SIR SAM'S, THE INN FOR ALL SEASONS 

Story and Photos by 
Pamela A. Campbell

Everyone says welcome at Sir Sam's, innkeeper Jim, managers Phil and Chris, receptionists Janice and Arlene, even Golden Lab Cody Brasstacs, a great walking companion. This is hospitality reminiscent of original owner Sir Samuel Hughes at his Eagle Lake summer retreat back in the 1900s.

A scenic two-hour drive from Toronto winds through the resplendent Haliburton highlands and shining lakes hugging the landscape that lead to Sir Sam's, but there's nothing like being together in a cozy room with a fireplace, whirlpool bath and a panoramic view from your balcony that stretches to infinity.

So what will entice you to try Sir Sam's? A gal named Val, Christopher the chef, wine aficionado Phil, and the opportunity to rendezvous with nature.

SPA BOUTIQUE

Val revitalizes your body with her magical fingers. A therapeutic massage sends the recipient into seventh heaven. Think pain and discomfort only in terms of relief as Val cajoles the muscles and sore parts into submission. Besides the stimulation of deep tissue massage and some pressure point emphasis, it's her non-invasive method that's so appealing, especially to novices. And never feel guilty about dozing off - it's a compliment to Val's technique. "It says you are completely relaxed," she reasons.

If herbal body wraps sounds foreign to you, rest assured this treatment will have you singing praises, wishing it never ends! Be prepared to surrender to a solid hour of enjoyment. Beginning with skin exfoliation using a gloved hand to remove dead skin cells, Val applies hot linens soaked in essential oils. This eliminates body toxins, justifying the minor discomfort of an initial blast of heat. I feel like an emerging butterfly once I shed the cocoon of coverings - totally invigorated and soothed to perfection.

Afterwards a quick shower alerts my senses to the warm water gliding over my now smooth body, and oozing relief galore it's back onto the table for the finale - a hand and foot massage, then a stimulating face and neck rub.

Next visit I'll try reflexology, body sugaring, and a rejuvenating facial.

ROMANTIC DINNERS

At dinner the lakeside view wantonly upstages the warm atmosphere of the inn's Twin Fires dining room, but as the light steadily fades, the cuisine of Chef Christopher Baux grabs the spotlight.

My appetite is saturated with a sudden urge to taste every dish, but I can only allow myself to salivate briefly. Table companionship renders selection simple (we agree to share), and so it's Baked Sweet Pepper Risotto Cakes with Pepper Vodka Cheese Sauce and Spicy Corn and Vegetable Chowder for appetizers.

For the romantics at heart, slipping away to the Wine Cellar to find just the right accompaniment for the meal surreptitiously sets the mood for a candlelit dinner. Somewhat like a knight, (minus the shining armor) the gentleman descends the metal spiral staircase to await his lady's gingerly negotiation of the 11 stairs, and voila, he welcomes her into his arms! So it can be fun for couples selecting a bottle from the 50-plus international varieties, and why not?

Attention to the entree list needs culinary devotion to satisfying one's taste buds, and this time they are Baked Cornish Game Hen with Poached Pear and Oka Stuffing in Sauce Maltese, and Pan Blackened Filet of Alabama Catfish with Tomato and Blackeyed Pea Salsa.

Chef Christopher's exquisite wild game presentations are sure to tantalize your taste senses. Appetizers featured Rabbit, Ostrich and Wild Boar, with Deer consommé, and entrees included Yukon Caribou and Quail.

Delectable desserts demand indulgence - White Chocolate Mousse, Expresso Cheesecake, Raspberry Creme Brulee and mouth-watering Chocolate Raspberry Rumble.

BREAKFAST

Appetite warm-ups in the fitness studio or a brisk walk can do wonders for the buffet breakfast and a la carte menu, but Eggs Benedict at Sir Sam's is number one on my scorecard!

ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES

At Gunner's Pub perfect your shuffleboard, darts and billiards, and enjoy Saturday night apres-dinner entertainment featuring live music.

Summertime guests waterski, windsurf, sail, kayak, canoe or swim;. In winter it's skiing (at nearby Sir Sam's Ski Area), skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and dog sledding (Winterdance). Year-round hiking trails beckon, as do a relaxing hot tub or sauna or you can join Phil in the lounge for an informal winetasting session.

FINALE

Innkeeper Jim Orr believes guests enjoy the intimacy of the inn. "The inn can provide that and protect people's privacy at the same time," he says.

Yes, Jim, I agree. Sir Sam's unites indulgence with relaxation, creating harmony for adults who enjoy each other's company. Can I say more?