Heydays

May 11, 2024

KBdesigned Explores the Culinary Delights of Sauble Beach at Heydays 

KBdesigned, pursuing the most exceptional wine, food, and travel experiences, turned its attention to the enchanting Sauble Beach. This locale, renowned for its awe-inspiring sunsets and vibrant culinary scene, was the perfect setting for our exploration. At the heart of this adventure was our discovery of Heydays at The June Motel, a hidden gem of a restaurant that has been delighting patrons for four exciting seasons. 


Nestled along the picturesque shores of Sauble Beach, Heydays restaurant at The June Motel is kicking off its fourth season with a buzz of excitement and anticipation. This fast-casual dining spot, renowned for its inventive coastal classics and nostalgic beverages, is the perfect backdrop for relaxation and culinary exploration. 


Heydays offers an elevated yet comfortably casual dining experience. The indoor-outdoor setting, with sunbaked colours and bohemian touches, reflects The June Motel's laid-back yet stylish vibe, making it a destination like a live Pinterest board. 


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This season, Heydays continues to impress with its focus on seafood, bringing to the table delicacies like the East Coast Oysters—praised for their delicate, briny flavour and a shock of freshness that converts even the most skeptical into fans. The menu doesn't stop there; it features a variety of must-try dishes, including the Charred Broccoli Caesar, loaded with the perfect char and topped generously with shaved parmesan, and the signature Hot Lobster Roll, a delightful mix of tender lobster meat and crisp lettuce tucked into a buttery, toasted bun. 


Introducing new dishes like the herbed falafel torta, a fresh take on traditional flavours packed into crispy vegetables and tangy tahini in freshly baked bread, adds to the allure of the season. For a sweet finish, the key lime parfait remains a crowd favourite, embodying the essence of summer with each spoonful. 


The June Motel offers a sanctuary away from the mundane work routine. Featured in Netflix's "Motel Makeover," this motel has transformed from a 40-year-old property into a chic, Instagrammable haven under the stewardship of moteliers April Brown and Sarah Sklash. 


Heydays isn't just about dining; it's about the entire experience. This season, guests can bask in the summer sunshine with rosé wine frozé and upbeat vibes, perfect for those lazy, sun-drenched afternoons. Additionally, the newly launched Heydays cookbook allows fans to recreate their favourite dishes at home, bringing a piece of Sauble Beach’s culinary magic into their own kitchens. 


As we embrace another promising season at Heydays, the restaurant invites locals and tourists alike to indulge in a gastronomic journey that promises more than just good food—it offers a momentary escape to a place where summer never ends. Whether seeking a quick getaway or a sumptuous meal, Heydays at The June Motel is your go-to spot this summer. Through the eyes of KBdesigned, it's clear that Heydays epitomizes the blend of fine dining and casual beachside flair, making it a must-visit for any culinary adventurer. 

 

Introducing the Gigi’s Dining Series

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A winter night in Sauble Beach becomes something special at Gigi’s Dining Series. Our experience at A Night in India featuring Chef Dhrumil Shah with elevated flavours, warm hospitality, and shared plates.
A group of lions walking along a paved road in Kruger National Park with safari vehicles stopped beh

Lions of Kruger National Park

January 19, 2026
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Inside Costa Rica’s Legendary Oxcart Workshop

January 19, 2026
Some places you visit while travelling stay with you long after you leave. Not because they are polished or modern, but because they carry generations of skill, patience, and pride in every detail. This traditional oxcart workshop in Sarchí, Costa Rica, is one of those places. Sarchí is widely recognized as the birthplace of Costa Rica’s iconic painted oxcarts. Originally built to transport coffee beans from the Central Valley to the coast, these carts became rolling works of art. Over time, they evolved into one of the most recognizable symbols of Costa Rican identity. Walking into this workshop feels less like entering a museum and more like stepping into a living chapter of the country’s history.
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A Visit to Refugio Animal de Costa Rica

January 18, 2026
A visit to Refugio Animal de Costa Rica and a reflection on wildlife rescue, rehabilitation, and the impact of human development.

What Elephants Taught Us

January 6, 2026
Over the course of four unforgettable safaris through Kruger National Park, we had the rare opportunity to witness something extraordinary. Elephants simply being elephants. Wild, free, and deeply connected to one another. We stayed at the remarkable Shalati The Train on a Bridge, a luxury lodge uniquely perched over the Sabie River. From our elevated view, we watched herds pass beneath us. Calves stayed close to their mothers while elders stood watch, scanning the horizon with quiet authority. It was here, between early morning game drives and golden hour sightings, that the idea for this short film first took shape. In our new video, Giants of Kruger A Journey with Elephants, we bring together moments captured across all four trips. These are intimate glimpses into the daily lives of these remarkable animals. You will see mothers carefully guiding newborns across dry riverbeds. Young elephants learning to use their trunks through play and trial. Families caring for one another in ways that feel deeply familiar. And the commanding presence of matriarchs leading the herd with calm confidence. What stayed with us most was the elephants’ sense of community. In their world, a calf is never raised alone. Aunties, cousins, and older siblings all play a role in nurturing and protection. Their family structure is built on patience, empathy, and instinctive support. Our time in Kruger reminded us of the power of connection. Between animals. Between people. And between the wild places we all have a responsibility to protect. 📽️ Watch the full video now on YouTube: Giants of Kruger: A Journey with Elephants Whether you are a wildlife lover, dreaming of an African safari, or simply in need of a few quiet minutes in nature, we hope this story stays with you as it has stayed with us.

