If you’re looking to stay somewhere that is totally unique, there are so many different options around Ontario. You may not even know most of these places existed or were possible to rent. Many of the properties are for the more adventurous type, so be sure to check what kind of amenities are available before booking your stay. Make the most out of 2021 with a fun getaway that is truly one of a kind.
Forest Yurt
Location: Madoc, Ontario
Stay in the most immaculate yurt in the middle of the forest, surrounded by acres of property. The inside of the yurt is gorgeous and the entire experience was above my expectations. Even though there’s no running water, there are jugs of water provided so you can still wash your hands the old fashion way. When the sun starts hitting the yurt in the morning, it immediately starts heating up the yurt, but it does cool down quite a bit in the evenings.
BoxCar Cottage
Location: Utopia, Ontario
Located on an organic Utopia farm, this two-bedroom cottage was made from a Canadian Pacific Boxcar Train (one of the few built between 1896 and 1914). Another extra special feature includes the indoor chemical-free indoor pool. There is also an infrared sauna to dry off in after your dip. The property is on 62 acres of trails and forests that are filled with wildlife, overlooking beautiful gardens with gazebos and their spring-fed pond. If you’re there during the right season, the owners will leave you goodies from their land, such as herbs, veggies, fruit, flowers and more.
Freija Forest Loft
Location: Kinghurst, Ontario
This forest loft is nothing short of spectacular. It’s completely surrounded by a large thousand-acre forest, overlooking a valley and there are two clear ponds that are only a ten-minute walk away, perfect spots for swimming. Expect to view wildlife, go stargazing, and enjoy endless maintained trails on both the property and in the adjacent forest. In the summertime, you can open the walls up and enjoy dining under the stars. The property has a rustic feel but provides all important amenities like hot water, a composting toilet, small kitchenette, and wifi (if you need it).
The hosts provide an outdoor fire-pit, propane BBQ, and even a basketball court.
The Red Tower
Location: Warkworth, Ontario
Designed by artist and architect, Clive Russell with partner Sheree Rasmussen, The Red Tower was created for a truly unique experience. The tower is 10′ x 10′ and 18′ tall at the top of a hill on ecologically restored land with trails to explore. Each detail inside was designed to perfection and makes the best use of this space. Lounge on the large wooden deck during the days and toast up some s’mores in the evenings before snuggling into bed.
Floating Geodesic Dome
Location: Essex County, Ontario
Take the private two-seater gator to transport you from your car to the other side of the creek where you will be staying. Situated along Fox Creek, the outdoor seating overlooks a winery on one side and water on the other (perfect for wildlife spotting). This one of a kind stay is available all four seasons. It’s considered a glamping experience with a little bit more luxury, with tons of amenities provided like air conditioning, electric space heaters, power bars to charge your electronics, a BBQ, a kitchenette, as well as small conveniences like shampoo, soap, towels, coffee, and more.
Private Island Getaway
Location: Gravenhurst, Ontario
If you are looking to splurge a bit for an insanely special experience, this is definitely a property you want to check out. This immaculate new log cottage is on a private island in Muskoka. The outdoor section is perfect for relaxing on the dock, with a hammock for reading, and swimming and watersports (a canoe and paddleboat are provided) in the lake. Feel completely on a luxury vacation with this beautifully decorated cottage with log cabin vibes. Cook up a delicious meal in this fully equipt kitchen and spend the evenings having a glass of wine in the whirlpool tub.
NOTE: Even though this cottage is on a private island, there are two other cottages out of view from this cottage. It’s very private and secluded. To access the island, a 14′ aluminum boat with an electric motor is provided for the short trip from the shore to the island. Otherwise, be sure to rent a boat that will allow you to explore the entire area.
Treehouse Retreat
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
This off-grid treehouse is an adventurer’s dream come true. Surrounded by 100 acres of forest, with water only a short distance by foot, you will be able to hear bullfrogs and songbirds. The inside of the property is made of rustic pine and white oak with over 330 square feet of all customized work! The canoe is provided for idyllic paddles around the lake.
NOTE: This property is entirely off-grid (no power or central water). Please don’t book unless you can start and stoke a fire.
PEC Vineyard House
Location: Wellington, Ontario
Located in Prince Edward County, this property is located on the Trail Estate winery (which is actually one of my personal favourites!). The immaculately designed cottage is located at the edge of their vineyard. What sounds better than that?! It’s also located in a prime spot of the county, only a short drive or bike ride from the lake or town of Wellington.
NOTE: September to October is when the harvest happens (and the hosts always invite you to join in!)
Prince Edward County Church
Location: Ameliasburgh, Ontario
Originally built in 1888, The Massassagua United Church was converted into an Airbnb after renovations in 2019. You will be stunned by the decor of the church. The red brick exterior was kept during the renovations, creating a rustic feel in the most modern part of the home. It’s the perfect mix between old and new. Located on 2.3 acres, the backyard has tons of open space and gorgeous trees which back out onto the water.
Tipi (Mattawa Buffalo Farm)
Location: Mattawa, Ontario
Stay at this secluded 18 foot custom built Tipi that sits right at the edge of the Amable Du Fond River, which flows out of Algonquin Park. This truly unique Northern Canadian experience is paired with full on wilderness, paired with fields of grazing buffalo, surrounded by forest and lots of opportunities for canoeing, campfires, and completely disconnecting.
Farlain Container Cottage
Created by The Northern Shield Development, this cottage was built using three shipping containers. The overall feel of the cottage is industrial meets modern. Located only a few steps from Farlain Lake, it’s easy to jump in for a quick swim followed by a dip in the hot tub, which sits on their back deck and is open year-round. The interior of the cottage is beautifully decorated and provides everything you might need from cooking utensils to toiletries. There are also an abundance of books and games for your entertainment. Keep in mind that there wifi isn’t always working perfectly, but you’ll probably be too busy to even notice!
Disclaimer: All information and prices are accurate as of the time of the posting. All opinions expressed are completely my own. This post is not sponsored.
*All images are copyrighted by Julia Melcher (@adventureontario) or credited to their owners. Please do not use or re-post without written consent and provide credit where applicable