Below are the top resorts in Canada for 2025, drawn from U.S. News’ rankings and supplemented by insights from Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and other sources. Each resort is evaluated for its suitability for specific traveler types, with key features and approximate pricing (based on typical rates for 2025, subject to season and availability).
1. Best Resorts for Luxury Seekers
Luxury travelers prioritize five-star amenities, personalized service, and exclusive experiences. These resorts stand out for their opulence and high guest satisfaction.
- Four Seasons Resort Whistler (Whistler, British Columbia)
Ranking: #1 on U.S. News’ 2025 Best Resorts in Canada.
Why Stay Here: Nestled at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, this five-star resort offers 273 guest rooms, suites, and private residences, blending alpine elegance with modern luxury. Amenities include a spa, heated outdoor pool, three whirlpools, and dining options like Sidecut Steakhouse and The Library by The Macallan. Its ski-in/ski-out access makes it a winter haven, while summer offers hiking and biking. Guest reviews praise the attentive staff and breathtaking mountain views, aligning with U.S. News’ focus on service and location. Price: <math xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML”><semantics><mrow></mrow><annotation encoding=”application/x-tex”> </annotation></semantics></math> (approx. CAD 600–1,200/night).
Best For: Ski enthusiasts and luxury travelers seeking a mountain escape. - Fogo Island Inn (Joe Batt’s Arm, Newfoundland and Labrador)
Ranking: #3 on U.S. News’ 2025 list, also featured in Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List 2025.
Why Stay Here: This 29-room architectural gem overlooks the North Atlantic, offering panoramic views and a commitment to sustainability. Each suite features locally crafted furniture and quilts, with activities like geological hikes and traditional “forest boil-ups.” Guests rave about the warm hospitality of local staff, who share cultural experiences like boat-building and storytelling. Its Relais & Châteaux status and high TripAdvisor scores make it a luxury standout. Price: <math xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML”><semantics><mrow></mrow><annotation encoding=”application/x-tex”> </annotation></semantics></math> (approx. CAD 2,100+/night).
Best For: Purpose-driven travelers seeking cultural immersion and oceanfront luxury. - Manoir Hovey (North Hatley, Quebec)
Ranking: #2 on U.S. News’ 2025 list, #1 in Travel + Leisure’s 2024 World’s Best Awards.
Why Stay Here: This 39-room Relais & Châteaux property in Quebec’s Eastern Townships offers lakefront charm and a world-class spa with an infinity pool, hot tub, and cold plunge. Guests enjoy gourmet dining and proximity to North Hatley’s cultural scene. Reviewers highlight the “decadent, world-class food” and “extraordinary attention to detail,” making it a top pick for luxury and romance. Price: $$ $ (approx. CAD 400–800/night).
Best For: Couples and foodies seeking a serene lakeside retreat.
Why Choose These?
These resorts combine five-star amenities, prime locations, and exceptional guest experiences, aligning with U.S. News’ criteria. Four Seasons Whistler excels for alpine luxury, Fogo Island Inn for cultural uniqueness, and Manoir Hovey for intimate elegance.
2. Best Resorts for Families
Family-friendly resorts offer spacious accommodations, kid-centric activities, and value. These properties cater to families with diverse amenities.
- Fairmont Chateau Whistler (Whistler, British Columbia)
Ranking: #5 on U.S. News’ 2025 list.
Why Stay Here: This iconic resort offers ski-in/ski-out access, a family-friendly pool, and activities like golf and mountain biking. Suites accommodate larger groups, and the kids’ club provides supervised fun. TripAdvisor reviews praise the friendly staff and proximity to Whistler Village, making it ideal for families seeking adventure and convenience. Price: $$$ (approx. CAD 300–700/night).
Best For: Active families wanting a mix of outdoor fun and resort comfort. - White Oaks Resort & Spa (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario)
Ranking: #4 on U.S. News’ 2025 list.
Why Stay Here: Located in Ontario’s wine country, this resort offers family-friendly suites, an indoor pool, and a kids’ play area. Parents can enjoy the spa and wine-tasting tours, while kids participate in activities like tennis or fitness classes. Its high guest satisfaction, as noted in U.S. News rankings, makes it a versatile choice. Price: $$ (approx. CAD 200–400/night).
Best For: Families seeking a balance of relaxation and cultural exploration.
Why Choose These?
These resorts provide spacious accommodations, kid-friendly amenities, and activities for all ages, aligning with U.S. News’ emphasis on family suitability and guest reviews.
3. Best Resorts for Couples
Couples seek romantic settings, intimate dining, and unique experiences. These resorts excel for romantic getaways.
- Couples Resort (Algonquin Park, Ontario)
Why Stay Here: This adults-only, all-inclusive resort near Algonquin Park offers private outdoor hot tubs, wood-burning fireplaces, and five-course gourmet dinners. Activities include hiking, canoeing, and chickadee feeding, blending romance with nature. Canada.com highlights its “grown-up summer camp” vibe, ideal for couples seeking intimacy and adventure. Price: $$$ (approx. CAD 400–700/night, all-inclusive).
