Entire home

Beautiful Private Island

Photo gallery for Beautiful Private Island

A view of our island wirh a drone
A view from a drone
As you approach our Paradise!
Front View
View from front deck

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 61200 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen
  • Dryer
  • Fireplace

Explore the area

Map
Birch Island, ON
  • Whitefish Falls
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Little Current Swing Bridge
    ‪17 min drive‬
  • Killarney Provincial Park
    ‪156 min drive‬
  • Manitowaning, ON (YEM-Manitoulin East Municipal)
    ‪38 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bunkie

1 Double Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Kitchenette
Dining Area

About this property

Beautiful Private Island

PARADISE FOUND!
In the setting of its own private 3-acre island located in McGregor Bay, you will find our charming cedar log cottage. This amazing structure was built more than 50 years ago by Native artisans and is as beautiful today as it was then. It consists of two bedrooms, two baths, a living room, modern kitchen, and a glassed-in screened porch. The cottage comfortably sleeps six. When the windows of the porch are open, it provides 2/3 open-air comfort. Anything you could possibly want to use in a kitchen is there, so you don’t need to worry about bringing any kitchen stuff. The kitchen is more than adequately equipped with modern appliances, which includes a Jenn-Aire range and grill, refrigerator, freezer, coffee maker, toaster and solid maple butcher-block countertops. A washer and dryer are also located in the kitchen area. The cottage is serviced by a septic system and has normal indoor plumbing with hot and cold running water. We supply all bedding and towels. To help lighten your load we also provide: paper towels, toilet paper, trash bags, laundry soap, dish washing liquid. Cottage also equipped with Smart TV, Starlink Internet/Wi-Fi and audio system. A wood-burning stove insert has been added to the fireplace to provide sufficient heat on chilly days. The island is conveniently located 10 minutes away from the J&G or Still Water marinas where your car can be parked. For guests without a personal boat there is a water taxi service. A motor boat is also available for an additional charge.

Complimenting the cottage, are two decks. The front deck (with redwood deck furniture) is just steps away from the waterfront, and provides spectacular views of both sunrises and sunsets. The waterfront provides a great swimming/sunning/fishing area. There are two kayaks (with paddles) and canoe for use. Great fishing is at your fingertips.

The rear deck provides a beautiful serene setting overlooking a quiet view of the water where you will spot all kinds of wildlife. There's a gas grill/BBQ, hammock, patio table, chairs and umbrella. Very rarely will you see a boat back here.......it's that quiet!!

The area lends itself to spectacular views for both artists and/or photographers. The famous Canadian artists -- 'The Group of Seven' -- used McGregor Bay as a base for many of their famous paintings.

This is a wonderful opportunity to relax and restore in one of the most beautiful and unique areas of North America.

Keywords: Beautiful Private Island, Charming Cedar Log Cabin, Serene Natural Setting, Fishing Paradise, Pristine Waters, Spectacular Sunrises and Sunsets, Artist's Haven, Relax & Restore, Pike, Valley, Island

Property manager

Dmytro & Olena

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor Space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3-17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

About the neighborhood

Whitefish River First Nation Reserve

Located in Whitefish River First Nation Reserve, this cottage is on the waterfront. Centennial Museum of Sheguiandah and Massey Area Museum are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Little Current Swing Bridge and Killarney East Lighthouse. Be sure to check out the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Birch Island, ON

What's nearby

  • Whitefish Falls - 12 min drive - 11.8 km
  • Little Current Swing Bridge - 17 min drive - 18.4 km
  • Bass Lake - 28 min drive - 29.3 km
  • Sheguiandah First Nation Powwow - 31 min drive - 31.5 km
  • La Cloche Provincial Park - 80 min drive - 69.7 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Red Dog Grill - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Red Dog Grill - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪St Gabriel Lalemant Rc - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Church Mouse Cafe - ‬11 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beautiful Private Island pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Beautiful Private Island?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Beautiful Private Island?

Check-out is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Beautiful Private Island located?

