Discover the charm of Stillwater Den by Closs Crossing in Ontario: from its cozy, Nordic-inspired cabin and private spa experience to nearby small towns and hidden gems. My first-hand review helps you decide if this is the perfect Lanark County getaway.
Sometimes, the best getaways are the ones where you don’t need an itinerary. No rushing from one activity to the next, no reservations to keep track of, and absolutely no pressure to do anything other than relax.
And I think I’ve found the perfect place for exactly that.
Tucked away in the forests of Lanark County, Stillwater Den by Closs Crossing is a beautiful two-bedroom retreat with something that immediately caught my attention: its very own private Nordic spa. I’m talking about a sauna, hot tub, cold plunge, and peaceful forest surroundings, all yours to enjoy without having to share the space with anyone else.
Located just outside the village of Lanark, not far from Perth and Carleton Place, this is the kind of Ontario getaway where the accommodation isn’t just somewhere to sleep. It’s the whole reason to visit. And with some of Eastern Ontario’s cutest small towns nearby, you can easily turn a relaxing cabin stay into a weekend of exploring.
Don’t forget to check out all of my Ontario blog posts to make the most of your adventures!
First Impressions of Stillwater Den
Stillwater Den is tucked into a peaceful forest setting, away from the busyness of everyday life. The property feels private and secluded, with the surrounding trees creating a natural backdrop for the entire experience.
But what really makes this place stand out is the attention to detail. The cabin has a modern, Nordic-inspired aesthetic, with warm natural textures, large windows, and cozy spaces that feel inviting without being overdone. Everything has been thoughtfully designed to complement the surrounding landscape.
And the best part? You don’t have to leave the property to enjoy any of it.
The Space
Stillwater Den is one of the newest additions to Closs Crossing Boutique Stays, a collection of unique accommodations created by hosts Alison and James in Lanark County. Unlike some of the tiny cabins you’ll find across Ontario, Stillwater Den offers enough space for up to four guests, with two bedrooms, a bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable indoor and outdoor living areas. It’s a great setup for a romantic weekend away, but also for two couples or a small group of friends looking to enjoy a private spa experience together.
Inside the Cabin
One of my favourite things about thoughtfully designed cabins is when the interior feels just as connected to nature as the outdoor spaces.
That’s exactly the atmosphere Stillwater Den is going for. Large windows bring the surrounding forest into the living space, while warm wood tones and natural textures give the cabin a cozy, welcoming feel.
The living area features a fireplace, making it an especially inviting place to relax after a few hours outside. Whether you’re visiting during the colourful fall season or on a snowy winter weekend, it’s easy to imagine settling in here with a book and a warm drink.
The kitchen is fully equipped, so you can prepare your own meals without having to venture out. And while I always love discovering new restaurants when travelling, there’s something particularly nice about a cabin getaway where you can make breakfast at your own pace and enjoy dinner without leaving your cozy little retreat.
The Bedrooms
Stillwater Den has two bedrooms, each featuring a king-size bed. This is one of the details that makes the property particularly appealing for a getaway with friends. Rather than having one beautiful primary bedroom and a smaller secondary sleeping space, both bedrooms offer comfortable accommodations.
The decor continues the cabin’s nature-inspired aesthetic, with soft bedding, warm tones, and views of the surrounding forest.
It’s simple, comfortable, and exactly what you want after an afternoon spent enjoying the spa.
THE DETAILS
Price | Starting at 600$ night (2 nights minimum)
Reservation | Book your stay here.
The Highlight: Your Very Own Private Nordic Spa
Let’s talk about the real reason you’ll want to book this place. Stillwater Den has its own private Nordic-inspired spa, right in the middle of the forest. And unlike visiting a traditional Nordic spa, where you share the facilities with other guests, here you have the entire experience to yourself. There’s no schedule to follow, no need to reserve a time slot, and no rush to leave after a couple of hours.
You can spend the entire afternoon moving between the different spa experiences, take a break for lunch, and head back outside whenever you feel like it.
Sauna, Hot Tub, and Cold Plunge
The spa features a sauna, a hot tub, and a seasonal cold plunge, giving guests the opportunity to enjoy a Nordic-inspired thermal circuit.
Start by warming up in the sauna before cooling down in the cold plunge, then take a moment to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Of course, you can also skip the cold plunge altogether and spend your time soaking in the hot tub. No judgment here! The hot tub and sauna are available year-round, making this an especially appealing getaway during Ontario’s colder months.
And there’s something pretty magical about the idea of sitting in a steaming hot tub surrounded by snow-covered trees.
A Forest Designed for Slowing Down
What makes Stillwater Den feel different from a typical cabin with a hot tub is that the relaxation experience extends beyond the spa itself. The property also features a meditation forest and walking trails, encouraging guests to spend time outdoors and reconnect with nature.
