Vacation Rentals by Owner

Frida's Cottage Paradise

Guest: remman (Uxbridge, ON)
Date of Stay: 04/25/12 Review Submitted: 05/15/12

Both my wife and I said many times during our two night stay, "we could move into this cottage tomorrow". The relaxing feel to the property was perfect for us, yet it was close to Ganges for restaurants, supplies etc. Carl and Tracy were very helpful in settling us in to the area and are very helpful. All of our friends know how happy we were when we were here. We will be back for sure!!!!

Owner response:I am so glad you enjoyed the cottage. We have had a few people want to stay forever!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

"Breath taking in all aspects"

Guest: Jen
Date of Stay: 12/23/11 Review Submitted: 01/15/12

We stayed at Fridas Cottage and it was everything we expected and then more, Tracy and Carl out did themselves with the beautifully decorated cottage. We were greeted by Carleen (the caretaker if Tracy and Carl are away) and she showed us around and even had very tasty Margarita's to help us un-wind from the long trip we had getting there. It is definitely a home away from home in every sense right down to the little Christmas tree that was put up for us. We loved the fact that it was very pet friendly right down to having extra dog bowls and treats to a completely fenced in yard, with deer lurking just on the other side. It was very nice being able to sit in the hot tub and enjoy the view of the ocean and relax and not having to worry at all about where the dog was. We also liked being able to have the dogs bed right beside the wood stove so that way she was all cozy and warm. I suggest for any one staying here to wake up and explore the Island as it has many gorgeous nature trails that captivate you in every way whether it be the lush green forest around you, the wonderfully natural green ocean water at Ruckle Provinical Park or the amazing 360 degree view from up at Mount Maxwell. Beddis Beach was a short walk from the cottage and was a nice area to sit while the dog ran from one side to the other. Just up from there was the orchard which is also a off leash dog park for dogs to meet and greet. Even though it rained while we stayed there I am so happy we got out everyday to explore and most of the time in the trails it was dry due to the natural forest canopy from the trees. The farms and farm animals were an eye catcher for us and also had the chance of petting a few lil goats at Sunset Farm after they ran to the fence while taking pictures of the baby lambs . I recommend this place to anyone that has a dog (or not) and wants a nice relaxing vacation. If you stay here don't miss out on all the beauty this Island has to offer, we stayed for a week and wish we had more time to do all the trails. Definitely a wonderful way to spend our Christmas, so much so we would like to go and stay at Fridas Cottage again and see what Salt Spring has to offer in the Summer time.

Recommended for:

Different from the rest

Guest: A.G. (Surrey, BC, Canada)
Date of Stay: 11/25/11 Review Submitted: 12/11/11

Clean, quiet, private, relaxing. Recommend making pottery. Great place to get away from all the stresses on the mainland.

Owner response:Hey Andrew I am so glad you had a great time in the studio and in Fridas Villa. Thanks for your positive feedback.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, people with disabilities, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Not exactly a villa but still very nice

Guest: tracy (portland, oregon)
Date of Stay: 11/12/11 Review Submitted: 11/24/11

We had a wonderful trip, and Fridas Villa actually looks even better in person then in the pictures. Carl and Tracy were great, and very helpful when we had questions. Our only complaint is that it wasn't mentioned in the description that this is a basement apartment.

Owner response:I am so glad to hear you had a wonderful time Tracy. The definition of the word "Villa" is "a country residence or an estate". We are on a rural property on a small island full of trees and nature. Fridas is part of a split level home built on the side of a hill. It is above driveway level looking out onto the ocean. Fridas Villa is spacious, bright and very private from our living space and sounds which is above and at the back. It has been heavily sound proofed so sounds do not carry between the two the spaces. We describe Fridas Villa as a boutique suite and would not use the term "basement apartment" as to me it gives the impression of a dark, possibly cold space, half sunken into the ground with small windows, where you're going to hear everything going on upstairs. As you can see from our reviews and our Trip Advisor award we offer something quite a bit different than a basement apartment. Perhaps you would be happier in our one bedroom cottage next stay. We have not had disappointed customers before and we would like to ensure we don't in the future so thanks for giving us the opportunity to clarify Fridas Villa and Cottage.

Recommended for:Pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

We were just there and reaaly enjoyed the stay!!!!

Guest: Toddzer (Kingston, Ontario)
Date of Stay: 05/07/11 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

What a great place with all the amenities you need! Really enjoyed the comfortable bed and hot tub! Hosts were very helpful and respected your privacy, would recommend Fridas Villa to any traveller going to Saltspring! The location is only a few minutes from town and we really enjoyed the Treehouse restaurant and Moby's! Thanks for your hospitality!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Lori turns 50

Guest: kim (Pritchard BC)
Date of Stay: 08/22/10 Review Submitted: 08/28/10

We all had a great time at Frida's, the suite is fabulous. My cheeks still hurt from all of the laughing the girls and I did while we were there. I would tell anyone to go and check out this quiet home away from home. Tracy and Carl thank you for sharing your home with us and making us feel welcome. We would seriously consider stopping in for another visit....Thank you for moving a car so Lori could access your great villa. Being as we all have pets Banjo and Floyd helped us feel at home as well... Kim, Lori, Sherri, and Belle

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

Quiet and Relaxing Getaway

Guest: Rascal (Canada)
Date of Stay: 06/11/10 Review Submitted: 06/17/10

Excellent place to stay. The kitchen was well stocked. The suite was clean and well maintained. Personal touches through-out the suite. We enjoyed the hot tub and the view from the veranda. Is about 10 minutes from Ganges on a quiet road, perfect for a quiet getaway. We would stay here again.

