4 beautiful Canadian weekend getaways

Weekend getaways are best when you don't have to waste time on a long flight or going through customs, and that's why planning a trip in Canada is ideal. Though it's possible to fly to Florida, the Caribbean or Europe for a few days, taking a shorter flight or even driving to a romantic, peaceful location will leave you with more time to wine, dine and relax.

You don't have to be on your honeymoon to experience the romance of Niagara Falls. You can reach the town that's named for the famous waterfall by driving from Toronto in less than two hours. You can also go by bus, VIA Rail Canada or fly into the airport located in nearby Hamilton. Besides seeing the spectacular falls, you can choose from dining options that range from family diners to high-end steakhouses. Accommodations are abundant here, and also offer a variety of choices, from camping to budget motels, boutique hotels and luxury resorts.

This sprawling nature reserve is set off of Highway 60 and can be reached in car in about three hours from either Ottawa or Toronto. There are several lodges offering luxurious cabins and fine dining in the park. During the day, you can take hikes on guided trails or canoe trips to see old growth trees and wildlife such as wolves, bears and moose.

A weekend getaway to Wolfe Island is just a three hour drive away from Montreal or Toronto, including a ferry trip between Kingston and the island. Flights to Kingston are also available from either of those metropolises and take about an hour. Wolfe Island is the biggest member of the Thousand Islands archipelago and sits right at the beginning of the St. Lawrence River as it flows out of Lake Ontario. Visitors can stay in cottages, bed and breakfasts, cozy inns, guest houses and 19th century hotels. Wolfe Island is known for its outdoor activities, including golf, hunting, fishing, bicycling and birdwatching.

This small town in Manitoba is one of the best locations to view the Northern Lights. You can arrive by plane, with most flights transferring through Winnipeg. In addition to the Aurora Borealis, you'll be able to see polar bears and beluga whales and take a tour of the tundra in a buggy. Many motels, bed and breakfasts and hostels are located in the centre of Churchill, which is set on the western shores of the Hudson Bay.