 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 - $600 / night | CONTACT OWNER |
 | SAVE $1000 FOR AUG 15-22, 2025! Just released due to a last-minute cancellation — one of the top summer weeks! We’re offering a $1,000 discount to fill it fast! |
DESCRIPTIONGENERAL DESCRIPTION  | Sleeps 16 |
 | 5 Bedrooms |
 | 2 Bathrooms |
 | Pets
not allowed |
 | Smoking
not allowed |
 | Fireplace |
 | Internet |
 | Waterfront |
Welcome to The Island View Retreat! Nestled along the serene shores of Big Gull Lake in North Frontenac, Ontario, were thrilled to enter our 5th season of operation in 2025 and it's 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 dates are already filling up fast! Reach out soon to secure your stay we'll respond right away. 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 nearly 30 glowing reviews. 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 LOCATIONLOCATION| Province: 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: April 28, 2025 |
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RATES | | $500 | $600 | - | $2750 | - | - | 3 Nights | SUMMER 2025 Jun 20, 2025 - Aug 29, 2025 Check in Friday at 4:00PM, Check out the following Friday at 10:00AM. | - | - | - | $7450 | - | - | 1 Week | LABOUR DAY LONG WEEKEND 2025 Aug 29, 2025 - Sep 01, 2025 | $500 | $600 | - | $2950 | - | - | 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 |
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 | | 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! | |
| | Tammy | |
| The Island View Retreat is amazing. It is a beautifully appointed cottage. The owners are organized, accessible and kind and have considered everything you would need or want in a vacation property. It is a bit of a jaunt to grab groceries etc. so be mindful about the travel into town for things, but the cottage itself is perfect. With multiple bedrooms, a huge kitchen, great patio with stools overlooking the lake, dock fishing, water toys, fireplace, etc. it isn't missing a thing. A fun, beautiful and serene setting.
Stayed: October 2024 Submitted: Oct 14, 2024
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Owner response: Thank you for such a wonderful review! We're so glad to hear you enjoyed your stay at Island View Retreat and found it to be beautifully appointed and fully equipped for a relaxing getaway. We put a lot of care into making sure our guests have everything they need, and it's heartening to hear that those details made a difference. You're absolutely right about the drive into town—it's always a good idea to come prepared so you can spend more time enjoying the peaceful surroundings. It sounds like you made the most of the lake views, the kitchen, and all the amenities—we're so happy it all added to a memorable experience. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back again soon! | |
| | Yana | |
| What a beautiful property for our multi-family weekend. With 8 children ranging from 10 years old to 6 months old (and all their parents), we had an absolutely lovely time here! The kids spent a ton of time on the fantastic sandy beach, and fishing off the dock. There was plenty of room for everyone to sit and relax and eat. The deck looking out over the lake was a beautiful place to enjoy a morning coffee. The kitchen and BBQ were great - enough of everything to get all 16 of us fed and watered. Bedrooms were roomy and comfortable. And a short walk for ice cream Huge win for the kiddos! Loved it here, highly recommend, thank you Kevin & family!
Note: Would recommend bringing drinking water if you're not comfortable with well water.
Stayed: September 2024 Submitted: Sep 19, 2024
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Owner response: Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We're so glad Island View Retreat could be the backdrop for your multi-family weekend—it sounds like such a fun and memorable time! It's great to hear that the beach, dock, and deck were well-loved by both kids and adults, and that the space and amenities made it easy for everyone to relax, eat, and enjoy time together. We especially love that the morning coffee views and the nearby ice cream shop were highlights—those little moments really make a trip special! Thank you also for the helpful note about the drinking water; we always appreciate when guests share thoughtful tips for future visitors. It was a pleasure to host your group, and we'd love to welcome you back anytime! | |
| | Gregory | |
| My family and I had an amazing time at this charming cottage over the September long weekend. The place was cozy, well-maintained, and offered everything we needed for an enjoyable getaway.
We enjoyed plenty of water activities, from kayaking to swimming, which kept everyone entertained throughout our stay. The kids enjoyed canoeing onto blueberry island for a nice little adventure. The spacious deck offered a stunning view of the lake, making it the perfect spot to relax with a morning coffee or enjoy our family meals all together. The cottage was a great balance of privacy and tranquility with some properties nearby although not too crowded or isolated.
The host was exceptionally welcoming and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed for a comfortable experience.
We are already looking forward to our next visit my family had an absolute blast! Highly recommended for anyone looking for a perfect getaway!
Stayed: August 2024 Submitted: Sep 29, 2024
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Owner response: Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We're thrilled to hear that your family had such a wonderful time at the cottage over the September long weekend. It sounds like you made the most of everything—from kayaking and swimming to the blueberry island adventure and relaxing on the deck with those incredible lake views. We're especially happy to know the space struck the right balance of comfort, privacy, and connection with nature—just what we hope every guest experiences. Your kind words about the hosting mean a lot to us, and we're so glad we could help make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. We'd be absolutely delighted to welcome you back again—your next getaway can't come soon enough! | |
$500 - $600 / night $2750 - $7450 / week KEVIN SHELSON, OWNER Member since June 2021 Speaks: English Response Rate: 100% |
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