Fells Meadows Review: The Perfect Ontario Retreat To Relax, Reset & Recharge
Looking To Visit Fells Meadows In 2026? Keep Reading For The Full Review!
In this Fells Meadows Review, you will find everything you need to know about this retreat spot.
If you’re craving a quiet escape from the city, Fells Meadows might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Tucked away in the countryside of Northumberland County, this peaceful retreat feels worlds away from Toronto, even though it’s only about an hour and fifteen minutes away.
I recently stayed at Fells Meadows and quickly understood why so many people come here to slow down, reconnect with nature, and truly unwind.
With cozy off-grid cabins, a beautiful yurt, walking trails, and wide-open meadow views, it’s the kind of place that invites you to put your phone away, take a deep breath, and simply be.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend getaway, a solo reset, or a wellness retreat with friends, Fells Meadows offers the perfect setting to relax, reset, and recharge.
In this review, I’m sharing everything you need to know about staying at Fells Meadows—from the accommodations and amenities to what makes this Ontario retreat so special.
Where Is Fells Meadows Located?
Fells Meadows is located in Castleton, Ontario, in Northumberland County, about 1 hour and 15 minutes east of Toronto.
The exact location is 2429 County Rd 25, Castleton, ON K0K 1M0.
In terms of distance, Fells Meadows is approximately 120 km (75 miles) from downtown Toronto.
Set on over 100 acres of meadows, forest, and rolling countryside, it feels wonderfully secluded while still being an easy drive from the city.
The retreat is just a short drive north of Colborne, making it easy to access from Highway 401.
Its location strikes the perfect balance—you’re close enough for a quick weekend escape, but far enough away to truly disconnect and feel immersed in nature.
Who Is The Mastermind Behind The Idea Of Fells Meadows?
Fells Meadows was created by Leslie Fell, who is the founder and guiding force behind the property.
After working in healthcare as an occupational therapist, she shifted her focus toward creating spaces that support slowing down, healing, and reconnecting with nature.
She envisioned Fells Meadows as a place where people could step out of their everyday routines and experience stillness, reflection, and meaningful connection—both with themselves and the land.
Meeting Leslie was a truly lovely experience! She was warm, down-to-earth, and had a calm, grounded presence that immediately put you at ease.
Fells Meadows Review – Accommodations
Fells Meadows offers a mix of stays ranging from a historic farmhouse to off-grid cabins and a safari-style tent.
What ties everything together is the focus on slowing down, simplifying, and creating space to truly rest and reset.
Also, each accommodation offers a different level of comfort and immersion in nature.
So whether you’re looking for a social group getaway or a quiet solo escape, there’s something here to match your travel style.
Here’s a closer look at each space:
Farmhouse
The Farmhouse is the heart of Fells Meadows and the most traditional accommodation on the property.
This restored 1860s home features six bedrooms spread across multiple levels, making it ideal for larger groups, family gatherings, or wellness retreats.
Inside, you’ll find a spacious, fully equipped kitchen, a large communal dining table, cozy living rooms with comfortable seating, and plenty of space to gather or spread out.
While it offers more modern conveniences than the off-grid stays, it still maintains a rustic, countryside charm with original architectural details.
The farmhouse is perfect for group meals, shared conversations, and evenings spent together after a day outdoors. It sleeps 10–12 guests.
Haven on the Hilltop
Perched in a more elevated and private part of the property, Haven on the Hilltop is designed for quiet reflection and uninterrupted views over the valley.
The cabin includes a loft-style sleeping area with a double bed and a simple main-floor lounge space for reading or relaxing.
Large windows bring in natural light and frame the surrounding landscape, making it feel like you’re fully immersed in nature.
This is one of the most private stays on the property and is ideal for couples or solo travellers looking to disconnect.
Guests use the shared Havens’ Hub for cooking, showering, and bathroom facilities. It sleeps 2 guests.
Haven in the Meadow
Set at the edge of an open meadow and forest, this cozy cabin blends simplicity with comfort.
It features a queen mattress in the loft and a pull-out sofa on the main floor.
Also, it has a small workspace that makes it especially appealing for writing, journaling, or creative retreats.
The design is minimal but warm, with large windows that allow you to watch the landscape shift throughout the day.
It’s close enough to the Hub for convenience but still feels tucked away in nature, offering a peaceful balance of accessibility and seclusion. It sleeps 2 guests.
