Your search probably ends here! Seven Acres, 550 feet of shoreline, a majestic oak canopy, great waterfront and ambience all day long. There is no doubt you are at a cottage here - the wood motif will tell you that - but you will be as comfortable here as you are in the city.
Located in the northern section of the Muskoka/Almaguin Highlands region on McQuaby Lake, this property is just 3 hours from Toronto, with all but the last 25 km on main highways - just far enough to get away from things. Mind you, the cottage road for Oakstone Haven is one of the best maintained we've ever seen, so getting here is a snap.
Once you arrive, it's pretty easy to get that "I wanna stay forever" feeling. Stepping inside, you will feel the pine walls and ceiling wrapping themselves around you. The kitchen and dining area are on the driveway side - leaving the seating areas in the living and family rooms to the view of the trees and waterfront. There are 3 bedrooms, 1 on each level, including a loft with a seating nook that may just become someone's personal haven during your stay.
Outside, the extensive wraparound deck provides marvellous views. Your only concern will be to decide which direction to face. While there are a number of stairs down to the waterfront, the slope is not at all onerous and should be fine for most, although those with mobility issues may wish to take note prior to booking. If you have someone in the group that wants even more privacy, there is a bunkie with a double bed, but please note that you would have to provide your own bedding/pillows for this.
The water's edge features a deck and dock, letting you enjoy your choice of activity (or non-activity...it can be pretty tempting to spend an hour or two doing absolutely nothing here). The privacy of the property lets nature in, so don't be surprised if some wildlife sightings become highlights of the week. If you're a shutterbug, make sure the camera is at the ready - you never know when the opportunity will present itself.
Out and about, for all your grocery needs and essentials, head 15 minutes west to the charming town of Restoule. There you'll find Mill Bay Market, featuring an excellent butcher and grocery store, along with Gerry's Convenience Store. The area is also home to the scenic Restoule Provincial Park with wonderful hiking trails.
Just 15 minutes east lies the town of Powassan, offering a variety of shops and amenities. And for a broader selection of services, North Bay is only a 40-minute drive away.
Oakstone Haven embodies so much of what we consider to be the classic cottage vacation. We expect this one to be the first choice for many families!
Inside the Cottage
• Sleeps 6 (Maximum 4 adults)
• 3 bedrooms (2 queen, 1 double)
• 1 3-pc bathroom (with shower), 1 2-piece bathroom, additional outside shower
• Dining area with seating for 6
• Fully-equipped kitchen (no dishwasher)
• Smart TV & DVD player, Sonos music system with in/outdoor speakers
• Unlimited high speed Wi-Fi (Starlink)
• Board games
Outside the Cottage
• Deck & dock
• Canoe, row boat, Stand up Paddleboard, adult and child (single-seat) pedal boats, assorted adult life jackets
• Outdoor furniture including dining set
• Propane BBQ
• Firepit with seating (firewood included)
Things you need to know:
• Linens and Indoor towels are provided. Please bring your own outdoor towels
• A post-rental cleaning service is provided; however; the cottage must be left in a tidy condition
• Garbage and recycling removal prior to departure is required
• One well-behaved dog is welcome (sorry no cats)
• Guests are required to provide their own child-size life jackets/PFDs to ensure a proper fit
• Waterfront is an easterly exposure
Waterfront
The bottom of the lake is hard packed stone/sand at water's edge and deepens fairly quickly. It is about 9 feet deep at the end of the dock. Entry to the lake is via the swim ladder. The water is generally weed free.
Trivia
The origin of the name Commanda - as in the nearby village, creek, lake and Lake Nipissing cruise ship - comes from an Algonquin chief who brought his people to the area in the 1830s. The Chief, who spoke English, led a band of Native troops in the war of 1812 and picked up the name "commander" which later became Commanda.
At a Glance
• Sleeps 6 (max 4 adults)
• One well-behaved dog welcome
• Washer/dryer
• Smart TV, DVD player & unlimited high speed Wi-Fi
• Canoe, aluminum rowboat, Stand up Paddleboard (SUP), & adult & child-size pedal boats
• Garbage and recycling removal prior to departure is required
House Rules (must meet these to book):
• Rents Friday-Friday only during summer season
• Sleeps 6 (max 4 adults)
• Lead guest must be 30+ years of age
• One well-behaved dog is welcome (sorry no cats)
• Linens and Indoor towels are provided. Please bring your own outdoor towels
• No smoking or parties are allowed
• Departure checklist must be completed
• A supplemental information form must be completed
• Garbage and recycling removal prior to departure is required
• Guests are required to provide their own child-size life jackets/PFDs to ensure a proper fit