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Reviews of Explore an Off-Grid Waterfront Yurt & Cabin on 11 Private Acres! Pets Free

Explore an Off-Grid Waterfront Yurt & Cabin on 11 Private Acres! Pets Free
Huntsville, ON

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 52 out of 57 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 57 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 57 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 57 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 57 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

8/10 Good

Joseph B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to get away
We needed a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, this was the perfect spot. Our hosts were excellent.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brynne M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yurt Escape
Extremely relaxing and private getaway. Exactly what we were in need of. The hosts Doug and Orla were wonderfully accommodating. We will definitely be looking to book again in the coming years!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Peaceful
Clean, quiet and relaxing
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Wayne S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Quiet relaxing trip
Very large and private wooded area to get away and relax. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Courtney Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serene and relaxing
What a beautiful spot to stay at. The sound of the waterfall, the trees, the sunsets, the quietness, the sounds of frogs and birds, the loons, all is unmatched. We can’t say enough good things about this spot. You will not be disappointed. If you stay here, you must try the outdoor shower. That was the best feeling, especially after a swim in the lake. Thank you Doug and Orla, for sharing this beauty with others. Sincerely Courtney and Ian
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brody d.

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise in Huntsville
Can’t say enough good things about our stay. Doug and Orla were extremely friendly and knowledgeable hosts. The yurt was amazing as was the property. All the essentials are there and you are so close to many great outdoors locations. Highly recommended!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Erika C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great destination!
What a great spot to get away and enjoy the beauty of nature. Lovely couple and wonderful spot. Would definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Melodie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
If you need solitude and quiet to decompress, this is the place
We camped regularly for many years, but it's been a while and we're a little rusty. We decided to try "glamping" to dip our toe back in and to celebrate our 25th anniversary. We were looking for something easily accessible to Toronto but quiet (ie no jet skis, no kids) without a lot of people, to enjoy a bit of Ontario's autumn around a camp fire. The Lakeside Yurt is a nice mix of creature comfort and "rusticness" in key zones (sleeping / dining / lakeside w/doc / lakeside w/ fire pit) across a really lovely property, hemmed in by a picturesque waterfall. It's on a small, secluded lake that was easy to paddle (first time for our 7 year old rescue pup and he didn't hate it!) and given colours came early this year, we got a real treat with the scenery. The yurt was comfortable with a queen size bed, two comfy chairs and a much appreciated, highly effective wood stove which, combined with wool lining, meant we didn't freeze our butts off on the first night of -1C temps we've experienced in a while. Close to Huntsville, and Dwight, with lots of hiking and canoeing opportunities right there, this is the place if you're a camper (be prepared for no electricity, no running water (though a handy hot shower is available thanks to the lake, a pump and a hot water heater for part of the year) looking for the things you love about camping (ie solitude, quiet, even STARS through the oculus in the centre of the yurt) while not having to sleep on the ground. Highly recommend!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Marco C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing
Was more then what we expected. Quiet, relax, reconnecting with ourself. Taking natural rithm of life. Everything perfect
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Randy B., Burlington,Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Absolutely amazing
Perfect- couldn’t have asked for anything better! Great property
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Roshan B.

Liked: Cleanliness
The best of lake of Bays , Muskoka
Amazing Yurt cabin with 11 acres of privacy . We had 5 days of serenity while the wife and I stayed at the Irwings’ . There’s a comfortable Yurt cabin , spacious wood kitchen cabin and enclosed lounge , a gazebo and the lake itself for you to explore in their canoe and kayaks . Doug and Orla were wonderful hosts , Susan’s listing and pre arrival assistance was top notch . We’ll definitely be back here .
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Katelyn C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serenity at its finest!
We had an absolutely unforgettable stay with Doug and Orla. They were great hosts and their area is perfect. Everything is so thought through. Loved fires in the yurt, relaxing on the dock and exploring in the kayaks. You won't regret staying here!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful and serene vacation
We loved the yurt and cabin; the lake was absolutely stunning. We really enjoyed kayaking on the lake and greatly appreciated the solitude. The amenities were fantastic! We will definitely be booking another vacation. Thanks so much for an incredible stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

8/10 Good

Sharon O.

