Canada’s luxury hotel market is by no means short on options, but sometimes an apartment or house rental just makes more sense. Whether on account of amenities, location, hosting space, or other variables, a private rental can often make travel feel more grounded in a destination. What you trade away in terms of services (housekeeping, room service, etc), you gain back in terms of privacy, space, and more. Canada’s major cities are chock full of interesting Airbnb listings, and after a deep dive into the markets of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver, we’ve compiled a respectable list of SHARP-approved stays. From high design in the downtown core, to stunning west-coast cottagecore, these refined residences will make you reconsider your usual hotel hotspots.
Toronto – Yorkville Oasis
Learn More
Situated in Toronto’s bustling Yorkville neighbourhood, this luxuriously appointed home is tucked away on a quiet side street, providing a serene sanctuary in an area where you’re otherwise relegated to luxury hotels like Toronto’s Park Hyatt or Four Seasons. Instead of being cloistered in a hotel room or suite, this listing offers three large guest bedrooms, and plenty of sprawling living space throughout, including a full gourmet kitchen. That said, the large back terrace really seals the deal — perfect for quiet fall evening drinks or weekend barbecues.
Vancouver – Prime Location Penthouse
Learn More
A high-level penthouse in Vancouver’s downtown core with panoramic views of the city and the North Shore mountains, AND a hot tub? It’s hard to go wrong here. Those views are clear on both levels of the two-storey penthouse unit, so even if it gets a little chilly out there you can still enjoy that iconic West Coast scenery. The unit itself is also reasonably well kitted out, with a king-size bed in the primary bedroom and a deep, free-standing soaker tub in the primary bathroom.
Halifax – Cozy Custom Laneway Loft
Learn More
Simple yet refined, this Bauhaus-style one-bedroom standalone loft places guests right between the waterfront and the city’s vibrant North End, with easy access to all that Halifax has to offer. Its design reminds us of the potential that laneway houses have when done right, and its perfect five-star rating makes it clear that the real-life experience more than lives up to its professionally-shot listing imagery.
Toronto – Ossington Custom Home
Learn More
Another example of excellent design work, this home rests right around the corner from the buzzing foodie-friendly nightlife of Ossington street. It boasts a private terrace off of each of the home’s bedrooms, heated floors in the primary bathroom, a charming open-plan kitchen, and dedicated driveway parking, which isn’t always easy to find in neighbourhoods like this.
Vancouver – Waterfront Living in Deep Cove
Learn More
Rather than locking oneself in the city, why not take a bit more breathing room and settle into the peaceful serenity of Deep Cove? Located a relatively short drive into Vancouver’s downtown core, it’s hard to say no to a tastefully designed home on the waterfront, especially one with open-air living space and a hot tub to soak in after a long day in the city. Though the dock pictured belongs to the neighbours, water access isn’t an issue, and the unit has a pair of kayaks should you be feeling adventurous.
Calgary – Luxurious Executive Lodge
Learn More
If not for the high rise tower seen through the window, you’d be quick to assume this exposed-beam lodge is nestled somewhere in the Rockies far away from any urban centre. Welcome to Scotsman’s Hill, situated just across the river from Calgary’s famed Saddledome and a quick drive (or Uber) into the downtown core. Surrounded by foliage on all sides, this fantastically appointed home provides all the space and comfort you need, without sacrificing on location.
Toronto – Downtown Loft With Character
Learn More
Aren’t office conversions grand? This downtown Toronto loft might not have outdoor space, but in trade its bright windows, 12-foot ceilings, sweeping city views, and charming design choices will easily make up for it. Wedged between Queen Street West and King Street West, the building is also just up the street from Toronto’s recently opened Waterworks Food Hall, which is packed with creative dining options.
Vancouver – Modern 2-Level Penthouse
Learn More
With high-end finishes throughout, this modern downtown penthouse is an easy sell, especially if your priorities include a great view and close proximity to Vancouver’s Rogers Arena. In true west-coast fashion, this modern unit also offers exceptional outdoor space, including a full outdoor kitchen, a gas fire pit, and a custom-built jacuzzi.
Cape Breton – A True Escape
Learn More
Unlike our other selects, Cedar Peak Chalet is the kind of thing postcard dreams are made of. Perched on a hill overlooking both the Atlantic Ocean and the inlet of Grand Étang, this spectacular modern A-frame chalet evokes dreams of digital detox, creative rejuvenation, and the ability to simply escape one’s all-encompassing daily grind. Though remote, the property is very well equipped, and a community grocer is just up the road so you don’t have to worry about packing in everything you need from the next town over.
Toronto – Warehouse Design, Refined
Learn More
Talk about the best of both worlds; this rental property screams industrial warehouse conversion, yet its outer shell is actually an old Toronto Victorian nestled on a quiet side street in the Annex. The 1,800 square-foot home was designed with a focus on its cohesive industrial look, rather than an attempt to maximize rentable space, which is incredibly rare for the city. Lounge by the fireplace, whip up a quick meal in its efficient chef’s kitchen, or head out and explore the neighbourhood’s charming shops and galleries. You won’t be disappointed by this local gem.
All imagery courtesy of Airbnb, with permission from rental owners.
