Ask any Canadian to describe the perfect summer day, and chances are it involves a cottage. From Ontario’s Prince Edward County to British Columbia’s Hornby Island, our country’s terrain is built for weekends spent lounging lakeside in a Muskoka chair. Take a peek at a few of our favourite Canadian retreats we’d happily spend all of our time inside.
Island Oasis
When designer Sarah Richardson has a hand in renovating a cottage, you can expect dream-worthy results. This show-stopping beauty is located on an island that’s a 30 minute boat ride from Ontario’s Parry Sound.
Island Oasis
Sarah’s cottage is available for rent (find out more here). The property boasts idyllic views of Georgian Bay, and over eight acres of land to explore… though we don’t blame you if you plant yourself on this sunset deck all day long.
Island Oasis
The beautifully appointed cottage features three bedrooms, each one with a colourful coastal-inspired interior. Seen here is the sunny west-facing guest room equipped with double doors that lead to the property’s private deck.
Island Oasis
With floor-to-ceiling windows, a spacious built-in banquette and a stone fireplace (not pictured), the cottage’s living/dining area is the epitome of paradise. See here for the full home tour.
Charming Cabin
Nestled on British Columbia’s Hornby Island, this cozy cabin was re-imagined on an episode of Love it or List it Vacation Homes. The welcoming wood exterior with bold blue detailing hints at what’s inside…
Charming Cabin
Step inside and you’ll be taken by the cabin’s fresh coastal vibe that’s chock-full of character. The sustainable wood flooring was even salvaged from the island!
Charming Cabin
A creamy white palette perked up with hits of watery blues and sunny yellows amounts to a cheerful yet calming sitting room. The gorgeous island views aren’t a bad perk, either.
Charming Cabin
The master bedroom’s wooden headboard is the perfect cottage showpiece. Bursts of coral wake up the space and add to its beachy, boho-chic style.
Tropical Retreat
Located in Ontario’s sought-after Prince Edward County, this renovated century farmhouse makes a case for experimenting with bold hues like green (which forms a connection with the great outdoors). The made-over space is also the work of the Love it or List it Vacation Homes team.
Tropical Retreat
The vacation home’s vibrant green palette is grounded by warm rustic elements, from the wooden coffee table to the brick feature wall. A stylish moose painting also makes the space feel authentically Canadian.
Tropical Retreat
Welcome to the cottage ensuite that puts all others to shame. The original brick wall was left intact to maintain the space’s historic charm, while a glossy black clawfoot tub and honeycomb floor tiles add modern contrast. Consider it the perfect fusion of old meets new.
Tropical Retreat
The master bedroom exudes so much country charm, from the rustic headboard to the antique window frames that decorate the room’s actual windows… how’s that for creativity?
Beachy Getaway
Designer Samantha Pynn transformed a dated cottage into a breezy family retreat. She updated the living room by painting the pine wall panels crisp white and incorporating sandy taupe and ocean blue hues throughout. For rustic character, the designer kept the space’s original stone feature wall and wood-burning fireplace.
Beachy Getaway
This summer home was due for a style upgrade. So Sam added a plush blue sofa, and even refreshed old bamboo chairs with brightly patterned cushions.
Beachy Getaway
Nothing says good morning like a cozy cottage banquette with lakeside views. This stylish setup is equipped with enough seating to accommodate an extra-large family.
Beachy Getaway
This bright white kitchen takes advantage of all the natural light that spills into the space. Glossy white subway tiles and open shelving fitted with colourful ceramics and a collection of woven baskets lend a timeless farmhouse feel.
Rustic Revival
This revived cottage patio by Samantha Pynn incorporates Canada’s most patriotic colour in all the right ways – from the red door frame to the bright canoe secured to the ceiling.
Rustic Revival
The patio’s spacious sitting area calls for cozy evenings spent taking in the property’s leafy surroundings.
Rustic Revival
The designer maximized the expansive patio space by creating different zones, from the comfy sitting nook to the large eating area.
Rustic Revival
When a cottage has unobstructed lakeside views, it’s necessary to outfit the patio with a dining area that takes full advantage.
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