Serene Ontario inn is steeped in 200 years of history

Tucked away in the tiny village of Queenston, just minutes from the Ontario city of Niagara Falls, is a bed-and-breakfast that feels worlds away from the tourist crowds.

South Landing Inn occupies a centuries-old property overlooking the Niagara River. While many visitors flock to the Falls, this part of the region encourages guests to slow down while being within arm's reach of some of Niagara's best attractions.

The inn, which sits at the southern gateway to Niagara-on-the-Lake and is believed to have been built before the War of 1812 and originally served as a mess hall for soldiers.

Original building. 

The renovated property now offers an intimate stay that leans into all things vintage with its antique furnishings, textured rugs, and cozy common spaces that scream "stylish country home."

As for accommodations, they range from homey guest rooms to expansive suites designed for families and groups, so there's something for everyone looking to spend the night.

With six different room options to choose from, South Landing Inn includes several river-view suites amongst its 24-room lineup. For the ultimate experience, larger groups can book The Riverview, which features three beds, two full washrooms, and a kitchen, making it the ideal "home away from home." Even better, the suite includes a balcony overlooking the Niagara River.

Other options, simply labeled Room 1, Room 2, and Room 3, offer similar comforts on a smaller scale, but each comes equipped with king-sized beds and TVs. While several rooms feature views of the Niagara River, others overlook the surrounding escarpment landscape — not a bad trade-off if the river-view rooms are already booked.

The inn's amenities, which include free parking, are also ideal for anyone craving a staycation-style getaway. Guests have access to shared outdoor patios, green space, a lounge area, and a small library, so you don't have to leave the property to pass the time. Especially if you're looking to disconnect and rejuvenate. 

And, since the boutique inn is a bed-and-breakfast, each morning starts with a complimentary continental breakfast made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Of course, some visitors will want to get out and explore, and that's covered, since the property's location makes it an ideal home base for exploring the region.

Visitors can spend the day touring nearby wineries, hiking along the Niagara Gorge, or wandering through the Niagara-on-the-Lake village to take in its preserved 19th-century charm — a must-see when you're in the area.

And for those feeling a little more adventurous, Niagara Falls is just a 15-minute drive away. Spend the day strolling along the Falls, catching the nightly fireworks display, visiting the Butterfly Conservatory, or checking out some of the other attractions that keep the area buzzing long after dark.

Despite being close to many of Niagara's biggest attractions, visitors can simply retreat to the property for a serene evening, unwind beside the river, and enjoy the quieter side of one of the province's most visited destinations, with this bed-and-breakfast in Ontario.

Rooms at South Landing Inn start at $247 per night and can be booked directly through the hotel's website.

South Landing Inn is located at 21 Front St. S. in Queenston, Ont.