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.


Still searching for your next vacation rental? Visit our rental hub powered by VRBO.

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

How to handle cottage rental security deposits for guests and hosts

Renting out your cottage comes with a certain level of risk. Whether it’s a hole in the wall, a chewed couch thanks to the guest’s canine companion, or a ruined septic system from someone flushing the wrong items, you can wind up with some expensive repairs. That’s why many hosts introduce security deposits.

How does a security deposit work?

Security deposits are designed to protect hosts against damages caused by guests. In most cases, the host collects a security deposit from the guest before the stay and refunds the money after checkout, assuming the property’s in good shape.

Bill Dobbs, who runs Muskoka Cottages by Marlene, a property management company that handles a number of cottages in Muskoka, says he only uses security deposit funds on major damage, not on minor incidents, such as broken dishes.

“One of the big ones is garbage left behind. We require all our renters to take all their garbage, and if they leave it behind, we’ll take that off their security deposit,” he says.

Security deposits also act as a deterrent against bad behaviour. “I have family that have a separate rental. They don’t collect a deposit, and they tend to get more parties,” Dobbs says.

Typically, the amount collected for a security deposit depends on the size of the property, but Dobbs says he lets the owners of the cottages he manages determine the amount. On average, he’ll collect $3,000 to $3,500 for the security deposit.

How do you collect a security deposit?

Dobbs advertises his rentals through his own booking website, rather than through a rental listing website, claiming the booking giants take too large a percentage of the profit. This means he’s in charge of managing his own security deposits. To collect the security deposit, Dobbs puts a hold on the guest’s credit card throughout the stay. This hold is released seven days after checkout. During that time, he can alert the guest to any damage and charge their credit card.

What are security deposits used for?

Throughout his time managing cottage rentals, Dobbs says he’s never collected a guest’s full security deposit, only the amount necessary to cover the damage. “Last summer, we had a dog chew on a door frame. So, we had a repair guy come out, fix it, and whatever he charged is what we took off the deposit,” he says.

Collecting a security deposit can come with issues—one being unhappy guests. “We’ve had people say that I’m not allowed to take money off their credit card, or that they’ll phone their credit card company and charge me,” Dobbs says. This occurs in instances when guests feel they’re being unfairly charged for damages. That’s why Dobbs clearly outlines the role of the security deposit in the renter’s terms of agreement and only collects for legitimate damages.

But not every host is as diligent as Dobbs. From a guest’s perspective, sending an additional thousand or so dollars on top of the booking fee can leave you feeling vulnerable, especially if the security deposit isn’t sent through a booking platform. If you’re e-transferring the money to the host, you have no recourse for getting that money back.

How do security deposits work with Airbnb and VRBO?

This is an issue that even the major booking platforms grapple with. To help balance the power between guests and hosts, Airbnb introduced Aircover back in May. It’s a free, comprehensive protection policy that ensures guests aren’t cheated out of their rental or have to pay any extra fees. Airbnb doesn’t allow hosts to charge guests a security deposit unless the host manages their listing through Airbnb’s software. The host can then communicate how to submit the deposit through the offline fees feature.

Aircover also covers hosts. Airbnb offers hosts up to $1 million USD in damage protection, including pet damage and deep cleaning. Hosts have 14 days after checkout to file a damage claim against a guest through their resolution centre (hosts are not allowed to request other fees through the resolution centre). The guest has 24 hours to respond to the reimbursement request. If the guest declines or ignores the request, Airbnb will follow up with the guest and host to mediate the situation.

VRBO takes a more traditional route. The booking platform provides hosts with three options: either the host can keep the guest’s credit card on file, having 14 days after checkout to file a damage claim; the host can ask for an upfront refundable security deposit, paid back to the guest 14 days after checkout if no damage claim is filed; or the guest can purchase property damage protection, an optional insurance policy that covers damages caused by the guest.

The property damage protection insurance offers three policies: pay $59 for $1,500 of coverage, $79 for $3,000 of coverage, or $99 for $5,000 of coverage.

