Gatekeeper's Retreat

4.0 star property
Bed & breakfast in Niagara-on-the-Lake with free breakfast

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Photo gallery for Gatekeeper's Retreat

Terrace/patio
Front of property
Free daily full breakfast
Presidential Room, 1 Queen Bed (The Hermitage) | Living room
Front of property

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
1887 Lakeshore Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0
  • Place, Lincoln & Welland Regimental Museum
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Jackson-Triggs Winery
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Shaw Festival Theatre
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.)
    ‪50 min drive‬

Room options

Royal Room, 1 Queen Bed (The Boudoir)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Signature Room, 1 Queen Bed (The Chamber)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Presidential Room, 1 Queen Bed (The Hermitage)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

About the neighborhood

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Located in Old Town Historic District, Gatekeeper's Retreat is a leisurely stroll from sights such as Lake Ontario and Niagara River Gorge. This 3-room, 4-star bed & breakfast welcomes guests with free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.

What's nearby

  • Lincoln & Welland Regimental Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Niagara River Gorge - 15 min walk - 0.8 miles
  • Jackson-Triggs Winery - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Shaw Festival Theatre - 3 min drive - 1.6 miles

Getting around

  • Niagara Falls, ON (XLV-Niagara Falls Train Station) - 22 min drive
  • Niagara Falls, NY (IAG-Niagara Falls Intl.) - 33 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Garrison House - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪11Th Post On Queen - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Two Sisters Vineyards - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Niagara Oast House Brewers - ‬3 min drive

About this property

Gatekeeper's Retreat

Bed & breakfast in Niagara-on-the-Lake with free breakfast
At Gatekeeper's Retreat, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, a library, and a terrace. Free parking is available if you drive. A multilingual staff is on hand to assist with luggage storage and tours/tickets. This smoke-free bed & breakfast also has a garden.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer free toiletries. Other standard amenities include sitting areas and desks.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily

Things to do

  • Library

Conveniences

  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking

More

  • 3 floors
  • Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3 PM; Check-in end time: 6 PM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests must contact the property for check-in information
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
If you are planning to arrive after 6 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets (service animals welcome)

Children and extra beds

  • This property doesn't allow children 18 and younger (only guests older than 18 are allowed)

Property payment types

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards
Safety features at this property include a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
  • Check-in: 3 PM
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards.
  • Onsite safety features include a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Panache Bed & Breakfast Niagara-On-the-Lake
Panache Bed & Breakfast
Panache Niagara-On-the-Lake
Panache Bed Breakfast
Gatekeeper's Retreat Bed & breakfast
Gatekeeper's Retreat Niagara-on-the-Lake
Gatekeeper's Retreat your personal retreat with panache
Gatekeeper's Retreat Bed & breakfast Niagara-on-the-Lake

Frequently asked questions

Is free cancellation available at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

Gatekeeper's Retreat provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What's there to do near Gatekeeper's Retreat?

This bed & breakfast is situated in Old Town Historic District within a short 13-minute walk of Lake Ontario and also 15 minutes on foot from Niagara River Gorge. You'll also find Shaw Festival Theatre and Peller Estates Winery within a short drive.

Will I be able to park at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the bed & breakfast. Though parking is limited, accessible parking is also available.

Does Gatekeeper's Retreat include a casino on the premises?

No, Gatekeeper's Retreat doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

No, there is no indoor pool at this bed & breakfast.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

Couples staying at this bed u0026 breakfast will appreciate amenities like premium bedding as well as free breakfast and a terrace.

Are there hot tubs at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this bed & breakfast.

Does Gatekeeper's Retreat have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

Gatekeeper's Retreat offers free full breakfasts each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does Gatekeeper's Retreat allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Gatekeeper's Retreat though service animals are welcome.

Does Gatekeeper's Retreat have connecting rooms?

No, this bed & breakfast doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from Gatekeeper's Retreat?

The closest major airport to Gatekeeper's Retreat is Niagara Falls, NY (IAG-Niagara Falls Intl.), which is 20.2 mi away (33 minutes by car). Another top airport is Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF), which is around 28.6 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies at Gatekeeper's Retreat?

No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Gatekeeper's Retreat.

