At A Glance:
# of People:
8Parking:
YesPets:
YesBeds:
4A/C:
NoFire Pit:
YesBathrms:
1Internet:
YesHot Tub:
NoSq footage:
1500Heated:
YesWaterft:
McKay LakeWater Toys:
Kayak(2), Aluminium Boat(1)Description:
Location: McKay Lake, near Bracebridge, Ontario
Over the river and through the woods, to the family cottage we go! A narrow, meandering road twists through the forest and crosses a small wooden bridge to arrive at a charming site overlooking the western bay of McKay Lake. This multi-level property is ideal for a multi-generational family. The interior of the cottage has a spacious living room and an L-shaped sunroom/dining area that wraps around it. Outside, a firepit with six Muskoka chairs is situated between the cottage and bunkie, making it easy for parents to enjoy the evening while keeping an eye or ear on the kids. The grounds, which can be accessed from the main entrance at the side of the cottage or from the front deck off the sunroom, slope to the shore, where a long dock extends into the lake. There are about half a dozen stairs leading down to the water’s edge. The waterfront is in a natural state, so swimmers may prefer to use the dock when getting in or out of the water. The two sit-on kayaks and small aluminum boat will also be fun to use for fishing or exploring McKay Lake, which spans over 300 acres.
Guests will be able to enjoy the view of the bay from the front deck, the sunroom or the living room. All three spaces have comfortable seating – especially the living room, which has several comfy sofas. As well, the living room features a large Smart TV and a gas fireplace, attractively framed by Muskoka stones. In the adjacent sunroom, there’s also a desk overlooking the lake, for those who wish to set up a computer or write. On the deck, a propane barbeque provides one option for cooking.
The galley-style kitchen has sufficient counter space for food preparation and all the basic requisite appliances. These include a large stainless-steel fridge, stove, microwave, toaster, drip coffeemaker, kettle, enough dishes for a large group and a dishwasher. The dining room table would be great for a buffet, if people wanted to eat outside.
The beds in the cottage and bunkie can accommodate a total of eight people. The main-level bedroom off the living room has a double bed and the bathroom is located just around the corner. Recently renovated, the three-piece bathroom has a large step-in shower. Beyond the bathroom, a short hall with a trio of stairs leads up to a spacious master bedroom with a king-sized bed and gas fireplace, as well as sliding glass doors to a private deck. In the bunkie, the larger of two rooms has a solidly built bunkbed with double mattresses on both levels, while the smaller room has a loveseat and table that would be great for games or puzzles.
The cottage is equipped with Wifi and televisions but there are no electronic games, so it could provide a good opportunity for a family to disconnect from social media and reconnect with each other. It’s a great for place for socializing, either indoors or out, hanging out on the deck or dock, or just relaxing by a fire in the evening. In addition to the main level, there is a separate “crow’s nest” that rises above the rest of the structure, providing a wonderful view of the surroundings, as well as a quiet place to read or stargaze.
All throughout the property, there are comfortable spaces for both adults and children, so multiple generations will feel right at home here. While parents or grandparents chat, the younger family members can safely play or sleep nearby, in either the bunkie or the main level of the cottage. The outdoor seating also affords a good view of the waterfront.
If guests want to venture beyond the cottage, the bustling town of Bracebridge is only about 15 minutes away. Families with younger children may want to visit the perennially popular Santa’s Village. Bracebridge also has several art galleries, including the Annex and MAC on Main, where Muskoka Arts and Crafts group members display their work, and the Britton Gallery, which specializes in fine art and jewellery. As well, there are numerous interesting shops in the downtown core and two theatres – the Norwood cinema and the Rene Caisse Theatre, where live music and dramatic performances are regularly hosted. Or, for something different, a cruise aboard the Lady Muskoka II on the Muskoka River could be a fun excursion for the whole family!
**Check-in: after 4:00pm and Check-out: before 10:00am
**Paper products: The cottage will provide enough to get you started, but vacationers must supply their own, including toilet paper and paper towels.
**Adult life jackets are supplied. Vacationers must bring their own children's life jackets due to safety and liability concerns
**Linens are provided for each stay.
**Paper products: The cottage will provide enough to get you started, but vacationers must supply their own, including toilet paper and paper towels.
**Adult life jackets are supplied. Vacationers must bring their own children's life jackets due to safety and liability concerns
**Linens are provided for each stay.