As a guest booking through VRBO, if you feel the host has unfairly charged you for damages, you can dispute the charge by contacting customer service. Similar to Airbnb, the booking platform will contact both you and the host, requesting additional documentation to verify the host’s claim.

If used appropriately, security deposits add an extra layer of protection to the rental process. As a guest, just make sure you read the fine print and understand what circumstances cause you to forfeit your security deposit. And, if possible, make sure you send the security deposit to the host through a booking website so that the money can be traced.

As a host, be upfront with the guest about why you collect a security deposit and how much you collect.

“For the most part, I don’t take money off anyone unless there is a real reason to do it,” Dobbs says. “I’m not trying to make money off of the security deposits.”

Categories
Cottage Life

Cottage real estate region: Lac du Bonnet

Lac du Bonnet and the rivers to which the lake is connected (the Winnipeg, the Bird, and the Lee) lie about 100 km northeast of Winnipeg. Tucked between Lake Winnipeg and Whiteshell Provincial Park, this transitional area offers lots of variety: part former agricultural prairie flatland, part rocky Precambrian Shield. 

The picturesque Still Cove and Bird River areas are coveted for their access to the bigger lake though they are on quieter adjacent waterways. Overall, there are only a few water-access sites; nearly all properties are accessible by road. A hydroelectric dam to the northwest keeps water levels fairly constant. 

Cottagers take their pick of recreation: 60 km of waterways for boating; summer and winter fishing for pike and walleye, including a thousand-hole ice-fishing derby; birdwatching (prairie and boreal species reflect the area’s diversity); a vast network of snowmobile trails; and three golf courses. The towns of Lac du Bonnet and Pinawa in the southern part of the region offer med­ical facilities, grocery stores, and other ame­nities. There is also a marina at a private campground on the lake.

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Cottage Life

Wine country meets lakeside living at these Kelowna cottage rentals

Nestled in the breathtaking Okanagan Valley, Kelowna’s unparalleled natural beauty paired with its connection to some of Canada’s oldest and most-awarded vineyards, make it the ultimate cottage country destination in Western Canada.

The city itself has plenty to offer—Kelowna is home to a vibrant downtown, plenty of farm-to-table restaurants, and some of Canada’s freshest markets. You can even take on Kelowna’s wine trail to sort out for yourself what’s truly the best of the best when it comes to Canadian wine. 

Just steps from the downtown core you’ll find Okanagan Lake. Is there a better way to finish off a hot summer hike than relaxing by the lake with a cool glass of white wine from the valley? With access to over 40 wineries and stunning views of Okanagan Lake, these five cottage rentals offer the best of Kelowna living.


Book your next vacation rental today on our rental hub powered by VRBO.

Tucked into the west side of the valley, this Kelowna cottage is a 25-minute drive to the city’s downtown—far enough to get away from it all, but close enough to take full advantage of the city’s many amenities. You can explore the lake by rowboat or kayak and sate your hunger later with some evening grilling on one of the cottage’s two decks.

Location: West Kelowna, B.C.

Price: Averages $390/night

Sleeps: 6 (Max 5 Adults)

Bedrooms: 3 

Notes:

  • Rowboat and kayaks for use
  • Balcony and patio
  • Barbecue
  • Internet
  • Laundry on-site

Click here to book on VRBO


 

This chic Kelowna cottage also sits on the west side of the Okanagan Valley. It has three different decks, so you can take in the sunrise from different vantage points. Best of all, it’s only a five-minute drive from the Lake Okanagan Resort where you can go to enjoy a round of golf or a drink at their beach bar.

Location: Nahun, B.C.

Price: Averages $530/night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Internet
  • Paddleboards and a dinghy for use
  • Laundry on site
  • Patios and balcony
  • Gated parking

Click here to book on VRBO 


 

Live the life of luxury in this Cape Cod-inspired lakefront cottage. Part of a gated resort, this cottage has much to offer beyond its hot tubs and swimming pools. You won’t have to go far to hit the trails from your desired mode of transport: on foot, bike, or horseback. Do it all while knowing you have a spa-like cottage to come back to.

