Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg
Private 2 acres, total quiet, and a restored 1895 Maritime inspired coastal home just minutes from Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Knotting Hill is where mornings start slow on the deck with coffee, days are spent exploring the South Shore, and evenings end around the fire pit under a sky full of stars. Inside, a bright open layout, fully equipped kitchen, and comfortable sleeping for up to 6 make it easy to settle in. Outside, enjoy complete privacy, fresh coastal air, and deer passing through daily.
A private 2-acre coastal retreat designed for space, comfort, and a slower pace of living. Whether you're exploring Nova Scotia’s South Shore or simply unwinding in nature, Knotting Hill offers a peaceful place to return to at the end of each day.
What guests love most about Knotting Hill: → Private 2-acre property with no foot traffic → Fire pit for evenings under the stars → Bright open-concept living space with direct deck access → Historic 1895 home with coastal character → Frequent deer sightings and quiet natural surroundings → Fast, reliable Wi-Fi with dedicated workspace → Washer and dryer for added convenience → Ample onsite parking for vehicles, RVs, or boat trailers → Family-friendly setup with space to relax and play
The kitchen is fully equipped with: → Cookware, utensils, and everyday essentials → Spices and pantry basics for easy meal preparation → Coffee maker and kettle for relaxed mornings → Open shelving and ample prep space
Outdoor experience: → Private deck with seating for morning coffee or evening relaxation → Fire pit for gathering, stargazing, and unwinding → Large yard for games, exploring, and seasonal apple picking → Peaceful setting surrounded by nature
Ideal for: Couples, families, and small groups looking for space, privacy, and a comfortable home base while exploring the South Shore.
Sleeping arrangements: → Bedroom #1 (Captain’s Quarters): King bed + double futon → Bedroom #2 (Lobster Loft): Queen bed
Knotting Hill — Private 2-Acre Coastal Retreat Near Lunenburg
Discover a peaceful coastal escape designed for space, comfort, and connection. Set on a private 2-acre property, this restored 1895 home offers a rare blend of history and modern convenience. Enjoy quiet mornings, evenings by the fire pit, and easy access to Nova Scotia’s most charming coastal towns.
Just minutes from Mahone Bay and a short drive to Lunenburg, Knotting Hill is the perfect base to explore—and the kind of place you’ll look forward to returning to each day.
LIVING ROOM — Bright, Comfortable & Designed to Unwind
This inviting living space is designed for comfort and connection. Natural light fills the room through ample large windows, creating a bright and airy atmosphere throughout the day. Two sofas provide plenty of seating for relaxing after a day of exploring, whether you're watching a movie, reading, or simply enjoying the quiet surroundings.
Coastal tones, soft textures, and thoughtful details create a calm, welcoming environment that reflects the home’s maritime charm. With direct access to the outdoor deck, the living room seamlessly connects indoor comfort with the peaceful nature outside.
KITCHEN & DINING — Bright, Fully Equipped & Designed for Gathering
The kitchen is both functional and inviting, with vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and natural light pouring in through large windows. Fully equipped with cookware, utensils, spices, and essentials, it’s designed so you can prepare anything from quick breakfasts to full family meals with ease.
Open shelving, thoughtful organization, and warm wood accents create a clean yet cozy space that feels both practical and welcoming.
The dining area sits just off the kitchen in an open-concept layout, making it easy to cook, gather, and connect. Whether it’s a relaxed morning coffee or a shared dinner after a day exploring the coast, this space is designed for simple, memorable moments together.
BEDROOMS — Designed for Deep, Restful Sleep
Comfortable sleeping for up to 6 guests across two private bedrooms. After a full day of exploring the South Shore, each bedroom offers a quiet, comfortable space to fully unwind.
The Captain’s Quarters — Spacious King Suite
A bright and expansive king suite featuring a comfortable king-size bed, soft lighting, and vaulted ceilings that create an open, airy feel. This room is ideal for couples or families, with a double futon that provides flexible sleeping space for children or additional guests.
The Lobster Loft — Cozy, Quiet & Full of Character
A charming queen bedroom with a more intimate feel, perfect for a restful night’s sleep. Thoughtful coastal details—including the signature stained-glass lobster window—add a unique local touch, making this space both cozy and memorable.