Situated on the waterfront, this cottage is 0.9 mi (1.4 km) from Lake Huron and within 12 mi (20 km) of Whitefish Falls and Killarney Lakelands and Headwaters Provincial Park. Little Current Swing Bridge is 11.4 mi (18.4 km) away.

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labeled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 27 out of 29 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 29 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 29 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 29 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Laurie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Cozy but roomy.
The cabin was the perfect size for our group of 6 which included 2 teenagers and 2 Grandmothers 75+. We had enough space and choices to spread out yet cozy to eat together and play games in the evening. You get the experience of living on your own private island with the convenience of being close to the marina if a trip to town is needed. The cabin is well stocked with kitchen items as well as towels and toiletries. Will definitely book again!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jason S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Serene Island Stay
Perfect place to unwind. The home was comfortable, quiet, and stocked with everything you could think of to make your trip feel like home. Dmytro took care to explain everything you could need to know. We loved fishing off the dock and taking out the kayaks at sunset. If you are looking to really unwind, this is the place.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Peter H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical spot
Unspoiled part of the world. A comfy cottage with a well equipped kitchen. Plenty of wildlife. We had otters by the dock most nights and saw a few bears. There is a lovely peacefulness being on a small island like that. The surrounding area is wonderful to explore. Dmytro was an attentive host and very pleasant to deal with. I'd love to go back some day.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brett G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise on McGregor Bay
For those of you who are like us and have been looking for an opportunity to experience island cabin living on McGregor Bay look no further! The location is very convenient to where you park your car, but far enough off the path to not be on top of boat traffic. My family of four plus my cousin and his wife stayed for one week. The cabin is original cedar log construction with an added kitchen area and out buildings. There are two dedicated bedrooms in the cabin, a king bed in the main room, and an outbuilding with bed we relegated to our son, who was happy to exchange local bathroom access for some privacy. The front screened-in porch was cool and breezy, and a couple of well-spaced trees provided a nice water view for our travel hammocks. The two decks really make the cabin shine - with a large deck in the front and an even larger one in back, allowing us to escape sunshine and find breezes throughout the day. The rear deck faces a natural area with much wildlife. We took the kayaks on many excursions to the 'back bay' to enjoy some quite time with Nature. Dmytro and Olena shared a detailed description of the premises prior to arrival which really helped with packing. Dmytro met us at the dock and ferried us to the cabin, where we met Olena. Our tour was detailed and everything matched the written description which made orientation easy. Believe what is written about the kitchen - supplies, spices and cooking utensils abound, including a set of uncharacteristically sharp knives - a real find at any VRBO! The days were warm and nights cool, so a little open window planning and strategic fan placement helped keep temperatures comfortable. If we would note one issue it would be that the second bath has a small shower which was hard to keep from dripping on the floor. The main bath shower is very comfortably sized, and we all agreed to use it after a couple of trials in the little one. No worries and no lineups as time in McGregor Bay is unstructured - you take a shower when you need to take a shower! To close with a special note: the septic system on the island is excellent, which is a find on the hard rock of McGregor bay! We will definitely be looking at this property when we return.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

10/10 Excellent

Paul L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Location, Location, Location
The island property is located in a perfect spot on McGregor Bay, only a 5 minute boat ride from the marina yet set back from the main boat route to the bay. I would argue it's nicer than advertised, a clean and well-maintained "rustic" cabin that has all the modern amenities most folks would need. Our group of four buddies had plenty of space to be together or relax alone, and the two decks and screened porch offered different options for chilling out. The beds were all excellent, the bathrooms were simple yet functional, and the kitchen had a surprising variety of cookware, implements, and basic staples. The fishing was spectacular: we caught many impressive lake trout, smallmouth bass, and northern pike all within 300 meters of the island! The host Demytro was easy to communicate with, punctual, and very helpful getting us loaded in and familiar with the property. I never go back to the same place twice, but my group is considering a return to this gem!
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

8/10 Good

Michael L.