Where French Tradition Meets the Beach | Café Gilou at The Sands Hotel

January 6, 2026
A refined French dining experience arrives at Sauble Beach. Café Gilou opens at The Sands Hotel, bringing Brittany inspired cuisine, thoughtful cooking, and quiet elegance by the lake.

Experience Winter Magic at Sauble Beach: Snow, Adventure, and Cozy Retreats

March 1, 2025
When most people think of Sauble Beach, they picture sun-soaked summer days, sandy shores, and vibrant beachgoers. But those in the know understand that Sauble Beach transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a completely different kind of adventure—one filled with fresh snowfall, thrilling winter sports, and cozy escapes that make the most of a great Canadian winter.

Opening Night at Clementine’s- Sauble Beach

January 25, 2025
Last night, the Sauble Sands Hotel welcomed its culinary partner, Clementine’s , a restaurant destined to become the next best addition on Lakeshore. Brought to Sauble by the same talented crew that gave us Heydays at The June Motel—Freddy and Katie Laliberté — Clementine’s drew a packed house of eager guests excited to experience this latest standout destination. The ambiance set the tone for the evening. With window seating, stunning design, and the buzz of lively conversation, the atmosphere struck a perfect balance. Every table was full, the bar seating completely occupied—a clear sign that Sauble is ready for another exceptional dining establishment.

Highview Food & Drink

November 2, 2024
From start to finish, each dish at Highview Food & Drink offered something unique and memorable. This cozy gem in Southampton is ideal for anyone looking to enjoy carefully crafted food in an intimate setting. Whether stopping in for a quick drink at the bar or savoring a full meal, Highview delivers a dining experience that’s both charming and flavorful.

Turquaz Balloons Over Cappadocia: A Fairy-Tale Flight & Perfect Landing!

October 7, 2024
A Magical Morning: Early Rise & Anticipation Our adventure begins in the early hours of August 15, 2024, with a wake-up call at 3:45 am. Sleepy-eyed but filled with anticipation, we gather with fellow travelers, sharing the excitement for what's to come. Cappadocia, with its unique blend of historical villages, tall fairy chimneys, and valleys painted in the hues of the sunrise, is a place that inspires wonder. And what better way to see it than from the sky? As the sun starts to peek over the horizon, the preparations for takeoff begin. You watch as the vibrant turquoise balloon takes shape, coming to life in the dim light. The burners roar to life, and the balloon gently lifts, revealing a sense of adventure as the landscape below starts to unfold. Gliding Over Cappadocia: A Sky Full of Beauty As the balloon ascends, Cappadocia's dreamlike scenery comes into full view. Below, the rocky terrain stretches out, with ancient villages and surreal rock formations known as “fairy chimneys” standing tall like mythical guardians of the land. The Love Valley, with its whimsical, spire-like formations, appears almost otherworldly, like something out of a storybook. The tranquility of the flight is spellbinding. Suspended in the morning sky, you’re enveloped by the colors of dawn—soft pinks, golds, and oranges. The world feels quiet and peaceful as you glide through the air, offering the perfect vantage point to soak in the natural beauty and rich history of Cappadocia. A Flawless Finish: Precision and Skill in the Sky The highlight of the flight, however, isn’t just the awe-inspiring views—it’s the masterful landing that’s nothing short of perfection. As the journey comes to an end, your heart races with anticipation as the pilot, with a keen eye and steady hand, maneuvers the balloon with incredible skill. The landing site? A truck trailer! With gentle precision, the pilot sets the basket down squarely on the trailer, bringing the flight to a flawless and exhilarating conclusion. This remarkable landing showcases the expertise of the Turquaz Balloon team, adding an exciting and memorable finale to an already incredible experience. The thrill of the adventure is matched only by the skill and professionalism of the crew, leaving you with a newfound respect for the art of ballooning. Why Choose Turquaz Balloons for Your Fairy-Tale Flight? If you're searching for a travel experience that combines natural beauty, ancient history, and a touch of magic, a flight with Turquaz Balloons over Cappadocia is a must. With stunning views that will take your breath away and a level of precision in flight that leaves a lasting impression, this is not just a balloon ride—it's an enchanting journey that you’ll cherish forever. So join us, soar through the skies, glide over Cappadocia's mystical landscapes, and witness a landing that will have you applauding. Don’t miss this visual feast of nature and history from a vantage point like no other!