HighFields Country Inn & Spa, Zephyr Ontario
Part 2 - A unique blend of spa therapies, nature trails and hospitality
Norma Daniel's personal style and her commitment to providing a retreat where stress is merely an unpleasant memory is evident throughout HighFields. And the natural beauty of the rolling hills and meadows surrounding the inn makes it a beautiful choice for a reunion, anniversary or small wedding. Imagine filling the property with only your closest friends and family. Trails through 175-acres of unspoiled woods, tennis courts, outdoor pool and a nearby golf course make this a well-rounded summer getaway just an hour outside of Toronto.
Facilities & Activities
HighFields fitness center is in the lower level. It's a small workout center, but equipped with a healthy selection of ellipticals, treadmills and weight machines. The sauna is in the same room with a shower next door.
But who needs an elliptical when 175-acres of rolling countryside are just outside the door? Shed your city-ways and escape outside to trails that lead through wooded areas, across meadows and past the farm area. Be sure to pick up a map from the front desk before heading out, and stick to the trails. Climbing fences will get you lost and you'll have to rely on the kindness of neighboring farmers to bring you home. It's a common problem.
A tennis court and outdoor pool as well as nearby golf course make boredom impossible here. And if you're interested in soaking up the local culture, head to Leakside, Mount Albert or Uxbridge for antique festivals, strawberry socials and old fashioned carol sings at Christmas. Lake Simcoe, a popular cottage destination, is a half-hour drive.
Dining
Daniel oversees the spa and inn, but the restaurant, La Vie, is operated independently by Chef Christine and Jeremy. La Vie opened in 2007 in a converted century-old barn attached to the inn. The main dining room seats approximately 30 and the screened-in patio seats 16.
Because of the remote location and size of the inn, dining reservations and special dietary requests must be made in advance. If it's a quiet weekend and you haven't made a reservation, the dining room may not be open.
Feel free to enjoy breakfast and lunch in your spa robe, but dinner is smart casual. HighFields doesn't have a liquor license but dinning staff will cork your wine (no corkage fee). The menu is fixed price (prix fixe) with two choices offered for each course. During the summer months, you can also pre-order hors d'hoeurves to be served poolside.
Expect hearty country dishes with a focus on refined presentation. Chef Christine, La Vie owner, emphasizes an organic experience and strives to build dishes around locally grown, seasonal produce. A 15% gratuity is added automatically to all dining room bills and because the restaurant is operated independently from the inn, room service is not available.
Accommodations
There are 6 rooms to choose at HighFields. If you're visiting with a group, the loft suite can accommodate up to 6 people and has a private patio, fireplace and even a washer/dryer. The Honeymoon suite at the far corner of the inn offers the most privacy. Although it's lacking a patio, it has a fireplace and whirlpool tub in the ensuite. The nicest suite though is the garden suite with an outdoor patio overlooking the pool, king sleigh bed, whirlpool tub and wood-burning fireplace. And if you're in desperate need for an escape but can't manage to sneak away for the whole night, you can book a room from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm during the week.
Travel Info
Directions to HighFields From Toronto:
Take Highway 401 or The Don Valley Parkway to Highway 404. Go north on the 404 and exit at Davis Drive. Travel east along Davis Drive 16.5 km and turn north onto the 3rd Concession. Proceed north 7.5 km. HighFields is on the west side.
From Pearson International Airport:
Take Hwy. 427 North to Hwy. 407 (toll road). Go east on 407 to Hwy. 404 north and continue as above.
From Eastern Ontario:
Exit Hwy. 401 at Brock Road (#399). Travel north on Brock Road 25 km. Turn west on Hwy. 47 for 4 km. Turn north on Front Street in Goodwood. Front Street becomes 3rd Concession. Travel 15.5 km north and HighFields is on the west side. The address is 11568 - 70 Concession 3.
From Western Ontario and Michigan:
East on 401 to Hwy. 404 north. Exit Davis Drive east, travel 16.5 km east along Davis Drive and then drive north on 3rd Concession 7.5 km.
Part 1 - A country spa with a Hollywood twist