Location: Fintry, B.C.

Price: Averages $425/night

Sleeps: 7

Bedrooms: 3

Wine Pairing: A nice cold rose, to keep you as cool as this slick cabin

Notes:

  • Hot tub for use
  • Swimming pool for use
  • Kayaks, paddleboards and golf carts for rent 
  • Tennis courts
  • Mini golf
  • Internet
  • Laundry

Click here to book on VRBO


 

There’s no better way to take in the Okanagan Valley than from your own private pebble beach. This cottage is located just a few kilometres away from one of B.C.’s most beautiful protected areas, Fintry Provincial Park.

Location: Nahun, B.C.

Price: Averages $519/night

Sleeps: 9

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Indoor fireplace
  • Internet
  • Laundry on site
  • Pet friendly
  • Private beach

Click here to book on VRBO


 

If a wilderness retreat is more your style, this remote cottage sits 50 feet above Okanagan Lake. The log-cabin-like design will have you feeling off-the-grid. Not too far away is the charming community of Peachland, and you can access a vast supply of wineries.

Location: Peachland, B.C.

Price: Averages $300/night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Aluminum fishing boat for use
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Internet for use
  • $25 pet fee
  • Woodstove

Click here to book on VRBO 


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Want a vacation rental with wow factor? Check out VRBO’s vacation rental homes of the year

The beauty of renting a vacation home is the opportunity to stay in unique properties across the country. For the first time, VRBO has created a list of the top Canadian vacation rentals from coast to coast based on guest reviews, star ratings, and family-friendly amenities. The selected vacation rentals vary by price point and location and include everything from a contemporary urban villa in the mountainous region of Quebec to a French-inspired chateau overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Check out the stunning photos below.


Looking for your next cottage rental? Visit our rental hub powered by VRBO

Tofino, British Columbia

This waterfront luxury retreat is a surfer’s oasis, sandwiched between two of Tofino’s best surfing spots—Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay. This beach house boasts three bedrooms, three bathrooms, an outdoor shower, radiant heated floors and ocean views from every room.

Price: Averages $845 a night

Book on VRBO

Golden, British Columbia

This Scandinavian-style chalet is a ski lover’s paradise. Ski-in or ski-out; it was truly made for a skiing group getaway. When you get in from a day on the slopes use the built-in boot and glove dryers to dry off your gear before warming up in the in-home sauna, hot tub or outdoors by the fire pit.

Price: Averages $1,125 a night

Book on VRBO

 

Banff, Alberta

This modern mountain estate is located in the heart of Banff with 360-degree views of the Rocky Mountains. It’s rated five stars for a reason, guests love the close location to the main street, children’s playroom, and fully stocked chef’s kitchen.

Price: $2,900 average price per night

Book on VRBO

 

 

Collingwood, Ontario

Get away from the crowds in the Blue Mountain region at this secluded family cottage overlooking Georgian Bay and the Town of Collingwood. Guests love the close proximity to the ski hills, spectacular views, expansive property and hiking trail access.

Price: $717 average per night

Book on VRBO

 

Port McNicoll, Ontario

This gated waterfront cottage is surrounded by 320-degree views of the Georgian Bay. The large dock can accommodate multiple boats should you choose to bring yours along. The private guesthouse and lakeside cabana make this property ideal for entertaining large groups.

Price: $2,500 average per night

Book on VRBO

 

Sainte-Beatrix, Quebec

Just an hour outside of Montreal you’ll find this contemporary chalet tucked away among the trees. Enjoy the mountain views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

Price: $493 average per night

Book on VRBO

Charlevoix, Quebec

This family-friendly chalet is well-suited for the outdoor adventurer. Close by there are hiking, snowboarding, and snowmobiling trails, and not to mention a stellar view of the St. Lawrence River.

Price: $317 average per night

Book on VRBO 

Augustine Cove, Prince Edward Island

This modern oceanfront property has prime access to the cove and views overlooking the ocean. Enjoy the slower pace of PEI and try your hand at cooking fresh seafood from the ocean.

