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Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake

Lakefront cottage with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake

You’re a morning person here. Coffee on the dock is the highlight of the day.
Free kayaks, canoe, SUP & pedal boat. Save $200+/day in rentals. Grab and go!
Lakeside fire & free wood. Stay for the moonrise or the stars. No rush inside.
Oversized windows face the water. The lake greets you before your morning coffee
Sleep 9 hours the first night. Lake air, total dark, and no morning alarms.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View in a map
Algonquin Highlands, ON
  • Place, Elvin Johnson Park
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Place, St. Nora Lake
    ‪10 min drive‬
  • Place, Hawk Lake Log Chute
    ‪12 min drive‬
  • Airport, Muskoka, ON (YQA)
    ‪57 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Guest Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

Primary Bedroom

1 Queen Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

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

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake

Sunrise Cottage: A Private Waterfront Retreat on Halls Lake

While this home is listed as a Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake, we’ve always called it Sunrise Cottage. You’ll understand why the moment you’re on the dock before anyone else wakes up, coffee in hand, loons calling across the water, and the sky shifting from pink to gold. This is the morning you’ve been promising yourself.

Two bedrooms. Private waterfront. Five watercraft waiting on your dock, no rental fees, no reservations needed. This is a getaway on one of Haliburton's cleanest, deepest, and quietest lakes.

THE SUNRISE COTTAGE:

Inside, it’s the kind of place that only exists after years of family walking through the door. The screen door still swings with that familiar creak, the one that means someone's heading to the dock with a towel over their shoulder, or coming back in for another round of drinks.

With two queen bedrooms, a full bath and a kitchen built for actual cooking, the space is as functional as it is charming. The living room faces the water through oversized windows, so you can catch the sunrise without even leaving the couch.

THE LAKE:

The dock is yours alone. No sharing with neighbours; no jockeying for space.

Five watercraft are waiting for you: two kayaks, a canoe, a stand-up paddleboard, and a pedal boat. Rentals run $200+ a day elsewhere; here, they’re just sitting on your dock. We provide life jackets in every size, kids included.

Halls Lake is the "insider pick" in Haliburton County. It’s quieter than the tourist-heavy lakes and deeper and cleaner than most. The water is weed-free, no murky lake-bottom surprises when you jump off the dock. When the sun drops, there’s a firepit with wood already stacked. Watch the sky go from pink to purple to more stars than you remembered existed.

WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY:

"Watching the full moon rise while sitting by the firepit was a highlight." - Paul

"This was our second (and definitely not last!) time staying at this beautiful lake house." - Ryan

"Easy ladder in and out of the water. Great lake location where you could jump in right off the dock." - Brandi

"Every item I’d forgotten was stocked, which made our stay incredibly easy." - Nathan

WHO THIS IS FOR:

This cottage is for couples craving stillness, small families who want their kids off screens and into the lake, and remote workers who've earned a view better than their office wall.

20 minutes to Minden for supplies or 10 minutes to Carnarvon for Rhubarb, The Peppermill, and Haliburton Highlands Brewing. You can even walk to Marion's for fish and chips (order the halibut). Algonquin Park and the Dorset Tower are easy day trips, but honestly? Most guests never leave the dock.

PACK LIGHT:

The dock has everything you need. Inside, it's set up the way we'd want to arrive: real sheets (not rental-thin ones), beach towels so you don't pack wet ones home, and a kitchen with actual tools.

Families: Pack'n Play, highchair, and baby bath are here.

Pets: Your well-behaved dog is welcome; we just ask that you keep them leashed outside and clean up after them.

Connectivity: Reliable WiFi for streaming and video calls, plus cell service.

Parking: Space for 2 vehicles.

IMPORTANT PROPERTY NOTES:

Garbage: We do not have curbside garbage collection. A quick stop at the landfill on your way out keeps wildlife where it belongs. Landfill pass and directions are provided on arrival.