Recommended for:

Very Private, very comfortable, everything you'd want in a home away from home.

Guest: Antonio & Heatherina (Chilliwack, B.C. Canada)
Date of Stay: 05/28/10 Review Submitted: 06/15/10

As with any first time booking, we were a bit apprehensive that the on-line presentation would exceed the actual presentation. NOT SO! The suite far exceeded expectations, and our suite was stocked with every amenity imaginable for a short stay. The owners even stocked the suite with "things" one may have forgotten to pack!!! The owners respected privacy to a maximum, yet were close at hand if anything was needed. Besides providing us with a clean and well maintained suite, the Frida theme, celebrating the controversial life of the Mexican artist, became a point of interest in itself. This was our most flawess get away ever, and we plan on returning many times. We would recommend this property to anyone wishing to experience a unique retreat. A little bit of Mexico on Salt Spring Island pretty much describes it, but to us it has become a fond memory worth repeating.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Relaxing Fridas

Guest: Swedishleo (North Vancouver)
Date of Stay: 05/15/10 Review Submitted: 06/14/10

Had a great time on Salt Spring Island - very good vibes! Comfortable stay at Fridas - had everything I needed. Margaritas were fab :) and enjoyed the beach and scenery nearby.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, girls getaway, sightseeing.

The perfect getaway...

Guest: Adam and Rosanne (Minnesota, USA and Vancouver, B.C.)
Date of Stay: 04/18/10 Review Submitted: 05/12/10

Frida's was simply amazing! It was a surprise for me from my girlfriend and my first time visiting the Gulf Islands. Salt Spring Island is beautiful in itself and staying at Frida's was the perfect compliment. Upon arrival the margaritas were great, and strong! We loved the mexican theme as we both actually met in Mexico. The property and living quarters are both beautiful, especially the private outdoor hot tub. Everything was very clean and well kept. Beddis beach is just a walk down the road and it is only a short car ride into town. We were treated with great respect and given total privacy. Banjo, their blind, ever so adorable dog likes to troop by once and awhile and see what is happening which we loved. Just give him a treat and he will be on his way again (treats were provided for us from Travy) Frida's was a perfect romantic getaway for us and I would recommend it to anybody in a second. It will be a special place in both of our memories forever. Hope to go back someday and relive all the memories again. Thank you so much Tracy!"

Recommended for:Families with young children, pet owners, romantic getaway.

our 40th anniversary 3 day honeymoon

Guest: paperdolls (van.isl.)
Date of Stay: 04/12/10 Review Submitted: 04/26/10

wonderfull quiet side of the island.........older unit but clean and cozy, just like home in most aspects. Homemade muffins in the freezer was a nice bonus. Tracy and Carl were great hosts without being too involved; The cat and dog {banjo} friendly and not bothersome. We would recommend this to anyone and hope to rent the whole place for a little family reunion in the future............also the hot tub was perfect, we even had deer watching us.......Thankyou sincerely peter and corina gish

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

Salt Spring Magic at Frida's Village

Guest: AIRIS (Dawson Settlement, New Brunswick)
Date of Stay: 04/01/10 Review Submitted: 04/23/10

Frida's Villa has a beautiful guest suite in a beautiful location on Salt Spring Island. The owners, Tracy and Carl are caring, helpful individuals who are there if you need anything, but otherwise allow you to experience the peacefulnes, and privacy of your own unique Salt Spring experience. You can sit out on the patio and and have a view of the ocean, or take a walk to the beautiful orchard just down the road. You can hike through the nearby rain forest or lounge on the nearby beach. The drive to town is short, and you can choose the freshest of foods to cook in your well-equipped kitchen. The Mexican theme of the suite is both fun and refreshing. You really feel as though you are on an exotic holiday. And truly your are as there is a magic about Salt Spring Island and Frida's Village is just the place to feel that magic. I have and continue to recommend Frida's Villa to friends and family.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers

Our Salt Spring Island Getaway

Guest: LesleyPollard (Victoria, BC)
Date of Stay: 02/19/10 Review Submitted: 06/17/10

From the moment we drove up the drive way and were greeted by Banjo, the family dog, relaxation set it. The sound of the bubbling water from the fountain at the entrance to the suite and the welcoming deck chairs with margarita glasses (and icy pitcher) were the next steps in forgetting the city and getting into "island time". The suite had everything needed for our weekend away; an amazingly comfortable bed, lovely living room with fireplace, full kitchen and a gas BBQ on the deck! Such care an attention were taken in every detail of the suite as well as the service. Some of the touches that Frida's had were not even offered in the 5 star properties we have stayed in (such as fresh flowers and a pitcher of water on the bedside table). Each evening we relaxed in the hot tub in the grotto-type garden of the house...beneath the stars and breathing the fresh, clean air of Salt Spring Island! Tracy and Carl are wonderful hosts who happily give directions and suggestions for walks, or dining...but also "fade into the wood work" if you are just wanting quite (alone) time. We loved our first visit so much that we have stayed twice per year every year since! We love, love, love this place!

Recommended for:Age 55+, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.