Luxury is at the heart of every moment when you stay at Burlington’s The Pearle Hotel & Spa.

From the moment you arrive, you are welcomed into a sanctuary where elegance, relaxation, and rejuvenation come together for a truly unforgettable experience. Inviting guests to recharge and reconnect, this waterfront haven is at the heart of Burlington’s bustling city centre and has become a coveted setting for curated, high-end celebrations.

For those seeking the ultimate couples’ retreat, this is the place to be.

A curated itinerary for making the most of your stay includes a morning stroll along the sparkling waterfront, an intimate dining experience, and a relaxing spa treatment designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind. The Pearle also serves as an unforgettable backdrop for weddings and romantic celebrations, offering bespoke planning and elegant settings that make every moment feel extraordinary. This is why the serene ambiance, upscale amenities, and array of shared experiences make it an ideal escape for couples seeking a memorable getaway.

Set along the sparkling shores of Lake Ontario, guests at The Pearle can take in the stunning waterfront from all angles, where scenic views create the backdrop for the ultimate couples retreat. After settling in, venturing outside to walk along the waterfront pathway offers the perfect way to begin your couples retreat journey, allowing you to indulge in the natural beauty and calming charm of Burlington’s lakeside.

We loved how peaceful it was to take in the surrounding cityscape, creating a serene soundtrack to our getaway. Whether strolling hand-in-hand along the promenade, pausing to watch the sunset over the water, or simply sitting together and soaking in the atmosphere, every moment felt designed for connection.

Next up on the itinerary is a trip to The Pearle Spa.

This is the perfect setting for couples to relax and reconnect, with private treatment rooms and tailored spa experiences ensuring you and your partner can relax and unwind through synchronized massages, rejuvenating facials, or indulgent full-body treatments. Sharing these moments in a tranquil, serene environment not only refreshes the body but also strengthens the bond between the two of you, offering a shared experience of rejuvenation.

We highly recommend booking one of the spa’s signature facials, which is an absolute top pick for leaving your skin feeling radiant and refreshed. During our stay, I opted for the Sakura Face Ritual by EviDenS de Beaute®, which champions utilizing the highest concentrations of Sakura extract in combination with traditional Japanese Lifting Massage (and many more collagen-boosting ingredients), to help illuminate and regenerate the skin. Featuring Sakura (cherry blossom) extract, which is a time-honored ingredient in Japanese skincare, this treatment is rich in antioxidants and natural anti-inflammatory properties. As a result, it helps protect the skin from environmental stressors while soothing irritation and promoting a radiant, healthy-looking complexion.

The way my skin was absolutely glowing after this (and days later, might I add!) sparked a joy unlike any other. The entire treatment was an indulgent, immersive experience that left me feeling completely renewed and utterly pampered. I also appreciated how my wonderful skincare specialist performing the treatment offered guidance on how each step worked, explaining the benefits of the Sakura extract and the techniques behind the Japanese Lifting Massage. This thoughtful attention to detail not only made the experience more educational but also empowered me to replicate some of these techniques at home.

Afterward, it was only fitting to continue enjoying The Pearle Spa’s amenities, of which included the Hammam Steam Room and Pool.

After indulging in the spa, it’s time to return to the room.

The rooms at The Pearle are a highlight in and of themselves, offering an ideal blend of elegance and comfort. A lush, soothing color palette is accented by thoughtfully designed interiors, plush furnishings, and calming touches, creating an inviting sanctuary where guests can savor the lakeside ambiance.

Our King Room with Lakeside Views was an absolute treat. Unobscured views of the waterfront bring the beauty of nature indoors, which is further emphasized through wood accents and neutral tones. The addition of in-room features and amenities such as a lighted makeup mirror, Nespresso maker and Room Service make this an elevated experience and a luxe home away from home.

Some might book a hotel with the intention of exploring and spending little time in the room, but The Pearle offers accommodations so luxurious that it makes it hard to leave. The bed feels like an absolute cloud, and we had the most amazing time ordering room service, binging our favourite shows, and simply enjoying the peaceful, lakeside views from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Every detail encourages you to slow down, which is much-appreciated when you’re looking for a serene, city-side escape.

After a day of pampering and relaxation, dining at The Pearle’s Isabelle is a stellar attraction– and I’m delighted to say I have visited this establishment several times because the food just that good. Offering a relaxed yet vibrant experience from start to finish, this space celebrates Mediterranean flavors and the finest local ingredients, including produce from the hotel’s own farm. As a must-try during your couples retreat and stay, dining at Isabelle is as much about connection as it is about exceptional food and drinks.

The menu changes seasonally to showcase the freshest ingredients and highlight annual flavours, but there are always fan-favourites you can rely on– like the Dips served with House Made Pita. From signature dishes that guests return for again and again to expertly crafted cocktails and desserts, there’s truly something for every palate.

While attending in early fall 2025, our top picks for appetizers included the Fresh Shucked Oysters and Shrimp and Avocado Tostadas, spotlighting cilantro, gem lettuce, tomatillo salsa, pickled Serrano, and jalapeño. Both were incredibly fresh and vibrant.

For entrées, the Nova Scotia Lobster Linguine offers a modern twist on a classic favourite, with farm pesto, pecorino and kale. The grilled octopus with romesco and charred spring onion was just as impressive. Both dishes helped showcase the establishment’s commitment to fresh, seasonal ingredients and thoughtful, inventive preparation, making each bite memorable.

Cocktail-wise, our wonderful server recommended the Mint Pisco Sour, Weak in the Knees, and Holy Negroni, all of which tasted divine and perfectly complemented our meal. And of course, no experience at Isabelle is complete without dessert. The Apple Caramel Crumble is a must-try, offering the perfect balance of warm cinnamon, crunchy pecan streusel, and creamy vanilla gelato.

Isabelle truly captured our attention with its menu, seasonal ingredients, and masterful execution of both classic and inventive dishes. Each course felt carefully crafted to highlight the freshness of local produce and the richness of Mediterranean flavours, making each bite a memorable culinary experience. It’s no wonder guests– such as myself– keep coming back for more.

The Pearle Hotel really can do it all.

Renowned as a stunning venue for events, this is the perfect backdrop to celebrate life’s special moments. The hotel features gorgeous views of Lake Ontario combined with elegantly designed event spaces, which can be customized to suit both intimate gatherings and large-scale functions. Combined with detailed service, high-end amenities, and exceptional catering options, The Pearle ensures every event is executed flawlessly, leaving a lasting impression on hosts and guests alike.As a bride-to-be, The Pearle should be at the top of your list for hosting wedding events that blend sophistication, romance, and personalized touches to create the ultimate experience.

With all that said, from the serene lakeside views and sumptuous accommodations to the indulgent spa treatments and exceptional dining at Isabelle, The Pearle Hotel & Spa offers an unparalleled escape for couples seeking both relaxation and connection. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, a celebratory event, or simply a moment to recharge together, The Pearle delivers luxury, comfort, and unforgettable memories– at every turn.

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Published by HOLR Magazine