A Work Trip That Became Something More

My latest travel experience began as a team retreat and turned into a refreshing escape that opened my eyes to a new side of Ontario. When I first learned we would be staying at Beachwood Lake Resort, I expected a few productive days away from the office, not a life-refreshing getaway.  The resort was chosen so our team could go “off the grid,” free from daily distractions and focus on reflection and connection. But what started as a professional retreat turned into something far more personal—a reminder of how healing nature can be.

A peaceful view of Lower Buckhorn Lake at sunrise—the perfect start to our retreat at Beechwood Resort.

Why Choose Beechwood Resort

Beechwood was originally chosen to help us connect as a team and unplug—to resist the urge to check one more email and distract us from dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s. Yet once I arrived, I realized it was chosen for something much deeper: its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

Surrounded by 330 acres of forest and over 1,400 feet of shoreline, Beechwood offers endless lake views and peaceful walking trails. Each morning began with a quiet walk by the water as the sunrise painted the lake, and each evening ended with a vibrant sunset that reflected across the surface like a watercolor painting.

During my stay, I was treated to something truly special—a Harvest Moon. It rose over the lake, glowing a deep orange-golden hue, so bright it seemed to touch the water. It was one of those breathtaking moments that stops you mid-step—silent, still, and unforgettable.

The Journey Through Ontario’s Fall Colours

My drive to Beachwood took about three hours from the GTA, winding through some of Ontario’s most beautiful countryside. Along the way, I passed golden haystacks, rolling hills, and stretches of vibrant greenery, a perfect prelude to fall’s transformation.

The fresh air and open sky offered an instant reset from city life. By the time I reached the resort, the leaves were beginning to turn shades of amber and crimson—a stunning welcome to the peaceful shores of Beachwood Lake.

If you love nature but aren’t up for the long drive to Algonquin, Beachwood Resort in Lakefield is the perfect alternative—close enough for convenience, yet remote enough to feel worlds away.

First Impressions: Rustic Charm and Comfort

Beachwood Resort feels like a blend of cottage comfort and lakeside luxury. The main lodge features a cozy living space with a wood-burning fireplace, guest rooms upstairs, and a warm kitchen and den where our group often gathered.

Downstairs, a spacious recreation room became our meeting space—where brainstorming sessions felt relaxed and inspired.

During my visit, I stayed in a condo-style suite shared with a colleague. It was simple yet charming, boasting two bedrooms, a shared living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Each accommodation option maintains the resort’s rustic charm while providing modern comfort:

•  Lodge Suites – cozy, hotel-style comfort

• Condo Units – ideal for small groups

• Private Cottages – secluded spaces surrounded by nature

Each option includes modern amenities while preserving the resort’s rustic charm and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for couples, groups, or families traveling together.

Mornings of Mindfulness and Silent Walks

Each morning began with silent meditation, followed by what quickly became my favorite ritual—a silent walk around the lake.

At first, it felt odd not to talk. But as I walked, I became more aware of everything around me:

• The sound of acorns falling through the trees
• The gentle lapping of water on the shore
• The chirping of birds overhead
• The crisp smell of wood and leaves

It was a full sensory reset. I couldn’t quite tune into the “sense of taste” (unless my morning coffee counts), but my other senses came alive in a way they rarely do.

Evenings by the Fire

Our evenings ended around the fire pit, chatting and roasting marshmallows under a clear, starlit sky. The warmth of the flames against the cool night air was the perfect balance—peaceful, grounding, and a little magical.

As we laughed and shared stories, the reflection of the moon shimmered across the lake, casting silver light over the water. It was one of those small, perfect moments that remind you how beautiful simplicity can be.

A Peaceful Paddle & Cultural Exploration

One afternoon, I took a canoe out on Lower Buckhorn Lake. The water was calm and mirror-like, reflecting the sky and trees in perfect symmetry.  As I drifted past charming cottages and quiet docks, the world felt completely still—no sound but the soft dip of the paddle and the occasional bird call.

Evening Drive to the Causeway

One evening, before dinner, a few of us decided to explore beyond the resort. All roads, as it turned out, led to The Causeway—about a 20-minute drive away. Once an area where locals would manually crank a floating bridge to let boats or ferries pass through, it’s now a roadway surrounded by water on both sides.

Driving across it, with shimmering reflections of the lake on either side, carried that “on-vacation” feeling. We even spotted the Kawartha Voyageur, the largest cruise vessel on the Trent-Severn Waterway, gliding through the golden evening light—a gentle reminder of the unique blend of history and beauty that defines this region.

Beyond the resort, I had the opportunity to visit the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, a nearby Indigenous cultural and arts center. The experience was rich with history and meaning—learning about the Indigenous peoples of the Kawartha region, their artistry, and their deep connection to the land. Inside, I admired beadwork, carvings, and handcrafted pieces that reflected generations of tradition, resilience, and storytelling.

The Music of Nature

By the final day, the quiet of Beachwood had sharpened my awareness. I caught every sound—from leaves rustling to the faint buzzing of bees (which admittedly made me nervous as I am petrified of bees!).

During our last silent walk, one of my colleagues began playing the bagpipes near the water. The haunting melody carried across the lake, blending with the sound of the wind and waves. It was unexpected, surreal, and the perfect ending to a week focused on mindfulness.

Reflections on the Retreat

When I first heard the words “off the grid,” I was hesitant. Limited Wi-Fi ? No constant notifications or phone calls? But a few days without the noise reminded me how powerful stillness can be.

At Beachwood Lake Resort, I reconnected, not just with my colleagues, but with myself. Between the sound of acorns falling, the rustle of trees, and the glow of the moon over the lake, I rediscovered how peaceful life can feel when you slow down enough to notice it.

What began as a work trip transformed into something deeply personal—a reminder of how restorative nature can be. Between the glowing Harvest Moon, peaceful canoe rides, cultural learning at the Whetung Centre, scenic Causeway drive, and the incredible farm-to-table meals, Beechwood Resort offered the perfect balance of rest, reflection, and inspiration.

If you’re looking for a serene Ontario destination close enough for a weekend yet remote enough to truly unplug and feel like a world away, Beechwood Resort in Lakefield is a hidden gem worth discovering—with the perfect mix of comfort, reflection, and natural beauty that captures the quiet magic of the Kawarthas that quietly transforms you.

Beachwood Lake Resort—a hidden gem where work, rest, and nature meet.