Welcome to Chartwell Hilldale

Experience a welcoming, scenic retirement lifestyle rooted in culture and connection in Thunder Bay.

Chartwell Hilldale is an independent living retirement residence located in Thunder Bay’s Port Arthur district. Nestled in a peaceful country setting surrounded by birch trees, our residence boasts stunning views of the Sleeping Giant and Mount Baldy—an inspiring natural backdrop to everyday life. Though serene and tucked away, we’re also conveniently close to city essentials. Just minutes away, you'll find big box stores, shopping centres, cozy cafés, and many places of worship, blending rural charm with urban convenience.

Our independent living lifestyle is designed to support your well-being and independence. Enjoy three wholesome, chef-prepared meals daily in our inviting dining room, plus 24-hour access to a snack bar for added flexibility. Weekly housekeeping and laundry services keep daily life maintenance-free, while around-the-clock emergency response offers peace of mind. Should your needs change, we also provide personalized support services, including medication management, and help with daily routines—all tailored to empower your independence.

Vibrant community life in a beautiful setting

When you're not relaxing in your spacious studio, one-, or two-bedroom suite—complete with in-suite storage and a kitchenette—you’ll find plenty of opportunities to stay active, connected, and fulfilled. Our inviting residence features tastefully decorated spaces designed for comfort and social connection, including a library, indoor water feature, crafts and games room, billiards area, and bright sunrooms. Outdoors, enjoy our peaceful rural surroundings with well-tended gardens, a gazebo, and a spacious deck—perfect spots to gather with friends, read a book, or simply take in the view. Residents also benefit from a lively activity calendar curated by our Lifestyle & Program Manager, featuring exercise classes, movie nights, creative workshops, live entertainment, and group outings that reflect the unique spirit and preferences of our community.

Personalized support for your peace of mind

At Chartwell Hilldale, your well-being is always our top priority. We offer a wide range of independent living services designed to simplify daily life and enhance your comfort—from weekly housekeeping and laundry to 24/7 emergency response services that provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Need a little extra support? Our caring staff can assist with medication management, help with your morning and evening routines, and other personal care services tailored to your individual needs—all while respecting your independence.

You’ll also enjoy the convenience and comfort of our dining services, which include three delicious, nutritious meals daily in our dining room and 24-hour access to a snack bar. Whether you're looking for support, flexibility, or simply the freedom to enjoy each day, our goal is to help you live a worry-free, fulfilling lifestyle in a welcoming community.

Chartwell Housekeeping Lady making bed and chatting with the Chartwell Senior residence
The dining room of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence Interior view of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence The Bistro of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence Activity room at Chartwell Hilldale Retirement ResidenceThe Lounge of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence The living area of a suite in Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence The kitchen of suite in Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence Exterior view of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • The dining room of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • Interior view of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • The Bistro of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • Activity room at Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • The Lounge of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • The living area of a suite in Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • The kitchen of suite in Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence
  • Exterior view of Chartwell Hilldale Retirement Residence

Flexible care and support

To ensure personalized support, our Care Assist program—an offering of à la carte wellness services and all-inclusive care packages—further provides you with the flexibility to add or remove services. This empowers you to create a customized care plan that meets your unique needs, preferences, and abilities so you can feel your best each day.

Understand our support and care optionsUnderstand our support and care options
Chartwell staff is assisting senior male resident walking down an aisle / Le personnel de Chartwell aide un résident âgé à marcher dans l'allée

Care Assist in Thunder Bay at Chartwell Hilldale

Wondering what types of care services are available at Chartwell Hilldale? Chartwell’s Care Assist Program is designed to help you or a loved one achieve the comfort and quality of life you desire in your retirement residence. We collaborate with you or your loved one to provide a customized care experience that reflects your unique healthcare needs, from light to moderate to heavy care. Visit our Care Assist page to explore our various à la carte services and care options.

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circle made up of an assortment of care service icons

The dining experience

At Chartwell Hilldale, our chefs create a wide variety of menu items highlighting fresh, seasonal ingredients to appeal to your tastes and dietary requirements. Enjoy carefully prepared classic entrées, homemade salads, soups, and desserts, and freshly-made snacks. If you would like to host your friends and family for a meal, you can book our private dining room or invite a guest to join you in the dining room as well.

Discover our menus and dining servicesDiscover our menus and dining services
Carrot soup in a bowl with carrot, crouton and basil garnish

Take a closer look at the lifestyle at Chartwell Hilldale.

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Senior couple holding each other close smiling

Activities and amenities

Our residents tell us that having an array of activities and amenities right in the residence is a decided advantage of senior living. At Chartwell Hilldale, you can see live entertainment in one of our comfortable common areas. Nurture your creativity with a craft workshop, do some light gardening or stay active with a senior fitness class. Our gazebo is a popular gathering spot, or you can meet a visitor in the lounge or bistro for a cup of coffee and conversation. We are the only retirement home in Thunder Bay to have its own authentic and relaxing sauna too!

  • Chartwell Residence Ladies enjoying cup of Coffee in dinning room
  • Chartwell Residents enjoying the game of Billiards
  • Senior ladies chatting and enjoying painting

A selection of inviting suites

Starting from $3,707/month

Our well-appointed private suites say, “Welcome home.” Choose from three different types of independent living suites, specifically designed for seniors: we have studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites, each with a kitchenette. These suites are pet-friendly, so your furry or feathered friend can accompany you.