BATHROOMS — Practical & Convenient for Groups
The home includes 1.5 bathrooms to comfortably accommodate families and groups:
• Full bathroom with shower • Additional upstairs powder room for added convenience
Clean, bright, and thoughtfully stocked with essentials for a comfortable stay.
OUTDOOR SPACE — Private 2 Acres, Fire Pit & Nature All Around
Step outside and experience one of Knotting Hill’s most loved features—your own private 2-acre retreat surrounded by nature.
Start your mornings on the deck with coffee as the sun rises over the trees, and end your evenings gathered around the fire pit under a sky full of stars. With no foot traffic and complete privacy, this space offers a level of peace that’s hard to find.
Guests often enjoy frequent visits from local wildlife, including deer, adding to the quiet, natural setting. The large yard provides plenty of room to relax, play, or simply take in the surroundings.
Whether you're visiting in summer, fall, or winter, the property offers a beautiful backdrop for every season—from vibrant foliage to peaceful snow-covered landscapes.
NEIGHBORHOOD — Peaceful, Private & Close to Everything
Tucked away on a quiet 2-acre property, Knotting Hill offers a rare balance of privacy and proximity. With no passing foot traffic, the setting feels calm and secluded, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Despite the peaceful surroundings, you’re just minutes from the charm of Mahone Bay and a short drive to historic Lunenburg. Enjoy easy access to coastal trails, beaches, local shops, cafés, and restaurants, all while returning to your own quiet, nature-filled retreat at the end of the day.
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The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Food waste/organics in the bin with paper bag - cans/plastics blue bag - paper products clear bag - all other garbage black bag.
Please take garbage/organics to the end of the laneway. Organics go in the green bin marked “26 Mason rd” and garbage goes in the black bin with the same address.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number STR2627D7462
Property # 3835555vb
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
Parties and events are allowed on site
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
About the area
Maders Cove
Located in Maders Cove, this holiday home is by the sea. Lunenburg Waterfront and St John's Anglican Church are local landmarks, and some of the area's activities can be experienced at Cocoa Organic Spa & Boutique and Bluenose II. Travelling with kids? Consider For The Birds Nature Shop and Have A Yarn. Kayaking and fishing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with hiking and cycling nearby.
Cocoa Organic Spa & Boutique - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
Northern Sun Gallery & Gifts - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
Have A Yarn - 3 min drive - 4.3 km
Mahone Bay Waterfront - 4 min drive - 4.7 km
Restaurants
Tim Hortons - 8 min drive
Circle K - 8 min drive
Lightship Brewing Company - 8 min drive
The Barn - 5 min drive
Oh My Cod - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Is Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Knotting Hill - A Private Retreat • Deck • Fire Pit • Near Lunenburg located?
This family-friendly Maders Cove holiday home is located by the sea, within 3 mi (5 km) of Mahone Bay Swimming Pool, For The Birds Nature Shop and Jubilee Park. Have A Yarn and Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We liked that this was a beautiful house in a wooded setting. We also liked that it was just a short drive to the restaurants and shops in Mahone Bay. The house included everything we needed during our stay.
Karen B.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Apr, 2026
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Karen! We’re so glad you enjoyed the peaceful wooded setting and found the location convenient for exploring Mahone Bay. It’s wonderful to hear the house had everything you needed for a comfortable stay. We’d love to welcome you back anytime!
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Tranquil, relaxing and cozy. We love the location. Just outside of Mahone Bay, and a short drive to Bridgewater or Lunenburg. Lots to explore, see and do in this area! Thoroughly enjoyed seeing the deer in the morning and at the end of the day.The host provides a fantastic digital guide! Would definitely stay again!
Monika C.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2026
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Apr, 2026
Thank you so much for your 5-star review Monika! I’m so glad you found Knotting Hill tranquil, cozy, and well located for exploring the area. How special that you got to enjoy the deer—and I’m happy the digital guide was helpful too. We’d love to welcome you back anytime!
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Thank you for your 5 star review! We’re so glad you enjoyed your time in this beautiful part of Nova Scotia. It means so much that you traveled all the way from another continent to stay with us—we’d love to welcome you back again someday.