Gatekeeper's Retreat Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 65 out of 65 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 65 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 65 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 65 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 65 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

robert

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Our host David takes tremendous pride and effort to ensure your stay is perfect in every way. Our room and ensuite were appointed with everything we could want. His culinary skills for breakfast was amazing, delicious and just WOW.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Yi-Shu

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I’m extremely happy that I made the decision booking our stays with this amazing B&B at Gatekeeper’s Retreat!!! This is the best B&B experience I have ever!!! Thank you Dave & Jason for the top notch hospitality, everything’s excellent, what a wonderful house and neighbourhood in the gorgeous Niagara-On-The-Lake! The breakfast they offered was truly a highlight of our stays, gourmet and delicious homemade food, very creative!! The location is great, quiet neighbourhood with short driving distance to the historic district. Thank you for everything!!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Scott

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property is beautifully decorated and well cared for. The breakfasts were
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

kenneth

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We had a lovely stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mary-Ellen

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Exceptional hosts. Beautiful house with lovely antiques. Complimentary drinks, treats and coffee. The breakfasts were locally sourced and wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

patric

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
David and Jason were great hosts. Highly recommend this BnB. Accommodations were excellent along with great breakfasts.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Mami

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We stayed at Gatekeeper's Retreat for our anniversary and enjoyed everything! We've told family and friends all about our great experience there and recommended to everyone. The reason why we picked the B&B was because the room looked beautiful and spacious, and also we resonated with the passion the owner, David, has about the breakfast food, using local ingredients and free-range eggs, which we do too, and that he can accommodate food preferences (in our case, gluten-free meal). We stayed in The Hermitage room. Very spacious - it has a entry way with a piano, spacious bathroom, living room with a fire place, dining room with a doorway to the back yard, coffee counter with a mini fridge, and bedroom - all to yourself! All the furniture look elegant, antique, and cohesive. We were able to relax in the room very well. The common library was cool too. We loved the breakfast. It started with a fruit platter, slices of bread, and various kinds of cheese and jam from local shops and followed by the warm meal of the day. We also enjoyed the beautiful table setting and presentation on the plates in the common dining room. All the guests in the B&B will have breakfast together at one dining table. It was a fun and unique experience for us to make new friends and enjoy the meal together with them! Also, David's huge stash of loose leaf tea was so fun to explore! We also enjoyed our morning walk in the subdivision to the lake Ontario and looking at cute houses in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debra

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Beautifully furnished. Jason was the perfect host and his breakfasts were 5 star!! Only negative was downtown metered parking which is out of his control. 😉
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deborah

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Beautiful place to stay. Was made to feel right at home. David was a wonderful host. Would definitely go back. 😊
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Leslie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
What a wonderful stay! David made us feel very welcome. His breakfasts were well thought, delicious, and the presentation was lovely. Our suite was spotless! We look forward to a return visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Alain

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
We really like the hospitality. Spacious room and all. Tastfull decor. Delecious breakfast. All in all a perfect B&B!!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nicholas

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
David was a great host. Breakfast was well planned, tasty and very sociable. Our room was very comfortable and we had access to tea and coffee 24 hrs. Location was perfect for a pleasant stroll into downtown and along the lake, any time of day. Highly recommend Gatekeeper’s Retreat!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Glenda

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

JAN

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carmela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
I would offer a change of pillows, i.e. I would have the option of harder pillows. Other then that , it was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
We had a lovely time and felt so well taken care of. Great food and hosts.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nikki

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Franca

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Gatekeeper Retreat- B&B “keeper”!

David was a fantastic host. The B&B was exceptionally clean throughout and so inviting as soon as you stepped foot inside! David welcomed us in as if we were family. With COVID we were the only couple in the house and had access to the downstairs and upstairs lounge at our will. The soft playing music throughout felt relaxing and added to the ambiance. The best part was being surprised each morning with a full homemade breakfast - it was amazing! David has the skill to create an amazing presentation, the unique dishes we felt were in a fine French restaurant , personally felt we were living the Royal lifestyle! We have been to many B&B’s- this tops them all. Please consider this place- it’s nestled just a few mins from the Old Historic Town of NOTL in a quite area -you won’t be disappointed. Merci David!! We will be back :)
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Great stay at Panache!

Our stay was great. David was an outstanding host. Rooms were comfortable and elegantly decorated. Breakfast were out of this world. Great location, 10 minute walk to NOTL watchtower.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
So much attention to detail that added to the comfort of the stay.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2020

10/10 Excellent

Radhika, Toronto

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It was a great B&B experience. David is a wonderful host and the place is impeccable. The speak easy decor was definitely an experience and the 3 course breakfast is a great addition.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Angela

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

5 Stars is not enough for this perfect gem

This is one of those places to whom you wish could you could give more than 5 stars. The house was a delight, the bedroom was both beautiful (4-post bed!!) and super comfortable, and David was the most incredible host, super helpful and lovely without being overbearing in anyway. The breakfast was a revelation (Sunday Crepe day!) and he was super helpful in giving ideas of where to go in Niagara on the Lake. For sure I will stay here next time I go back.
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2020