Categories
Cottage Life

Top-rated vacation rentals in Canada that families love

Finding a family-friendly rental that meets all of your needs can be tough. You need a place that can keep the kids entertained, while also letting the adults get some much-needed R&R. These family-friendly cottage rentals offer an abundance of both.

From water toys to high chairs to swingsets, these cottage rentals tick all the boxes. The most taxing part of the trip will be deciding whether to book a mountain retreat, a place to lounge dockside, or somewhere offering outdoor adventures.

Either way, these rentals are sure to satisfy guests of all ages.


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Nestled on Sproat Lake, this cottage rental offers a wade-in beach and a 1,200-sq.-ft. dock perfect for swimming. Take advantage of the pool table and foosball in the games room.

“Stunning home and property! In spite of a rainy, cool weekend we had an incredible family get-together! The house, entertainment area, and yard exceeded our expectations! So much to do for all ages!” wrote Warren and Donna P. in their review of the Stirling Arm Lakehouse.

Location: Sproat Lake, B.C.

Price: Averages $1,555 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Barbecue available for use
  • Propane fireplaces
  • Putting green

Click here to book


 

With seven bedrooms and nine bathrooms, this cottage rental feels like you’re staying in your own private lodge. Located on the shores of the Somass River on Vancouver Island, kids can fish and swim, or take a dip in the heated, in-ground pool.

“Lovely private getaway for a family retreat,” wrote Christina M. about the West Coast River Lodge.

Location: Port Alberni, B.C.

Price: Averages $1,463 per night

Sleeps: 23

Bedrooms: 7

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • In-ground, heated pool
  • Outdoor sauna and hot tub

Click here to book


 

Only one hour from Toronto, this cottage rental offers a slice of paradise on Lake Simcoe. Take advantage of the local restaurants, boat rentals, and 18-hole golf course, all within a 10-minute-walk.

“We had a great time at the lake house. We were there with our family of six, kids aged 3 to 10, and two dogs. It was relaxing and comfortable,” wrote Dina K. about Big Bay Point Cottage.

Location: Big Bay Point, Ont.

Price: Averages $765 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Kayak available for use
  • Pets welcome
  • The renter must be at least 35 years old

Click here to book


 

Surrounded by 2.6 acres of a secluded forest, this vacation rental is a great spot for kids to explore and adults to relax. Have a campfire under the stars, head to nearby Deerhurst Highlands Golf Course, or explore Arrowhead Provincial Park.

“It’s a very nice place to stay with family. It’s clean and has everything you need. There are lots of lovely trails around. The host is very considerate and lovely,” wrote Shena X. in her review of Forestview Cottage.

Location: Huntsville, Ont.

Price: Averages $500 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Barbecue available for use
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Outdoor hot tub

Click here to book


 

Retaining its historic charm with modern comforts, this cottage rental is perched on a two-acre lot that is big enough for yard games, bonfires, and even a round of baseball. Plus it’s a short trip to nearby Cavendish Beach.

“We had a wonderful stay. Four adults and three kids slept comfortably, and everything you could want to do is very easily accessible from the house,” wrote Janet B. about Tenmile House Cottage.

Location: Tenmile House, P.E.I.

Price: Averages $450 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Barbecue available for use
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • High chair and toys available for kids
  • The renter must be at least 25 years old
  • Security camera on site
  • The owner lives on the property

Click here to book


 

This luxurious Muskoka cottage is located on a private island in the middle of Gloucester Pool Lake and is accessible by bridge. It has cathedral ceilings, a games room for the kids, and 180 feet of pristine waterfront.

“Rick’s place was just amazing. It’s in a sublime location and the property was perfect for our group. There were plenty of opportunities to relax, have fun on the water, and enjoy the great outdoors,” wrote Christine J. about her stay at Gloucester Pool Cottage.

Location: Severn, Ont.

Price: Averages $690 per night

Sleeps: 13

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Located on a private island
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Barbecue available for use
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Canoe, kayaks, and pedal boat available for use
  • The renter must be at least 35 years old
  • Security cameras on site

Click here to book


 

With a view of the iconic Whistler ski hills, this vacation rental is a secluded mountain retreat. Enjoy the vaulted ceilings, wraparound deck, and outdoor hot tub, or take the family into Whistler Village to check out the local shops and restaurants.