Security & Safety: For the protection of our guests and the property, four exterior motion-triggered Blink cameras monitor the driveway and parking area only. There are no cameras inside the cottage or directed toward private outdoor living spaces.

Licensing: Short-Term Rental License #STR25-00116.

The last morning is always the hardest. You'll sit on that dock with your coffee, watching the mist rise one more time, already planning your next trip.
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Lake view

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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 0–17
Infants under 2 yrs not included in guest count
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 1 total)
Dogs must be leashed outdoors.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Waste must always be kept indoors. Please drop your garbage and recycling at the landfill prior to your departure. Details provided on arrival.
Our cottage has a septic system. It is extremely important that only human waste and toilet paper are flushed down the toilet.
Please respect our neighbours and limit noise between 10:00PM - 8:00AM.

Important information

You need to know

This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

About the area

Algonquin Highlands

Located in Algonquin Highlands, this cottage is on the waterfront. Hawk Lake Log Chute and Lake of Bays Marine Museum and Navigation Society are local landmarks, and the area's natural beauty can be seen at Frost Centre and Minden Wild Water Preserve. Kayaking, power boating and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking nearby.
Map
Algonquin Highlands, ON

What's nearby

  • Elvin Johnson Park - 6 min drive - 6.2 km
  • 118 - 35 Driving Range - 10 min drive - 13.8 km
  • St. Nora Lake - 10 min drive - 14.9 km
  • Frost Centre - 10 min drive - 15.3 km
  • Hawk Lake Log Chute - 12 min drive - 9.8 km

Getting around

  • Muskoka, ON (YQA) - 55 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mill Pond Restaurant - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪The Mason Jar - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪The Chip Shop - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Rhubarb Restaurant - ‬10 min drive
  • ‪Missens of Maple Lake - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total).

How much is parking at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake located?

This family-friendly Algonquin Highlands cottage is located on the waterfront, 2.5 mi (4 km) from Elvin Johnson Park, and within 6 mi (10 km) of Goat Island and Hawk Lake Log Chute. Frost Centre and Big Hawk Lake Marina are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 20 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 20 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 20 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Emily K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Stay

We didn’t get to stay long but would happily come back. The hospitality was amazing and everything was very clean and in perfect condition when we arrived. Thank you for hosting us!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kyle W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time at halls lake

We enjoyed our stay. The cottage and property were as advertised. Alison was a fantastic host and would definitely come back.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eliza O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Cottage

We had a great stay. It’s the perfect cottage for proximity to the lake, relaxed comfort and nearby activities. Our host was very responsive and truly thought of everything. The cottage was full of thoughtful touches that made our stay even better.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mary F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely quiet place with beautiful Lake Front view

Loved this place. Would come again in a heartbeat. Has everything you need with lots of special touches. Be ready for peace and quiet.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maggie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Lake

We were very impressed with the peacefulness of the property. The lake was quiet and calm, which made paddling around in the kayaks so enjoyable! We were looking for rest and relaxation and this cottage delivered!!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Holly B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Family Vacation

We had an incredible stay, the cottage was awesome and incredibly clean! Alison went above and beyond to make sure we were happy and comfortable during our stay. The view from windows of halls lake is breathtaking! We had a time wonderful time!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Allison B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect week

We had a wonderful week at this spotlessly clean Halls Lake cottage. Everything was a described and Alison is a superb host and an excellent communicator. We will be booking again, thank you Alison and Jason.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous view and immediate access to the lake!

We loved staying here... the kayaks, canoe and paddleboat made our time in the Algonquin Highlands so relaxing! The host provided a pack-and-play and high-chair, which made the stay so easy with our infant. Recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Paul N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful weekend

We had a wonderful time at this cottage. We felt comfortable and at home from the moment we arrived. Watching the full moon rise while sitting by the firepit was a highlight. Alison, our host, was fantastic...communicative and full of great suggestions. We plan to be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shane K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful cottage

We had a fantastic stay! The lake is incredible clean and warm, the best swimming lake we have been to in a long time. Rock entrance with sand bottom and no gross weeds. The cottage was really well appointed and exceptionally clean. Coffee on the deck was a highlight in the mornings with that view. Alison was super responsive and very helpful. We will absolutely be staying again. Thanks Alison!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Rade V., Oakville

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it!

