At Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa, fall brings brilliant red and gold maples, crisp mornings, and plenty of ways to enjoy the Haliburton Highlands. Spend a crisp autumn morning paddling on Eagle Lake, relaxing on the dock, and taking in the fall colours around the property. When you feel like getting out for a drive or a hike, the surrounding Highlands offer plenty more to explore.
After a day out exploring, return to Sir Sam’s for a soak in the WaterSpa, a great meal at Twin Fires, and an evening next to the bonfire. Here’s how to make the most of fall, both at the inn and around the Highlands.
Ease Into the Morning
Waking up at Sir Sam’s and having a whole day ahead of you feels special. Start with breakfast at Twin Fires and fuel up for the day’s adventures with views of Eagle Lake. If you have extra time before you’re ready to hit the road, stop by the WaterSpa and unwind.
Where to Drive to See Fall Colours in Ontario
Honestly, one of the best ways to see the fall colours around the Haliburton Highlands is to get in the car and see where the road takes you. Use the Haliburton Highlands driving routes to plan your scenic drive and discover some of the region’s best views.
The Minden Hills Nature Ride takes you past lakes, rocky outcrops, and forest views, with places to pull over and stretch your legs. If motorcycles are more your thing, Highway 35 is worth the ride, with sweeping curves and beautiful scenery. Roll the windows down, put on a good playlist, and enjoy the views.
Stops Worth the Detour
If you want to stretch your legs between scenic drives, there are great spots to explore around the Highlands. At Sir Sam’s Ski/Ride, hike to the top of the hill for views over Eagle and Moose lakes, with fall colour stretching out below. In Haliburton village, the Sculpture Forest makes for a fun wander, with sculptures tucked along the trails among the trees.
For a longer outing, head to Haliburton Forest to hike, bike, paddle, or visit the resident wolf pack. If you want to venture a little farther, check out our Algonquin fall colours guide for tips on planning a day trip to the park.
Back at the Inn by Dinner
Back before sunset? Take a canoe or kayak out on Eagle Lake for one more look at the fall colours. Then warm up in the WaterSpa and sauna before dinner at Twin Fires. Depending on the night, you might catch Monday prime rib, Friday fish specials, or live music with your meal. After dinner, gather around the bonfire, challenge someone to a board game in the Hughes Wing, or head back to your room and settle in by the fireplace.
Keep Fall Going Into November
October is when the colour is at its best, and a stay at Sir Sam’s puts the back roads, trails and lookouts of the Highlands within easy reach. If you’d rather come later in the season, our annual Red Wine & Wild Game Weekend offers a chance to try something different. Running every November, it includes two nights at the inn, a Saturday afternoon wine tasting with themed canapés, and a special wild game dinner with a red wine tasting. Whether you’re coming for the colour or the wild game, Sir Sam’s Inn & Spa is the perfect place for your fall getaway!
