Rental Tips For Cottage/Cabin/Chalet Renters

Why rent a cottage?

Renting a cottage can be an affordable vacation alternative to staying in hotels, especially for families. It also affords you an extra level of privacy, flexibility, and freedom, making it the perfect retreat or romantic getaway.

There are cottages available in a wide range of prices with as many (or as few) amenities as you desire, from the most basic woodsy cabin to the multi-bedroom waterfront lodge.

It is best to consider the exact reasons why you are thinking about a cottage/cabin/chalet vacation, since the "goals" of the trip will dictate your needs.

Cottages: Traditionally a Favourite with Families

When you are on a budget and don’t want to stay in a hotel, there are other getaway choices, including bed and breakfasts, motels, and cottages.

However, bed and breakfasts are not the best option if you have small children. Fussy babies and small children can disrupt the sleep of other guests, and expecting small children to maintain "guest behaviour" beyond a few days is unrealistic. Hostile glares from other guests does not make for a pleasant holiday environment.

When you rent a cottage, select an environment that is designed to be child-friendly. Depending on where you decide to rent a cottage, there can be activities within walking distance of your cabin; pools, playgrounds, beaches, craft sessions, and other child-friendly amenities are often part of multi-cabin venues.

You can choose one with a busier waterfront with boating options (rentals or tours) and other families to meet and mingle, and friends for the little ones. And then, at the end of the day, you can retreat inside to your personal space.

A cottage gives you more privacy, more flexibility and the freedom to do what you want, on your own schedule.

The Cottage as Retreat

If you are looking to take some time away from the city to restore balance to your life or just to escape the everyday, be sure to select a cottage in an appropriately tranquil environment.

You will likely want a cottage that is far from the neighbouring cabins/chalets, and preferably one where the waterfront and grounds are not constantly swarming with other vacationers.

Plan to take a long hikes or sit quietly by the water; water has been known to have a calming and relaxing effect on people, as well as heightening mental acuity. After a few days of this simple yet lavish treatment, you can return to your "regular life" rejuvenated and alert.

Romance and the Cottage

Imagine a fall getaway in a cozy cabin with a fireplace or a wood stove. There is something magic about a crisp fall day, or a walk in the new-fallen snow.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway, your cabin/chalet needs will closely resemble those of the retreat-seekers. However, bear in mind that both partners' needs must be factored into the planning.

Some cottages/chalets cater specifically to romantic aspirations. They provide the extras such as hot tubs, double baths, fireplaces, champagne, and the appropriate décor and linens.

In the absence of the prepackaged extras, opt to rent a cottage or chalet that has no television or other distractions, and you can bring a few items to spice up your stay. Candles, bath salts, body scrubs, massage oils are just a few accessories that can liven up your stay and help you reconnect with each other. Touch is a vital part of maintaining your connection – plan to take long walks holding hands in the woods or along a beach.

Renting a cottage

You should begin looking for a cottage in January or February to get your ideal location and timeslot - many cottages are fully booked early.

Find more information about renting cottages on the What to ask before you rent page.