By Randall Shirley
Canada has become well known as one of the planet’s most gay-friendly destinations. Many mainstream hotels, inns, and B&Bs brand themselves “gay friendly,” but many gay travellers know there’s comfort in staying with other gay folk. Sometimes it’s just nice to be with the tribe.
North Wiltshire, Prince Edward Island – Guest House at Maplehill Farms: Partners Mike Murphy and Paul Smith have ”downsized.” The previous owners of Charlottetown’s magnificent Great George Inn now run a much smaller operation, welcoming gay men to the cottage on their organic farm, about 20 minutes outside Charlottetown.
Montreal, Québec – La Loggia Art & Breakfast: It’s a B&B that’s also an art studio. Hosts Joel Prevost and Rob Ross live in an enviable gay village location, and welcome gay and straight guests. The house is full of magnificent art, and during part of the year the basement doubles as a sculpture studio. Guests are often welcome to observe sculpture lessons in session.
Stratford, Ontario – Hughson Hall B&B: This circa 1875 mansion has a long history with glamour and theatre, not the least of which was Christopher Plummer’s stay in the 1950s. More recently, couple Ross Hodgson and Clinton Hughes transformed it into a sumptuous, all-welcoming B&B. The breakfast is outstanding. The hosts love theatre and will be delighted to discuss the current Stratford Festival season with you.
Dinsmore, Saskatchewan – Pradera House: Call it the gay version of Little House on the Prairie where Vernon Scarff and Gary Guerette welcome all travellers to their B&B. Gary is a Red Seal certified chef, and also a big-time fisherman who’s happy to both cook for guests and take them fishing. Vernon has an onsite hair salon in case the Prairie wind gets the best of your doo.
Whitehorse, Yukon – Inn on the Lake: This magnificent lodge is proof that gays can turn even the wilderness into luxury. Owner Carson Schiffkorn has created a space that gives guests all the comforts of an upscale lodge in a very remote part of the planet –about 35 minutes from Whitehorse. Located on the shores of Marsh Lake, there are no shortage of outdoor activities.
Salt Spring Island, British Columbia – Frog Hollow Guest Cottage: Travellers who are truly ready for a laid-back, West Coast experience will love this cottage, next door to the home of Scott Merrick and Bruce Wallace. Scott is very involved in the local gay community, and has been known to DJ dances on the island. The cottage is a 10-minute drive from Ganges. The guys happily provide directions to other gay-owned businesses on the island.