
Worlds"prettiest drive" has much to offer...........
It's known as the "prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world."
That's according to none other than Winston Churchill.
When British Prime Minister required a spot to rest and relax during a series of hectic meetings with Canadian Prime Minister Mackenzie King in 1943, he chose a motor trip along the Scenic Niagara River Parkway, a picturesque roadway that meanders through Niagara's lush countryside.
Winston no doubt would be equally enamoured with today's Scenic Niagara River Parkway, a lushly landscaped cluster of hotels and amenities nestled along that pretty roadway and just minutes from the excitement and activities of Niagara Falls.
"The Scenic Niagara River Parkway offers the best of both worlds "says Judy Andrews, Director of Operations for Hospitality Motels, Limited, owner of this tranquil tourism destination.
"Guests enjoy a superb natural setting along the spectacular Niagara River gorge and rapids, adjacent to the Niagara Recreational trail. At the same time, they're just a few minutes from the exciting attractions of Niagara Falls, including the Casino and Maid of the Mist and just a short drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake and many surrounding vineyards."
It's this unique combination of nature and Niagara Falls , as well as outstanding choices in accommodations that keeps guests returning frequently. Using the hotels along this stretch of the Parkway as a comfortable "homebase" visitors can access the leading popular attractions.
The Spanish Aero Car, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory, Great Gorge Adventure and Whirlpool Golf Course are all close-by.
So too are Casino Niagara, The Maid of the Mist, Clifton Hill and of course the Falls themselves.
"Niagara's top attractions are literally right next door, but guests enjoy a secluded, natural setting without the noise and traffic congestion of the Falls" Ms. Andrews says.
Four unique hotels comprise the Scenic Niagara River Parkway. Each has it own natural charm, ambiance and wide selection or rooms and amenities.
The Days Inn North of the Falls is an ideal spot for family holidays, business retreats and of course, honeymooners. Remember, Niagara Falls is still known as the "Honeymoon Capital!"
The hotel offers exceptionally spacious rooms and suites, all equipped with fireplaces. Particular favourites are the deluxe suites with red heart-shaped Jacuzzi baths.
Families and guests can relax after an exciting day at nearby attractions with a swim in the heated pool, a dip in the full-sized whirlpool or a visit to the hotel's sauna.
"Matching the lush natural surroundings, is the hotel's LaDoria Restaurant. Diners enjoy meals in a garden setting, overlooking the mighty Niagara River gorge and rapids. For those seeking to enjoy the natural surroundings firsthand, there's a very popular enclosed outdoor patio for dining" al fresco."
Further along the parkway is another perfect spot to spend a romantic weekend getaway or fun-filled family vacation. The Hampton Inn North of the Falls, overlooks the river's edge and enjoys direct access to the Falls' and many area attractions.
This hotel is truly family-friendly. Kids under 12 stay free and all guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast every day. Full lunch and dinner are also served in the Riverside Garden Restaurant, a perfect spot to unwind after a day full of excursions.
There's a popular indoor swimming pool and separate whirlpool and sauna. Sun seekers enjoy a relaxing visit to the Sun Deck and the kids love the Games Room.
But it's not just families who enjoy the Hampton Inn North of the Falls.
"The Red Heart, Jacuzzi Suites are very popular with couples and honeymooners," Ms. Andrews says. "Some of these suites include a cozy fireplace making it the perfect romantic getaway.
Sharing this ideal riverside location along the Parkway is the third of four hotels that make up the Scenic Niagara River Parkway.
The Comfort Inn North of the Falls is just steps from the banks of the Niagara Gorge, and includes exceptional amenities and accommodations.
"The Comfort Inn North of the Falls combines unbeatable value and rates with an exceptional location of the Comfort Inn North of the Falls," Ms. Andrews says.
After a day at the Falls or in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake or a neighbouring vineyard, guests enjoy a meal in the hotel's Frontier Restaurant, or a refreshing swim in the heated pool.
Fireplace suites with private Jacuzzi baths are also available, and are popular during the Fall and Winter months, when visitors flock to Niagara Falls for the incredible Winter Festival of Lights and other events.
The fourth Member of this scenic quartet is the Best Western Fireside Hotel, also located along the picturesque Parkway. You'll probably guess by the hotel's unique name that there's something very special about this Charming Inn.
Each one of it's hundred tastefully decorated guest rooms has its own private fireplace.
"The Best Western Fireside, with it fireplace rooms and suites has an ambiance unlike any other hotel in Niagara," Ms. Andrews says.
"Honeymooners and couples are big fans of the Best Western Fireside, "she says.
Some rooms offer in-room private Jacuzzis and spectacular river views. There's fine dining in the Rapids Restaurant - with a magnificent Atrium design overlooking the river. An indoor heated swimming pool, whirlpool and sauna round out this complete destination.
With this extensive offering of accommodations and amenities, combined with this picturesque and pretty Parkway locale, the Scenic Niagara River area is a destination unto itself.
"Many of our guests have been returning to these hotels for years," Ms. Andrews says. "They appreciate this corner of Niagara, with its tranquility and lush surroundings plus direct access to the Falls and area attractions."
"Winston Churchill was right all those years ago, this is the prettiest Sunday drive in all the world and with our complement of hotels, we've made this drive even more memorable."