Liked: Cleanliness
Couples get away
Beautiful place quiet and pretty. For cold night stays Hardwood for stove would allow longer burn time. If linens towels and pillows were provided international visitors could enjoy this escape Great weekend to reconnect with my partner
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Randy J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful fantastic place.. so peaceful and private.. thanks to Doug and Orla for a wonderful trip .
Very secluded very private .. had entire lake to ourselves ..
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kim P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, tranquil and private…..
Amazing property and well stocked cosy yurt. Great hosts ….
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Holly C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lakeside Yurt
Amazing property and views. Doug & Orla were fantastic! We will be making this an annual visit.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2022
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
We loved having them and they left everything in top condition. They are welcome back anytime. 5 star visitors

10/10 Excellent

John J.

Liked: Cleanliness
Yurt rental
Wonderful New Years 3 night stay Very friendly hosts. The yurt was complete with the comforts needed for an outdoor adventure. The wood stove did the trick in minus 22 deg C weather keeping you warm and snuggly. The proximity to hiking in conservation area and Algonquin park makes this yurt rental an excellent choice. Would highly recommend this to any couple looking for a quiet, secluded getaway
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

cheryl

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wow!!!! This property is simply amazing and doug orla are very welcoming and friendly. This off the grid yurt is beautiful and with the waterfall right beside it makes it that much more peaceful and relaxing! The lake is very quiet with only a couple other properties on it! We were very lucky to have an overnight snow fall making this property even more wonderful in the morning when we woke up! We will definitely be back hopefully in the fall! Thank you doug and orla for sharing your beautiful oasis with us:)
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Angela M., Toronto, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Exceeded our expectations!
Rarely can you find a private lake experience and this yurt oasis exceeded our expectations. The yurt itself is super comfortable with a skylight to enjoy the stars at night. Impressed with how substantial the structure is with its wool walls and vaulted ceiling. We enjoyed falling asleep to the gentle waterfall nearby. The separate cabin had everything we needed for a semi off-the-grid experience. We had Benson Lake to ourselves during our visit, loved the privacy and serenity, with only loons to break the silence. Thank you Doug and Orla for creating a private and natural oasis!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

8/10 Good

Nadia P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Getaway
Perfect Yurt experience! The property is so beautiful and there is something to look at everywhere you walk. The Yurt it self was so spacious, and had what was needed. We loved the different areas. The separated eating area, and campfire/lounge area was great. It was also enclosed so it helped with the bugs, and rain. The lake was so peaceful, and we even saw a moose swimming across! Doug and Orla were so friendly, helpful and were great hosts. We will definitely be looking to book again next summer, and the added bonus was we were able to bring our puppy on this adventure. Thanks again for the lovely stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nadia B.

Liked: Cleanliness
*Glamping* come to life !!
This is a review for anyone who loves the outdoors but doesn't quite love camping/tenting it, like myself. This is the *perfect* middle for you. Honestly, photos do not do it justice. The yurt is MUCH cozier and almost 'updated' than photos (photos are great, but in person is even better). The fireplace in the yurt was hands down my favourite thing - makes it feel so cute and comfortable. I have a few suggestions for upcoming travelers: 1) Bugs were not that bad; we were there in mid-June, and only faced some mosquitos but nothing unbearable/couldn't be warded off with spray 2) Bring lots of lighting - can get really dark at night, and we set up lights along our path, which made it even more comfortable at night for walking around as the property is very large. Note that they do provide lights themselves, but you can always use more :) 3) Don't bring too much. We brought soooooo many things, but honestly, the Yurt has everything you can need. 4) The bathroom is actually so clean and comfortable - not like a camping communal bathroom at all. 5) If you're there for 3-5 days, I would plan as follows: one day at Algonquin (only 20-30 min away!!!); one day being super lazy on the dock (incredible dock); and one day exploring the area or canoeing/kayaking around. 6) Last thing I'll mention is that if you're scared of forest creatures, etc - there isn't anything scary that might frighten you at night. You feel super secure in the yurt and no creepy sounds - only welcoming sounds of nature and loons! Absolutely adored this stay. Doug and Orla, you were so helpful and accommodating - thank you so much.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
We are always thrilled to have our guests enjoy their stay. It is always so satisfying to hear from folks who have appreciated the amenities & nature. Thank you Nadia for your positive comments & recommendations. Doug & Orla

