 Porch Bar with Beer Fridge - 3/39  Upper Left Bedroom (2 x Full/Double, 1 x Twin) - 6/39  Upper Middle Bedroom (Queen Bed) - 7/39  Upper Right Bedroom (2 x Full/Double, 1 x Twin) - 8/39  Master Bedroom (Queen) - 9/39  Master Bedroom (Queen Bed) - Facing the Lake - 10/39  The best fireplace on the lake! - 14/39  Included in your rental - 2 x Kayaks, 2 x Stand Up Paddle Boards, 1 x Canoe - 16/39  Exploring islands on Big Gull Lake - 18/39  An aerial view of Camp's Bay - 19/39  The perfect place to eat, drink, watch, listen and relax! - 20/39  Island view from a picnic - 22/39  Fishing is great off the dock! Bass, Pike, Sunfish can be easily caught with a hook and worm! - 27/39  A fisherman's paradise, our deck can accommodate up to 4 boats! - 28/39  Camp's Bay Resort is next and they have a great little store (Ice, Bait, Ice Cream, Kitchen Items) - 37/39  Camp's Bay Resort is next and they have ice cream! Great for the kids :) - 38/39 $500 - $800 / night | CONTACT OWNER |
DESCRIPTIONGENERAL DESCRIPTION  | Sleeps 16 |
 | 5 Bedrooms |
 | 2 Bathrooms |
 | Pets not allowed |
 | Smoking not allowed |
 | Fireplace |
 | Internet |
 | Waterfront |
NOW ACCEPTING BOOKINGS FOR 2026!! Welcome to The Island View Retreat! Nestled along the serene shores of Big Gull Lake in North Frontenac, Ontario, were thrilled to have had an amazing 5th season in 2025 and 2026 is shaping up to be our best yet. Whether you're a repeat visitor or a first-time guest, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable lakeside escape. Please note that 2025 fall dates are still available. $500 per weekday, $600 per weekend night. 3 night minimum. _____________ A Four-Season Haven for Families and Friends This four-season log cottage rests on 1.2 acres of private, forested land with an expansive sandy shoreline. Youre just a quick, 15-minute drive from Northbrook, yet immersed in natures tranquillity. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a charming waterfront bunkie comfortably sleep up to 16 guests - perfect for family reunions, multi-generational getaways, or a relaxing retreat with friends. Location & Accessibility The Island View Retreat is just 1.5 hours from Kingston, 2 hours from Ottawa, and about 3 hours from the GTA, making it a convenient meeting point for families or groups traveling from different regions. --- What You Can Expect --- - A clean, welcoming and private environment - 2 queen beds, 5 double beds, 2 single beds - 2 full size fridges, a chest freezer and bar fridge - Fully stocked kitchen with all appliances and utensils you need. - Premium Weber BBQ and 2 Tanks of Propane - Wifi, Satellite TV, Air Conditioning, Washer and Dryer - Expansive covered deck overlooking Big Gull Lake with premium bistro chairs and dining set - 2 x canoes, 2 x fishing kayaks, 2 x stand up paddle boards - Sandy beach with gentle sloping shoreline - meticulously maintained and perfect for young children. - Deep, weed free water, great for swimming. - Stunning waterfront fire pit with 8 premium Muskoka chairs, perfect for family camp fires and s'mores! - Amazing fishing. Walleye, Northern Pike, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass - Located next to Camp's Bay Cottages and Marina which has boat rentals, fuel, bait and ice cream! - **Linen and towel service available at additional cost**
We're proud to maintain a 5.0 rating on CottagesInCanada with over 30 glowing reviews and a long list of happy repeat guests. Here's a taste of what recent visitors have said:
"Ideal for multiple families and perfect for young kids. We loved the sandy beach, fishing off the dock, and the short walk for ice cream!" -- Yana (September 2024)
"We enjoyed canoeing onto Blueberry Island for a little adventure. Already looking forward to our next visit! highly recommended!" -- Gregory (August 2024)
"Absolutely beautiful! This cottage made for a wonderful getaway for our extended family. Very well-maintained, neat, and clean." -- Marissa (July 2024)
"We had a wonderful time staying at Island View Retreat. Beautiful home, great beach, and a clean lake. Everything we needed was readily available!" -- Adil (July 2024)
"A little piece of paradise for making memories. Ideal for families - there was something for our three generations to enjoy!" -- Judy (June 2024
--- Experience Unforgettable Lakeside Leisure ---
The expansive deck offers panoramic views of the glistening Big Gull Lake, while the custom lighting under the A-frame covered deck sets the perfect mood for family dinners, socializing and taking in the views of Camp's Bay.
For the adventurous ones, the lakeside fire pit awaits, perfect for marshmallow roasting and star-gazing.
Additionally, the private beach is a paradise for kids and adults alike, offering a playground of sandcastles, laughter, and clear, inviting waters.
