Manitoba’s romantic resorts

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This article was published 07/01/2014 (4469 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With the thermostat dipping far below zero, winter can be the most magical time for couples to partake in a romantic getaway.

Manitoba has many special locales waiting for you to spark up the fireplace and nestle in for a wintry weekend, including four resorts that cater exclusively to couples.

Barrier Bay Resort is Whiteshell Provincial Park’s must-visit spot for sweethearts. Located east of Seven Sisters Falls, they pay special attention to detail, from birdfeeders outside the windows, to bird-watching guides on coffee tables, to coffee grinders in the kitchens. Each of their nine gorgeous lakefront cabins are unique in setup and style, with choice of open floor plan, master bedroom, or the two-storey “Whiskey Jack” with upper level master bedroom, and lower level living room, whirlpool room, and gourmet kitchen.

One of the nicest touches is supplying wicker baskets for a winter picnic, complete with Thermos, red-checked tablecloth, and birdseed for the chickadees. A scenic picnic spot is Pine Point Rapids, which never freeze and make for stunning winter wilderness photography.

You can’t think of romantic resorts in Manitoba without Tallpine Lodges being on the list. The originator of the “exclusively couples” concept, Tallpine is near West Hawk Lake, just minutes off the Trans-Canada Highway among towering evergreens. The setting is private and serene, designed to offer guests a sanctuary for quality alone time. The cabins are cozy and intimate with private entrance, Jacuzzi, sauna for two, fireplace, kitchenette, barbecue, and beautiful views of the wintry woods from large picture windows.

Tallpines is walking distance to a convenience store, restaurant and lounge. The location also provides easy access to West Hawk Lake’s extensive network of groomed trails. Bring your own cross-country skis, or use the complimentary equipment provided by the resort.

Country Charm Romantic Resort near Ste. Anne is designed to rejuvenate your spirit while kindling the romance. They are all about ambience, with each of the 10 tastefully decorated cabins offering a unique amenity like gourmet kitchen, solid oak pool table, two-sided fireplace, or 3D theatre room. You’ll find large Jacuzzi tubs in all cabins, and steam showers in most. If you can tear yourself away from the warm interiors, outside you can enjoy cross-country skiing and ice skating. Snowmobile rentals are also available nearby for half or full days.  

Getaways Romantic Retreat is located on a private farm southeast of Beausejour along the winding Brokenhead River. Two luxurious and secluded cabins provide all the class and comfort of an upscale resort, while maintaining a rustic warmth and charm. The four-season sunroom provides a naturally-lit seating area surrounded on three sides by large picture windows, with two recliner chairs that are the best seats in the house to watch the sun rise over the forested riverbank.

Outdoors, roam carefree about the woods and wide-open prairie spaces in complementary snowshoes. Then afterwards, warm up and unwind in the jet tub or steam shower, two ideal places sure to make you forget about winter chills for a little while.

RoseAnna Schick is an avid traveller who seeks inspiration wherever she goes. Email her at rascreative@yahoo.ca.