Enjoyed every minute of it! Intend to go back.
Lovely, clean log cabin. great swimming from the dock. Well stocked kitchen. Fifteen minute kayak ride from the marina. Lots of places to visit, swim, hike, climb and kayak. Nice owners. Michael

10/10 Excellent

jim d., Parkhill, ontario

great family getaway on private island
we stayed on pike island for a week in mid august with our family of 6 (4 kids age 4 to 14) plenty of room for all of us and all the ammenities of home. Fishing in the bay and right off the dock is unbeatable (many 30" pike, 20" bass and even a muskie). kids had a great time and the owner Dmytro was awesome to deal with. Cottage comes fully stocked and even has washer and dryer for laundry. Highly recommend whether for a family or a group of adults, you wont be disappointed.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018

10/10 Excellent

Sarah U.

Classic cottage in amazing area
We had a lovely week at this traditional, yet very comfortable, MacGregor Bay cottage. Our hosts Dmytro and Olena made sure all the details were in order before our arrival so the kitchen was well stocked with essentials and a thorough briefing was given both before and upon arrival to the cottage. The cottage is a 5 minute boat ride from the Stillwater Marina. Since we were not very familiar with the waters around the Bay, this was very helpful. MacGregor Bay can be pretty tricky to navigate by boat as there are a lot of shoals and difficult channels so being so close to the mainland was a comfort. We rented a small boat for the week so we could explore the area at our leisure. There were 2 kayaks as well so it was fun to paddle around the back of the island. There was a beaver and/or a muskrat that made his appearance most nights as we ate on the back deck of the cottage admiring the view and the wildlife. Hummingbirds flew in to the feeder often and we saw large herons and many loons out on the lake. The cottage was clean and well kept. We comfortably slept 7 people. There are two bedrooms and a part of the living area that functions as another bedroom. For us, we did not mind this “communal” living arrangement at all because we were with family. I wonder if the small artist studio might one day be converted into a bunkee? There are 2 bathrooms and 2 showers so the facilities were ample. There were plenty of towels-both bath and beach towels. The fishing at this cottage was very good, even just off the dock. My husband and daughter went out with a guide from Stillwater Fishing (Brian) and my husband caught a 20 pound muskie! Overall, we had a great week relaxing, swimming, kayaking and boating. No hassles whatsoever! Thanks Dmytro and Olena-you were very good hosts! Sarah and Irv
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Stunning, Amazing, Best Vacation ever!
We rented the week of July 19. There is not enough amazing words to describe this vacation. I have teenagers and they absolutely loved it, and keep asking when we are going to go back. We caught fish off the dock every day, and in our boat my husband landed his first Muskie. Lots of things to see, and we were introduced to lots of wildlife which was the highlight. A vacation that will never be forgotten and one that we will definitely do again if you will have us.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Julie B.

Charming Getaway
Wonderful rustic island cabin with all of the amenities. Great sunsets and sunrises from the two large desks along with morning wake-up calls from the pair of loons that cruise the nearby waterways. The fishing was great from both the boat and the two docks (nice to separate the teenage fishermen and their hooks). Our teenagers loved exploring the island to find just the right fishing spot. They even found a great spot for their overnight hammocks with great water views. The early morning visits to the dock by the resident mink was quite a treat although the 30 minute dock visit by the river otter was outstanding. On the deck, we were close enough to hear him enjoying his fish catches. The cabin is well stocked but is starting to show a bit more of the rustic elements. The caretaker Jerry could not have been more helpful. This was one of the few vacations that I really did not want to leave. Given the rocky island edges and the depth of the water, I would not recommend this for young children. For teenagers interested in the outdoors, the internet was of no interest, they went for the kayaks and fishing versus their game consoles. Bring a great book, as the decks are ideal locations for a great read. We spent one afternoon off the island and enjoyed a great harbor walk in Little Current (20 minute drive) along with a great fish dinner at the Anchor Inn. Can't wait to go back!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Stewart W.