--- Enjoy Water Sports and Fishing ---
Our retreat is all set up with 2 canoes, 2 paddle boards, and 2 fishing kayaks ready for you to have a blast on the water.
Take a trip around Big Gull Lake, it's a sight to see. And if you're into fishing, you're in luck. This lake is known for Walleye, Northern Pike, Large Mouth Bass, Small Mouth Bass, and more.
But here's a tip: you don't need to go far for a good catch. Try fishing off the dock. It's a real hit, especially with the kids. They have a lot of fun catching different types of fish like Rock Bass, Sunfish, and Perch right from the dock. Trust us, the dockside fishing is very good and you might be surprised with what you can reel in!
--- Cozy, Clean and Fully Stocked Cottage ---
This cottage offers a comfortable and cozy space that's perfect for relaxing with family. Walk in to find a welcoming living room, complete with high ceilings, a warm gas fireplace, and pine decor from floor to ceiling. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day on the lake.
The heart of this retreat is the well-appointed kitchen. Equipped with two full-size fridges, a bonus beer fridge on the deck, and a chest freezer, there's plenty of room to store all your food and drinks. With a stove, dishwasher, and all the plates, cutlery, and cookware you'll need, it's never been easier to cook up a family meal.
When it's time to turn in for the night, choose from four cozy bedrooms inside the main cottage. With two queen beds, four double beds, and two single beds, there's room for everyone. But for a truly unique experience, check out the waterfront bunkie.
The bunkie offers a whole new way to experience Big Gull Lake. With a double bed, desk, lounge chair, and its own deck overlooking the water, it's a little slice of paradise. The deck is furnished with two bistro-style chairs, making it the perfect spot to enjoy the view, whether you're sipping morning coffee or gazing at the stars.
--- Remote Working Setup ---
For guests who need to stay connected, the retreat offers Bell Fibe internet with 10 Mbps download speed and a Linksys Velop router for a continuous and stable internet connection.
--- The Island View Experience ---
The Island View Retreat is not just a place; it's an experience. It's a call to the simple joys of life, to family, to nature, and to self. It's a space designed with love, waiting to be filled with your laughter and stories.
We welcome families who will treat this cottage as if it were their own. So come, experience the Island View Retreat, where the allure of the wilderness meets the comforts of a home.
--- Bookings and Additional Information ---
To ensure the best experience for all our guests, all renters will be vetted, and a security deposit will be taken. 50% of the total amount is due upon booking, with the remaining 50% due 30 days prior to check-in.
We can't wait to welcome you to the Island View Retreat!
--- Camp's Bay Marina and Cottages ---
Right next door to Island View Retreat is the quaint and charming Camp's Bay Marina and Cottages. This local gem is not only your neighbour but also a convenient one-stop-shop for all your vacation needs.
Want to add some thrill to your stay? They offer a variety of boat rentals, perfect for exploring Big Gull Lake at your own pace. From pontoons to fishing boats, they have it all to get your adventure started.
In addition to boat rentals, the marina provides gas for boaters and a stocked convenience store to ensure your pantry never runs dry during your stay. For those hot summer days, treat yourself and the kids to their range of refreshing ice cream.
And for the anglers, they sell bait as well, ensuring you're well-equipped for a fruitful fishing expedition. In short, Camp's Bay Marina and Cottages is the perfect companion to your stay at Island View Retreat.
--- Big Gull Lake ---
Big Gull Lake is the true heart of Northbrook, Ontario. With an area of over 6000 hectares and a shoreline stretching for 75 km, it's a pristine paradise for those who adore the great outdoors. The lake is dotted with over 30 islands, each with its unique charm, waiting to be explored.
+ READ MORE - COLLAPSE AMENITIES AND EQUIPMENT | Bedrooms | 5 bedrooms : - 2 single beds - 5 double beds - 2 Queen beds - 1 Sofa bed - Crib | | Kitchen | | | Communications | | | General | | | Entertainment | | | Outdoors Features | | |
Summer Activities (nearby) | | | Winter Activities (nearby) | | |
2 x Fishing Kayaks Provided 2 x Stand Up Paddle Boards Provided 2 x Canoes Provided Boat Rentals Available + VIEW MORE - COLLAPSE LOCATIONLOCATIONProvince: Ontario | Region: Kawarthas | City: Arden | | Distance from ski resort: | - |
| Nearest Body of Water: | Big Gull Lake |
| Waterfront: Yes |
Other Town/Lake/Area: | Northbrook |
Note: Located on Big Gull Lake, a large 20 km spring fed lake. Excellent fishing (walleye, large & small mouth bass, muskie, perch and panfish).
The lake is surrounded by 80% vacant, unspoiled, crown land. Big Gull Lake is a wilderness jewel set in Eastern Ontario in the heart of the Canadian shield with plenty of places to pull in for a shore picnic.