We stayed there for the Victoria Day long weekend. Beautiful cottage with a breathtaking view of the lake. Very well appointed and super clean. We liked the numerous personal touches and the welcome gift. You will find everything you need. From all bath necessities to cooking oil and spices. They even had a playpen, highchair, and a bathtub for our toddler. Alison, the host, was super responsive and friendly. Highly recommended!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mary H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great week

I brought my son, his wife and my 15 year old grandson for the last week of August. We used the kayaks, paddle boost and SUP so everyone was happy. The cottage was lovely and the beds super comfortable. Everything we needed was supplied, better than most cottages we have rented. Everything was in good working order. Not t so much luck fishing this time around but had fun trying. Alison checked in in via email regularly. We would return to this cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brandi C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Set up so all you have to do is pack a bag and a cooler

We booked this cottage last minute and we’re so happy at all the amenities. Beach towels. Kayaks, canoe, life jackets all provided. Had every dish/ pot you could need. So clean and open. Bedding was comfortable. 2 docks one stationary and one floating. Easy ladder in and out of the water. Great Lake location were you could jump in right off the dock. Water was clear and not very busy with boats. Will go back.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The View!

We had a great stay on Halls Lake. The cottage is situated just steps up from the lake, and the view was breathtaking from both inside or outside the cottage. We have travelled quite a bit in the North and can say that this was the cleanest, best equipped lodging we have ever encountered. Clean spaces, fresh linens, great appliances, and all the amenities you could ever use. There is very little you need to bring as it is all supplied as advertised . We appreciated the empty fridge and ample cupboard space for our own supplies. When we did encounter a small issue, Alison was there within the hour and fixed the problem. It was a very restful week surrounded by nature.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Giovanna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful End of Summer Getaway

We closed out our summer with this stunning cottage on beautiful Halls lake. Canoeing, fishing, swimming and bonfires don't even begin to sum up all of the family fun this place offered. Hosts were exceptional. Checked in just the right amount of times, left the cottage with everything you'd need and moving through the kitchen to prepare meals was literally seamless. Don't get me started on the beds, we literally had the most restful sleep with the most comfortable duvets ever. Neighbours are quiet and friendly too! .... We had such an amazing stay and would love to return! 10/10 would recommend! Thank you again for such an amazing weekend. P.S, don't sleep on the chip shop! They make an amazing halibut and chips and it's only a few mins away (heads up, cash only!)
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

4/10 Poor

Michelle C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Started out great but went downhill

Booked this late because we previously booked somewhere else and had a death in the family. Upon arrival, looked good. Nice day didn’t start cooking until 9….no propane. Luckily, host was able to bring by. Next day, awful weather, had to call host 2x because there was no water ☺️good part was host was always available, and good thing because we had to call multiple times. Last night there, not a good night. Pros, great location, Great Lake. Cons, even though host was available, shouldn’t need to contact in 48 hour stay. Not going to give all details. In the end, thankful I booked through VRBO, because they made everything better.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

2/10 Terrible

Cynthia R., Montreal

Liked: Check-in, location
Disliked: Communication, listing accuracy

Covert videotaping of guests ruined stay. Hope you weren't a guest like us that didn't know.