Just the ticket
My family and I had a great week at this cottage. The high points were; 1. Although the cottage is rustic, it is well equipped with modern appliances that all work, well-stocked kitchen, games, puzzles, music center with lots of great cassette (remember them?) compilations, large modern barbeque, powerful showers, well-stocked herb garden. It is also roomy. 2. It is in a lovely position - peaceful without being isolated, on its own pretty island and in the middle of a huge expanse of waterways and islands 3. So relaxing - I decompressed in about half the time it usually takes. Being on an island makes you less prone to always wanting to be doing something. I made a new friend in the hammock on the front deck, where I variously had afternoon naps, drank early evening cocktails watched the sun go down but generally hogged. 4. Plenty to do; great fishing (you don't even have to leave the island, I had a fine time off the dock and at various other points around the island), kayaks for your use, a useful boat with outboard (lots of PFDs), swimming, cruising the islands and the hot tub, which was our kids favorite. 5. Really helpful and friendly caretaker (Jerry). Lows: None really. Espanola (North on 6) is where to get your groceries on the way through, but is a bit grotty. Little Current (South on 6) is closer and quainter. What was once obviously a beautiful garden is a little overrun now, so bring your gloves and trowel if you are a gardener! If you do get off the island (and I recommend not), then the Red Dog Grill at Whitefish Falls is friendly and has good food. Went away with some lovely memories and our kids declared it their best holiday ever, despite the lack of computers.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

LINDA G.

A Special Place
This is a lovely, clean, airy, well-equipped cottage in a very quiet and private location. It is everything the owners promised and more. The water is crystal clear, the island is private and fun to explore and there are lots of places to hang out and relax. It is a very short boat ride from the mainland but feels a world away. The owners make it very easy for renters, providing lots of information as well as many supplies. My husband and I and 2 kids had a wonderful week and we hope to be back next year.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful and relaxing stay on the island...
Our stay at this cabin was unlike any other. We had a wonderful time during our week long vacation - a surprise for my mom's 60th birthday. We had an absolutely amazing time!!! There was everything that we could have imagined needing provided, and plenty of space for all of us (7 in total), inside and out. The weather was beautiful, the water was pristine and warm, and the cabin itself was cozy, comfortable, and welcoming. We all left feeling, relaxed, recharged, and grateful for the time we spent at this enchanted place. Thank you to Jim and Lorraine for sharing this slice of heaven with us.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Denis G.

Beautiful "Enchanted Island"
As a youth, I spent all my summers at Lake Panache and had heard a lot about the beauties of McGregor Bay. I finally got to visit this area and was quite impressed. This island is surrounded by plentiful wilderness (we saw many deer, one bear, beavers, a mink, otters, a snapping turtle and loads of birds and waterfowl. The cottage itself is quaint and provides all the comforts and conveniences for a very pleasant stay. On our visit, the fishing wasn't terrific (it was too warm). But the scenery was absolutely incredible. It was so peaceful on this enchanted island that we felt very removed from the urban grind. Also, I would be remiss to not mention the owners' wonderful hospitality. We will be back
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Greg D.

Secret Paradise
It seems a secret spot, forgotten by the rest of the world. My kids loved swimming off the dock, there is also a great stone cliff (small) to jump from. The hot tub was wonderful for an evening dip. Our youngest is 4, I would recommend having life jackets for young kids when they go out and explore, especially if they are outside without adults, the water is deep in many places right off the island. The screened in front porch is the perfect place to watch the scenic horizon reflect off the bay as the stars come out in the evening. We explored the entire island, there is a winding path trail. Fishing is great, right off the dock! Espanola is about 20 miles North, stop there to get your groceries before you arrive, because once you get to the cabin, you won't want to go back out into society. If you do go out, there is also a small marina town called Little Current south of the cabin, there are restaurants and ice cream shops there. We will be going back for sure, it's worth the drive, my family had a blast!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Best Vacation Ever!!
I've spent a week here each summer for several summers. This quaint cabin adds to the whole charm of "staying on an island". It's the perfect cabin for a snuggly, cozy, romantic vacation. Yes, it's great for families too. We fished, sunned on the dock, played in the hot tub and kayaked, then we napped in the hammock, read great books, had happy hour and watched the beavers swim through the bay. It was just perfect. It was really hard to come back to reality. -- the Provost Family