Price: $215

Book on VRBO

Blandford, Nova Scotia

This French-inspired, stone and timber chateau has 192 feet of private shoreline on the Atlantic Ocean. The architecture is only matched by the interior design elements that have been sourced from around the world.

Price: $1,000 average per night

Book on VRBO

Margaree Harbour, Nova Scotia

Situated along the Cabot Trail, this classic Cape Breton vacation home has been featured in numerous magazines including House and Home, Oprah Magazine, and The New York Times. Take in the rugged beauty of the coast from the wraparound deck.

Price: $806 average per night

Book on VRBO

 

Categories
Cottage Life

Secluded Ontario cottage rentals perfect for a summer getaway

With schools on the brink of letting out for the summer, it’s about to get a whole lot busier. If you’re looking for a place to retreat to, far from the throngs of people in the urban areas, we’ve curated a list of secluded Ontario cottage rentals where you can host a private family or friend getaway.

One cottage rental in Muskoka has its own outdoor sauna with stunning lake views, or if you’d really like to go off-the-grid, there’s a rental on a nine-acre island near Lake of the Woods. If life’s speeding up a little too quickly for you, book your secluded summer getaway now.

If you’re looking to book a vacation rental visit our hub by clicking here. We’ve partnered with VRBO to help you find your perfect cottage getaway.

Perched on High Lake in Muskoka, this newly renovated cottage is a short trek to nearby hiking trails and a small waterfall, Dee Bank Falls. This is the ideal getaway if you’re having a family or friend get together and want some privacy. Unwind in front of the fire pit with a clear view of the water or relax in the outdoor sauna.

Location: Huntsville, Ont.

Price: Averages $1,099 per night

Sleeps: 14

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Waterfront property
  • Outdoor sauna
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Kayak available for use

Click here to book


 

Rent a nine-acre private island on Shoal Lake near Lake of the Woods. The cottage boasts 3,000 sq. ft. of living space and includes a timber frame pergola with an outdoor fireplace. Note: between June 30 and September 1, you’re required to book a minimum seven-day stay with check-in and checkout both happening on a Friday.

Location: Kenora, Ont.

Price: Averages $788 per night

Sleeps: 12

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Private island
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • BBQ available for use
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Private hiking trail around island
  • Kayaks and canoe available for use
  • Pets welcome
  • Minimum seven-day reservation

Click here to book


 

Fall asleep to the gentle sound of waves lapping against the cottage during your stay in this decked-out boathouse. The main cottage sits above the boathouse, but there are bunks inside the boathouse and an extra guest cabin nearby that can be rented at an additional cost. And did we mention it has its own private four-acre island!

Location: Kenora, Ont.

Price: Averages $401 per night*

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Private island
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Kayak and canoe available for use
  • Must bring or rent your own boat to get to the island
  • *Price varies depending on if it’s a weekday or weekend

Click here to book


 

Close to the borders of both Manitoba and Minnesota, this secluded cottage sits on the tip of an island near Lake of the Woods. Spend your days suntanning on the property’s beach or swimming off the dock.

Location: Nestor Falls, Ont.

Price: Averages $440 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Island property
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • Pets welcome

Click here to book


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Check out these riverfront rentals that are a short drive from Ottawa

With more than 900 lakes and four major river systems, the Ottawa Valley is a nature-lover’s dream. These cottage rentals give you the perfect home base to enjoy it all.

Known as the whitewater capital of Canada, the Ottawa Valley offers some of the fastest, cleanest, and safest rivers in the country, including the Ottawa River. If you and the family are into adventure, it’s the perfect spot to hop in a chartered raft and experience some rapids.

If you’re not looking for quite that much adrenaline, go for a hike in Gatineau Park, with its rugged terrain and stunning views of nearby Ottawa and Gatineau. Or consider touring the area’s local towns. Hawkesbury, Merrickville, and Montebello—among others—offer small-town charm with quaint shopping boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

Regardless of how you spend your day, end it on the deck of one of these rentals, drink in hand, as you watch the sun set over the Ottawa River. 

