The Ultimate Guide to Corporate Team Retreats in Ontario
(Part 1 - The 2023 Experience)
Just as we wrapped up our series on the best event venues in Toronto, we're diving headfirst into another equally exciting topic: Corporate Team Retreats in Ontario. Our focus in this series will be corporate retreats for teams that are between 10-50 people
Ontario, with its sprawling landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant cities, provides a refreshing backdrop for teams to reconnect, reenergize, and refocus. Imagine trading in those boardroom meetings for lakeside brainstorming sessions or swapping the bustling city noises for the tranquil chirping of birds in a forest retreat. Sounds idyllic, doesn't it?
In this series, we're going to highlight the unparalleled benefits of hosting your team retreats in Ontario and explore venues that can make it possible. From boosting team morale to sparking innovation in the most unexpected places, there's an entire world of experiences waiting to be unraveled. So, whether you're considering a cozy cabin getaway, or a luxurious resort stay, Ontario has it all, and we're here to guide you every step of the way. Let the adventure begin!
Wander the Resort in Prince Edward County
Our team, at The Idea Hunter, hosted their first ever summer retreat at the Wander resort this past summer. We were attracted to the Wander as they had hotel caliber amenities with the privacy and space of a vacation home rental- it was the perfect solution for our team retreat.
The Wander Resort is the newest hotel to the PEC area and is booking up fast (at the time of writing, they are over 50% booked for 2024). The resort is a contemporary marvel with a cozy, homey feel.
Our team stayed at the Wander Haus, which offered 5 individual bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, 3 bathrooms, 2 large living spaces, and a MASSIVE backyard space to hang out. The hotel also offers individual cabins as well, should you need more rooms.
While in PEC, we tried lots of different activities as a team which we have detailed in this article.
To see a video recap of our incredible retreat at Wander, click here
Location:
Nestled in the heart of Prince Edward County, Wander the Resort offers a mesmerizing lakeside view, positioning it as a prime gateway to Canada’s rapidly burgeoning wine region.
Design & Ambiance:
Modern meets rustic at Wander. Here, Canadian cabin charm is elegantly interwoven with Nordic design elements. Every corner of the resort, with its heated floors, inside and outside fireplaces, and walls of windows, invites guests into a world where luxury meets comfort. As you step in, you're greeted with the sense of being simultaneously away from the grind of daily life yet completely at home.
Accommodation:
· Ten luxurious cabins: Pick between poolside views or the serene beauty of the lake. Each cabin, accommodating up to six, is a haven of understated luxury with top-notch amenities including European-style kitchens, organic linens, private outdoor showers, and micro cement tubs.
· Wander Haus: An ideal choice for larger groups, it offers 500 ft. of private waterfront and panoramic lake views from its trio of private decks.
· Treeside Cabins: These A-frame luxury treehouses provide over 1,400 sq. ft. of relaxation and feature a loft master suite.
Activities & Experiences:
At Wander, every day can be an adventure, or a tranquil retreat based on your choice:
· Sailing: Embark on a unique journey with County Sailing Adventures. Set sail on the crystal-clear waters of Prince Edward Bay, an untouched gem of the County. Sail towards destinations like Little Bluff or Half Moon Bay and drop anchor for a rejuvenating swim followed by refreshing cocktails and snacks.
· Wine and Vineyards
o The Local Tour Co: Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or just stepping into the world of wine tasting, The Local Tour Co.’s wine tour has an offering for everyone. Traverse through scenic vineyards, taste a diverse range of wines, and feast your eyes on the stunning landscapes of lush vineyards and pristine terrains.
o PEC Custom Wine Tours: An exclusive 4-hour wine tour tailored for Wander guests. Journey through renowned vineyards such as Redtail Vineyards, Harwood Estates Winery, Traynor Family Vineyard, and Lacy Estates Winery.
· Equine Therapy: The Equine Soul Session offers an unparalleled mindfulness experience. Collaborate with the Heal With Horses Therapeutic Centre for a 3-4 hour session that promises soulful connections. Engage in guided equine encounters and leverage the profound emotional insights these majestic creatures offer. Conclude this enlightening journey with a serene walk in the woods, complemented by locally sourced food and beverages.
· Little John Farm: Little John Farm is a premier agricultural tourism hub tailored for corporate retreats. Dedicated to experiential tourism and corporate entertainment, the farm offers intimate experiences, teaching guests about the wholesome, healthy, and sustainable origins of their food. Their interactive workshops are designed to foster team building, where participants are grouped into teams to tackle tasks and later present their results. To top off the experience, attendees are treated to a farm-to-table dinner making it an enriching and memorable destination.
· Water Sports: Dive into exhilarating water sports with Central Ontario’s Wakeboard School in picturesque Westlake. Famous for hosting the world's largest water Sand Dune system, Westlake offers a secure and expert coaching environment suitable for enthusiasts as young as four years. Rest assured, all necessary equipment and life jackets are at your disposal.
· Bike Rentals: Wander offers bike rentals which allow you to enjoy the long bike trail that connects Bloomfield, Picton, and Wellington.
· Sandbanks Beach: in warmer months, this is a must visit. Sandbanks boasts the world's largest Baymouth barrier dune formation. It offers three vast sandy beaches, and the park provides walking trails that showcase its unique dune and wetland environments. Beyond the beach, it's an ideal base for exploring the county's renowned bicycle routes, wineries, culinary delights, and antiques.
Dining & Culinary:
The resort not only offers cozy cabin-versus-cabin lawn games but also boasts sumptuous Hygge Hut dinners courtesy of the Wander Culinary Team and live music over weekends. You can also venture out into town and find many top tier restaurants. One of our favorites was the Drake!
Accolades:
Wander isn't just a resort; it's an experience that has earned its stripes. As evidenced by accolades from publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel & Leisure, Wander is setting new benchmarks in hospitality.
Wander the Resort in Prince Edward County is not just a place to stay; it's a place to experience, relish, and remember. A harmonious blend of luxury, comfort, and nature, it promises a getaway and team retreat that's unforgettable.
