Finding Value in Your Ontario Getaway: Burford’s Accommodation Advantage
When planning a vacation in Ontario, the cost of accommodations is often a primary consideration. While iconic destinations like Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake offer a wide range of hotels, their prices can often be a barrier for budget-conscious travelers. Burford, a charming small town in the County of Brant, presents a compelling alternative, offering a more affordable and intimate lodging experience.
The Financial Landscape of Ontario Accommodations
To understand the value of staying in a place like Burford, it’s essential to compare the average prices in the province’s most popular vacation hubs. The cost of a hotel room can vary significantly based on location, time of year, and the type of accommodation.In contrast to these high-priced areas, Burford offers a different kind of value proposition. The town’s small size means there are fewer large-scale hotel chains. Instead, the focus is on a more personalized, local experience, which often comes with a more accessible price point.
Per-location price ranges
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Typical high-end B&B / boutique guesthouse: CAD $300–$500+ / night
Muskoka (Brace bridge / Gravenhurst area)
High-end B&Bs, boutique inns and lakeside guesthouses: CAD $260–$450 / night (lake views, private decks, or included experiences add cost).
Stratford (Festival weekends)
High-end B&B / boutique room during Stratford Festival: CAD $275–$400+ / night (festival demand drives rates; official visitor guidance shows premium pricing tiers where many B&Bs fall into mid-upper brackets).
Sample costings — realistic “all-in” totals (2 adults, 2 nights, peak season)
I’ll show three representative examples (Base room + taxes + small extras):
Niagara-on-the-Lake — premium suite
Room: CAD $420/night × 2 = $840
MAT (if applicable locally — example 3% municipal) ≈ $25.20 × 2 = $50.40
HST 13% on (room + MAT) ≈ 13% of $890.40 = $115.75
Small extras (1 wine tasting for two, parking/small gratuities) ≈ $120
Estimated total ≈ CAD $1,126 for 2 nights.
Muskoka — lakeside boutique B&B
Room: CAD $360/night × 2 = $720
HST 13% = $93.60
Extras (private breakfast upgrade / firewood or boat rental contribution) ≈ $150
Estimated total ≈ CAD $964 for 2 nights.
Note: Prices are subject to change based on seasonality, booking dates, and availability. All figures are for comparison purposes only.
Q&A: Making the Right Accommodation Choice
Q: Is it cheaper to stay in Burford than in Toronto or Niagara-on-the-Lake? A: Yes, generally, the cost of accommodations in Burford and the surrounding Brantford area is significantly lower than in major tourist destinations like Toronto and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Q: What type of accommodations are available in Burford? A: Burford primarily offers intimate lodging options such as bed and breakfasts, like Betty’s Place, and local vacation rentals, providing a more personal and quiet experience.
Q: Where can I find more affordable hotels near Burford? A: The nearby city of Brantford, just a short drive away, has a wider selection of hotels from major chains, typically at more affordable prices than Toronto or Niagara-on-the-Lake.Q: Are there any trade-offs for the lower cost of staying in Burford? A: The main trade-off is the limited selection of large-scale hotels and amenities compared to a major city. However, the benefit is a peaceful, small-town atmosphere and the opportunity to experience local culture at a lower price.