“The house was perfect for our group of nine. It was well equipped, roomy, and the views were even better than the description,” wrote Madeline W. about Nighthawk Lane Cottage.

Location: Whistler, B.C.

Price: Averages $1,136 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Bicycles available for use
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Sauna on site
  • Barbecue available for use
  • High chair and travel crib available for kids

Click here to book


 

Retreat to this mountain lodge for your next family gathering. The rental features 10 bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. There is a billiards room and hot tub for downtime with the family.

“It was a blast. Our family enjoyed our stay at this property. The staff were friendly and willing to help, and the place’s soundproofing made it a great place for the kids to sleep without having them wake up one another. Everything was well stocked and there were plenty of rooms to share,” wrote James C. in his review of Lorimer Ridge Lodge.

Location: Whistler, B.C.

Price: Averages $1,080 per night

Sleeps: 24

Bedrooms: 10

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Sauna on property
  • Books for kids
  • The renter must be at least 25 years old

Click here to book


 

This open-concept cottage is perched on the shores of Lake Muskoka amongst 150-year-old pine trees. The cottage features a playscape for kids, a massive dock for swimming, and a horseshoe pit in case the family gets competitive.

“The cottage is beautiful with tons of space! Waking up early to see the sunrise was worth it. The lake was really nice. Barbecuing while the sun sets was also a joy. They have a little playground that my son enjoyed,” wrote Ray N. about Lake Muskoka Cottage.

Location: Gravenhurst, Ont.

Price: Averages $275 per night

Sleeps: 7

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Playscape and swingset available for kids
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Guest fee of $65 per night for each extra adult after the first two renters
  • No extra charge for children under 12 years
  • The renter must be at least 25 years old

Click here to book


 

This pet-friendly cottage rental comes with all the boats you need to explore Oxtongue Lake. Kids can play in the shallow shoreline or relax in the property’s hammock. And if you’re looking for a family adventure, Algonquin Provincial Park is only minutes away.

“My family and I enjoyed a great week at Freddie’s. Our grandchildren loved the beach and spent many hours playing in the water. The adults enjoyed using the paddle boards and kayaks to explore the lake. The cottage is stocked with everything you need and Will is a great host,” wrote Jim V. in his review of Oxtongue Lake Cottage.

Location: Algonquin Highlands, Ont.

Price: Averages $500 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Internet included
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Travel crib available for kids
  • Canoe, kayaks, and paddleboards available for use
  • Pets welcome
  • Bunkie is available May through October

Click here to book


 

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Categories
Cottage Life

If you value privacy, you’ll love these Thousand Islands getaways

Cottages in the Thousand Islands easily rival its central Ontario neighbours. The area, perched on the picturesque shores of the St. Lawrence River, is home to over 1,800 islands with many bordering the U.S.

If you’re looking for outdoor adventure consider a boat cruise along the St. Lawrence or a dip in one of the area’s surrounding lakes. It’s the ideal place to hike with over 50 kilometres of trails. If the outdoors isn’t your thing, shopping and fine dining are only a 30-minute drive away in Kingston.

If you do choose the Thousand Islands for your cottage getaway, make sure to visit the soaring turrets of Heart Island’s Boldt Castle and the Gothic architecture of Dark Island’s Singer Castle.

Thirty minutes from Kingston, the newly renovated Grippen Lakehouse offers 2,000 square feet of living space, vaulted ceilings, and a wraparound deck with serene lake views.

Location: Grippen Lake, Ont.

Price: Averages $367 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Lakefront property
  • Canoe and kayak available for use
  • Pets welcome
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Guests must remove their own garbage at checkout

Click here to book


 

With a view of the Thousand Islands bridge connecting Canada to the U.S., Sunset Cove is the perfect island getaway offering shoreline access to the St. Lawrence River.

Location: Ivy Lea, Ont.