All was excellent,,, Beautiful place and lots of extras
Bernice D.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 Oct, 2025
Thank you for your 5 star review Bernice! It was a pleasure hosting you for a girls weekend, and we hope to host you again in the future.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
We loved the beautiful location and ability to explore so many nearby locations! The host was super responsive and even picked some apples for us from the property’s trees:)
leigh t.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Sept, 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review and kind words Leigh! We’re so happy you enjoyed the location and had the chance to explore the beautiful South Shore. It was a pleasure hosting you, and I’m glad you enjoyed the apples from the trees—they’re one of the simple joys of Knotting Hill! We’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Debbie! I’m thrilled that your girls’ weekend at Knotting Hill was such a special one, and that our house could be part of your time together. It was an absolute pleasure hosting you and we hope to welcome you again soon!
Merry Christmas to you all,
Jacqueline & Rob
Thank you so much for your 5 star review! We are very happy you enjoyed your time staying at Knotting Hill and surrounding Mahone Bay Area! We hope to welcome you again in the future.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Christopher! We are very happy that you loved our place and were able to enjoy the magic of Knotting Hill and the Mahone Bay area. We hope you welcome you back again.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Anne Marie
17 Nov, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Lovely spot.. well located and equipped with lots of amenities
Location was perfect for us close to both Lunenberg and Mahone Bay. We had several wonderful nights stargazing and enjoyed watching the deer on in the. Property.
Vicki S.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Oct, 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Vicky! We’re so glad you enjoyed Knotting Hill’s peaceful location and had the chance to stargaze and watch the deer—it’s truly one of the most magical parts of staying here. We hope to welcome you back again soon for more quiet moments under the stars.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
I really can't say enough about this wonderful little gem. So quiet and peaceful. The building is wonderfully restored and decorated and every little detail is taken care of. Staying here was a high point on our family vacation.
The house is beautifully decorated and very clean. It's in a great location. We loved Mahone Bay.
Diane W.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug, 2024
Thank you so much for your review Diane!
We strive to give our guests a “home away from home” with an East Coast flair, and we hope to host you again ☺️
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Jill! We are happy you enjoyed Knotting Hill and its location, and thrilled the deer came to visit you each day! We hope to host you again. Thank you for choosing us.
All the best
Jacqueline & Rob
The house was well stocked with necessities. The hostess communicated rapidly and regularly. She was thoughtful and generous
Ken H.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept, 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review and your kind words Ken! I’m so glad you found the house well stocked and that my communication was helpful during your stay. It was truly a pleasure hosting you, and we’d be delighted to welcome you back anytime.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
We absolutely loved everything!! Jacqueline was the best host ever- quick to answer any questions, offer suggestions etc. This property was supplied with anything you might ever need! And so beautifully decorated in a tasteful coastal theme. The highlight of our Maritimes trip! We would return in a heartbeat! Thanks Jacqueline for an awesome place to relax and explore.
Joanne W.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and 5 star review! It means the world to us to know that Knotting Hill was a highlight of your Maritimes trip. We loved having you as guests and we’re so glad you felt at home here. We hope you had a chance to enjoy the coastal walks and the charm of Mahone Bay while you were here. You’re welcome back anytime—it would be such a joy to host you again!
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
We spent 5 nights at this cottage and loved every second of it! It's located right outside of Mahone Bay and it is a short drive away from Lunenburg.The cottage itself was great - very roomy and extremely well appointed. My husband loves to cook and the kitchen had everything he needed (including a great selection of spices).We hope to come back to the area soon and will absolutely stay here again!
Sue T.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 30 May, 2025
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Susan! It was a pleasure hosting you for your stay. I’m so pleased your husband found our kitchen amenities aplenty. Thank you again for choosing Knotting Hill, and we look forward to welcoming you back ☺️
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Easy check in, very responsive host, and let us check in early and check out late! Beautiful property, complete with a family of deer! Would love to return during a warmer month to fully enjoy cottage life!
Rebecca R.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Mar, 2025
Thank you for your 5 star review Rebecca!
We strive to make life easy for our guests and accommodate early check ins/late check outs whenever possible. We are thrilled you loved your time at our cottage and can’t wait to host you again.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob ☺️
If I could rate this a 10 I would. We travel lots and for us so far this is our #1 choice. The hosts have lots of planning into this property. Easy and fast communication with host. We will be returning and will be highly recommending to our friends and family. AAA
Joseph D.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Aug, 2025
Thank you so much for your kind words and your 5 star review! We’re truly honoured to hear that Knotting Hill has become your #1 choice—it means the world to us. We put a lot of care and thought into creating a relaxing, memorable stay for our guests, and it’s so rewarding to know it resonated with you. We loved hosting you and would be delighted to welcome you back anytime. Thank you as well for recommending us to your friends and family—it’s the greatest compliment we could receive!
