wisdom at first, but as the days went by and life got a bit more hectic, I started to notice obstacles popping up and getting in the way of our one-on-one time. So, a few years ago, we started a Toronto staycation tradition which gives us a chance to kick up our feet, put down our phones and forget our endless to-do list that awaits at home. A mini romantic “getaway” if you will…

I’m often asked why I love staycations so much when I live in downtown Toronto. In a nutshell, it’s the only way I get to truly relax in the city I call home. I mean, no one makes up my room, brings me breakfast in bed, offers me lengthy massages or preps dinner for me on the regular — at best, Hubster and I do these things together. But it’s just not the same as getting pampered. And since we’re WAY too curious to take advantage of hotel services and amenities when we travel, staycations are when we slow things down, unwind and soak up all the luxurious offerings. Which is exactly what we did on our recent staycation at the Windsor Arms Hotel…

Our Staycation At The Windsor Arms Hotel

I love a hotel with character and the Windsor Arms has it in spades. The building dates back to 1927 and recently underwent a beaut design transformation. Think: old-world charm meets modern opulence…

It’s quite a romantic boutique hotel if you ask me, which is why Hubster and I celebrated our wedding anniversary there. Our corner suite (room 408) was tastefully appointed, spacious and felt luxurious and welcoming at the same time…

There are a total of 28 suites at the hotel and a staff to guest ratio of 5:1 — two reasons it makes for a romantic getaway in Toronto. The intimate ambiance and attentive staff are sure to leave you feeling pampered.

I loved every detail of our suite: gorgeous paintings and rugs, deep soaker tub, well-stocked mini bar and Nespresso machine, comfy bed, luxe toiletries… But what stood out the most was the homage to music: classical melody played in surround sound through the ceiling speakers and each room even features an instrument that guests can play!

The Living Room Restaurant At Windsor Arms

One of the perks of staycationing during the winter is not having to leave your hotel for meals — no freezing, no slush, no taxi rides, no DD… It’s a time to eat, drink and be merry without having to worry about any responsibilities. However, not all hotels are created equal in the dining realm: some have menus that disappoint while others have cold, uninviting restaurants. Not at the Windsor Arms Hotel! The Living Room is where luxury meets comfort. Think: oversized chesterfields, leather seating and original art from the UK lining the walls. Add to this: quality dishes, an award-winning wine selection and excellent service (our server Ben was both knowledgeable and warm). We were fortunate enough to get a sneak peek of the Valentine’s Day dinner menu which was a feast for both the eyes and stomach. Highlights? The Lobster Soup (which is on their regular menu and has a really nice kick thanks to the scotch bonnet), savoury doughnuts served with apple butter (highly addictive) and the perfectly-seared scallops on the Entree Trio To Share plate…

Windsor Arms Hotel Spa

I don’t know about you guys, but the only time I can truly unwind is at the spa. Relaxing music, no phones and treatments that force my brain to slow down. Five minutes in the salt water pool at the Windsor Arms Hotel and I was already in la la land. Hubster and I also checked out the Salt Cave and were treated to Vitamin C body wraps which left us feeling rejuvenated (my therapist Galina was amazing so I’d highly recommend her).

Windsor Arms Afternoon Tea

In my opinion, no visit to the Windsor Arms Hotel is complete without afternoon tea in one of their beautiful tea rooms. It’s the kind of experience that will whisk you back in time (in a good way) and give you a chance to indulge in the simple things: delicate sandwiches and pastries, aromatic teas and meaningful conversations. To dial up the romance, sit beside the original fireplace (circa 1927) in the purple room with your loved one and sip on a cup or two of the Earl Grey with Roses…

Ah, writing about this staycation makes me want to book another one! If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Toronto, I highly recommend the Windsor Arms Hotel. I’m of the mindset that luxury needs to feel comfortable and this is exactly the balance the hotel strikes with their service and newly-designed interiors. Add this historic, boutique hotel to your bucket list!