Price: Averages $295 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Located on an island, you need to take a boat or taxi to access
  • Pets welcome
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Steep stairs, ill suited for those with limited mobility

Click here to book


 

Perched on the Bateau Channel, this Howe Island cottage is the perfect getaway for sightseeing and boat tours.

Location: Bateau Channel, Ont.

Price: Averages $563 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Accessible by ferry
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Kayaks and canoe available for use
  • Linens and towels not provided

Click here to book


 

Nestled in a quiet cove on Birch Island on Bobs Lake, this cottage is accessible by boat. It is the perfect wilderness retreat with 640 kilometres of shoreline to explore.

Location: Birch Island, Ont.

Price: Averages $185 per night

Sleeps: 9

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Launch your boat and park your car and trailer for free at the marina.
  • Kayaks, canoe, and paddle boat available for use
  • Cottage is accessible by boat only
  • Guests need to bring their own drinking water
  • Linens and towels not provided

Click here to book


 

Another Bobs Lake property, this cottage has16-foot high ceilings and comes with two bunkies—enough room for the entire family. Throw in a basketball court, hot tub, and boats, and you’ll never be bored.

Location: Bobs Lake, Ont.

Price: Averages $1,003 per night

Sleeps: 15

Bedrooms: 6

Notes:

  • Lakefront property
  • Kayak and canoe available for use
  • Pets welcome
  • Hot tub
  • Basketball court on the property
  • Two bunkies (one is a treehouse)
  • Cottage is on an island

Click here to book


 

With 10 acres of property and 500 feet of western exposed shoreline, privacy is not a problem at the Lazy Loon Lakehouse. Enjoy the 50-foot deck, hanging hammock chair, or crisp waters of Wolfe Lake.

Location: Wolfe Lake, Ont.

Price: Averages $530 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Lakefront property with western exposure
  • Kayaks and rowboat available for use
  • A/C
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Towels not provided

Click here to book


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Here are the top things Canadian families are looking for in a cottage rental

These days, many families are booking vacations closer to home—especially at cabins or waterfront cottages. The right cottage rental can comfortably accommodate an entire family, and it often comes equipped with all the amenities and extras that make their stay fun and memorable. 

If you own a vacation home and are looking to make some bonus income, it can pay to know what amenities and features renters are looking for, so that you can be sure to add the right details to your Vrbo listing and make any needed improvements. A property that checks all (or most!) of the below boxes will get booked more quickly, and for a higher nightly rate. 

Here are the key features Canadian families are looking for in a vacation rental:  

A modern, charming property

Canadian renters on Vrbo are booking renovated cottages, chalets, and cabins that offer modern amenities like WIFI and air conditioning, but with a rustic twist. Things like check and plaid textiles, wood finishes, and stone fireplaces can create a cozy look that’s preferred for rural getaways. Charming décor and seasonally appropriate home accessories can go a long way in improving your rental’s overall appeal. 

Group-friendly spaces

Compared to hotels or resorts, vacation rentals can offer families ample privacy and more space. Everyone can have their own bedroom and/or bathroom, and features like bunk beds and parking for multiple cars can be a big draw. 

For big groups and extended family bookings, particularly sought-after amenities include a well-equipped kitchen for meal prep, and a dining area that’s big enough to seat everyone comfortably. So if you’re advertising a property that sleeps 10, make sure to have enough dining chairs and a table that can fit the whole group!

Popular seasonal amenities

In winter, renters are looking for seasonal amenities like outdoor hot tubs and indoor fireplaces. Looking ahead to the summer months, they may filter their search for properties with features like waterfront access, an outdoor grill, or a private swimming pool. The more amenities you can offer, the more likely your listing will show up in the search results. And by listing with Vrbo, you can ensure those amenities—whether it’s a hot tub or a king-size bed—are front-row centre through filters that help the right renters find you.  

Points of attractions nearby 

Based on popular search terms, in winter many Canadians want a rental close to a ski hill. Generally, your Vrbo listing should highlight any nearby points of interest and tourist attractions, seasonal and year-round. For example, is your cottage close to a provincial park or historical site? Or are there great hiking trails or a public skating rink within walking distance? Be sure this information is advertised in your listing. 

