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Written by ChristyAugust 27, 2013

Viamede Resort on Stoney Lake, North Kawartha, Ontario – Review

There are all kinds of family vacations and some are notably more relaxing than others. Peterborough and the Kawarthas in Ontario, Canada, is one of those destinations where you can simply BE without the need to create extensive itineraries of things for your family to do. If you’re not from the area, you may not be familiar with the phrase “Cottage Country,” but it describes a location where the property is a destination in and of itself. For those who love outdoor activities, these locales are a paradise away from home.

I recently enjoyed a stay at Viamede Resort on the shores of Stoney Lake in North Kawartha, Ontario. Built as a lumber camp in the late 1800’s, Viamede has been welcoming guests for over 120 years. Ben Sämann bought the property in 2010 and has been working to restore it to high caliber family destination it was years ago. With just over 50 guest rooms and cabins on 165 acres of land, Viamede is a relaxing, expansive property with fishing, boating, hiking, swimming, fine dining, sports, and more.

There are a range of accommodations at Viamede, depending on the space and level of privacy you’d like. My room, in the main resort building, was spacious, albeit not terribly modern. It had a sitting area with a couch and flat screen TV, small table for dining, desk, and a gas fireplace. It was on the first floor facing the water and had double doors that open to the back porch. While the view was amazing, the porch is not private, so make sure to ask if that’s a concern for you. I can’t imagine it being an issue for an active family during the day, but you may want a different room for a romantic getaway. Pet lovers will be thrilled to know that Viamede is pet-friendly.

The main resort building also houses 1885, one of the property’s three dining areas. It serves a complimentary buffet breakfast each morning, casual lunch, and a more refined dinner selection. The calm blue theme in 1885, combined with the stunning views of Stoney Lake, make you feel like you’re right on the water.

There is plenty for families at Viamede. In addition to swimming, there are kayaks and canoes, and pontoon boats. You can fish off the pier, as well. When you’re done with the water, there’s tennis, badminton, biking, volleyball, basketball, bocce, and disc golf. You can explore the walking trails, visit the property’s farm that houses pigs, ducks, chickens, and turkeys, or just let the kids climb on the playground. For the adults, there’s even a spa. I can’t imagine getting bored, but there are also a number of family-friendly destinations in the Peterborough vicinity.

We focus a lot on families here, but Viamede is also a beautiful wedding destination. They have a pretty on-site chapel, as well as a wedding pavilion by the water.

Viamede resort is simply a lovely destination to relax as a couple, family, or even on a solo trip. Here are a few more of my favorite pictures of the grounds.

Viamede Resort
595 Mount Julian Viamede Road
Woodview, Ontario
1-800-461-1946

*I’d recommend calling for your reservation. They will happily help you find the perfect accommodations for your trip.

Disclosure: We received a complimentary stay and meals for the purposes of this review. There was no promise of a positive review and all opinions are my own.