Vacation Rentals by Owner

Beautiful Margaree

Guest: Mary M.
Date of Stay: 08/27/11 Review Submitted: 09/14/11

We enjoyed our stay at the Potter's Cottage very much! It is a lovely house with lots of space, including a great kitchen, sun porch and comfortable bedrooms. It is spotlessly clean and well maintained and decorated with really beautiful artwork. The location of the cottage is great as a starting point for exploring the attractions in Margaree and surrounding areas. Just follow the suggestions outlined in Stewart's excellent information packet! It was a pleasure to stay at the Potter's Cottage. Stewart and Bell are wonderful hosts!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Looks like a deserted place needing total revamp

Guest: Traveller12 (PA, USA)
Date of Stay: 07/26/11 Review Submitted: 09/09/11

When we first pulled in, we couldn't believe this was the cute property we saw on the VRBO site. Not seeing a house number and seeing all the overgrown weeds on the front and rear patios and around the house, the dirty picture window etc (did not look like it had been lived in for a long time) made us drive away thinking we must be mistaken. Then we noticed the house number on another house and remembered that there was a barn and a pottery business, we assumed this must be the house and drove back. While portions of the inside looked nice (living room, kitchen area), the house was not left clean or well maintained (e.g., could not see out of the front window, something sticky on the floor by the couch, broken screens on sunroom door, broken window in laundry room with a piece of wood nailed over it). The view out of the kitchen was one of the broken window and what looked like the old top from a pick-up truck(??) or something similar laying in the yard. The sunroom with the screen torn on the door had filthy windows and the furniture was very old, that we didn't dare sit on it. The small deck off the sunroom was unusable with a tree growing up through the deck. Upstairs we were very disappointed by the comfort of the beds, the state of the floors with broken tiles, and a mirror leaning against the wall (very unsafe). The website said there were 4 bedrooms, however the 4th bedroom could not be used (no bed or any other furniture). All it had were the skeleton of an old bed. In the bedroom where the mirror was against the wall, the pillow had a stain on it, so we didn't even use that bed. Of the various properties we have rented on VRBO and other sites, we have never stayed in conditions like this anywhere. The pictures on the website presented this place as a cozy, beautiful place. We were very disappointed to think we had to stay here for 5 nights. We actually considered going elsewhere the first night. But, it was too late. However, we managed to find a place for the 5th night and left early, taking our loss. This property is a run down place with minimal upgrades. The owner really have misrepresented the property on the website. It took the owner over 3 weeks since we checked out to refund us our security deposit.

Owner response:Most of these comments are inaccurate, and convey a very distorted picture of our Margaree property. The cottage is cleaned and equipped thoroughly after each visit, and reviews from other guests attest to this (notice all of the other reviews are five-star and are submitted from guests, and not “owner-submitted” reviews). Our lawns are well kept and described as “immaculate.” Other relevant comments: “During our home time, we were very comfortable and fully enjoyed all the creative touches and luxuries the home delivered;” another review from the same period this summer says “It is spotlessly clean and well maintained and decorated with really beautiful artwork.” Or another review: “Everything was clean and up to date. The grounds were immaculate and offered a pleasant venue for relaxation.” We have a pottery gallery on the premises, and there is someone staffing the gallery full-time, seven days per week, who attends to the grounds and cottage. There was a short time this summer where we needed to repair the riding lawnmower, but this was a momentary lapse, and we had a person lined up to do the lawns should the repair take too long. Most of the beds and/or mattresses in the cottage are new, and although the extra room with the mentioned “skeleton bed” was not locked, it was not available to guests this season, because the bed is being replaced and the room is being upgraded. (No one arrived or booked expecting or needing to be able to use this last room/bed, and our listing, which initially mentioned a 4th, bedroom, was corrected during the season). The floor upstairs is original linoleum, but there are no “broken tiles.” The “unusable deck” is a small deck which was built around a tree deliberately, (not a tree growing up, or through), and is usable should someone like. Although there is older, original furniture in the cottage, this is part of the cottage’s charm, and it is clean and perfectly usable, as is the furniture on the screened porch. In terms of the deposit, we were on vacation for the first two-and-a-half weeks of August, and the deposit was returned a week late as a result, but this was an aberration. (In the lease we usually allow for two weeks, but generally return it within a week. We decided in August to discontinue charging damage deposits.) We think we offer a nice, traditional house in a great location at a reasonable price.

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Perfect cottage for a week away

Guest: Iain and Diane (Guelph, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 07/16/11 Review Submitted: 07/27/11

WE just got back from Potter's cottage and had a fabulous time. The cottage was well equipped and had plenty of room for our family of 4. It was very nicely decorated and came equipped with high speed internet and satellite TV for those rainy days on the island. The location of the cottage was good, being right off the Cabot trail and within 20 minutes to the coast and the beautiful beaches there. Overall, a great experience had by all. Thanks Stew and Bell.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children.