Only a 50-minute drive from Ottawa, Kanien’kehá:ka Roundhouse is located on seven acres of private forest. The rental offers eclectic decor with rockstar memorabilia. Take advantage of the property’s above-ground pool and gazebo, or head into nearby Merrickville to check out the village’s gift shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Location: Merrickville, Ont.

Price: Averages $229 per night

Sleeps: 4

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Above-ground swimming pool
  • BBQ available for use
  • Fire pit

Click here to book


 

This rental features a private dock on the Baie de Carillon, just off of the Ottawa River. Bring your own boat and putter around, play some pool in the game room, or relax in the property’s outdoor hot tub.

Location: Lachute, Que.

Price: Averages $323 per night

Sleeps: 10

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • BBQ available for use
  • Fire pit

Click here to book


 

Unwind along the Ottawa River in this log cabin. The rental is a short trip from Omega Park, a 12-kilometre driving safari where you can see some of North America’s most unique wildlife, as well as the iconic Château Montebello, from which the cottage gets its name. If you need extra space, the rental also offers a beach house at an extra cost.

Location: Grenville-sur-la-Rouge, Que.

Price: Averages $195 per night

Sleeps: 16

Bedrooms: 5

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • BBQ available for use
  • Kayak available for use

Click here to book


 

Enjoy sunsets over the Ottawa River on this rental’s expansive deck. Take the property’s kayak out for a spin, test your mettle on the foosball and ping pong tables, or sip a drink in the outdoor hot tub. The cottage is only 12 minutes from the Lachute Golf Club and eight minutes from the Presqu’ile-Robillard Ecological Reserve.

Location: Lachute, Que.

Price: Averages $345 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • Kayak available for use
  • Fire pit

Click here to book


 

A historic property located on the shore of the Ottawa River, Duldraeggan was founded in 1805, making it one of the oldest remaining accommodations in Ontario. Walled in by gardens and trees, the cottage offers peace and privacy. Plus, it’s a short drive from Hawkesbury.

Location: L’Orignal, Ont.

Price: Averages $135 per night

Sleeps: 2

Bedrooms: 1

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • BBQ available for use

Click here to book


 

Nestled on Corbu Bay off of the Ottawa River, this rental’s waterfront feels like a lake. Relax beneath the living room’s cathedral ceiling or on the cottage’s terrace overlooking the water. The property, which is surrounded by trees, offers complete privacy, but if you need something, Ottawa is a quick 35-minute drive away.

Location: Pontiac, Que.

Price: Averages $325 per night

Sleeps: 8

Bedrooms: 4

Notes:

  • Riverfront property
  • Internet included
  • Washing machine on site
  • BBQ available for use
  • Fire pit
  • Two kayaks available for use
  • Summer bookings must be a minimum of seven nights

Click here to book


 

Categories
Cottage Life

Cottage real estate region: Haliburton

In Haliburton, with its wide swaths of Crown land, the granite shore can be steep and rugged, flanked by white pines and leafy trees that turn fiery bright in fall. Many lakes are sparsely inhabited by cottagers, but filled with fish. In winter, groomed trails draw recreational snowmobilers. Haliburton’s true claim to superiority over some other Ontario cottage areas, however, may be the drive. Avoid the multi-lane highway, if you like, and the route takes you on two-lane highways and county roads that wind past grain silos, grey barns, and blue lakes.

Cottagers are drawn to Haliburton’s small, quiet lakes, though Kennisis, Kawagama, and Kashagawigamog offer big stretches of water for sailors and windsurfers. Many lakes in this region are reservoirs for the Trent-Severn Waterway farther south. Water levels are controlled by a series of dams and can fluctuate greatly over the course of a season.

For many years, Haliburton was under­valued. But as more buyers from Toronto discover this Shield country, within three hours of the city, those days are ending. As seen in most parts of cottage country, the COVID-19 pandemic has also increased demand in the area. A boat-access cottage that cost $7,000 in the early 1970s could fetch nearly a million dollars or more now.

