Bella Vista Country House, in Meaford Ontario!

Bella Vista Country House is a home-away-from-home--an international hostel providing affordable and comfortable accommodations, and, with the magnificent panoramic backdrop of the Niagara Escarpment and the Great Lakes! It is a great base for exploring this 4-season paradise in Southern Georgian Bay or a stop enroute, halfway between Toronto or Niagara Falls and Manitoulin Island or Algonquin Park.

Guests of all ages love Bella Vista, from families with young children to seniors with mobility issues. Single travellers are always welcome too! It is perfect for explorers, travellers, or groups (i.e. weddings, retreats, meetings, workshops, and other events).

Bella Vista offers private rooms with ensuite, family room with shared bath, or hostel dorm-bed accommodation. In addition to a continental breakfast (using all natural ingredients where possible, with vegan, gluten and dairy free options), guests have use of the fully-equipped kitchen and a chance to connect with others exploring our little piece of Heaven.

Free parking and WiFi. Laundry facilities are available with fee.

Close to all the amenities including:

• Outdoor activities (kayaking, canoeing, fishing, sailing, boating, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, cycling, swimming, zip-lining, rock-climbing, spelunking, golfing, skiing (downhill and cross country), snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing and more)
• Culture (concerts, live theatre, music festivals, and Aboriginal Pow-wows)
• Wineries and Restaurants (including gourmet, pub food, or raw vegan)
• Many other local activities!

Bella Vista has partnered with many of these local venues to give you discounts on their services. For an added charge, its shuttle service will bring you to and from various activities and events).

After a long day of activity, unwind back at Bella Vista with sunset yoga or just relax with a glass of wine in the gazebo or courtyard and watch the sun go down, or enjoy some s’mores and music around a bonfire in the evening (weather permitting).

Hostel of the Week, Jan. 12th to Feb. 13th 2014
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

St. Catharines Student Residence, Ontario

St. Catharines Student Residence has nicely renovated rooms in the heart of downtown St. Catharines. The on-site building managers are happy to be of assistance. The Residence has rooms for nightly stay or for longer term.

The Greyhound bus stop and bus terminal is only two blocks away. There is ample parking on the site. It is also bicycle friendly.

Feature of the Week, April 6th to April 13th 2012
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Brock University Conference Services, Saint Catharines Ontario

Backpackers Hostels Canada lists a number of university and college residences and conference services in our membership. Many of these residences provide summer accommodations and also opportunities for large group bookings.

Brock University Conference Services in Saint Catharines Ontario invites you to stay in Vallee Residence from May through till August. The Brock University campus is minutes from tourist attractions like Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal and wine routes throughout Niagara. You will be provided with your own private air-conditioned bedrooms complete with linens for a good night's sleep. The washrooms adjoin the bedrooms. Your room will have access to a washroom which may be shared by a guest of the same gender. There is a lock on your door and washroom to provide you with private sleeping quarters.

Feature of the Week, Feb. 21st to March 6th 2012
Submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada

Backpackers International Hostel Niagara Falls

Backpackers International Hostel, Niagara Falls

Operated by a warm and friendly Francophone family, this elegant Victorian home turned youth hostel is only 5 minutes walk to the bus depot and is open 24-7. Dorm rates are $25.00 per night. Private rooms are also available. Facilities include a fully equipped kitchen and a free light breakfast.

The hostel is only one block to the Niagara River and Parkway, and 15-20 minute walk to Falls and attractions. It is also close to the Greyhound and train stations.

When you are planning your travels, remember that Niagara Falls is more than a one-day trip destination!

Hostel of the Week February 1st to February 7th 2010
submitted by Kennedy Jones
Backpackers Hostels Canada