All day Sun! Spacious 7-Bd. Lakefront Retreat, Walk to Bala's Shops & Eateries
Cottage in Muskoka Lakes
16 guests · 7 bedrooms · 6 baths
Reasons to book
Guests love it hereGuests give this property a top rating
Great for petsBring all your friends and family, even the furry ones
Includes essentialsGarden, Pets allowed, Kitchen or Kitchenette and more
About this cottage rental
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!
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!
Amenities
Air conditioner
Pets allowed
Kitchen or Kitchenette
Internet / Wifi
Fireplace
Parking
Laundry
Balcony or Patio
Dishwasher
TV
Garden
Family friendly
Map of Muskoka Lakes
RRRR
Reviews
10.0
The cottage was perfect for our family reunion. Big enough for 11 adults and two children. The floor plan is spacious, so we never felt cramped. Some things in the house are a bit old, but still functional. We found the furnishings tasteful and harmonious. The kitchen equipment is sufficient even for a large group. There were also more than enough seating options. There are many watercrafts, both for children and adults. We had a great time, surrounded by nature. Communication with the owner was easy. The property is only partially suitable for people with mobility problems. There is a long staircase into the backyard, which is sloping. There are also many stairs in the house. We couldn't get enough of the view of the lake, which is exactly as shown in the photos. Simply gorgeous! We had a perfect week in this cottage.
10.0
Very well maintained. Great location. Host was very responsive and kind.
Would definitely come back if available for booking again in the future.
10.0
It was wonderful in all respects
10.0
We had a wonderful week in a lovely cottage. All my family was there, so it was very nice. We were 12 people and we were never on top of each other
Very well equipped! Eugenia, owner was lovely, very helpful and always available! We loved being close to the water and they had tons of water equipment to keep us more than entertained for the week. Would stay here again.
4.0
An Icy Chipmunk Adventure
Not what you’d expect from a lakeshore rental in fabulous Muskoka. This four story lakehouse gave us a surreal experience.
As we read the home welcome binder, which was very elaborate and complete with useful information and strict fee guidelines, we started to realize our stay would have some inconvenient yet not minor caveats.
This pricey vacation home came with unexpected guests. Since the moment we set foot in the house our would be roomate chipmunck friends had gifted us with plenty poop right on the kitchen island and countertop. We cleaned up an made sure no food was left outside the fridge during the rest of our stay. That did not stop our furry little guests to make multiple appearances. Some of the most notorious were when their curiosity peaked next to the crib of an 10-month old baby and left some precisely targeted defecation atop the baby’s clothes and bibs, when inside a different room they bit through a suitcase to get to a gift wrapped box of chocolates and finally when they showed up on gamenight to taste some snacks while all the human guests were gathered at the table. To say the least, the house was not clean, not for our vacation dates and probably not since the 80’s. The grill was unusuable, greasy and with recently cooked meat. We found cat hairs under a few beds, 80% of the house floors, walls and rails were suspiciously sticky. You could not walk on stealth mode as floors made dirty music as we moved from one side of
10.0
Cottage is a tad rustic but is plenty large for our family reunion. The lower cottage is attached to the main cottage which allows for people to spread out. Plenty of bathrooms which was awesome too. Waterfront with a southwest view makes for long afternoons on the water. They also provided us with ample water recreation toys… paddle boards, kayaks and canoes. We really enjoyed our stay and would consider visiting again. Thanks for the hospitality.
10.0
Property is beautiful and in a great location. Plenty of things to do on and off the property. Eugenia was a great host and available if needed. Our only small complaints comes with hesitation as we had a great time. Some cleanliness issues that really should be looked after, dog hair on couches, some beds were comfortable, others were not. Sliding door to deck needs work. Septic?
It is a big property to look after and these are only suggestions. Thank you for making my Mom's 90th very memorable. Cheers.
10.0
We are already planning our stay for next year! We had family and friends join us for our far too short stay…it was a great cottage with lots of fun toys for the kids and the perfect setting for the adults to just hang out. We had a great time-kid, adult and dog friendly!
10.0
We had a great time at the cottage. There was plenty of rooms for everyone to spread out. You did not feel crammed in at all - enough bedrooms for everyone, a great basement area with pool table and air hockey - great getaway for the teens. The cottage was exactly as pictured / described in the listing. The host, Eugenia, was amazing to work with - very responsive and helpful. We would definitely book this cottage again.
8.0
Beautiful cottage very large.and spacious! Good for two families. Beautiful lake view and great water amenities. However the cleaner need to focus on cleaning under the beds and removing thick spider webs from windows(inside and out ) ceilings, bedrooms, doors, and chairs.
10.0
The cottage was perfect for my 4 adult kids, their spouses and 1 toddler.
Everyone could spread out and not be ontop of one another.
We loved the water toys, sandy beach and easy access to the water was a huge bonus.
I’d like to suggest adding the fact that there was a crib set up for use. We dismantled ours and brought it up but didn’t need to.
The kitchen was very well stocked with utensils and cookware.
Would rent again in a heartbeat. Loved our week.
10.0
There was lots of space for our party of 12. Great location could walk to town and amazing waterfront with lots of kayaks and water toys. Host was very quick to respond to any questions we had.
10.0
Cottage Week
Our family had a super week on Long Lake. Cottage is better than described.
10.0
Great cottage area
Was a great area to cottage. Very few bugs, campfire area , sandy beach for small children to enter water. Lots of water activities, games for indoor. Comfortable beds and lots of bathrooms. Lots of room to spread out the family.