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Senior living in Thunder Bay

Chartwell Hilldale is located at the north end of Thunder Bay, tucked onto quiet Hilldale Road in Port Arthur and framed by green space. While our residence offers the charm of country living, it’s also close to the city’s many services and amenities, including healthcare facilities, banks, restaurants, and public transit. Many of our residents appreciate that Hilldale Lutheran Church is our next-door neighbour. Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Hospital are both a 10-minute drive away.

Things to do in Thunder Bay

The small city of Thunder Bay—perched at the top of beautiful Lake Superior—has a wide range of venues and attractions for seniors and families to enjoy. Take a scenic drive to the accessible trails overlooking the spectacular Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park (perhaps with a stop by one of the area’s amethyst mines) or take in the grandeur of the waterfall at Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. Prince Arthur’s Landing is a wonderful place to watch the bay’s sailboats and cruise ships, and, of course, see the famous Sleeping Giant rock formation. Red River Road is a popular destination for its many independent restaurants featuring fresh local ingredients, as well as the site of the European-style Goods & Co. Market. Visit the Centennial Conservatory to treat yourself to a little tropical escape right in the city. Connect with friends at the local senior community centre, the Thunder Bay 55-Plus Centre, just down the road from our residence.

Shopping for retirement homes?

There are many important factors to consider when trying to find the best retirement community for yourself or a loved one. Practical considerations like location, cost and the right support or care services for your unique needs, emotional considerations like how the residence made you feel and your interactions with staff, and so much more. Read our helpful guide today for questions to ask during a tour, topics to discuss with family, and how to make a decision you can feel confident in.

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Senior couple in the background holding tiny home in the foreground

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the benefits of senior living at Chartwell Hilldale?

    Chartwell Hilldale offers a scenic and supportive retirement lifestyle in Thunder Bay, where peaceful surroundings, cultural connection, and personalized services come together to create a warm and welcoming home.

    Here’s what sets us apart:

    • Breathtaking Natural Setting: Nestled in a quiet country setting, enjoy stunning views of the Sleeping Giant and Mount Baldy—an inspiring and calming backdrop to everyday life.
    • Cultural Connection: With deep roots in Thunder Bay’s Finnish community, our residence fosters a strong sense of heritage, familiarity, and belonging.
    • Spacious Private Suites: Choose from studio, one-, or two-bedroom suites with in-suite storage and kitchenettes designed for comfort and independence.
    • Engaging Lifestyle Programming: From fitness classes and creative workshops to live entertainment and outings, our vibrant activity calendar offers something for every interest.
    • Beautiful Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: Relax in our bright sunrooms, library, crafts room, or venture outside to enjoy our gardens, gazebo, and scenic deck.
    • Convenient Dining and Daily Services: Enjoy chef-prepared meals, 24-hour snack access, weekly housekeeping, laundry, and round-the-clock access to staff for peace of mind.
    • Urban Convenience Meets Tranquility: Located near shops, cafés, and places of worship, Chartwell Hilldale blends rural charm with city accessibility.
    • Proudly Canadian: Trust in a Canadian company committed to delivering compassionate service, community connection, and the highest standards in retirement living.

    At Chartwell Hilldale, you'll find an inspiring place to call home—where community, comfort, and care come together. [Book a Tour]

  • Will I lose my independence when I move to a retirement residence?

    Not at all! Retirement living is designed to enhance your independence and freedom by relieving you of household maintenance and responsibilities. You’ll enjoy a variety of meal options and meal plans, life-enrichment activities, as well as the freedom and choice to come and go as you please. With retirement living, you are empowered to focus on the people and pursuits that matter most to you.

  • How much does it cost to live in Chartwell Hilldale?

    Pricing details can be found in the 'suite plans' section of our website. It is essential to note that costs can vary depending on several factors, including the residence's location, the type of suite you choose, and the level of care services required. Given these variables, we believe it's crucial to offer personalized guidance to help you understand the pricing for residences in your desired area.

    To ensure you have a clear understanding and to guide you through the pricing of our residence, our dedicated representatives are at your service. We strongly encourage you to give us a call at 1-855-461-0685, fill out our contact form, or book a tour for a more personalized discussion.

  • What types of suites are available in Chartwell Hilldale?

    You can explore our suite layouts by navigating to the "Suite Plans & Pricing" section of our website. To see a suite you're interested in for yourself, we invite you to book a tour.

  • Can my family come and visit me?

    At Chartwell, we understand the value of staying connected to family and friends. Your loved ones are always welcome to drop by at our residences! We also host events throughout the year to help you stay connected with them.

    For more specific inquiries, including overnight stay policies, please reach out to your specific residence of interest.

  • Are pets allowed?

    Yes! Our retirement residence is pet-friendly, and residents are responsible for the care of their loyal companions. We strongly encourage you to book a tour to ask about pet-specific restrictions.

  • Can I decorate my suite?

    Yes! We want you to feel comfortable and at home in your new space. Feel free to personalize your suite with your favourite furniture, artwork, and cherished belongings that reflect your personality and style.