There’s an outdoor lounge area with a fire table, perfect for winding down after a spa session or enjoying a quiet evening beneath the stars.
You’ll also find a screened-in sunroom, another lovely spot to enjoy the outdoors while staying comfortable.
Everything feels designed around the same idea: slowing down and making the most of the space you’re in.
Things to Do Near Stillwater Den
As tempting as it might be to spend your entire stay enjoying the spa, Stillwater Den is also a great home base for exploring Lanark County. This part of Eastern Ontario is filled with charming small towns, independent cafés, local shops, and beautiful outdoor spaces. If you can pull yourself away from the hot tub for a few hours, here are two places I’d recommend adding to your itinerary.
Explore Perth, Ontario
Perth is one of my favourite small towns in Eastern Ontario, and it’s an easy addition to a getaway in Lanark County. With its historic stone buildings, independent boutiques, and beautiful waterfront, it’s the kind of place that’s perfect for a slow morning of wandering. Grab a coffee, explore the shops along the main streets, and make your way to Stewart Park for a stroll along the Tay River. It’s particularly beautiful during the fall, but Perth is worth visiting at any time of year.
Read more // Check out my full guide on what to do in Perth!
Spend an Afternoon in Carleton Place
Another town worth exploring is Carleton Place. Located along the Mississippi River, Carleton Place has a lovely historic downtown filled with local businesses, cafés, and restaurants. It’s a great option if you’re looking to spend a few hours exploring before heading back to the cabin for another round of sauna and hot tub time. And if you’re anything like me, discovering a cute café is always a good excuse to make a little detour.
Final Thoughts : Your stay at Stillwater Den
If you’re looking for an Ontario getaway where you can genuinely disconnect, I think Stillwater Den deserves a spot on your list. What makes this property special isn’t just the beautiful cabin or the private hot tub. It’s how everything comes together to create a complete experience.
The forest setting, Nordic-inspired spa, cozy interiors, and thoughtful outdoor spaces make it a place where you can comfortably spend an entire weekend without feeling like you’re missing out on anything. And because it accommodates four guests, it’s also a lovely option for a weekend away with friends, especially if you love the idea of enjoying a spa experience together without the crowds.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a birthday weekend, or simply need a couple of days to recharge, Stillwater Den is one of those unique Ontario stays that’s worth keeping on your radar.
Ready to plan your own getaway? You can check availability and book Stillwater Den here.
* P.S. I was invited by Stillwater Den for this stay but all opinions (and obsessions) are 100% mine!
READ ABOUT MORE OF MY FAVORITE ONTARIO STAYS HERE!
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Can we stop pretending Ontario adventures end when the fall colours disappear? 😂🍂
Because I have a confession: I actually LOVE exploring Ontario’s small towns and cities in November.
And what better place to take you for another episode of the Ontario Getaway Guide than my hometown of Kingston? 🤍
I’ve lived here for years, and I still find myself discovering new places, revisiting old favourites and finding excuses to spend an entire afternoon wandering downtown.
And honestly? November is kind of perfect for that.
The summer crowds are gone, you can actually take your time exploring, and there’s something about a chilly afternoon that makes a good coffee shop, a little thrifting and a really good cookie even more appealing. 😂☕️
Plus, one thing I think people underestimate about Kingston is how much nature we have right on our doorstep. You don’t need peak fall colours to enjoy a beautiful walk by the lake!
So consider this your reminder that you don’t have to wait for the Christmas markets or the first snowfall to plan your next little Ontario adventure.
And I’ve got plenty more Ontario getaways to share with you, so stick around!
Save this for your next Kingston day trip, and tell me: which Ontario town or city should I explore next? 👀
🇫🇷 La version française est dans les commentaires.
#KingstonOntario #OntarioDayTrips #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario #OntarioGetaways
Can we talk about how November might be the most underrated month for exploring Ontario?
I feel like every year, the second the fall colours disappear, we collectively decide that there’s nothing to do until Christmas.
And I get it. The days are shorter, the weather is unpredictable, and staying home in your comfiest clothes suddenly sounds VERY appealing.
But here’s the thing… I refuse to believe we have to write off an entire month just because the trees are bare. 😂
I’ve actually had some of my favourite little Ontario getaways during the quieter months. There’s something nice about visiting places when they’re not packed with tourists, taking your time and not feeling like you need to squeeze every possible activity into a single day.
So this November, I’m making it my little mission to prove that Ontario is still a pretty great place to explore, even when the weather isn’t exactly cooperating.
And I’m starting with 9 ideas that might just convince you to leave the house this month. 👀
👉 Swipe through, save a few for later, and tell me: are you team “November is boring” or team “there’s always something to do”?
🇫🇷 La version française est dans les commentaires.