Potter's Cottage in Lovely Margaree Valley

Guest: Keira B.
Date of Stay: 07/11/11 Review Submitted: 02/21/12

I brought my mom and two little girls aged 5 and 3 to stay at Potter's Cottage. Our stay was exactly what I had imagined and hoped for. The cottage was cozy and met our needs. We love Bell's beautiful art work in the kitchen and my girls had magical play time in the sun room. I felt that I was able to give them a small taste of my childhood staying at my grandparents cottage in Bobcaygeon, Ontario. It was so nice to connect with Sharon who oversaw the pottery store beside the cottage check in with us. She was always helpful if we had abby questions. My youngest daughter asks when she can go back to her special cottage and one night before going to sleep cried because she missed it so much. Baddeck was a pleasantly close as well as beautiful beaches. I loved the quaint setting and can't wait to come back this summer. My heart is in Maragree! Thank you Stewart and Bell for your hospitality. We plan to come back every year!!!

Owner response:Thanks for your generosity Keira- we enjoyed having your family visit and we’re happy your daughter could connect with the cottage and make these kind of memories. Last year we made some strategic improvements and this spring there will be more, which will enhance your stay further. We are always trying to improve the cottage and the experience people can have while they stay in Margaree, and we hope that you will continue to feel at home here!

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Fall at Potter's Cottage

Guest: Miranda C. (Cambria, CA USA)
Date of Stay: 10/08/10 Review Submitted: 10/18/10

I just returned from a fall trip (October 2010) to Cape Breton with my mother and 2 young daughters. We stayed at the Potter's Cottage in Margaree Valley, and it could not have been more perfect for our needs. The location is perfect for exploring along the Cabot Trail, and is central for all Cape Breton attractions. The house itself is cosy and charming, with all the amenities you could ask for and very friendly, informative hosts. We had a great time visiting the beaches of Inverness, Chimney Corner, Whale Cove and Margaree Harbour, hiked the Skyline trail, explored Baddeck and visited many interesting museums. The children enjoyed the house, garden and river, and all in all we had a fantastic adventure on our first visit to Nova Scotia.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway.

Experience the flavor of Cape Breton

Guest: Carolyn (United States)
Date of Stay: 09/07/10 Review Submitted: 09/22/10

Renting this cottage was a very positive experience. The location of the Potter's Cottage is perfect for day trips to either side of the island. From this most convenient location we were able to experience the flavor to Cape Breton. The house offered all we needed plus some. Everything was clean and up to date. The grounds were immaculate and offered a pleasant venue for relaxation. Stewart was most helpful and informative in assisting us with our daily agendas. Everyone in the valley was so nice and friendly. There is a general store for all you need and the Normaway Inn offers a great place for evening dining will local entertainment in "The Barn." There is also the Dancing Goat, a small cafe, offering a good breakfast and lunch if you really want to experience the true meaning of "being on vacation" and not cook. We are so glad we chose this Margaree Valley location for our stay in Cape Breton.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Lovely cottage. Great starting point

Guest: Nelson (Toronto)
Date of Stay: 07/24/10 Review Submitted: 08/17/10

The Potters cottage Is a great destination when wanting to explore Cape Breton. Every destination is within an hour of the cottage. The place was beautiful with a large screened in porch. You'll love the normaway inn which is a short drive away. Great place for dinner and live music. There is also the dancing goat which is a great restaurant for breakfast or lunch also a 5 minute drive. Pleasant experience overall. Would love to come back. "

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Potters Cottage Experience

Guest: Patsy (British columbia)
Date of Stay: 07/17/10 Review Submitted: 07/28/10

We loved staying at this home. The close proximity to the Margaree River, Cabot Trail, awesome beaches and local music made our experience very fulfilling. During our home time, we were very comfortable and fully enjoyed all the creative touches and luxuries the home delivered. Thanks for all.. Granberg Family, British Columbia

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, sightseeing.

Wonderful!

