I lucked out and managed to book the 1977 just in time to salvage a family vacation in the wake of Covid cancellations. Despite the scramble, I am incredibly happy with the property and would like to book again in the future.
The cottage is easy to find nestled in a wooded area, off the main road, up a hill. You can see the water through the trees, but our favourite part of the property was that it is surrounded by nature. My kids spent a lot of the time looking at creepy crawlies, catching frogs, and trying to 'rescue' caterpillars and butterflies. Do note though that because you are in a wooded area, some of Mother Nature's creepier creatures will make it inside the house!
The cottage is extremely well equipped, especially the kitchen amenities; champagne flutes to dual Keurig and drip coffee maker, ample selection of a variety of dishes and food storage, and a water cooler! I found everything I would use at home and cupboards were well labeled and very clean.
We planned to use the fire pit for roasting marshmallows but the night we wanted to do it, it rained, and we ran out of time before we had to pack up. I recommend it though, the pit is really cute with the colourful chairs and the instructions for the burn permit are clear and easy to follow. In fact, the instruction binder makes everything pretty clear. We did have some internet connection issues but we resolved them on our own. Who needs Netflix when you have caterpillars? (p.s. Don't touch the white spiky ones!)
While there is only one washroom, it was clean and well equipped. The shower and toilet were clean and the extra supply of bath and hand towels was greatly appreciated. Note: If you're going to visit Sandbanks Park while staying at the 1977, get there before 10am or you'll get stuck in the line-up or turned away. Thanks for including a free park pass with the rental! Woo, pass holder lane! Probably saved us 40 minutes waiting in the line!
The beds are comfortable and firm, the master slightly more so. The kids' bunk room has a closet full of board games, puzzles, building blocks, and books. All bedrooms were equipped with fans and there is an AC unit in the living space which does a fantastic job of cooling the main dining/living area.
Contacting the owners was fluid. I'd send a message and get a response within hours. They were always happy to help and quick to reply. I'm sad to see the vacation end. Would like to stay again next year!