My wife and I stayed at the Beaver Hills Retreat for our honeymoon and firmly agreed we want to make it a yearly trip.
It's so peaceful and quiet, only birds singing and maybe the odd Cessna that flies far overhead. At night, it's almost eerie with how quiet it is, we could only hear the faint sound of coyotes every so often. Also, this property is located in the Beaver Hills UNESCO Biosphere which hosts 1 of only 13 Dark-Sky Preserves in all of Canada, so it's quite a treat to turn off all the lights when the sun goes down and admire the night sky.
If you need anything, Sheryl is a prompt and hospitable host. While she lives nearby, you would never know as she leaves you fully undisturbed with complete privacy.
The layout of the property is gorgeous and well-maintained. Vibrant flowers, trees, and quality stonework make the exterior feel more luxurious than it already is. The interior has an open concept, high-ceiling layout with large windows so it's bright even on a cloudy day.
I know these days, a lot of people are especially looking for cleanliness in a prospective vacation home and I can vouch for this property that it is well looked after and clean. The first thing we do when checking into any travel destination is inspect the bedding, mattress, and upholstery for bed bugs, so we're pleased to say we found nothing but clean fabric.
Some things to keep in mind;
- There is a barbecue on the patio but you'll need to supply your own propane cylinder.
- They offer firewood for sale if you forget or didn't bring enough (inquire about cost & supply.)
- Mosquitoes are prevalent in the warmer months so don't forget to pack repellant.
** If you are a light sleeper, consider using the main floor bedroom instead. Being in the country, it's not unheard of to hear critters like chipmunks scampering over the roof in the morning.
Overall, I can't recommend this place enough for all types of travelers.
Elk Island has many activities for kids, and the cabin provides a warm, inviting atmosphere to get little ones settled in quickly (not to mention large swathes of grass for playing!)
As for adults, bask in the serenity of the country life with a glass of wine and enjoy every moment this safe haven has to offer from the ever-growing urban sprawl we've become all too familiar with.
Thanks again for a truly memorable vacation, Sheryl! We'll be back next year.