Recreational enthusiasts discovered the Temagami region at the end of the 19th century. The area was highly valued by sportsmen and canoeists, because of its great beauty and abundance of wildlife. Such interest sparked many tourist developments, one of which was the Temagami Inn. Built in 1905 by the Temagami Steamboat and Hotel Company, the 3-story hotel was once a grand luxury resort that could accommodate 200 guests. Temagami Inn eventually became the Temagami Lodge we know today. The original Inn was one of Ontario's largest log buildings and stood on the island until it was destroyed by fire in 1980. The old Billiard Hall is now the main house at Temagami Lodge; other historical remnants still exist on the property as well. From the days of Temagami Inn to the present day Lodge, one thing remains the same – your vacation satisfaction will be ensured with the warm hospitality that guests have enjoyed on our property for over 100 years.

A Note from Lesley

Please allow me to take a moment to tell you the story of how we came to be on this adventure…the adventure of owning Temagami Lodge. Perhaps I’ll begin with some introductions.

My husband, Brian, has more than 2 decades of experience in the hospitality industry and holds a degree in Commerce from the University of Guelph’s School of Hospitality & Food Administration. It seems that coming to own Temagami Lodge was just a natural progression for Brian given his talents and abilities. I, too, have some experience in the hospitality industry, but with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Queen’s University and a Master of Social Work Degree from the University of Toronto, my formal education is in the field of mental health. It seems that coming to marry Brian was just a natural progression given my talents and abilities (being blessed with infinite patience doesn’t hurt either). When at the Lodge, you’ll find me on the dock in the morning, coffee in hand, and back again at sunset…this time with red wine.

Currently, Brian and I live in Southwestern Ontario where Brian owns a restaurant and I work as a therapist and program manager in the field of mental health. We are newlyweds and although we do not yet have children, we have a dog named Sparky who is very much the third member of our family. Originally a wandering vagabond, Sparky gave up her penchant for travel and decided to choose Brian and I as her owners. Always soliciting affection, you’ll find Sparky looking for accommodating hosts. She loves treats and hates squirrels - especially the ones who laugh at her. But enough about us, you’re probably more interested in learning about how we came to be here.

In 2003, my parents had been vacationing at Temagami Lodge for about 10 years. They fell in love with the area and introduced me to it; immediately, I was hooked. The following summer my family and I, along with some friends came to the Lodge for a week’s vacation. I was excited to come, but disappointed because my then boyfriend, Brian, wouldn’t be able to join us and I wouldn’t be able to introduce him to this special place. However, part way through our week, Brian surprised us all (except for Paul, former owner, current friend & neighbour, who was instrumental in Brian getting here!) when he joined us for a few days. The surprises didn’t end there. On his last night in Temagami, Brian proposed to me on the Temagami Lodge bridge. As you can guess, I said “yes” and a short while later we made the decision to become the new owners of the Lodge.

The rest of this story is still unwritten. We hope that you will help us write the next chapter by being our guests. We look forward to meeting you and hearing your own stories of why this place is so meaningful for you.

Fondly,
Lesley Hoffman

A Note from your host

Hi, I’m Judi and I have the distinct pleasure of being resident hostess and Temagami Lodge Manager; I also have the distinct pleasure of being Lesley’s mother, which by default, means that Brian is my son-in-law (I’m not really sure what Brian ever did to deserve such a wonderful mother-in-law, something I remind him of often). Having the opportunity to play hostess at Temagami Lodge was my dream the moment I first set foot on the island. A true Northern girl at heart, I’ve been working my way northward my whole life.

As you can tell, Temagami Lodge has certainly become a family affair. My husband, Dieter, is even part of the mix. His favourite pastime is looking for things to fix. In fact, Dieter seems to be the only person who doesn’t relax while at the Lodge – or perhaps it’s possible that puttering about is his idea of paradise. Also known as ‘The Bassin’ Assassin’, Dieter (and his boat) have already made a name for themselves on the Lake.

Temagami Lodge, with its laid-back lifestyle, natual beauty, fresh air and clear water has become my idea of heaven. Come join me and experience Temagami for yourself.

Judi