Looking for a unique Ontario stay? This Clarendon Station Airbnb lets you stay in a restored train station packed with charm, history, and cozy details.
I’ve stayed in a lot of unique places across Ontario, but nothing quite like this. Tucked away in the tiny village of Clarendon Station, I found an Airbnb that stopped me in my tracks, quite literally. This stay wasn’t just charming or cozy… it was a restored train station, beautifully transformed into a one-of-a-kind retreat.
When I pulled into the driveway, the building looked like something straight out of a vintage postcard : original wood siding and railway signs included. I knew right away this was going to be more than just another weekend getaway. It felt like stepping into a different time, without sacrificing the comfort and warmth of a modern stay.
In this post, I’m sharing everything about my stay at the Clarendon Station Airbnb : what it’s like inside, what makes it so special, and why it might just be one of the most unique Airbnbs in Ontario for history lovers, cozy weekenders, and anyone craving something a little different.
Read More // Looking for more unique stays in Ontario? Check out my recommendations here!
Why Stay at Clarendon Station?
From Kick & Push to Cozy Stay: The Story Behind Clarendon Station
Clarendon Station emerged in the late 1870s as a modest railway village with the arrival of the Kingston and Pembroke Railway (K&P). The K&P, often affectionately dubbed the “Kick and Push” railway, was incorporated in 1871 with the ambitious goal of connecting Kingston to Pembroke. By 1884, the railway had extended approximately 180 kilometers, reaching Renfrew. This expansion was instrumental in unlocking the region’s mineral wealth and providing a more efficient route for the lumber trade.
The K&P Railway played a pivotal role in the development of small communities like Clarendon Station, offering vital transportation links that spurred economic growth. However, as timber and mineral resources dwindled in the late 19th century, the railway faced financial challenges. It was leased to the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1912, and by 1913, the K&P was fully integrated into the CPR network. The gradual decline of railway operations led to the abandonment of many sections, with the final segment from Kingston to Tichborne closing in 1986.
Today, remnants of the K&P Railway have been repurposed into the K&P Rail Trail, a recreational path that preserves the historical significance of the railway while offering scenic routes for hiking and cycling enthusiasts
Inside the Old Train Station Airbnb: What to Expect
Stepping into this restored train station feels like walking into a piece of Ontario history, except this time, you get to stay the night. The hosts have done an incredible job blending heritage charm with modern-day comfort, making the space feel both homey and completely one of a kind.
Inside, the space is thoughtfully designed to preserve historical elements while providing contemporary amenities. The living area features high ceilings and large windows that bathe the room in natural light, highlighting the rich wood floors and antique décor. Vintage railway artifacts and period-appropriate furnishings create an ambiance that transports guests back in time.
The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances, offering the convenience to prepare meals during your stay. Adjacent to the kitchen, a cozy sitting area invites relaxation, perhaps with a book or a glass of wine, as you soak in the unique atmosphere.
The Airbnb includes three bedrooms: two with queen beds, and one with two single beds that’s perfect for kids. There’s also two full bathrooms — one with a shower, the other with a classic bathtub — which makes the space ideal for families, friend groups, or anyone who just appreciates having a little extra room.
One of the most unique features is the train-themed recreation room — a fun, quirky space that works just as well as a kids’ playroom as it does a cozy hangout for adults. There’s also a wood stove for those cooler evenings and thoughtful design touches throughout that nod to the building’s past life as a functioning train station.
From the original wood floors to the little railway signs and antique touches, this place doesn’t just have personality — it has stories. It’s the kind of stay where you’ll want to put your phone down, light a candle, and imagine what this station must’ve seen over the last hundred years.
THE DETAILS
Price | Starting at 250$ a night (2 nights minimum) for 4 people. Additional $50 per night for each extra person (up to 6 people total)
Reservation | Book your stay at Clarendon Station here.
Things to Do Nearby
Go Full Train-Themed
Want to keep the railway vibes going? Head to Sharbot Lake, about 20 minutes away, and check out the Railway Heritage Park. There’s an old restored caboose (open on weekends in summer), a train-themed playground, and a short Railway Heritage Walkway that follows the historic K&P railbed with interpretive signs along the way.