Family fun includes great water-skiing, tubing, kayaking, canoeing, peddle boating and swimming. The rocky shoreline offers great spots to swim. AVAILABILITYLast update: September 01, 2025 |
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RATES | | $500 | $600 | - | $2750 | - | - | 3 Nights | SEPTEMBER 2025 Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 30, 2025 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights | OCTOBER 2025 Oct 01, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights | EARLY SPRING 2026 Apr 01, 2026 - May 15, 2026 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights | VICTORIA DAY LONG WEEKEND 2026 May 15, 2026 - May 18, 2026 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights | EARLY SPRING 2026 May 19, 2026 - May 31, 2026 | $550 | $650 | - | $3250 | - | - | 3 Nights | SPRING 2026 May 31, 2026 - Jun 19, 2026 Check in Friday at 4:00PM, Check out the following Friday at 10:00AM. | $650 | $800 | - | $4750 | - | - | 3 Nights | SUMMER 2026 Jun 19, 2026 - Sep 04, 2026 Check in Friday at 4:00PM, Check out the following Friday at 10:00AM. | - | - | - | $7850 | - | - | 1 Week | LABOUR DAY LONG WEEKEND 2025 Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 07, 2026 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights | SEPTEMBER 2026 Sep 08, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026 | $650 | $800 | - | $4750 | - | - | 3 Nights | OCTOBER 2026 Oct 01, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 3 Nights |
Rates are in Canadian dollars ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Check-in after | 04:00 PM | Check-out before | 10:00 AM | Tax Rate | 13% | Security Deposit | $1500 (Security deposit will be refunded within 7 days of check-out) | Booking Deposit | 50% due at time of booking (The balance is due 30 days before arrival) | Cancellation Policy | Moderate |
REVIEWS | Amybelle |  |
| We had a wonderful time during our stay at this cottage! The experience was everything we hoped for and more. The view was absolutely stunning — the perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway. The cottage itself was cozy, comfortable, and felt very homey. It had everything we needed, from the essentials to the little touches that made our stay extra enjoyable. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a peaceful and beautiful retreat!
Stayed: August 2025 Submitted: Sep 03, 2025
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 | Judy |  |
| Everything as expected! Lots of space for our three generations. The grandkids enjoyed the sandy beach, the water and activities. The adults enjoyed the canoes & kayaks. The cottage is comfortable for everyone with lots of spaces to enjoy meals, inside and out, along with spaces for indoor activities. This was our second summer to enjoy this little piece of paradise. Loved our time in 2025.
Stayed: August 2025 Submitted: Sep 01, 2025
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 | Debra |  |
| Our friends and family had a great week at Island view retreat. Everything was in impeccable condition when we arrived. Nice and clean. Kevin was great to work with throughout our booking and even after we arrived. Always available to answer our questions. Kids had a great time playing in the sand and water. Thank you Shelson family for a great week. Wouldn't hesitate to return again. the Hill family. Also the owners at Camp Bay. Marina were wonderful.
Stayed: August 2025 Submitted: Aug 09, 2025
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 | George |  |
| Island View Retreat is a gem!! 8 children and 8 adults for a week had a great time in a great place in a great location. Swimming - superb. So much fun especially on the floating raft. Fishing - big enjoyment. Many trips out in the big lake. One of the children caught 9 fish in one day off the dock. Kayaks and canoes - used again and again by young and old. Beach and sand - highlight for the young ones who played with joy in it all 7 days. Accommodation - 4 families with 16 people had great times indoors. Seclusion - close enough to the marina to get ice cream which all enjoyed and information that helped with the fishing yet felt private and on our own. Help - Kevin was great - personable, helpful, and working to make the week happen for our best experience. Again Island View Retreat is a gem!!!
Stayed: June 2025 Submitted: Jul 05, 2025
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 | Michelle |  |
| Island view retreat was an excellent place for our group. The owners were great to deal with and the information provided was well organized. Our group loved the dock and view from the beautiful deck, we enjoyed all of the great amenities this beautiful cottage provided. The furniture, beds and linens provided were very comfortable. Everything was very clean and the kitchen was very well stocked. We would highly recommend for a large group of friends or a family with children.
Stayed: June 2025 Submitted: Jun 09, 2025
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Owner response: Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that Island View Retreat was an excellent fit for your group. It's wonderful to know that you enjoyed the dock, the view from the deck, and all the amenities the cottage has to offer. We take pride in ensuring our guests have a clean, comfortable, and well-stocked environment to relax and make memories in, so it means a lot to hear that the beds, linens, and kitchen setup met your expectations. We truly enjoyed hosting your group and would be delighted to welcome you back anytime. Thank you again for the recommendation! | |
$500 - $800 / night $2750 - $7850 / week KEVIN SHELSON, OWNER Member since June 2021 Speaks: English Response Rate: 92% |
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