Penny's Motel is a boutique stay in Ontario that's a new destination to escape to near Toronto this winter.

Located just a short 15 minute drive from Blue Mountain Village in the idyllic small town of Thornbury, is also close to the mountains if you're planning a winter ski vacation.

The reimagined roadside motel is the perfect home base for your winter getaway.

Upon approach, Penny's old-school marquee looks like it has been up since the '70s, even advertising "color tv". It's not until you enter the parking lot that you notice its unique mix of modern and vintage design accents, with pops of colour peeking through the slatted fence.

Drawing on inspiration from Liz Lamberts hospitality Bunkhouse Group, you'll notice boho-chic elements in shades of pastel and nature tones flowing throughout the property.

The courtyard has a central fire pit, string lights, music, and colourful accents which highlight its character geared towards adventure.

"Inspired by our surroundings and vibe of the '70s, we designed our property in a way that would promote adventure and relaxation," reads the motel's website.

The 14 colourful motel rooms each have their own unique art and wallpaper.

My visit to Penny's Motel

Penny's has made checking in and out as seamless as possible. With no need to visit a front desk, I was sent my room info and key code electronically prior to my arrival.

The rooms are all uniquely designed with different wallpaper and decor. My king suite felt like it was hand-selected for me, with a tropical accent wall and matching pink throw pillows, blanket, and lounge chair.

Our king suite was full of natural light and a bright tropical accent wall.

Despite the blanket of snow outside, the room was so cozy yet spacious, with all the amenities you'd need for a staycation including a small work desk, blackout blinds, a Nespresso coffee maker, smart TV, and fast WiFi.

However, the bathroom deserves its own accolades. With a rainfall shower head, colourful teal tiles, luxury towels, and even Malin & Goetz products, Penny's spared no expense.

My favourite part? The heated floors, which I admittedly spent way too much time raving about, especially after a day of cold toes on the ski slopes.

The bathroom was unexpectedly luxurious, with a rainfall shower head, Malin & Goetz toiletries, and heated floors.

The courtyard was also a vibe in itself, with a central fire pit blazing to the sounds of a curated playlist softly humming songs of wanderlust and adventure.

Later, we wandered over to check out the Après Snack Bar, which combines a lobby, café and bar all in one.

The bar's sleek wooden furniture fits the retro aesthetic of a traditional front desk, but here you can order freshly brewed coffee and espresso, signature cocktails, local craft beer, or wines served by the glass or bottle.

The onsite Après snack bar has a selection of cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as pizza, oysters, charcuterie and more.

It also serves a small offering of snacks and tapas, including a selection of pizza, chips and guac, and oysters. The bar is open daily from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Sundays for brunch.

There is also a heated après hut just outside the snack bar with additional seating if you have a larger group, complete with a disco ball, throw blankets, and neon signs.

Outside the snack bar, you'll find an additional heated après hut with more seating, blankets, and even a disco ball.

The motel is ideally situated away from the traffic of Blue Mountain, but close enough that you can still see the mountains in the distance. It's also a quick drive or 10 - 15 minute walk into the heart of Thornbury, where you'll find charming boutiques, vintage shops, restaurants, and cafes.

The Après snack bar and outdoor hut are open daily from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., and on Sundays for brunch.

Besides the obvious winter sports offered at Blue Mountain, there are a number of other ways to embrace the season in the area. Head to the Scandinave Spa to indulge in the Nordic baths, or follow the Apple Pie Trail for some delicious apple-based treats.

Penny's is located just a quick 15 minute drive from Blue Mountain Village, where you'll find countless winter activities, restaurants, shopping, and more.

Rooms at Penny's Motel start around $125 and up per night, depending on date and room type. You'll find Penny's at 141 King St E in Thornbury, and you can book online.