10.0
BALA COTTAGE for a big family
This is a great cottage for a big family! Lots of comfortable beds and full bathrooms. Nice location on Long Lake with sandy shoreline. Easy walking distance into Bala for food, LCBO, a latte at Oliver's or baked goods from Don's Bakery. Host is exceptionally accommodating and responsive - thank you for a wonderful family cottage vacation!
8.0
Beautiful Lakefront and lovely host!
The lakefront is excellent. Lots of boats, loungers, seating and shallow entry into clear lake! A lot of bedrooms and bathrooms in the basement and new addition compensate for the dated kitchen and main floor. Refrigerator and kitchen cabinets need a major update - as does main floor seating/couches/cleanliness. Thankfully great weather so minimal time spent indoors! Pool table and Air Hockey a great way to kill time! Property owner very responsive and made the process stress free with plenty of information and quick responses.
8.0
Lots of Pros
There is a lot to like about this property. The cottage consists of 7 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms that are spread out which allows families to not feel as though you are on top of one another. If you want to step away for some alone time, there was space to do so inside and outside. The main living space, Kitchen and dining room table are large enough for everyone to feel comfortable, which is nice if the weather is not the greatest, add in the spacious lower level which has an air hockey table and small pool table, and you should be able to have a great time. For those that enjoy television, that option is available as well, however I cannot comment on whether the satellite channels work as we only used it so the kids could watch netflix childrens shows.
Outside, which is probably why you would want to go was fantastic. The main cottage is higher up and thus has a very nice view of the lake. The walk down to the dock and water is grassy which makes it nice for some lawn games, although there is a decent slope for most of the lawn. What we found amazing for our group was 1) the walkout beach on both sides of the dock, which is rare for cottages in this area. This allowed our baby and 3 year old to enjoy the water as everyone else did. and 2) the watercraft. The cottage is stocked with a number of different watercraft (SUP, Canoe, Kayaks, Paddleboat) for all members of the family to enjoy.
Also, not sure if it was due to a hotter month, or if the lake is secretly shallow (you would never know by looking), but the water was unbelievably warm compared to what I have experienced with Muskoka lakes.
Not that it was a bother for us, but if you are looking for privacy, then keep in mind that the neighbouring cottages and more noticeably the neighbouring docks are very close. Due to the location of the cottage, this is normal and should not be a surprise for anyone.
Location is also fantastic as its a short 2-5 min drive into Bala, or a 25 min walk in case you needed to get more groceries/drinks.
The Cottage itself is a little on the dated side and could use a little TLC in some areas, plus some attention to detail with respect cleaning, but that may just be a personal preference. Nothing that should stop you from considering this for a family vacation.
All in all, a great place to spend a week away from normal city life.
10.0
Great location and lovely cottage
Overall we had a fanatasic stay. Short walk from Bala Falls. Great lake with lots of water toys. What more can you ask for?
10.0
Great place for a large family!
We had a great time with our family of 15. Great location, close to town, everything you need just a short drive away. The tap water is municipal and drinkable which is amazing. Enough bedrooms and washrooms to accommodate everyone. Mots if water toys.
The kitchen could use some improvement and updating. Overall a great experience. Would come back next year.
10.0
Great Time
Great Lake front setting with a modern yet with a rustic cottage feel.
There weed eight of us my two adult children and my three grand children we had a GREAT time and would go back again.
I would have no problem recommending it to family and friends. 😋
10.0
Amazing cottage experience
This unassuming cottage from the outside, was a delightful surprise inside: Clean, very spacious, and fully equipped with a homey ambience. We enjoyed the waterfront area and had access to lots of leisure equipment. The owner was very helpful and accommodating. Great for a large family and only a kilometre from downtown Bala which was a bonus!!
FAQs
How much does this cottage cost compared to others in Muskoka Lakes?
The average price for a rental in Muskoka Lakes is R 9,733 per night. This rental is R 5,327 above the average.
Is parking included with this cottage?
Yes, parking is listed as an amenity at All day Sun! Spacious 7-Bd. Lakefront Retreat, Walk to Bala's Shops & Eateries. For more information, we encourage you to contact the property about where to park.
Is there a pool at this cottage?
We didn’t find pool listed as an amenity for this cottage. It may be worth double checking if a pool is important for your stay.
Is All day Sun! Spacious 7-Bd. Lakefront Retreat, Walk to Bala's Shops & Eateries pet friendly?
Yes! This cottage is pet-friendly. For more information, we recommend contacting the booking provider about animal policies.
What amenities are available at All day Sun! Spacious 7-Bd. Lakefront Retreat, Walk to Bala's Shops & Eateries?
We found 12 amenities for this rental. This includes air conditioner, pets allowed, kitchen or kitchenette, internet / wifi, and fireplace.
Explore similar vacation rentals in Muskoka Lakes
Explore all rentals in Muskoka LakesMuskoka Lakes travel inspiration
Read our blogGuides
Best East Coast Beaches and Getaway Locations You Can’t Miss
Budget Travel
7 Most Affordable Snowbird Destinations for 2025
Guides
Top Activities to Try in Panama City Beach, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Gulf Shores, Alabama: Adventure and Fun Await
Local Culture
Exploring Miami’s Wynwood District: Street Art, Food, and More
Guides
Fun Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland
Local Culture
A Foodie’s Guide to the Best Dining in Orlando, Florida
Guides
Top Things to Do in Oahu and Honolulu