#OntarioTravel #OntarioGetaways #ExploreOntario #OntarioRoadTrips #NovemberInOntario
Can we all agree that November is basically made for spa days? 🧖♀️
The fall colours are mostly gone, it’s getting cold, and suddenly spending an entire afternoon in a robe sounds a LOT more appealing than going for another hike.
And honestly, I think November gets a bad reputation. Just because we’re between fall road trips and Christmas markets doesn’t mean we have to spend the whole month waiting for December!
So if you’ve been looking for an excuse to book yourself a little relaxation, here are 5 Ontario spas I’d happily visit this November. 👀
🧖♀️ Ste. Anne’s Spa – Grafton
❄️ Spa at Q – Niagara-on-the-Lake
🌿 Maplestone Ranch & Retreat – Carleton Place
💦 Vetta Nordic Spa – Oro-Medonte
🛁 Bathhouse Spa at the Belvedère Hotel – Kingston
Some are perfect for a full spa day, others are great excuses to turn it into a little weekend getaway. And yes, I’m counting sitting in a hot pool doing absolutely nothing as a very productive way to spend a November afternoon. 😂
Save this for the next time you need a spa day + send it to the person you’d bring along! 🤍
Now tell me: what’s your favourite spa in Ontario? I’m always looking for new ones to try!
🇫🇷 La version française est dans les commentaires.
#OntarioSpas #OntarioGetaways #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario #SpaDay
Give me an apple orchard, a pumpkin patch, and somewhere to stop for good food, and I’m very happy to make a whole weekend of it. Add pick-your-own flowers and a campfire? Now I’m really glad I stayed overnight. 🍎🎃
Ad | I teamed up with @explorewaterlooregion to explore the Fields & Flavours Trail, a self-guided trail connecting local farms, markets, and food stops across Waterloo Region. You choose what sounds fun and build your own route. Naturally, I wanted to try a little of everything.
Here are the stops to save for your own adventure:
🧺 Cambridge Farmers’ Market — @cambridgefarmersmarket
🍎 Downey’s Apple Farm — @downeysapplefarm
💐 Good Family Pumpkins — @goodpumpkins
🎃 Benjamin Tree Farm — @benjamintreefarm
🌽 Snyder’s Family Farm — @snydersfarm
What made the weekend special was meeting some of the local farmers and people behind these stops. The trail gave me a reason to turn down roads and visit places I might otherwise have missed.
And if you’re still searching for your perfect pumpkin, @benjamintreefarm has so many shapes, colours, and sizes to choose from, along with tractor rides and farm animals. Over at @snydersfarm, there’s enough going on to make an afternoon of it—hayrides, play areas, music, and plenty to eat. You can also add a campfire experience with your own fire pit and s’mores kit. That’s my kind of break between activities.
And after a day in the countryside, I was very happy to let @abe_erb handle dinner, settle into my room at @deltawaterloo, and have breakfast downstairs at @proofkitchenlounge before heading out again.
💛 Save this for your next fall road trip + send it to the person you’d bring along.
P.S. There’s still time to enter my Waterloo Region getaway giveaway! Head to the giveaway Reel on my profile before October 19 at 6 p.m. Eastern. The prize must be used by October 31, 2026.
#ExploreWR #StayCurious #FieldsFlavours #OntarioRoadTrip #OntarioGetaways
Some weekends I want the beautiful hotel room and dinner downstairs. Other weekends, I’m very happy bringing my own bedding if it means waking up in a little cabin by the river. Anyone else? 😂🤍
For the final stop on our @orillialakecountry Road Trip, we’re visiting Rama, home to the Chippewas of Rama First Nation @ramafirstnation. And I have two very different stays to share with you.
@casinoramaresort is the one for when you want to check in and have everything close by. I loved the room, but that pool definitely deserves some attention too. You could easily spend a good part of your stay relaxing before getting ready for dinner and a night out, all without leaving the resort.
I had a delicious meal at @matchpublichouse, and between the casino and the shows, there’s plenty to make an evening of it. Make time for the boutiques, too, including @thegatheringplacerama, and keep an eye out for souvenirs made by Indigenous artists.
But if you’re craving some time outside, wait until you see the view from my cabin at @blackriverwildernesspark. 🌿
The cabins are rustic, and you’ll need to bring your own essentials, including bedding and pillows. For me, being able to have my morning coffee overlooking the river was a big part of the appeal. I could happily spend a long time right there.
There’s also a detail I loved: easels set up along the trails overlooking the river. Bring your paints and a canvas, find a spot you like and spend the afternoon painting. How cute is that? You can also choose a campsite or yurt if that’s more your style.
📍 Day 4 of 4: Rama First Nation
And that’s our Orillia & Lake Country Road Trip! All four regional Reels are now up, so you can put together your own getaway using your favourite stops.
Which stay would you choose: the resort or the river cabin? 👀
#OrilliaLakeCountry #RamaFirstNation #CasinoRama #OntarioGetaway #ontarioroadtrip
