A WEEKEND FOR TWO IN BELLEVILLE
FOR $500
Looking to plan a weekend getaway for two without breaking the bank? I’ve got the inside scoop on the perfect couple’s weekend getaway with a $500 budget. Get ready to join me, an avid tourist in my own backyard, and my travel partner-in-crime, aka bae, as I share our adventure in the Bay of Quinte region!
It’s time to rediscover unique experiences and hidden gems – we’re headed to the charming city of Belleville, filled with drool-worthy foodie spots, picturesque walks, small-town charm and unexpected discoveries!
Written by Rosalyn Gambhir
Read time: 4 min
A little cherry on top: book two nights and stay in the Bay of Quinte from January 8th to March 31st and we’ll sweeten the deal with a $50 gas card (make it $100 if you book for three!). Click here to learn more about the promotion and book your stay.
FRIDAY: CHECK IN & DINNER
Key card in hand, I’m unlocking the door to our hotel room where we’ll be spending two nights, and get this, it’s only about $250 on average. Ready or not, weekend, here we come!
Now that we’re settled in, it’s time to treat our taste buds to a little party at none other than my absolute favourite foodie spot, The Lark. Brace yourself for a drool-worthy experience with their rotating seasonal menu. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on the brown butter gnocchi and beef cheek pappardelle—they’re absolute must-tries. And the grand finale? A rich dark chocolate torte with dulce de leche that’s basically a slice of heaven.
After satisfying our bellies, it’s time for a well-deserved beauty sleep to prepare for a day of exploration!
SATURDAY: MORNING STROLL & EXPLORING DOWNTOWN
Rise and shine, lovebirds! We picked a hotel with complimentary breakfast included, so we’re going to fuel up here for our day full of adventures. We’re kicking things off with a scenic 2.75 km stroll along the Kiwanis Bayshore Recreational Trail, soaking in the waterfront views and that refreshing winter air. Pro tip: start at Jane Forrester Park for easy access and ample parking.
It’s lunchtime! We’re taking a quick recharge break at L’Auberge de France, a charming French-inspired bistro, where fresh buttered croissants and in-house smoked salmon croissant sandwiches steal the show along with their lattes. But that’s not all! I was genuinely impressed with their lineup of unique sandwich options, a variety of French pastries (so hard to just pick one), and a gourmet spread featuring imported cheeses, charcuterie, take-home meals and wine. Bon appétit, my love!
Retail Gems & Artsy Finds
Ready to uncover some gems with us in downtown Belleville? I’m always on the hunt for new spots to add to my shopping list. Our first stop, visiting Boretski Gallery featuring vintage pieces, followed by my favourite Pure Honey Boutique for the latest women’s trends and bae’s newest find Park Provisioners Barbershop & Haberdashery for a one-stop shop for men’s style.
Art lovers, this one’s for you! Don’t skip Gallery 121, a non-profit co-op gallery serving up new exhibitions every six weeks and the John M. Parrott Art Gallery, supporting local, national, and international artists since 1973. Looking for unique artisan finds? Bazaar Artisan Market is where the talent of the local creative community shines. And if home décor and antique vibes are calling your name, Funk & Gruven A To Z was a treasure trove of one-of-a-kind furniture, fixtures, paintings, and memorabilia.
Local Foodie Favourite
After a day of exploration with bae, we head back to freshen up at the hotel and cap off the day with a foodie adventure to Toro Sushi, a local gem that comes highly recommended by the Belleville community, before returning to the hotel for a well-deserved rest. What a day it’s been!
SUNDAY: PACK UP AND DREAM OF THE NEXT ADVENTURE
With Sunday morning vibes, a chill hotel breakfast is in order before loading up the car because I’ll be passenger princess while bae drives us home.
Don’t forget to take advantage of the Bay of Quinte’s sweet deal offering free gas for stays between January 8 and March 31, 2024 to stretch your budget even further. Count us in! Pack your bags, check out the details here and let’s hit the road for our next adventure!
About the Author
I’m a daydreamer, a foodie, an adventurer and an explorer. But most of all, a tourist in my own backyard looking for the next exciting adventure in Kingston, Ontario and surrounding areas!
Visit rosalyngambhir.com for Rosalyn’s blog and social media links.
