I managed to slip away for a summer getaway from Toronto for a few days. I love swimming and I haven’t really been able to do that in the city with pandemic restrictions on Toronto public swimming pools, as well as battling crowds at local beaches such as Woodbine and Cherry Beaches.
Jackson’s Point is at most an hour north of Toronto, but it provides a relaxing summer vacation nonetheless. We stayed at Ramada Jackson’s Point on Lake Simcoe (this is our fourth time staying here) and we were pleased to find that despite COVID-19 restrictions, we enjoyed ourselves as before.
The waterfront at Ramada Jackson’s Point makes a lovely summer getaway from Toronto.
Many visitors to Jackson’s Point swim at either Sibbald Point Provincial Park or some of the municipally-run beaches such as Franklin Beach, De La Salle Beach and Willow Beach. The Town of Georgina website advised that the only beach open during our stay would be Franklin Beach. They also indicated that the number of people allowed on Franklin Beach (and the number of parking spaces!) would be restricted. You are also not allowed to bring beach chairs or umbrellas on the beach. As a result, we didn’t even bother going to Franklin Beach. The waterfront at the Ramada Jackson’s Point underwent great improvements in 2019 (which in light of the conditions this summer turned out to be a brilliant move), including the installation of a massive dock with two ladders to enter the shallow water for swimming. There is also a gorgeous new lighthouse that was completed in late 2019. It provides the perfect backdrop for Instagram selfies.
Our hotel room was spotlessly clean upon arrival, but, pursuant to Canadian hotel industry guidelines, was not cleaned during our stay (in order to reduce potential contamination for cleaning staff). We were advised, however, that if we needed fresh towels, we simply had to call the front desk and they would be delivered to our door. You can see photos of our room (a Lakeside Double Queen) in a previous blog post I wrote about Ramada Jackson’s Point.
The Lakeview restaurant at Ramada Jackson’s Point features a patio with a stunning view of Lake Simcoe. Not wanting to miss this lovely way to greet the day, we enjoyed a hot breakfast on the hibiscus-bordered patio each morning. Usually, the Ramada offers a breakfast buffet included with your room rate, but this year, due to the pandemic, we had to order breakfast from the menu. We both ordered the Classic Breakfast, $10, that comes with two eggs, bacon, sausage, toast and home fries. Our meals were perfectly cooked! Also, because we sat outside, we were not required to wear face masks.
Due to Health Unit restrictions, the Ramada Jackson’s Point was not able to open their indoor pool, hot tub, sauna or fitness room. Nevertheless, we enjoyed lounging and swimming at the Ramada waterfront. Guests were in compliance with social distancing guidelines by placing their lounge chairs several metres away from other guests. Lake Simcoe has a sandy bottom and you can walk out a fair distance without the water getting higher than your waist. And in the evening, there is nothing more pleasant than sitting on the dock and watching the sailboats return to Jackson’s Point Marina.
It was great to escape Toronto for several days and despite a few minor inconveniences, we enjoyed our stay at Ramada Jackson’s Point – a lovely summer getaway from Toronto!
Looks like a really lovely place to be and de-stress. Definitely something we need right now. This pandemic makes me anxious. A few days in a place like that would really give me some much needed rest and relaxation.
I felt the same way. It was so relaxing to get out of the city and to be by the water. In fact, I’m thinking of going back in a few weeks lol. Cheers, Lori
Toronto has a different feel compared to other cities in the world. I can totally relate to Lori! Feeling lucky to have visited few times and enjoyed the summer water bath
That’s great that you have visited Toronto a few times. Yes, there are many lakes close to Toronto. Cheers, Lori
Seriously sounds delightful right now! We thought about doing a lake house rental but decided to just stay home vs. packing up 2 kids worth of crap LOL
I hear ya! It’s a lot to pack for just four days away from home! Cheers, Lori
No vacation for us this year. Work work work but we do enjoy many things that are around. I can’t wait for our next family trip though.
We were lucky to have a short vacation. I know many people aren’t going on vacation this year. Well, you have your next trip to look forward to! Cheers, Lori
This post is just so lovely to read! I am quite jealous since covid-19 quarantine in the Philippines is pretty tough. We do not get that much freedom. Lol! Stay Safe!
Sorry to hear that the restrictions are very tight in the Philippines. Stay safe too! Cheers, Lori
I have a friend who lives in TO and would probably like a getaway at this point as well. I’ll certainly tell her about Jackson’s Point for her to consider!
Yes, I’m sure your friend would enjoy it. It’s only an hour from Toronto! Cheers, Lori
This sounds like a lovely getaway! I love swimming too and have run away to the south coast of England a couple of times for a dip in the sea, it’s the best!
Oh, swimming in the sea in southern England sounds wonderful! Cheers, Lori
sounds like an ideal time! so good, that is awesome!
Yes, it was a lovely time. I really enjoyed it! Cheers, Lori
OMG! Wow! That look so relaxing and amazing. I love your photos too! Im glad you were able to take time to get out and enjoy the world despite of what’s going on.
Thank you; it was super relaxing! Yes, it was nice to enjoy a summer getaway despite the pandemic! Cheers, Lori
This looks like an amazing getaway, so glad that you had a great time relaxing in the fresh air x
Thanks! It was just what I needed! Cheers, Lori
It looks like a great break from the city in nature and close to the water. For me, the place seems perfect.
Yes, it was a lovely break from city life. Any place that is close to water is perfect for me 🙂 Cheers, Lori
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