Best For: Romantic wilderness retreats. - Sonora Resort (Sonora Island, British Columbia)
Why Stay Here: Accessible only by boat or helicopter, this Relais & Châteaux property in the Discovery Islands offers all-inclusive luxury with oceanfront suites, gourmet cuisine, and activities like salmon fishing and grizzly bear tours. Guests can spot orcas from private decks, and the resort’s mineral pools and spa add romance. Its wilderness focus and high-end amenities make it a strong contender for U.S. News’ rankings. Price: <math xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML”><semantics><mrow></mrow><annotation encoding=”application/x-tex”> </annotation></semantics></math> (approx. CAD 800–1,500/night, all-inclusive).
Best For: Couples seeking secluded luxury and wildlife experiences.
Why Choose These?
These resorts offer intimate settings, unique activities, and all-inclusive options, catering to couples’ desire for romance and exclusivity, as valued by U.S. News.
4. Best Resorts for Adventure Enthusiasts
Adventure travelers prioritize proximity to outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, or kayaking. These resorts deliver thrilling experiences.
- Clayoquot Wilderness Resort (Tofino, British Columbia)
Ranking: #17 on U.S. News’ 2025 list.
Why Stay Here: This tented safari-style retreat in Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve offers whale watching, kayaking, and bear viewing. Gourmet meals and spa treatments complement the rugged setting. Luxury Travel Magazine praises its eco-luxury and adventure focus, appealing to thrill-seekers. Price: <math xmlns=”http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML”><semantics><mrow></mrow><annotation encoding=”application/x-tex”> </annotation></semantics></math> (approx. CAD 1,000–2,000/night).
Best For: Eco-conscious adventurers seeking wilderness immersion. - Long Beach Lodge Resort (Tofino, British Columbia)
Ranking: #7 on U.S. News’ 2025 list.
Why Stay Here: Located on Vancouver Island’s rugged coast, this resort offers surfing, storm-watching, and beachfront accommodations. Its cozy cabins and fine dining attract adventure seekers who value comfort. Guest reviews highlight the stunning Pacific views and proximity to outdoor activities. Price: $$ $ (approx. CAD 300–600/night).
Best For: Coastal adventure and relaxation.
Why Choose These?
These resorts combine adventure-ready locations with high-end amenities, aligning with U.S. News’ focus on unique experiences and guest satisfaction.
5. Best Resorts for Budget Travelers
Budget travelers seek value without compromising quality. These resorts offer affordability and strong guest experiences.
- Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa (Victoria, British Columbia)
Ranking: #8 on U.S. News’ 2025 list.
Why Stay Here: This oceanfront resort offers modern rooms, a spa, and access to Victoria’s attractions at a reasonable price. Activities like kayaking and wine tours add value. Its high guest ratings make it a budget-friendly gem. Price: $$ (approx. CAD 200–400/night).
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers seeking coastal charm. - Hope-Wellness Eco-Resort (New Brunswick)
Why Stay Here: This adults-only, all-inclusive eco-resort near Hopewell Rocks offers cozy cabins with wood-fired hot tubs, yoga sessions, and farm-to-table dining. Canada.com notes its affordable packages, starting around CAD 300/night, and social, wellness-focused vibe. Price: $$ (approx. CAD 300–500/night, all-inclusive).
Best For: Eco-conscious travelers on a budget.
Why Choose These?
These resorts deliver quality at lower price points, with modern amenities and unique settings, aligning with U.S. News’ value metrics.
Key Considerations for Choosing Your Resort
To select the best resort for your 2025 vacation, consider these factors:
- Destination Alignment: Match the resort to your desired experience—alpine (Whistler), coastal (Tofino), or cultural (Newfoundland).
- Amenities: Prioritize resorts with amenities that enhance your trip, such as spas, kids’ clubs, or adventure gear.
- Budget: Balance cost with value. All-inclusive options like Sonora Resort or Couples Resort save on extras, while Brentwood Bay offers affordability.
- Guest Reviews: U.S. News emphasizes guest feedback. Resorts like Manoir Hovey and Fogo Island Inn score high on TripAdvisor for exceptional service.
- Seasonality: Winter is ideal for ski resorts like Four Seasons Whistler, while summer suits coastal retreats like Long Beach Lodge.
Sample Itinerary: 7-Day Adventure Vacation at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort
To illustrate how to plan a 2025 vacation, here’s a sample itinerary for an adventure-focused trip at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in Tofino:
Day 1-2: Arrival and Coastal Exploration
Arrive by floatplane, settle into a luxury tent, and join a guided kayak tour in Clayoquot Sound. Enjoy a gourmet dinner featuring local seafood. Day 2 includes a whale-watching excursion and a spa treatment.
Day 3-4: Wilderness Adventures
Embark on a bear-viewing tour in the rainforest, followed by a forest hike. Day 4 offers a choice of surfing lessons or a fishing trip, with evenings by the campfire.
Day 5-6: Cultural and Culinary Immersion
Visit Tofino for local art galleries and markets. Day 6 includes a cooking class with the resort’s chef, followed by a sunset horseback ride along the beach.
Day 7: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast and a short hike before departing by floatplane. The resort’s all-inclusive package ensures a seamless experience.
This itinerary leverages Clayoquot’s adventure offerings and luxury amenities for a memorable trip.
