Attention Cottagers: Help us find our dream summer cottage rental in Ontario

February 11, 2011 4:24 PM

What's a good method to find a summer cottage rental on Lake Huron or Georgian Bay?

We are looking to rent a waterfront cottage for two weeks in the summer with our parents. Our son will be two in the summer so we would prefer to rent a cottage on a sandy, shallow shoreline. In the past, we have spent time at cottages near Kindcardine and Wasaga (Allenwood) beach and we LOVE those areas. We also have a Wheaten Terrier that would love to join us on our vacation.

Our ideal rental would have the following features:
- sleeps 6-8 people
- 1 - 2 bathrooms
- outdoor shower
- pet friendly
- child friendly
- large deck
- waterfront/beach access
- one king bed for the folks
- located on a sandy beach

I'm having trouble finding a good cottage rental site. I know we're a bit behind as most people book a year ahead of time.

Can anyone recommend how to find our ideal rental? What has worked for you in the past?

Thanks!!

posted by durga to travel & transportation around Ontario (6 answers total)

I don't know if it will work for you, but when I've needed to rent a vacation home/place, I've always had luck with vrbo.com.
posted by phelixshu at 4:31 PM on February 11, 2011

Seconding VRBO. My family has had several good experiences with that.
posted by BlahLaLa at 4:33 PM on February 11, 2011

I just sent an email to my dad who lives in Wasaga. We sold our cottage a few years back, unfortunately, because it is exactly what you describe. Hopefully my dad will be able to suggest an agent to help you.
posted by nprigoda at 4:55 PM on February 11, 2011

Ontario Cottage Rentals. I have used them many times.
posted by biscotti at 5:31 PM on February 11, 2011

See if you can find something on Christian Island. I summered there as a kid and it's gorgeous.
posted by empatterson at 9:58 PM on February 12, 2011

Just found this link. Looks like it might fall in line with your needs.
posted by empatterson at 10:02 PM on February 12, 2011