A French Culinary Escape in Ontario: My Stay at Maison Maitland

Tucked away in the quiet village of Maitland Ontario,  located near Brockville, lies a getaway that feels like a secret slice of France without ever leaving the country. Maison Maitland, a spot where timeless stone architecture circa 1828 has been meticulously restored, meets the charm of cuisine based experiences. Where food lovers can roll up their sleeves in the kitchen, then retreat to luxury. I had the chance to stay in the beautiful Chablis Villa and take part in a Julia Child inspired French cooking class, and it was every bit as amazing as it sounds.

Maison Maitland has quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit destination, recently being awarded the prestigious Travelers’ Choice Award by TripAdvisor, an honour that places them among the top 10% of favourite experiences worldwide. Guests consistently rave about their stays, and the glowing 5-star Google reviews reflect the exceptional hospitality, culinary experiences, and timeless charm that make this getaway truly unforgettable.

Staying in The Chablis Villa feelt like stepping into a boutique apartment somewhere in Paris, except with the bonus of a breeze off the water and exceptional Canadian hospitality. With two bedrooms featuring plush king sized beds, each with its own bathroom, and a fully-equipped modern kitchen, it’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone craving a little extra comfort. The interior of this restored carriage house blends historic character (think gorgeous wood beams) with a curated, modern aesthetic. Details like signature soaps and a charming private patio made it easy to unwind. And yes, waking up to fresh croissants and locally roasted coffee didn’t hurt either.

When my husband and I arrived, we were greeted with a charming “Bonjour Basket,” filled with everything we needed to prepare a meal together in our villa. As part of Maison Maitland’s concierge service, guests can choose from a variety of dinner basket options, as well as dip platters, cheese and charcuterie boards to enhance their stay.

When you’re staying at Maison Maitland, there’s no shortage of things to explore just beyond its doors. A short drive takes you to Brockville, where you can walk through Canada’s first railway tunnel, an illuminated pathway that’s as historic as it is striking. For those who enjoy local flavours, Windmill Brewery and King’s Lock Distillery offer craft brews and small-batch spirits along the St. Lawrence River, while Hall’s Apple Market is a must for fresh seasonal produce and homemade treats. If you’re in the mood for a charming day trip, head to Merrickville, often called “Canada’s most beautiful village,” where boutiques, galleries, and heritage buildings make it feel like stepping into a Hallmark movie set. Cynthia Peters, the warm and welcoming proprietor, also shares curated recommendations for activities and restaurants to help you make the most of your visit. Beyond the villa, you can also visit their website ahead of time to book packages that include spa treatments, yoga classes, or a food tour.

The real highlight of my trip was the hands-on French cooking experience on the Saturday of our stay. The themes change regularly, but the one I joined, “Dinner with Julia Child,” paid homage to the legendary chef who introduced French cuisine to North American kitchens with warmth and wit. Hosted in Maison Maitland’s stunning, state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen, the class was led by owner and chef Cynthia, whose passion for both food and teaching is truly contagious.

Together with a small group of fellow food lovers, we prepped and cooked an elegant multi-course meal including everything from chèvre stuffed mushrooms to chicken ballotine, to decadent potato gratin to seasonal lemon fruit cake. Cynthia walked us through each step, sharing tips, stories, and gentle coaching. Cooking in a restored historic manor house made the whole thing feel extra special and we even left with lots of leftovers to enjoy at home.

Afterward, we sat down and enjoyed the fruits of our labour, paired with thoughtfully selected local wines. It felt less like a class and more like a dinner party with old friends.

Maison Maitland isn’t just a place to stay, it’s a full-on experience. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and reconnect, whether that’s with yourself, your travel companions, or just the joy of good food.

If you’ve ever dreamed of a weekend in the French countryside but aren’t quite ready to hop on a plane, Maison Maitland is the next best thing. It’s romantic, relaxing, and richly rewarding, especially for anyone who finds joy in the kitchen. They also offer a variety of other themed cooking classes so be sure to visit their website and check them out. 

Whether you’re a Julia Child fan, a foodie, or simply someone in need of a rejuvenating retreat, this charming corner of Ontario offers a little taste of France right at home and is a perfect getaway for couples or friends.