This is the cabin that we stayed in, and we loved it!
White Pine Haven
White Pine Haven is the most minimal and compact of the cabins, offering a true off-grid experience surrounded by tall white pine trees.
Inside, you’ll find a double bed, soft lighting, and a simple layout that encourages slowing down and unplugging.
It’s intentionally stripped back, making it ideal for guests who want to disconnect from distractions and fully immerse themselves in the natural setting.
The shared Havens’ Hub provides access to a kitchen, shower, and compost toilet, keeping the stay simple but functional. It sleeps 2 guests.
Rainbow Haven (Safari Tent)
This safari-style glamping tent offers a unique blend of outdoor living and comfort.
Inside, there is a queen bed, cozy seating, and warm textiles that make it feel inviting while still maintaining a strong connection to nature.
Outside, a small private deck overlooks the trees, making it a beautiful spot for morning coffee.
It’s one of the most atmospheric stays on the property, ideal for those who want the feeling of camping without giving up a comfortable bed. It sleeps 2 guests.
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Fells Meadows Review – Amenities
In addition to its unique accommodations, Fells Meadows features a variety of amenities designed to create a comfortable and restorative retreat experience.
Havens’ Hub
The Havens’ Hub does not sleep guests. It is the shared off-grid service building that supports the cabin and tent accommodations.
It includes a small communal kitchen for preparing meals, a solar-powered shower, and a compost toilet.
The Hub acts as the central point for guests staying in the more rustic accommodations, balancing the off-grid experience with practical comfort.
The Yurt
The Yurt does not accommodate guests (used for gatherings and activities).
It is a 30-foot yurt, which is one of the most distinctive spaces on the property, used primarily for yoga, meditation, workshops, and group gatherings.
Its circular design creates a calming, open atmosphere that feels both grounding and expansive.
With wooden flooring, soft natural light, and views of the surrounding landscape, it’s often used as a space for movement, mindfulness, or creative work.
While it doesn’t serve as a sleeping accommodation, it plays an important role in the retreat experience, especially for group bookings and wellness-focused stays.
Fire Pit Areas
Fells Meadows includes outdoor fire pit spaces where guests can unwind in the evenings under the stars.
It’s the perfect place to gather with friends, roast marshmallows, or simply enjoy the peaceful nighttime atmosphere of the property.
Parking
Fells Meadows offers on-site parking for guests, making arrival simple and convenient.
Parking areas are located close to the main entrances and accommodations, with clearly marked spaces to help ensure an easy and stress-free experience from the moment you arrive.
WiFi
The only area that has Wi-Fi is the Farmhouse.
The rest of the property doesn’t have Wi-Fi available, encouraging guests to fully disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
You do get some service and internet through your phone provider, but it can be spotty.
Fells Meadows Review – Activities
Fells Meadows offers a variety of peaceful, nature-based activities designed to help visitors explore the land, connect with the outdoors, and unwind in a tranquil rural setting.
Chartres Stone Labyrinth
One of the most unique features at Fells Meadows is the Chartres stone labyrinth, tucked into the landscape as a space for reflection and mindfulness.
Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has one winding path that leads to the centre and then back out again.
It’s intended to be walked slowly and intentionally, often as a meditative practice.
The labyrinth is meant to symbolize the journey through life, and it offers a quiet place to pause, reflect, or simply be present.
Whether you choose to walk it with intention or simply admire it from nearby, it’s one of the most peaceful and meaningful spaces on the property.
Medicine Wheel
The Medicine Wheel is a sacred circular space used for grounding, reflection, and connection to nature’s cycles.
It represents balance and harmony among the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of life.
Sacred Truth Tree
The Sacred Truth Tree is another special place within Fells Meadows and serves as a space for ceremony, prayer, and meditation.
Located in a quiet area of the property, this grandmother hickory tree has become a place where guests can sit, reflect, and connect more deeply with nature.
Whether you spend a few moments sitting beneath the tree or stop by during a walk through the trails, it’s a beautiful reminder of the thoughtful intention woven throughout the property.
The Wind Phone
The Wind Phone is a quiet, reflective space designed for visitors to speak their thoughts, memories, or messages into a disconnected phone line that “carries” them into the wind.
It offers a gentle, symbolic way to process grief, reflection, or things left unsaid—making it one of the most meaningful and contemplative spots on the property.
Heart of the Land
Near the centre of the property is an area known as the Heart of the Land, named for its natural heart-shaped path.