While you’re there, stop by the Kick & Push Brewing Company, a cozy local brewery with a great story behind its name (yes, it’s a nod to the old K&P Railway, aka the “Kick and Push”). Their seasonal brews and laid-back patio make it a great afternoon stop.
Walk the K&P Trail
Right outside your door, you can hop on the K&P Trail itself — a long-distance multi-use trail that follows the former Kingston & Pembroke railway line. It’s perfect for walking, cycling, or just stretching your legs in nature while literally walking along the old railway route. It’s peaceful, scenic, and super accessible from several points near Clarendon Station and Sharbot Lake.
Picnic + Paddle at Sharbot Lake Provincial Park
If you’re craving water views and a bit of wilderness, Sharbot Lake Provincial Park is a gem. There are two sandy beaches, calm spots for canoeing, and short forest trails that give you a taste of the region’s natural beauty.
Stop for Coffee at Cardinal Café
If you’re passing through Sharbot Lake, Cardinal Café is a must. They serve up great coffee, fresh baked goods, and have that cozy small-town charm that makes you want to linger a little longer — whether you’re refueling after a hike or just enjoying a slow morning.
Explore Perth
If you’re up for a slightly longer drive (about 40 minutes), Perth is worth the detour. It’s charming, walkable, and full of heritage buildings, independent shops, and great restaurants. It makes a perfect half-day trip if you want to mix in a little culture or shopping during your stay.
Read More // Don’t forget to check out my Top Things to do in Perth before your visit.
Final Thoughts : Staying at Clarendon Station
Staying at the old train station in Clarendon Station was more than just a weekend away, it was an experience that felt grounded in history, wrapped in quiet, and completely unique.
From the moment I arrived, I could tell this wasn’t your average Airbnb. There’s something special about sleeping in a place that once connected people across the province — a place built for movement, now reimagined for rest. The thoughtful details, the cozy atmosphere, and the stillness of the surroundings made it easy to slow down and fully soak it all in.
If you love places with a story, spaces that feel different in the best way, or you’re simply craving a peaceful reset with character, I can’t recommend this stay enough. It reminded me that you don’t always have to go far to feel far away, sometimes, all it takes is a quiet road, a bit of history, and a good place to land.
* P.S. I was invited by Clarendon Station for this stay but all opinions (and obsessions) are 100% mine!
READ ABOUT MORE OF MY FAVORITE ONTARIO STAYS HERE!
PIN THIS FOR LATER
Follow me on Instagram!
Did you know you could stay in a treehouse right here in Ontario?
Nestled near Minden, Ontario, The Baltic by @fort_treehouse_co offers just that—a fairytale retreat for two, perched amidst the whispering pines of the Haliburton Highlands.
As a kid, I dreamed of having my own treehouse. One with a ladder to climb, secret corners to hide in, and branches swaying around me like a storybook scene.
But growing up in the city, that dream always felt a little out of reach—more imaginary than real.
Now, as an adult, I finally found it. My dream treehouse.
Not in some faraway forest, but right here in the heart of Ontario.
The Baltic is everything little me imagined and then some: a cozy loft bed with forest views, a fireplace that fills the space with warmth and flickering light, and the most peaceful cedar hot tub tucked away in the woods. It’s off-grid, quiet, and somehow still full of magic.
If you’ve been dreaming of a treehouse stay in Ontario, this one’s for you. ✨
Save this post for your next romantic getaway or solo escape into the woods.
*Invited Stay*
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires.
#FortTreehouseCo #TreehouseStayOntario #TheBalticTreehouse #OntarioGetaways #UniqueStaysCanada #HaliburtonHighlands #OffGridRetreat #CozyCabinsOntario #RomanticGetawayOntario #TreehouseVibes #OntarioCabinStay #NatureEscape #BucketListStays #exploreontario
Plot twist: went on a ski trip… and kind of learned to ski?? 🫣
Spent the weekend at @calabogiepeaks and it was the perfect girls’ winter getaway—even for someone who’s more après-ski than ski itself…
✨ bunny hill ski lessons with the most patient instructor (shoutout Bruce)
✨ snowshoeing down the Ole K&P trail
✨ spicy Caesars and snowy views
We stayed right at the Calabogie Peaks Resort Hotel—literally steps from the slopes and trails. Whether you’re skiing, snowshoeing, or just in it for the vibes, it’s the perfect base for an Ontario ski trip.
