Booking a Cottage

How do I book a cottage?

First, take a look through our website. We offer a full range of cottages to meet every need. We invite you to look through the photographs, read the descriptions, choose the cottage that suits you and your family best, and confirm its availability for the dates you want.

Next, complete either the online or print cottage rental application form and submit it to our office. Our experienced staff will contact you by email to confirm the details and to complete the booking process.

No booking is considered confirmed until your application has been approved and we have received your deposit.

When can I book a cottage?

You can submit a rental application at any time. Cottage owners renew their listings each fall. Booking in fall and winter will give you the best choice of locations and dates. New listings are added year round.

Is the Availability Calendar up to date?

The calendar is updated constantly. Once a booking is confirmed, it will be immediately reflected on the calendar. Please be aware that availability changes quickly, so book your choice early to avoid disappointment.

Is there a minimum booking period?

In high season, the minimum booking period is one week. In low and winter season, the minimum booking period is two nights. The minimum booking period over long weekends is three nights.

Some cottages offer exceptions. Please contact us to discuss your needs.

What does “weekly only” mean?

If a cottage is identified as renting “weekly only” during a specified time period, it means it can only be rented for the full seven days, Saturday to Saturday. You are welcome to book multiple weeks, but partial weeks are not offered. 

Can I book a long weekend?

Long weekends are booked at high season rates throughout the year. Long weekend rentals are not available for the July, August and September long weekends.

Can I book at the last minute? 

Some cottages can be rented with a minimum of two days notice. Please call us regarding your cottage of interest.

What is your cancellation policy?  
Cancellations must be in writing. If some or all dates are successfully rebooked to another group, you will receive a refund, pro-rated, less a cancellation fee of $199 plus HST per week. If the cottage cannot be rebooked, monies paid are forfeited.

Application and Payment

What happens after my application is submitted?

Once we receive your completed application, we will contact you to confirm details and to be sure that your choice is the best match for you. You will be asked to provide:

• a deposit equal to 30 per cent of the total invoice;
• a signed copy of the ‘Terms and Conditions’ form

How do I make payments?

Deposit: Most renters prefer to pay their 30 percent deposit  through online banking or by e-transfer. This is easily done through most major Canadians banks. We also accept VISA and Mastercard. 

Balance: The balance owing is due 90 days prior to the start of your holiday,  We accept online internet banking payments, e-transfer or cheques. Balance payments paid by Visa and Mastercard are subject to a 3% fee.

Is my payment protected?

Yes. Upon receipt, your payment is deposited into a Travel Industry Trust Account. CottageVacations.com is licensed by The Travel Industry Council of Ontario (TICO), registration number 50011981. Your payment is further protected through TICO’s Compensation Fund.

Will I receive confirmation of my booking?

Upon receipt of your 30 per cent deposit, we will email you a confirmation of your booking and an invoice.

Your Cottage Vacation

What are the arrival and departure times?  
Unless otherwise noted:

Weekly bookings:

·      Arrival is Saturday at 4:00 p.m.

·      Departure is the following Saturday by 10:00 a.m.  

Weekend or midweek bookings (less than one week):

Regular check in and check out will apply unless otherwise arranged. 

 

How do I get the keys? 
The keys will be located in a lock box, or there will be a combination lock on the door. You will be advised of the combination one week before your holiday.

Why is there maximum occupancy listed for each cottage?   
Each cottage can accommodate a specific number of people. This number is determined based on the capacity of the water system and the septic system, the cottage owner's preference as well as short term rental bylaws for certain areas.

Can I bring a pet?  
Cottages that accept pets are specifically identified in their profiles. We must request the cottage owner's permission to bring a pet. Please provide the breed, age and size. Most cottage owners will not allow a puppy. Renters or their guests who bring a pet to a non-pet cottage will be asked to leave with no compensation for lost vacation time.

What do I need to bring?  
Unless otherwise stated, pillows and blankets are provided, but you must bring your own bed sheets, pillowcases, towels and kitchen linens. In some cases, you may be required to bring your own drinking water. For out-of-country visitors, arrangements can be made to provide linens for a fee.  

How do I dispose of garbage?  

Instructions for garbage disposal are provided at each cottage. 

Please call us at 1-877-218-5370 with any other questions.