It adds to the reflective atmosphere of Fells Meadows and feels like a symbolic centre point of the retreat.
It’s worth taking time to walk through while exploring the trails.
Especially if you’re looking for a quiet place to stop and take in your surroundings.
Fairy Forest
The Fairy Forest is one of the most whimsical parts of Fells Meadows.
This moss-covered woodland trail feels tucked away and magical.
It features towering trees, soft forest floor, and a peaceful stillness that makes it easy to see how it got its name.
Inspired by folklore and the natural beauty of the land, the Fairy Forest feels almost storybook-like.
Wetlands
The wetlands at Fells Meadows are a living habitat that is home to a variety of native plants, birds, and wildlife, making it a beautiful spot for quiet observation and nature photography.
Boardwalks and natural edges allow visitors to explore without disturbing the delicate ecosystem.
In the wetlands, you can listen to the sounds of the marsh and appreciate the seasonal changes that shape this unique environment throughout the year.
Walking Trails
One of the highlights of staying at Fells Meadows is having access to over 100 acres of private land to explore.
Walking trails wind through meadows, forests, and open green spaces.
The trails are one of the best ways to experience the property and take in how quiet and secluded it feels.
Fells Meadows Trail
The main Fells Meadows Trail is a 2.4 km loop with approximately 104 metres of cumulative elevation gain.
It’s a bit more of a climb, but the reward is worth it, with a beautiful viewpoint overlooking the property as well as access to the Stone Labyrinth.
From there, the trail loops through the forest and meadow, offering some of the best views at Fells Meadows.
Pratt View Trail
For something shorter, the Pratt View Trail is a gentle 1.1 km walk that winds past black walnut trees, the yurt, and several of the haven accommodations.
It continues through young red pines along the eastern edge of the property beside open pastureland, where you may even spot cows grazing nearby.
Peepers Trail
The Peepers Trail is a 1.48 km loop through the seasonal wetlands and part of the back ridge.
It’s especially beautiful in spring when the wetlands come alive with peepers, though from fall through late spring the trail can be quite muddy, so waterproof boots are a good idea.
Also, bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be relentless.
Owl Trail and Mid Forest Fairy Trail
Also, there are several connecting trails throughout the property.
Including the Owl Trail, which passes the havens and the yurt on the way toward the Sacred Truth Tree and deeper into the forest.
As well as the Mid Forest Fairy Trail, a short moss-covered trail that feels especially quiet and whimsical.
What To Bring With You To Fells Meadows?
To help you make the most of your stay, here’s a simple checklist of recommended items to pack:
- Waterproof boots or sturdy walking shoes (for trails and uneven ground; will need the waterproof shoes for the Wetlands trail)
- Layered clothing (weather can change quickly)
- Warm socks and indoor slippers
- Rain jacket or windbreaker
- All shower and bathroom toiletries (toilet paper and hand soap are provided)
- Towels (if staying in the cabins)
- Flashlight or headlamp (useful for nighttime walking)
- Reusable water bottle (the tap water is drinkable)
- Snacks and groceries (if you plan to cook)
- Cooler or insulated bag for food storage
- Journal or book for quiet downtime
- Sunscreen and hat (spring/summer visits)
- Bug spray (especially in warmer months); tick spray would be a good idea as well
- Comfortable clothes for relaxing indoors
- Any medications or personal essentials
Keep in mind that the Hub doesn’t have a microwave or a coffee machine. Also, because it uses solar power, you cannot use a hairdryer.
What Are Some Of The Tailored Experiences In Fells Meadows?
Fells Meadows is designed as a fully customizable retreat space, and a lot of the “tailored experiences” are built around how you want to use the land, accommodations, and programming.
Personal & Solo Retreats
Fells Meadows offers quiet, self-directed stays for individuals looking to reset, reflect, or work on creative projects.
Guests can spend time walking the 100 acres of trails, meditating in nature, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings without distractions.
It’s designed for rest, solitude, and personal renewal.
Group Retreats & Gatherings
Also, the property is set up for families, friends, and group getaways, with space for connection and shared experiences.
Groups can rent the farmhouse, cabins, and other accommodations to stay together while still having room to spread out.
It’s commonly used for reunions, celebrations, and restorative group trips.
Corporate & Team Retreats
Fells Meadows is also designed for organizations that want to step away from the office environment.
Teams use the space for workshops, brainstorming sessions, and bonding activities in a distraction-free, natural setting.
The environment is intended to support creativity, collaboration, and deeper connection.
Facilitated Wellness & Themed Retreats
Throughout the year, Fells Meadows hosts or collaborates on guided retreats focused on wellness, creativity, and personal development.
These can include yoga, meditation, healing practices, and structured group workshops led by facilitators.
Programs vary, but the focus is always on reflection, growth, and reconnection with nature.
Custom Nature-Based Experiences
Beyond structured retreats, guests can also tailor their own stay around the land itself.
Using the trails, open meadows, firepits, yurt, and labyrinth for activities like journaling, yoga, group meals, or quiet reflection.
The property is designed to be flexible, so each visit feels unique.
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What Retreats Does Fells Meadors Facilitate?
Fells Meadows offers a rotating calendar of guided, themed retreats led by experienced facilitators.
Soulful Wellness Retreat
This retreat blends guided wellness practices, meditation, movement, and reflective group sessions in a restorative weekend format.
The goal is emotional replenishment, inner clarity, and reconnection with self in a peaceful, natural setting.
Currently, the dates have only been announced for this retreat – June 19 – June 21, 2026. Read more about the Soulful Wellness Retreat here.
Whispers of the Forest (Silent Retreat)
This retreat is designed as a deep silence and nature immersion experience, where participants gather in a circle before entering extended periods of silence.
Much of the weekend is spent quietly on the land, allowing reflection, rest, and inner awareness to unfold naturally.
It’s ideal for those seeking stillness and a mental reset in a supportive group setting.
Love, Loss and Wholeness (Grief & Expansion Retreat)
This retreat focuses on moving through grief in a supported, guided way rather than avoiding it.
Through circle work, reflection, and land-based practices, participants are invited to explore loss and emotional healing while being held in a compassionate group environment.
The intention is transformation and emotional release through presence and connection.
The Dream World (Dream Work Retreat)
The Dream World retreat explores dream interpretation and inner exploration through dreams.
It is designed to help participants deepen their understanding of subconscious messages and use dreamwork as a tool for personal insight and growth.
This retreat blends guided teaching with reflective practice.
Silent Retreat (Guided Silence Experience)
Similar in theme to Whispers of the Fores.
However, this retreat offers a structured silent container with guided opening and closing circles, with silence woven through most of the weekend.
The Work of Byron Katie Retreat (Inquiry-Based Healing)
This retreat is based on The Work of Byron Katie, a structured method of self-inquiry that helps participants question stressful thoughts and beliefs.
The experience is highly reflective and facilitated, combining group work, nature time, and guided inquiry sessions.
Wholistic Wellness Day
A shorter, one-day reset retreat focused on relaxation, grounding practices, and simple wellness tools.
It includes gentle movement, meditation, nature time, and reflective exercises designed to be practical and usable in everyday life.
Awaken the Muse (Creative Retreat)
A creative immersion retreat focused on artistic exploration and reconnecting with creativity through nature.
Participants engage in expressive practices designed to spark inspiration and deepen creative flow.
The Women’s Circle Weekend
The Women’s Circle Weekend is a restorative retreat designed for women to reconnect with themselves, nature, and a supportive community in a calm and welcoming environment.
It blends guided circles, nature time, and optional group activities to encourage reflection, sharing, and personal renewal.
What Is The Living Way Foundation?
The Living Ways Foundation is a Canadian registered charity based at Fells Meadows.
It focuses on healing people and caring for the planet through education, community, and nature-based initiatives.
Its work centres around three main areas: cherishing the land, helping people grow and prepare food, and creating space for wisdom keepers to share knowledge and teachings.
Programs include gardening and food-growing education, community gatherings, and events that support wellness, sustainability, and connection to nature.
Fells Meadows actively supports the foundation’s mission, which is why the property feels so rooted in stewardship, wellness, and community.
Founder Leslie Fell is also the chair of the charity, and her vision for both is closely connected.
FAQs: Fells Meadows Review
Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to staying at Fells Meadows.
Is there heating in the cabins and in the farmhouse?
Yes, both the cabins and the farmhouse at Fells Meadows are designed for year-round stays, and they do include heating.
The farmhouse has full indoor heating, so it stays comfortable in colder months and works well for group stays even in winter.
It features a wood stove in the dining and living area, along with a masonry heater in the kitchen.
Also, new baseboard heaters allow you to adjust the temperature throughout the house, including in each individual bedroom.
The cabins are also equipped with heating, making them cozy and usable even when temperatures drop.
There are quality propane heaters in Haven in the Meadow and Haven on the Hill-Top.
Is there air conditioning?
Two of the farmhouse bedrooms are equipped with window air conditioners.
The main floor typically stays naturally cool even during heat waves due to the masonry construction, and fans are also provided for added comfort.
While the cabins do not have air conditioning, they are designed for airflow with three main-floor windows and additional loft windows that can be opened.
Haven in the Meadow tends to stay cooler thanks to its setting among pine trees.
While Haven on the Hilltop often benefits from a steady natural breeze.
Are kids allowed on the property?
Yes, kids are generally allowed at Fells Meadows, especially when the property is booked for family stays or private group retreats.
Families are encouraged to consider whether the setting and activities are a good fit for their children.
The open land, trails, and outdoor spaces can be wonderful for kids who enjoy nature and exploring.
However, it’s not set up like a typical playground-style resort.
Are dogs allowed on the property?
Dogs are not generally permitted on the Fells Meadows property, since it is primarily a retreat and wellness-focused space with shared natural areas and other guests to consider.
That said, pet policies can sometimes vary depending on the type of booking or specific arrangement.
Therefore, it’s always best to double-check directly with Fells Meadows before planning your stay if you’re hoping to bring a dog.
Keep in mind that there is a supplemental cleaning fee per pet.
What Towns Are Near Fells Meadows?
Here are the main towns near it, grouped by how close they are:
Very Close (5–15 minutes)
Castleton
Castleton is the closest village to Fells Meadows and feels like classic rural Ontario.
It’s very small and quiet, with a handful of historic homes, a church, and peaceful country roads in every direction.
This is more of a “passing through” spot than a destination, but it gives you that authentic countryside feel right away.
Colborne
Colborne is the nearest proper service town, and where you’ll likely go for essentials.
It has cafés, restaurants, a grocery store, and some small local shops, making it super convenient during a stay.
Also, it’s a home to the famous Big Apple roadside attraction, which has become a bit of a quirky landmark for visitors driving along the 401.
Grafton
Grafton is a charming rural village known for its scenic countryside, antique shops, and farm stores.
It has a more “slow travel” feel, with rolling farmland and historic buildings.
If you like exploring small artisan-style stops or country drives, this is a lovely nearby detour.
Short Drive (20–35 minutes)
Brighton
Brighton sits right on the shores of Lake Ontario and feels like a classic small lakeside town.
It’s best known for Presqu’ile Provincial Park. The park offers beaches, hiking trails, and incredible birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
The town itself is relaxed and cottage-country in vibe, with local diners and waterfront views.
Port Hope
Port Hope is one of the prettiest towns in the region, known for its beautifully preserved historic downtown and riverfront setting.
It has boutique shops, cafés, and a strong artsy vibe, making it perfect for a slow afternoon wander.
The Ganaraska River runs right through town, adding to its scenic charm.
Regional Hubs (35–60 minutes)
Cobourg
Cobourg is the biggest and most popular nearby town, especially in the summer.
Its sandy beach and long boardwalk along Lake Ontario make it a major draw for visitors.
The downtown is lively with restaurants, cafés, and events, giving it a nice mix of small-town charm and a more energetic feel.
Campbellford
Campbellford is a peaceful town located along the Trent River, known for its outdoor recreation and access to Ferris Provincial Park.
Also, it’s famous for quirky stops like the giant Toonie monument.
Final Thoughts On Fells Meadows
If you’re looking for a peaceful Ontario getaway where you can truly slow down, reconnect with nature, and take a break from everyday life, Fells Meadows is a special place to do exactly that.
From the cozy accommodations and scenic walking trails to the yurt and stone labyrinth, every part of the retreat feels intentionally designed for rest and reflection.
What I loved most about Fells Meadows is that it offers more than just a place to stay—it offers space to pause.
Whether you spend your time doing yoga, sipping coffee outside your cabin, or simply listening to the sounds of nature, it feels easy to settle into a slower pace here.
Just over an hour from Toronto, Fells Meadows feels worlds away from the city while still being close enough for an easy weekend escape.
Whether you’re planning a solo reset, wellness retreat, or group stay with friends, it’s the kind of place you leave feeling a little lighter, calmer, and more grounded than when you arrived.
