Experience Traditional Charm at our Sunny Lakeside Retreat
Nestled on the serene shores of Long Lake, our Sunny Lakeside Cottage (“The Cottage”) offers a quintessentially classic retreat with over one hundred feet of private lake frontage and a sandy beach. This idyllic property comfortably accommodates up to 16 guests across 7 bedrooms, making it perfect for large gatherings.
Located just five minutes from Bala, a historic town known for the vibrant Cranberry Festival, our spacious cottage combines tranquil lake views with easy access to local shops and eateries—the ice cream shop is always worth a visit! The Cottage itself, steeped in tradition, features expansive windows that frame wonderful waterfront scenes.
The heart of The Cottage is the open-concept living room, dining room, and kitchen, illuminated by natural light from large widows and skylights and complemented by a wood-burning fireplace. The well-equipped kitchen features a four-seat island, while the adjoining dining area boasts a long harvest table suitable for twelve.
Enjoy all-day sun from a property that faces south/southwest. Although you can't see the sunset, the sunny, sandy beach and waterfront provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and activities. The Cottage offers two areas for lounging—the cozy living room and a games room equipped with air hockey and ping-pong.
Outdoor amenities include a BBQ, a fire pit for evening gatherings, and a high-speed internet connection (currently Bell Wireless Home Internet 50, with an upgrade to Starlink on the way). This upgrade will continue to support unlimited high-speed internet ideal for Zoom calls—a rare find in cottage country.
With a variety of watercraft available, there is something for every level of paddler to enjoy. The waterfront features a sizable, two-piece dock, and the lake remains quiet with minimal motorized boat traffic, ideal for peaceful outings.
Set in a cul-de-sac on a peninsula, The Cottage enjoys minimal road noise, enhancing its peaceful, rustic yet comfortable setting. Whether you're looking for adventure on the water or a quiet spot to relax, time at The Cottage is sure to be memorable for friends and family.
BEDROOMS | BATHROOMS (floor plan in pictures)
MAIN LEVEL
• Bedroom 1. King Bed (sleeps 2)
• Bedroom 2. King Bed (sleeps 2)
• Bathroom 1 – Ensuite attached to Bedroom 1: Bath/shower & double vanity.
• Bathroom 2 – Jack and Jill Bathroom opening to Bedroom 2 and Hallway: Bath/shower & vanity
Loft:
• Bedroom 3: 3 twin beds, 1 double (sleeps 5)
• Bathroom 3: 2-pc bathroom
Basement:
• Bedroom 4: Queen Bed (sleeps 2)
• Bedroom 5: Queen Bed (sleeps 2), Crib
• Bathroom 4: Shower & Vanity
Lower Cottage:
• Bedroom 6: King Bed (sleeps 2)
• Bedroom 7: King Bed (sleeps 2)
• Bathroom 5: Bath/shower & double vanity.
• Bathroom 6: Bath, separate shower & double vanity.
COTTAGE FEATURES
Accommodation and Comfort:
• Spacious Accommodations: Generous room throughout the cottage for comfort and ease, suitable for large families or groups.
• Spacious and Private: Ample space and privacy, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Socializing and Dining Areas:
• Multiple Socializing Areas: Various spaces for gathering, including a living room, games room, and outdoor decks, accommodating diverse group activities and privacy.
• Versatile Dining Options:
• By the Shore: Two picnic tables near the water for dining al fresco with a view.
• On the Deck: Two tables, each seating six, ideal for meals under the sky.
• Covered Porch by the Games Room: One picnic table, perfect for shaded outdoor meals.
Outdoor Amenities:
• Ample Outdoor Seating: Plenty of options for lounging outdoors, whether sunbathing, stargazing, or watching the sunrise or sunset.
• All-Day Sun on Dock: Enjoy sunshine throughout the day on a well-positioned dock.
• SW Exposure: Beneficial south-west exposure for optimal daylight and warmth.
• Gently Sloped Lot: Easy access to the water, suitable for guests of all ages.
• Shallow Water at Dock's End: Safe, waist-high water ideal for casual swimming.
• Dual Water Depth: Features both deep water for diving (by floating dock) and shallow near the shore.
• Small Sandy Beach: Perfect for children to play and enjoy the water safely.
• Abundant Water Toys: A variety of water toys available for endless aquatic fun.
Technological and Family Amenities:
• Starlink WiFi: Reliable high-speed internet that supports working remotely—a rare find in cottage areas.
• Family Friendly: Equipped with a highchair and crib for younger guests.
WHAT TO DO, IN THE AREA:
Nestled on the serene shores of historic Long Lake, our four-season cottage is just minutes from the vibrant center of Bala in Muskoka, offering a tranquil escape with easy access to local charms and activities.
Delight in:
• Bala Heritage Walk: A 4.5 km fully accessible trail that offers stunning views of Moon River and Bala's waterfalls.
• Bala Falls: Explore the breathtaking scenery and natural beauty of Bala Falls.
• Weekly Waterski Shows: Immerse yourself in local culture with exciting waterski performances every week.
• Live Performances at the Kee to Bala: Enjoy live music and entertainment at this iconic venue.
• Dining Options: the Moon River Lookout Restaurant: Known for its steakhouse and seafood offerings.; Cottage Cravings Cafe & Gift Shop: A cozy spot for Canadian cuisine and soups.; Lakeside Bala: Offers healthy Canadian dishes right on Lake Muskoka.; Ice Cream Shop - always a family favourite!
• Hiking at Hardy Lake: Trails perfect for nature walks, running, and cycling.
• Stargazing at Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve: One of the best spots in Ontario for stargazing, with potential sightings of the northern lights.
• Rollerblading and Pickleball: Available at the Bala community center/arena, including skate rentals for a nominal fee.
• Don's Bakery: Famous for its delicious baked goods.
• Multiple Churches: Various denominations available for worship.
• Tourist Office: Located in Bala town center for additional visitor information.
• Bala's Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery: Celebrate the heritage and stories of Lucy Maud Montgomery, famous for “Anne of Green Gables” and her book "The Blue Castle," which was inspired by Bala and its surroundings.
GETTING AROUND
Guests need a car to get to this property, or a pickup from Gravenhurst Bus Station (we have done this multiple times with our non-driver stragglers) – but you can walk into Bala comfortably once there.
INTERACTIONS WITH GUESTS:
We are a telephone call or email away if you need us!