A convenient location

A convenient location is very important for would-be renters; for example, many prefer a vacation rental with a grocery store or food nearby. In your listing, do mention the property’s proximity to grocery stores, shops, and restaurants. Plus, you may want to indicate typical travel times to the cottage from major urban centres, especially if it’s close to a major highway or through route and can be accessed quickly and easily.

Thinking of listing renting out your cottage this season? Open your door to rental income by listing on Vrbo.

Categories
Cottage Life

Charming ski chalets for rent near Mont Tremblant that are perfect for families

Location: Lac Dufour

Price: Averages $650 per night

Sleeps: 5

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Paddle boat and paddle board available for use
  • Indoor sauna
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Eight minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Labelle

Price: Averages $320 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Internet included
  • 25 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur Village

Price: Averages $600 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Eight minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort
  • No pets allowed

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur

Price: Averages $566 per night

Sleeps: 5

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Pool access
  • Max 4 adults
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • No pets
  • Six minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur Village

Price: Averages $459 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Shared pool (closed for winter)
  • Semi-detached property
  • Kayak and canoe available for use
  • Internet included
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • 10 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Mont Tremblant

Price: Averages $375 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Less than 2 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Charming ski chalets for rent near Mont Tremblant that are perfect for families

Location: Lac Dufour

Price: Averages $650 per night

Sleeps: 5

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Paddle boat and paddle board available for use
  • Indoor sauna
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Eight minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Labelle

Price: Averages $320 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Internet included
  • 25 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur Village

Price: Averages $600 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Eight minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort
  • No pets allowed

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur

Price: Averages $566 per night

Sleeps: 5

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Pool access
  • Max 4 adults
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • No pets
  • Six minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Lac Superieur Village

Price: Averages $459 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Shared pool (closed for winter)
  • Semi-detached property
  • Kayak and canoe available for use
  • Internet included
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • 10 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Location: Mont Tremblant

Price: Averages $375 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Hot tub
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Laundry on site
  • Internet included
  • Less than 2 minutes from Mont Tremblant Resort

Click here to book


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Cottage rentals in Muskoka with a hot tub

Location: Lake of Bays

Price: Averages $615 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 5

Notes: 

  • 15 minutes from Algonquin Park
  • ATV and snowmobile rentals offered nearby
  • Pets allowed
  • Two and a half hours from Toronto

Click here to book

Location: Rebecca Lake

Price: Averages $710 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Central air and central heating
  • Laundry on site
  • Canoe, kayak, and three paddle boards available for use
  • Two and a half hours from Toronto

Click here to book

Location: Muskoka River

Price: Averages $675 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Central air conditioning
  • Laundry on site
  • One hour and 45 minutes from Toronto

Click here to book

Location: Lake Vernon

Price: Averages $617 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Canoe and kayak available for use
  • Cedar plank sauna
  • Laundry on site
  • Includes dishwasher
  • Two hours from Toronto

Click here to book

Location: Clear Lake

Price: Averages $714 per night

Sleeps: 16

Bedrooms: 6

Notes:

  • Laundry on site
  • Dishwasher included
  • No pets allowed
  • Less than three hours from Toronto

Click here to book

Categories
Cottage Life

Waterfront cottage rentals in the Kawartha Lakes under $300 a night

Location: Balsam Lake

Price: Averages $250 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Canoe and kayak available for use
  • Laundry on site
  • Less than two hours from Toronto

Click here to book

Location: Fenelon Falls river

Price: Averages $275 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Canoe, kayak, and paddleboards available for use
  • Laundry on site
  • Air conditioning
  • Pets welcome

Click here to book

Location: Sturgeon Lake

Price: Averages $285 per night

Sleeps: 7

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Aluminum boat with paddles available for us
  • Bunkie with a queen bed available for an additional fee (see pictures)
  • Propane barbecue (propane supplied)
  • Dock can accommodate up to a 24-foot boat

Click here to book

Location: South shore of Balsam Lake

Price: Averages $200 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • No pets allowed
  • $500 refundable damage deposit
  • Lots of parking

Click here to book