10/10 Excellent

Kyle D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Anniversary Getaway
This was the perfect getaway after a long winter and our first time staying in a yurt! Doug and Orla have a beautiful property that made being off the grid easy! Thanks for the wonderful stay and hospitality!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Evan C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing experience
Beautiful views, peaceful, and an overall great time! Doug and Orla were very helpful, and we would definitely return.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Sarah B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Spot
Lovely experience...wonderful hosts....beautiful area and accommodations
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Donna H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stunning and Private!
My husband and I had a wonderful 4 nights here. There is so much to do and see on the property alone. You do not need to go anywhere. The views and the sounds are fantastic! Seeing the property is worth the stay on its own (waterfall and the lake are BEAUTIFUL!) We loved sleeping and hanging out in the Yurt. Such a romantic/cozy place. It was evident that the owners had put a lot of thought into the experience for their guests. We will 100% visit again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Amanda K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, peaceful location.
Orla and Doug were lovely hosts and the property was well kept, quaint and so private. We loved every minute and it was so wonderful being able to bring our pup too. Canoeing on the lake was so peaceful and the yurt was beautiful and comfortable. A truly lovely experience.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Solange M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing anniversary getaway
Huge private property, adorable yurt, excellent hosts, and a great option for couples with dogs, which can be hard to come by.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Dalton T.

Liked: Cleanliness
February 14-16, 2020.
We had a fantastic experience at the Yurt. Doug and Orla were amazing hosts and we look forward to hopefully coming back in the summer.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Lorraine H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Serenity
Amazing in every way!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rachel P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Winter Getaway - Couples first retreat
Doug and Orlas yurt getaway was everything we wanted and more. This was our first getaway as a couple and it was wonderful. The ambience was dreamy and romantic. We couldn’t have asked for better weather in late November (sunny days and clear nights!) the yurt has a sky light which is really cool to stargaze through but we also laid in the snow! The sound of the waterfall in the background helped us have the most peaceful sleep! Doug and Orla were very gracious and welcoming. They gave a really good orientation. The only thing that makes this place not 100/100 was not being able to drive down to the yurt without snow tires so make sure you have them when booking for winter!! Otherwise, our experience was fantastic and we definitely want to come back for a time in the summer.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was by far the most enjoyable weekend my wife and I have had in a long time. Connected with nature and each other. Doug and Orla were wonderful hosts. The property was absolutely beautiful and well maintained. We WILL be returning!!
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2019

10/10 Excellent

Mitchel Z., Bradfordwoods, PA

Liked: Cleanliness
Get Away
My wife and I spent a week at the end of October. There's little to say other than it was one of the most rejuvenating weeks we've ever had. Thanks for the opportunity.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Andrew J., WALLACEBURG

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Setting
My wife and I have now visited this beautiful spot three years running. We enjoy shutting down and turning off and always leave relaxed. The fall colours and cooler temperatures are perfect for long walks and warm fires. Great hosts and a very private location!
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Susan S.

Liked: Cleanliness
A Slice of Heaven
What a perfect vacation get away - this property is picture perfect and the perfect retreat from life "on the grid". Doug and Orla ensured we had everything we needed and then we just relaxed and idled our time away in this little slice of heaven. We couldn't have asked for a more beautiful vacation. Our dogs had the best time ever as well - they explored every inch and are suitably exhausted. Wonderful time had by all! Susan, Andrew, Havoc and Tesla
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ruth and John M., Guelph, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful, serene location
Secluded, peaceful place with stunning scenery. The yurt was clean and comfortable, the cabin an enjoyable space to pass the time in. There were many many mosquitoes when we were there but between the bug spray we brought and the bug zappers that were supplied, we managed just fine. Luckily, they weren't as bad on the dock, so we were able to enjoy our morning coffee/tea there, have many swims and canoe around the lake.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lynnette G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A peaceful getaway for two
This property is stunning. It has everything you need; all you need to bring are toiletries, food, clothes, and personal items as everything else is provided. The lake is clean and warm (even in July!) and the sounds of the waterfall in the background as you go to sleep at night ensure a deep rest. We were blessed with the first hot spell of the summer during our visit and we took advantage of all the outdoors could offer. The dock is wonderful for enjoying a morning cup of coffee and for diving off of to cool off. We saw lots of varied wildlife, including the local loons that live on the lake. We took the provided canoe out on the lake but also rented paddle boards in Huntsville. This allowed us to explore the shoreline from a different lens but also to float out on the water in the afternoon sun. Unfortunately, because the mosquitoes were so plentiful, we didn't end up having any campfires in the evenings but would have like to. Our stay was the perfect way to unplug from life and start off our summer. We will be back. : )
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you Lynnette for your wonderful and detailed feedback! We are so delighted that you enjoyed such a relaxing stay. Its fulfilling when we hear our guests are are captivated by the beauty and soothing sounds of our little retreat too! We would love for you both to be my guest again on your next Algonquin visit - Take care for now and look forward in seeing you and again ! Warmest regards, The Irwins