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
Beautiful and so comfortable. What an attention to detail in decorating. We were fortunate on a few occasions to watch the deer eating on the property.
Lovely cottage on a private lot. Lots of amenities close by.
Leslie E.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Oct, 2024
Thank you so much for your 5 star review Leslie! We are so glad you enjoyed our cottage and the amenities. I’m thrilled you were able to spend Thanksgiving weekend away with your husband. We hope to host you again.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob
An absolutely beautiful place that exceeded our expectations. The hosts have thought of everything. One of the best places we’ve stayed!
Bonnie P.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept, 2024
Thank you for your review Bonnie!
We love that you were able to come together as family from 2 different parts of Canada and are thrilled that you chose us for your stay!
We look forward to hosting you again.
All the best,
Jacqueline & Rob :-)
The best stay we had during our maritime Adventures
The property is perfect; cosy and has everything you would need. The hosts were so responsive and even thought of our downtime with games and knitting supplies.
The deers visited us every day and we were in love. Perfect location between Mahone Bay and Lunenberg!
Laura P.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 1 Aug, 2024
Thank you for your rating Laura! It was a pleasure hosting you and your family.
We are honoured that you chose Knotting Hill as your home away from home and that you found our amenities plentiful.
We look forward to hosting you again in the future.
Enjoy the rest of your holidays and safe travels 💕
Jacqueline & Rob
Great renovated older cottage, tastefully decorated, everything you need at your fingertips, comfortable beds, great location, felt very homey, and owners were more than accommodating , 10/10.
GORDON S.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Nov, 2024
Thank you so much for your 5 stat review Gord! It was a pleasure hosting you and we are happy you chose Knotting Hill as your weekend getaway cottage. We take great pride in making sure each of our guests has everything they need along with a relaxing, comfortable stay, and we are happy we were able to provide you with that!
Thank you again for choosing us and we hope to host you again.
Jacqueline & Rob
About the host
Hosted by Jacqueline Cairns
Nova Scotia has captured our hearts with its natural beauty, rich history, and welcoming communities - so much so that we decided to become full time hosts and share this special place with others.
Together, we've spent our careers in emergency services, which has taught us the importance of care, compassion, and creating safe, comforting environments. Hosting allows us to carry those values forward in a new way - welcoming guests and helping them feel truly at home.
We're passionate about the outdoors and spend our free time fishing, camping and travelling. Travel is a big part of our lives - we've explored the US, Asia, Europe, Africa and across Canada - but no matter where we go, we're always happiest returning to the peace and charm of the South Shore.
We look forward to helping you create lasting memories here.
Why they chose this property
Mahone Bay is celebrated as one of Canada's top 10 most beautiful towns - and it's easy to see why. Just a short stroll from Knotting Hill, you'll find yourself at the water's edge, where you can enjoy a peaceful picnic while watching the sun set behind the town's iconic trio of churches. Wander through charming streets filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and a cozy cafe, or savour a meal at one of the many delightful restaurants. The warmth of the community combined with its coastal charm and vibrant local culture, makes Mahone Bay an unforgettable destination - and the perfect setting for your home away from home.
What makes this property unique
Knotting Hill is a beautifully restored post-and-beam home built in 1895, nestled on nearly two acres of peaceful natural surroundings in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia. This serene retreat is enveloped by apple trees and wild roses, where deer roam the property daily. We offer guests a truly immersive experience in nature. Enjoy a friendly game of badminton on the lawn, or relax with a morning coffee or evening beverage of choice on the spacious deck.
As the sun sets, gather around the fire pit to share stories and roast s'mores beneath the stars. Guests are welcome to pick apples from the property's trees and bake homemade pies in our fully equipped kitchen.
Whether you're seeking quiet reflection or outdoor adventure, Knotting Hill offers a perfect blend of rustic charm, thoughtful amenities, and maritime magic - making it a one-of-a-kind getaway on Nova Scotia's South Shore.
Languages:
English, French
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests