The kitchen patio with its original outside fireplace and Lake Ontario in the background.

Considered one of the best bed and breakfasts in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Grange at Stag Hollow is an old two acre estate right on Lake Ontario in a part of the historic Niagara region that very few visitors ever see.

This century home built circa 1898 was accidentally discovered by the present owners while on a driving tour. Hidden for almost twenty-five neglected years behind locked gates and overgrown trees, the house has been lovingly restored right down to the antique, wide pine plank floors, crown moldings and high ceilings. The spacious light-filled rooms are alive once more with colour, warmth and beautiful antiques.

Your hosts, the Thornbers, have both brought years of professional design experience to this wonderful home. Coupled with the skills and knowledge of local tradesmen and craftsmen, the result has been described by everyone as "breathtaking", "gorgeous" and "unbelievable".

Right on Lake Ontario, The Grange sits above a hollow and creek that shelters the local deer when they leave the vineyards and orchards to drink at the creek. The estate has been known as Stag Hollow because of one deer who always stood on the top of the hill and acted as sentry for the other deer. This lonely sentinel has since disappeared but the deer still occasionally come back to Stag Hollow to drink. A life size bronze statue of the stag now sits on the spot where he always stood. Rub his nose for good luck and sit on his back for a fabulous photo opportunity with the lake in the background.

On clear days there are unparalleled views of the Toronto city skyline. Sunsets extend for 180 degrees across the horizon. Lakers and freighters all pass by on their approach to the world famous Welland Canal and hundreds and thousands of waterfowl migrate by seasonally and amuse guests while diving and performing acrobatically in the lake. There are paths to follow and stone steps to the secluded cove. There is even a secret room that was used by bootleggers and rum runners during prohibition.