ONTARIO: HILLCREST INN & WELLNESS SPA
by Anne Dimon
Daymakers. That’s how the team members at The Hillcrest - A Valenova Inn & Spa, in Port Hope, Ontario like to see themselves. Owner/operator Robin Dines explains that the operating philosophy that drives Hillcrest is based on the book Life as a Day Maker by David Wagner. “Every staff member receives a copy of the book,” she says, “and each person’s individual goal is to go beyond the expected to try to make someone’s day.” They walk the talk.
Situated on a quiet residential street just a 10-minute walk from the historic village of Port Hope, this intimate enclave comes as a lovely surprise to a first-time visitor –the elegant Victorian mansion, gurgling fountain, sweep of gardens and majestic trees all help create the feeling that one is entering a special place. The estate also includes an outdoor saltwater swimming pool and patio, a gazebo for spa treatments and 15 acres of wooded trails - all overlooking Lake Ontario.
The inn's nine guestrooms are charmingly and comfortably decorated with antiques and period piece. If you're booking in for a "me break" ask for the Attic Hideaway. It's the perfect spot to spend time and just "be."
Inside the spa’s cheerful living room with its comfy period piece sofas, fireplace, grand piano and yellow silk-covered walls, our little group of gal pals is welcomed with hot towels infused with the scent of lavender and lavender-flavoured cookies.
The lunch that follows is, in itself, enough to “make our day.” Food here is all about organic and when possible they buy local and it's all made on the premises even breads and condiments. Today’s appetizer is a choice of Sweet Potato Soup with Fig Yogurt or a fresh green salad with sherry vinaigrette. The entrée selection is Lentil & Grain Chili with Cucumber Raita, Organic Beef Bourguignon with Pearl Onions & Button Mushrooms or Crab Meat, Asparagus and Almond Salad. Dessert is Vanila Bean Crème Brulee or House Made Ice Cream. The inn is not yet licensed to serve alcohol, but they do allow you to bring your own which they will gladly uncork and serve.
When guests are here on a detox program – which is typically during the week with couples and girl friends coming in on weekends – Executive Chef Hosick works with the spa manager to customized offerings in keeping with the detox plan. It could mean no low glutens, no starches, no vinegar, no dairy or a combination of various.