Taboo Resort Conference Centre

Overworked and completely stressed out, my boyfriend decided I finally needed a vacation. Mini vacation that is, just to get my senses back in line. And to completely indulge ourselves, we chose Taboo resort - go big or go home kind of deal :-)

It’s a beautiful sunny morning and we hit the road with excitement and my latte in the cup-holder. Two hours later, exiting the highway onto a tree line road, we arrive to the resort. I can’t wait to see the rooms.

The staff welcomes us with huge smiles and shows us 2 rooms to choose from. First one was a more expensive suite with living room, kitchenette and more traditional furnishings. The other one in the newly renovated block, ultra modern room, not a suite, but the balcony and view made my heart sing. Sold. I absolutely loved the décor, it just added onto the whole luxurious experience. I don’t even unpack and go immediately on the tour around the property.

Situated right on the lake, the resort consists of the main hotel building, cottages and townhouse condominiums, some of which are privately owned. The landscape around is immaculate, beautiful flower beds are very well maintained. Four swimming pools are spread around the property, some of them offering semi private environment. Multiple tennis courts, playgrounds for kids, beach volleyball area and boat rental facility to enhance your experience with fun activities. Main swimming pool with the bar was my ultimate favourite and it was blocked off of the winds, offering very peaceful atmosphere.

Because we were visiting in the off season, the boat house restaurant was still closed. We took a walk through the patio and I am sure on a nice summer day it must be heaven. Boat rental underneath it, was very well kept and clean. We booked a tour on the boat to see the surrounding cottages of the lake. So beautiful. Who wouldn’t fall in love with Canada in places like this? I just need to start making some serious money to afford a lifestyle like that ;-) …

Spa facilities were located in the “still to be renovated” block. Strangely placed in what used to be hotel rooms, it didn’t offer the whole complete spa experience, though the individual services were great. We got the couple’s massage in the room with the view of the lake, so tranquil and calming, it’s hard to wake up and get back onto your feet. Manicure & pedicure lady was really nice, very professional and friendly. The best pedicure I ever had. (the polish lasted for over 3 weeks)

During the evenings we got to enjoy the two different restaurants. Our “Culinary Theatre” dinner was amazing. Sitting at the bar overlooking the two chefs working their magic right in front of you in one intimate setting is worth coming here on its own. Delicious 5 course dinner included meats like venison, crab, tuna, sushi, topped with amazing sweet sampler at the end. Every course accompanied by a selection of the finest wines matched the taste and flavours of the meals.

The second dinner was a simple steak dinner that I was looking forward to for a while. Perfectly cut meat, cooked to my liking, very flavourful and with the jus I didn’t even miss my béarnaise sauce. Romantic dinner by the window overlooking the lake through the tree crowns. Heavy rain just added on the drama of the whole experience.

Before and after our dinners, the lounge bar area is a perfect place to sit down and relax. Breathtaking view in a 90 degree glassed floor to ceiling windows may have something to do with it.  If you visit this place make sure to say hello to Herb(ie), the funny and very accommodating bartender that saves the night. Because of the lack of night entertainment, he is the only thing you are left with and he makes sure he makes up for it. They do have piano-players couple nights a week which is really nice but unfortunately very short. They end the shift around 11pm. I suppose most guests like to go to bed early to catch the morning fog over the lake.

Sad day arrived for our departure, and my credit card experienced a strong hit in the face. All worth it though one thing we missed was the bike ride through the nature trails. Apparently it’s something one needs to do to actually appreciate the place. I thought I appreciated this place quite a bit without it, but at least I have another reason to come back and outdo my first experience.