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Cottage Life

Cottage real estate region: South Shore, Nova Scotia

The most famous town on Nova Scotia’s South Shore lends its name to a prized Maritime architectural feature: the “Lunenburg bump,” a protruding dormer over a house’s main entrance. It’s not exclusive to Lunenburg but is seen as a mark of historical authenticity. Chester, closer to Halifax, is known as a summer playground for the well-heeled. Gatsby-esque waterfront places here are priced accordingly, so many people settle for a cottage on a side street, within walking distance of pubs and restaurants, the yacht club, and the theatre. From Chester, the ferry goes to Tancook Island, with its isolated, less expensive waterfront properties. Just west of Lunenburg, Bridgewater is the area’s commercial centre. Downstream, on both sides of the LaHave River, are some lovely shoreline properties with boating opportunities on the tidal estuary.

Along the South Shore, an affordable waterfront home may require some work and renovations to retain its historical character. Drive toward Liverpool and Shelburne and there are spectacular white-sand beaches.

 

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Cottage Life

Wake up with an view of the ocean at these Vancouver Island vacation rentals

Known for its mild climate and wild, untamed beaches, Vancouver Island has a multitude of outdoor activities on offer all year round including surfing in the winter. These vacation rentals are located in the heart of the island’s wildness, with each boasting an ocean view. If you’re lucky—and patient—you may catch a glimpse of commuting orcas swimming along the shoreline, eagles diving after fish, or black bears lumbering through the woods.

If wildlife isn’t your thing, head to Cowichan Bay, a 45-minute drive north of Victoria. The surrounding area is flush with wineries. Get in a round of 18 at the public golf courses near the island’s southern tip. Or visit one of 40 craft breweries dotted around the island’s lower half.

Whether you’re travelling solo, or with family and friends, Vancouver Island has an adventure for everyone.

Located on the east side of Vancouver Island, this vacation rental has 1,600 feet of private shoreline. Inside is an open concept design with hardwood floors and a stone fireplace. Spend the evenings in the outdoor hot tub soaking in the ocean view.

Location: Union Bay, B.C.

Price: Averages $536 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Oceanfront property
  • Internet included
  • No pets
  • Outdoor hot tub
  • BBQ available for use
  • Outdoor fire pit

Click here to book


 

This oceanfront rental offers white oak floors, spacious bedrooms, and a kitchen with all the latest features. The rental is less than a kilometre from Cox Bay Beach, considered one of the best surfing beaches in Canada.

Location: Tofino, B.C.

Price: Averages $536 per night

Sleeps: 4

Bedrooms: 2

Notes:

  • Oceanfront property
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor shower
  • The minimum age requirement for renters is 30

Click here to book


 

With panoramic views of the Salish Sea and snow-capped mountains, this 2,800 sq. ft. lake house is the perfect place to relax and take in the surrounding wildlife. Walk the private path to access a secluded beach where you can walk for miles, exploring the tidal pools.

Location: Comox, B.C.

Price: Averages $450 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Oceanfront property
  • Beach access
  • Minimum one-week stay
  • Laundry on site
  • Kayaks available for use but need to be driven to the launch
  • Onsite suite used by owner

Click here to book


 

From Cliff House, you can watch cruise ships sail through Discovery Passage, whales swimming north through the water, or eagles perched in nearby trees. The rental is a short drive from the shops, restaurants, and farmers’ market of downtown Campbell River.

Location: Campbell River, B.C.

Price: Averages $198 per night

Sleeps: 6

Bedrooms: 3

Notes:

  • Oceanfront property
  • Beach access
  • Internet included
  • Laundry on site
  • Outdoor fire pit
  • The minimum age requirement for renters is 25

Click here to book


 

End your evenings by watching the stunning sunset over the Salish Sea. During the day, comb the nearby beach, get in a game at Arrowsmith Golf and Country Club, or enjoy a cocktail in the sunroom.

Location: Deep Bay, B.C.

Price: Averages $149 per night

Sleeps: 2

Bedrooms: 1

Notes:

  • Oceanfront property
  • Beach access
  • Internet included
  • Full breakfast available at additional cost
  • Owner lives on-site

Click here to book