On checkout, when going into the storage room, we saw an active Blink module and found 1 camera well hidden outside. We contacted VRBO, who told us the host confirmed multiple cameras, and the host told VRBO it was an oversight and not an invasion of privacy and not to worry. I don't understand how multiple video cameras affixed to solid objects can be considered an oversight. We have yet to receive the videos, but the host seems to believe we should take her word that it's okay to videotape people without their knowledge. I would not recommend this property to anyone. The host has now updated the property description to say video cameras.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Biswadip G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Serene Escape Amidst Nature’s Splendor

Nestled deep within the woods of Algonquin Highlands, this lakeside property offers a tranquil retreat that seems like it’s straight out of a fairytale. The shimmering waters of the lake, juxtaposed with the maple trees, create a picturesque setting that is both breathtaking and calming. From the moment you set foot on the property, the melodious calls of local birds and the gentle rustle of leaves greet you. The property itself offers modern amenities ensuring a comfortable stay without compromising the rustic charm. The property, with its cozy interiors, perfectly complements the surroundings. Large windows ensure that you wake up to the sight of the sun reflecting off the lake, and the evenings are best spent by the wood fireplace, perhaps with a book in hand. For the adventurous at heart, the Algonquin Highlands hiking trails that challenge and delight and there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature. However, the real charm of this property lies in the simpler moments – perhaps sipping your morning coffee on the wooden deck overlooking the water. The hostess(Alison) is a wonderful person who is always available at an arms length be it at late night for emergencies. The studio tour suggested by her was a hidden gem.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cathy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Algonquin Highlands -Halls Lake

The cottage was very well organized making it feel like your home away from home (cozy towels & bedding, linens, shampoo/conditioner, body wash, body cream, well-organized kitchen). The welcome binder answered all our questions. Alison, our host, was very friendly and great to work with. She came and replaced a heater when the one we had wasn't working. The location was perfect. We used the cottage as our home base and hiked local trails and the Hiway 60 Corridor into Algonquin Provincial Park to see the Fall colours. Alison was helpful with good hiking trail suggestions. We had a relaxing and enjoyable time even with the overcast cooler weather.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Monika B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Lake

Great quiet and relaxing getaway with the family for the week. The cottage was very clean and had everything we needed. Everything was just as described and as shown in the photos. The lake is super clear, great for swimming. The best part had to be enjoying the incredible sunrise from the deck and seeing two loons swim by on our first morning. The host, Alison, was super welcoming, responsive and just overall a pleasure. We’ve definitely fallen in love with Halls Lake and are eager to go back!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

About the host

Hosted by Alison Squire

Host profile image
We believe the best cottages are those that feel lived-in and truly loved. For us, there is no moment more peaceful than sunrise on the dock when the lake is still and the world is quiet. We fell in love with the Algonquin Highlands years ago and became hosts to share that authentic Canadian cottage experience with others. We’ve curated the space with everything we look for in our own vacations, so you can spend less time packing and more time on the water.

Why they chose this property

Halls Lake is the "insider pick" in Haliburton County. It is deeper, cleaner, and significantly quieter than the more tourist-heavy lakes in the region. Because the water is so deep, it remains weed-free, meaning no murky lake-bottom surprises when you jump off the dock.

While most of our guests never want to leave the property, we are perfectly positioned for local gems:

The Essentials: 20 minutes to Minden for groceries.

Dining: 10 minutes to Carnarvon for Rhubarb, The Peppermill, or Haliburton Highlands Brewing. You can also walk to Marion’s for the best halibut fish and chips in the area.

Adventure: Easy day trips to Algonquin Park, the Dorset Tower, and the Haliburton Forest canopy walk.

What makes this property unique

Aside from our incredible eastern exposure for sunrises, what truly sets us apart is that we provide a full waterfront experience without the hidden fees. While rentals can cost $200+ a day elsewhere, we have five watercraft waiting on your dock, ready whenever you are:

2 Kayaks, 1 Canoe, 1 Stand-up Paddleboard, and 1 Pedal Boat.

Life Jackets: Provided in every size, including kids.

We also pride ourselves on "Pack Light" convenience. You won't find "rental-thin" sheets here; we provide quality linens, towels, beach towels, and a fully stocked kitchen. When the sun drops, you don't have to go hunting for wood, the firepit is already stacked and waiting for you.

Languages:

English
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