Feature photo: David and Alicia Meyer in front of their historic Harlem Stonegate Bed & Breakfast.
PORTLAND - An amazing night's sleep is one of many fond memories you'll have of Harlem Stonegate Bed & Breakfast.
This beautiful heritage B&B on Harlem Road is only three years old but it's already a sought after location for peaceful country getaways and outdoor recreation such as 'dark sky' star gazing.
You'll delight in its sweeping rural views, multi-course meals in either the dining room or screened veranda, its optional massage service, beautiful garden gazebo, yoga pergola overlooking the pond, or maybe its seasonal "Glamping" tent and evening bonfires.
"We have a wide variety of ecologies here - hayfields, wetlands and a maple sugar bush," says Alicia Ferdinand. Alicia and her husband David Meyer have created this special B&B. After travelling the world in the mining industry and capital markets, the couple left Toronto to put down roots here five years ago.
"This location offers so much for guests who enjoy the outdoors," says Alicia. Cycling groups, paddling and canoeing enthusiasts are regular visitors. Alicia and David also provide some recreational outfitting as an add-on to the guest experience.
"Our goal is to continue to introduce the area to a new group of people from all over the world. The natural beauty of South Eastern Ontario is at our doorstep," says David. "It is more than just an overnight stay. We have endeavoured to create an enhanced wellness experience."
The B&B earned TripAdvisor's Travelers' Choice designation in both 2020 and 2021. There are three guest rooms, two of which have a shared bathroom for a family or people travelling together. The third is a glamorous room with an ensuite bath and cozy gas fireplace. The "Glamping" tent accommodates up to 6 guests and has electricity, flushing toilet, hot shower and a deck overlooking the wetlands.
"We have a large garden with fruit trees and make our own maple syrup," Alicia says. Their fresh, natural food and garden-to-table experience have earned rave reviews from visitors. "We have guests who regularly return just for the meals," says Alicia.
"The food is definitely something we focus on. We are long-time foodies," says David. "As a result of the events of the past couple years, dining options in the area have been limited. So we began providing an add-on dinner service, which proved incredibly popular with our guests."
Stonegate Farm dates back to the 1830s. Nestled in the beautiful Rideau Lakes region at the edge of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere, a UNESCO world heritage site, Harlem Stonegate B&B provides a relaxing atmosphere in which to unwind and rejuvenate.
Top feature photo: David and Alicia Meyer in front of their historic Harlem Stonegate Bed & Breakfast.
Having hosted a number of weddings over the last few years, the majestic post-and-beam bank barns and stone courtyard continue to provide an idyllic backdrop for weddings and outdoor events.
Learn more about Harlem Stonegate by visiting their website, Facebook and Instagram page. You can send them an email or give them a call at 613-272-9110. You'll find this Rideau Lakes B&B at 2341 Harlem Road.
Story and photos courtesy of the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office.