Guest: scotiafriends (Halifax, NS)
Date of Stay: 07/11/09 Review Submitted: 08/17/09

We spent a week at the Potter's Cottage in July 2009 and had a great time. It is very spacious, airy, with lots of light and good feeling all around. The property is well maintained and the interior is very clean, with nice beds, kitchen, TV, DVD, etc. Pretty well everything you need for a fine vacation is right here, or within a short drive, inclduing food stores and restaurants. A wee bit further away there are some cool beaches. Stewart and Bell were very warm and receptive. We were first timers to Cape Breton and the Margaree region was a real treat. I highly recommend this Cottage for families or couples.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fairytale

Guest: Nathalie en Yves (Kontich, Belgium)
Date of Stay: 07/08/09 Review Submitted: 10/19/09

With our 3 kids we visited this summer the east of Canada. Potter's cottage seemed a perfect place to explore Cape Breton and indeed it was perfect. The house so lovely as if we arrived in a fairytale. Clean, a lot of space, more than enough information, friendly owners and very helpfull. We stayed only a few days, too short in fact, but enjoyed every moment. A place we'll keep in our hearts.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Jim and Dawn (Holland, Michigan, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/29/09 Review Submitted: 06/29/09

We had four peaceful nights at the Potter's Cottage. Stewart and Bell are great hosts, giving us ideas of things to do that only the locals know. The house was very spacious for our family of 5 and quite clean and comfortable. The central location to both sides of the Cabot Trail was a big plus for us. We highly recommend a stay at the Potter's Cottage.

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Holiday in a postcard

Guest: Marianne B. (St-Lambert, Quebec)
Date of Stay: 06/27/09 Review Submitted: 07/15/09

How can you spend a better holiday than when you stand right in the middle of a postcard ?!.. This is exactly the feeling we had when we spent one week at Potter’s cottage last week. We were absolutely charmed by the beauty and serenity of this old farm place, coiled like a jewel in the green countryside. Children had plenty of space to run and play safely around the house while adults had plenty of room inside to cook, read, rest and plan the next trip to the Cabot trail. The cottage was most welcoming and confortable, renovated and very well equipped, studded with artistic touches that gave it a homey and unique look. Moreover, while its location garanteed quietness and serenity, it was minutes away from « civilisation » and services. As for the road leading to the sea, it was always a treat to get back on it, twenty minutes or so of pure delight watching the sloping landscape and searching for flying eagles. The real bonus coming with the postcard was the smile, the warmth and the discretion of our hosts, Stewart and Bell. Two artists whose pieces of art were in exhibition in a quaint barn close to the cottage, they were extremely helpful in making our holiday a special discovery of the place and the people. We left Potter’s cottage with the sad feeling of leaving friends behind and the acute desire to come back one day in this lovely haven.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children.

Great Spot to Stay

Guest: Jim and Dawn (Holland, Michigan, USA)
Date of Stay: 06/22/09 Review Submitted: 07/18/09

We were really pleased with our stay at the Potter's Cottage. There was plenty of room for our family of five in this clean, well stocked house. Stewart and Bell are fabulous hosts, helping us discover the items only the locals know about. The central location was very convenient to both coasts allowing us to explore Cape Breton easily. The home itself is beautiful and quiet - just off the beaten path. When we return to Nova Scotia, we will come back to the Potter's Cottage.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Roomy House, Spotlessly Clean, Nicely Located

Guest: mark_ottawa (Ottawa, Ontario, Canada)
Date of Stay: 06/20/09 Review Submitted: 07/02/09

My wife and I stayed here for two nights in mid-June. The photos in the ad do the house justice. This is a former family home that the owners have just recently renovated to be a guest cottage. It's been simply and tastefully done with some nice original touches by Bell, a painter and potter who co-owns the house with her husband Stewart. The house is comfortable with plenty of room for a family (though we were there without our kids). The kitchen is well equipped and the eating area spacious. The living room, with a flat-screen TV and DVD player, is a nice place to lounge after a day of seeing the sights. The house is also conveniently located for sights and activities in the Margaree Valley, and is very close to the road that goes to Baddeck, which is also worth a visit. We were very happy here.

Recommended for:Families with teenagers, families with young children, sightseeing.

Perfect spot to explore Cape Breton

Guest: skiriderace (Toronto)
Date of Stay: 06/16/09 Review Submitted: 07/10/09

Visiting Cape Breton was the highlight of our family trip to the East Coast and Potter's cottage was the perfect "base camp" to explore the Cape. We strongly recommend a hike of the Skyline Trail in the National Park as the vistas are breathtaking. We also enjoyed exploring the beaches and coves of the Margaree coast. As Potters cottage is at the base of the Cabot Trail it is centrally located to most of the attractions. You can pick up a delicious lunch at the Dancing Goat bakery and then go explore the many places to see around the Cape. Normaway Inn is also close by if you want a good dinner in a lovely setting. While not on the ocean, the Margaree river is close by and our boys went down for a quick swim at the end of the day. It apparently has wonderful salmon fishing. Finally Bell and Stewart were great and eager to make sure we were happy. The cottage was spotless when we arrived and well stocked with all the utensils you need. My wife and I are planning to return with our bicycles.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, pet owners, sightseeing.