The moral of this story? You don’t have to be a pro skier to plan a weekend getaway at Calabogie Peaks Resort!
Save this for your next adventure in the Ottawa Valley 🏔️
‼️ Calabogie Peaks just closed for the season but the resort is still open! Stay tuned for summer hiking!!
*invited stay*
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#CalabogiePeaks #OntarioWinterGetaway #SkiOntario #GirlsWeekendTrip #CalabogieResort #WinterInOntario #WeekendGetaway #SnowshoeOntario #SkiTripVibes #ApresSkiClub #BunnyHillAdventures
There are places you dream about for so long, you start to wonder if they’ll ever live up to the picture you’ve painted in your mind. For me, the Amalfi Coast was one of those places.
The winding roads, lemon-scented air, and colorful cliffside villages—I’d imagined it all a hundred times. But visiting solo in March, without a car, came with a few surprises. Ferries weren’t running, buses were few and far between, and I realized seeing everything I wanted might be trickier than I thought.
So I did something I rarely do when I travel solo: I joined a guided day tour with @getyourguide . And honestly? It was the best decision. I got to explore Positano, Amalfi, Ravello—and take in the coast from all angles, without the stress of figuring it out on my own.
Swipe through for a glimpse of one of Italy’s dreamiest regions—yes, even in the off-season, the Amalfi Coast is pure magic.
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#AmalfiCoast #ItalyTravel #SoloTravel #WomenWhoTravel #Positano #Amalfi #Ravello #SpringInItaly #CoastalViews #TravelItaly #GetYourGuidePartner
Welcome to the third edition of my “Why cross the border when Ontario has this?” series—this time, we’re exploring Thousand Islands, Ontario.
Located along the St. Lawrence River, this region has been a go-to tourist destination since the 1800s. But you don’t need to leave Canada to enjoy its beauty—the Canadian side is just as magical.
Here’s the perfect Thousand Islands itinerary on the Ontario side:
🛶 Paddle through quiet island channels by kayak
🍳 Grab brunch at Lavern’s Eatery in Gananoque
🚁 Take a scenic helicopter ride for incredible views
🚢 Hop on a Thousand Islands cruise past castles and cottages
🥾 Hike to the lookout at Landon Bay for epic river views
🗼 Go up the Thousand Islands Tower for a 360° panorama
🍻 End the day with a local beer or cider tasting at Arbru Brewery or BUSL Cider
⛺ Stay overnight in a Parks Canada O’TENTik tent (some are on private islands!)
If you’re looking for things to do in Thousand Islands, this getaway has it all—nature, views, cozy stays, and local food + drinks.
➡️ What Ontario destination should I do next? Drop your suggestions below! ⬇️
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires.
#ThousandIslandsOntario #OntarioTravel #GananoqueOntario #CanadaRoadTrip #ExploreOntario #ThingsToDoInOntario #WeekendGetaway #SoloTravelCanada #OntarioAdventure #ThousandIslandsCruise #LandonBay #ParksCanada #OntarioHikes #WhyCrossTheBorder
You know that feeling when you say “I need this” and it’s not some big luxury resort or five-step itinerary… it’s just a quiet dome in the woods, a good book, and absolutely no one asking you to circle back on that email. Yeah. That.
The Birchwood Luxury Glamping is that escape. If you’re looking for glamping near Toronto, this luxury dome stay is less than an hour away—tucked into a private forest on Scugog Island. This dreamy geodome comes with everything you need to truly unwind:
🛁 Private hot tub under the stars
🔥 Indoor fireplace
🪕 Record player
🚿 Outdoor shower (seasonal)
🍳 Fully equipped kitchenette
📺 TV + WiFi if you want it
🌿 Peace + cozy vibes guaranteed
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or solo escape, this dome getaway in Ontario is the definition of slow, mindful travel—without going far.
📍Scugog Island, ON
🚗 1 hour from Toronto
Dreaming of your next escape? Hit save—this one deserves a spot on your bucket list.
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires.
#BirchwoodLuxuryGlamping #GlampingNearToronto #OntarioGlamping #UniqueStaysOntario #OntarioDomeStay #GlampingCanada #SoloGetaway #RomanticGetawayOntario #DomeLife #WeekendReset #StayHereNext