10/10 Excellent

Mark V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent!
Beautiful cottage and location! Bay is quiet most of the day, while marina is a 10-minute boat ride away. Great fishing. Dmytro and Olena were terrific hosts, gave us a detailed tour on our arrival and were always available by text or phone if we had questions.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Majestic Getaway
We absolutely loved our time at Pike Valley Island. Dymtro and Olena went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable with the property. They greeted us and went over everything the cottage had to offer. They were very responsive to any questions we had before and during our stay. Our time went by too quickly as we filled our days with kayaking, swimming, relaxing in the hammock, listening to cottage tunes and exploring the island looking for wildlife. Everything and anything you could have needed at the cottage was provided. If you love nature and relaxing this is where you need to be. We hope to return in the future. Thanks for everything.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicolas N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
paradise island
Supperbe place we spent a dream week. The hosts were very welcoming kind, attentive and pleasant when we arrived but also during the week. We would book another stay without any esitation. The chalet is fully equipped and very comfortable nothing is missing. We did a very nice fishing there is a lot of fish. In summary we have no hesitation to recommend this place to friends or family. Thank you very much to our hosts. Nicolas Family
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

KEN S., TILBURY

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent vacation
The best cottage we have ever rented, and the host is great to deal with.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mike S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Paradise. If you need to relax...read on!
A quiet island with a very comfortable and "homey" cottage. We just couldn't get enough of the gorgeous views from front and back decks! We explored the small island on a daily basis for a little exercise, but mostly we just relaxed. You will not want to leave this place, and I do believe we will be back sooner than later! And the hosts, Dmytro and Olena, are truly wonderful people. Very kind and accommodating and so very warm and friendly. I'm very well-traveled, and this is one of the very best places I've stayed. My wife agrees!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quiet Relaxing Island
This cottage has something for everyone in our family. My husband kept busy fishing off the boat and off the dock. I spent many hours kayaking around the gorgeous landscape, soaking in the spectacular views and wildlife. The kids swam in the crystal clear and warm water. The cottage had many areas to relax and unwind.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Brandon V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place
Beautiful island... very private. Fantastic scenery and wildlife. Excellent host.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Leonard P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
nice island property
Nice older cottage. On a small island. Bugs are minimal. Behind the cottage is a lovely bay that is sheltered and nice for kayaking. However the whole area is pretty sheltered. If you like being at a cottage vs a "lakeside home with granite countertops" this is a good place. Internet is passable but if you need highspeed because you are going to do a lot of work you will be frustrated.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

8/10 Good

Wendy C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Birch Island Cottage
We we’re a group of six unrelated women who get together every summer. The cottage was a very good place for us to spend time catching up. Two beautiful decks with lots of chairs, a screen porch and cozy fireplace living room for the colder evenings. The kitchen is very well equipped. Two bathrooms with lots of hot water and showers. The surroundings are beautiful and we had daily trips out on the water to experience this beautiful region. Thank you to the owners, who met us and did a good orientation tour before heading out. We rented canoes from Still Water Marina and used their water taxi.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

About the host

Hosted by Dmytro & Olena

Host profile image
Travelling to McGregor Bay, we fell in love with this magnificent region and decided to be a part of it. Our cottage is a really great place to relax and enjoy every moment of the stay on the island. We have our own family amazing holidays on the island and happy to share this experience with others.
There is no place like a small island to bring back a family experience. Just a few words from Rachel Fields' great poem......'Once you have slept on an island, you will never be the same'.....says it all

Why they chose this property

Imaging being on your own on the beautiful private island. Enjoy every minute being outside of the city rush. Don't forget to look at the night sky. This place gives unforgettable experience and provides enjoyment that is offered nowhere else on the globe.

What makes this property unique

It’s the place people go to escape
a place made of cabins, pine trees and lakes.
But no matter how far you drive
there’s no sign to say “You’ve arrived.”
So just follow your heart til you find
your special place that brings peace of mind.
As you breathe in the air and unwind
your cares are all left behind.
It’s no mystery where the northwoods start.
When you’re “up north”
you’ll know in your heart.
— Suzanne Kindler 1996

An artist's paradise! Catch & eat fresh fish every day! Spend a relaxing afternoon in the hammock reading a great book! Or go out in the kayak or canoe with your camera. It's a photographer's paradise as well.

Languages:

English