These properties are the definition of what a perfect cottage stay should be, from the second you look at it, to the moment you walk out, amazed and fulfilled. Each one features a luxurious, perfectly thought out interior with its own own special touches and atmosphere. With great attention to its architecture, layout, and furniture, these places look professionally designed and built (and, of course, some are). Now, don’t even get me started on the views from these places! Most have amazing lookouts and sometimes feature lakeside access only steps from the house, or even have a swimming pool. These are all definitely worth the extra $$$$, so whether you are looking to celebrate something special or just want to splurge – these are the spots I would definitely recommend. Depending on the time of year, there are different mandatory minimum stays. All of these were handpicked by yours truly, along with the help of the numerous high ratings.
These properties are ordered from the most to the least expensive (per night) – mostly because I could not choose a favourite:
Price: $1,599/ night
This cottage has everything you need and more at your fingertips. With windows in every corner, the lighting is immaculate in the Lake Simcoe Beach House, and offers unbelievable views for watching the sunset and sunrise. Sandy shores for almost 200m make it a perfect swimming area for adults and children. There is a canoe, two kayaks, kids’ lake toys, paddle board, and an EXTRA large floating mat for guests to enjoy. They also provide two tandem bikes to take out for a spin. As if this wasn’t enough, there is a hot tub and outdoor shower (yes, please!), which are open for use during the spring and summer months. You can expect all the cooking necessities to make an elaborate meal, and a wide array of appliances (blender, toaster, mixer, oven, stove, popcorn maker, panini maker, BBQ, and more). They also provide tea and coffee, along with a Keurig machine.
If you’re looking to feel completely secluded and away from city life, this is your dream house. During the winter, the hosts will arrange for you to go ice fishing in your own personal hut for a unique experience!
Price: $989 /night
Tobermory Shores is located in a prime spot, the tip of the Bruce Peninsula, with breathtaking views of Georgian Bay. All rooms are tastefully decorated with magnificent views over the water. Layout and design of the interior and exterior of the cottage were meticulously planned. The gourmet kitchen, dining area and living room offer the perfect opportunity to cook an elaborate meal. Spend evenings challenging each other in the games room.
The expansive deck features a BBQ and is perfect for outdoor group dinners. Guests have access to the whole home and the bunkie.
Price: From $950 /night to $1,250 /night (changes depending on the season)
Straight out of Architectural Digest Magazine, this luxury cabin is a one of a kind experience! This lakeside retreat is set on a secluded 99-acre plot surrounded by native Crown Lands in the Haliburton Highlands. The Bear Stand is equally as beautiful in the winter as in the summer. The 3,400 square ft four-season cottage features four-bedrooms and three-bathrooms which sleeps ten. Floor to ceiling windows overlook picture-worthy thick forests and lake views. The modern, yet comfortable cabin, has three granite fireplaces (inside and out) and heated floors to keep you toasty in the wintertime. Make sure to take the dreamiest bath in their Asian-inspired ofuro tub (photo proof above) surrounded by only nature. The Bear Stand also features a cedar wet sauna and outdoor rain shower. Its location in its own bay, right on the shores of shallow Contau Lake, makes it perfect to hop in a canoe and explore the wildlife.
4. Cressy House
Price: $1,000 /night
Welcome to a little slice of paradise in Prince Edward County. Looking for a pool? Check. Swimmable waterfront access? Check. Dreamy sunset views? Check. There is simply no word for this place but perfection. Cressy House is situated on 6 acres with a lavender garden, pear + plum trees, a French-style courtyard, outdoor fire pits (yes, more than one!), and more. The rustic farmhouse with a modern twist is perfect for families, couples, small social gatherings, and of course, food lovers. The owner of this property, chef Grant van Gameren, is the same as the owner/chef of Bar Raval in Toronto and clearly has an eye for detail. You can even request a private dinner hosted by the chef himself for an extra special experience (which I would highly recommend). The property can fit up to 12 guests in 6 spectacular bedrooms. Be warned – the wifi can be glitchy, but who really needs it when you’re staying here?
5. Ell House
Price: $900 /night
This remarkably designed property is located on 2.5 acres, overlooking 200 feet of turquoise waterfront. The Ell House is a modern farmhouse situated in a vibrant area in Prince Edward County. It sits on a small escarpment and has access to Lake Ontario. This model home has been featured in prominent magazines like The Globe & Mail, Design Milk, Arch Daily, and more.
The home is equipped with a smart TV, wifi, stove fireplace, and pretty much anything else you could imagine!
Price: $879 /night
This waterfront cottage, in Godfrey, Ontario was professionally designed with more than just a “traditional cottage” vibe. Located on 2.5 acres on Thirty Island Lake, you will be completely surrounded by raw forest and Canadian shield for total privacy. If you’re lucky, you may run into deer, beavers, mink, or herons. There is also incredible fishing. The property is south facing, which means sunshine all day long! Spend the days outside on their wrap around decks or hammocks, and appreciate the magical views of the lake. Other water amenities provided include a canoe, kayak, stand up paddle board and some life jackets. It’s the perfect property for swimming, fishing & water sports.
The hosts of The Frontenac provide hotel-style amenities, like bedding from Hudson Bay Company and Pendleton blankets, along with king and queen sized Endy mattresses in every room. The contemporary style kitchen is fully equipped with a wood burning stove and BBQ outside. Bathrooms come with linens and beach towels. The fully finished basement has a second living room, a ping-pong table, and best of all, Nintendo. Make sure to enjoy the panoramic barrel sauna that has views of the forest and the lake.
Price: $885 /night
To experience waterfront living at its finest, your stay at The Wolegib Retreat is sure to be a relaxing paradise with some of the most picturesque views. Perfect at any time of the year, this property is the ideal stay for friends, families, or for couples, with three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The downstairs hosts a recreation room with ping pong, foosball, and air hockey table. Located on the Muskoka River, you are only minutes from downtown Huntsville, which has tons of restaurants and shopping should you even feel like leaving the cottage (which is unlikely). You will also be close to Arrowhead Provincial Park if you want to take a hike, and Hidden Valley, which is a great spot for skiing.
This modern cottage sits on a three-acre private lot along with your own private beach and dock, making it ideal during the summer months. The cottage is extremely well maintained, with tons of space for lounging. As an extra bonus, there are water toys, a canoe, and two kayaks available for your use!
Price: From $750 /night to $850 /night (depending on the season)
Not only is the entire property incredible, but the hosts are equally as great. The Birchwood Haliburton has all the amenities you could possibly imagine and more, including three incredible bedrooms (all featuring comfy king-sized beds). It is the perfect spot for couples, friends or for a family getaway. Unique features include an outdoor hot tub, sunroom (filled with games), and tons of amazing and well thought out details that really make the place special. The decor is perfect in every way, giving off a real Canadian vibe, with big Muskoka chairs, maple leaf wall art, and oversized Hudson’s Bay beach blankets. You can tell so much thought was put into everything on this property. There’s always an extra long waiting list to stay at this cottage, so you better get on the cancellation list ASAP!
Price: $695 /night
Situated on the stunning shores of Lake Huron, The Grand Woods is the ideal getaway for families, couples, or friends. Warm wood accents create a woodsy meets modern aesthetic, with an extremely stylish interior. The open upper level consists of the gourmet kitchen, which features every appliance or utensil you could ever think of, along with a dining and living area, which includes a fireplace. The sleek games room on the lower level is a prime entertainment spot (think pool table and lots of video games)!
The expansive deck is perfect for outdoor gatherings, with an open area, as well as a large covered patio that features a BBQ and dining area. The location is truly a gem, with only a 15-minute walk to the private beach.
Price: $450 /night
Styled to perfection, Rowan Cottage Co. is a newly renovated boutique cottage. It is nestled among the trees with views overlooking Oak Lake, providing 125 feet of private shoreline. Oak Lake is a spring-fed lake that is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. There are lake mats and two docks to choose from. If you swim out further, there is a foam dock which holds 6-8 people. Feel free to use the complimentary kayak or the 4 seat pedal boat.
The minimalist cottage was professionally designed with every last detail perfected. Be sure to admire those rich wood floors and beamed cathedral ceilings throughout the interior. You can expect a fully equipped kitchen with all appliances, utensils, spices, and tableware you might need (along with a Nespresso machine). The hosts also provide buttery smooth linens for cooler nights and high-end cotton towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner. In the winter months, you are able to walk across the frozen lake to check out the fishing huts, go snowshoeing or for a skate. Put on your favourite record and cozy up by the fireplace. The house is also stocked with lots of board games for indoor fun!
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
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