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness
Simply beautiful
This yurt is exactly what we needed! beautiful area with the escape we were looking for. I am 100% coming back!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you for posting such a positive review. We are so delighted that you enjoyed such a restful stay. We would love to have you back! Take care for now and look forward in seeing you and again ! Warmest regards, Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

Tasmin R.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had an amazing couple of days!
We got to enjoy both sunny days and rainy days, both of which were wonderful! The yurt was super cozy and the bed was very comfy! We brought our dog who had the best time ever running around by the lake and sleeping by the fire in the yurt. We went to a local farmers market and bought delicious food which we cooked over the fire by the lake and on the bbq by the cabin. The cabin was perfect on the rainy day, we relaxed in the screened in porch and watched the rain fall on the lake. Everything was perfect!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you Tasmin for your wonderful complimentary review! We are thrilled that you enjoyed your stay both rain and shine. We are delighted to hear that your dog enjoyed the 'glamping' experience too!. We would love for you be our guests again on your next Algonquin visit - Take care for now and look forward in seeing you again soon! Warmest regards, Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

Cat C.

Magical Winter Getaway
My husband and I visited Doug and Orla's yurt to celebrate his birthday, and we could not have been happier with our experience! The yurt is extremely cozy. It is well-furnished, very warm from the wood stove, and perfectly secluded. The bed was very comfortable and we were well rested both nights of our stay. We snowshoed around the perimeter of the lake, which was stunningly beautiful and private. They mentioned there was a fire pit by the water that we were welcome to dig out if we wanted to try, which we successfully did! The property is a short drive from Algonquin, where we hiked the Track & Tower Trail. We can't wait to come back in the warm season to further explore their absolutely magical property!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2019

10/10 Excellent

Ian P., Belleville, Ontario, Canada

Fantastic Spot!
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Everything was as described, except that the location was even better than we expected. The yurt was nice and warm even though the weather outside was quite cold. Our hosts were very helpful and kind. Snowshoeing around the secluded lake was a highlight.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you Ian for your wonderful feedback! Your positive comments will certainly be helpful to others interested in renting off grid in this unique one -of-a-kind winter experience. We are so delighted that you both enjoyed your stay :) Take care for now and look forward in seeing you again soon! Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

Mary B.

Recommending this location to all of my friends!
We had such a beautiful time. It was magical, warm, and super cozy. The stars are incredibly bright at night, the bed is comfortable, the yurt is very warm. Orla and Doug are lovely. Hoping to visit again soon. Thanks again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2019
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you Mary for your wonderful feedback! We agree that this area is an idyllic vacation spot which makes it a perfect magical getaway! We would love to have you return anytime. Always keep touch even though miles separate you. Warmest regards, Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

jim z., kitchener

Words cannot describe
I almost don't want to write a review because I want to keep this place all to my self. If I could, I would make this my full time residents. It's your own private Muskoka, with a beautiful lake and property and nobody else around. The water is clear, clean and refreshing; with fantastic swimming right off the dock. The yurt is clean and comfortable; kind of a hotel room in the middle of the woods. Pictures cannot describe at all how stunning this property is, our expectations were blown away when we arrived, and continued to be exceeded as the week progressed. We did not want to leave! We spent the week canoeing, fishing, hiking, swimming and relaxing all without leaving the property. My two dogs had a blast with so much space. My senior dog (13 year old) was a puppy again and was actually running, and my puppy matured and learned so much; from how to canoe, swim and enjoy a campfire. I recommend this vacation spot for anyone. Whether you are an avid back country camper, or have never left the city you will find this a perfect get away.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2017

8/10 Good

C E.

A beautiful location
The yurt is very cozy and comfortable, the lake serene ... a great place for a quiet holiday.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2017
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Orla and I are delighted you enjoyed such a relaxing stay and had a chance to experience off-grid living in one of the most tranquil settings in Muskoka! Warmest regards, Doug

8/10 Good

Joanne L.

Yurtastic !!!
Very nice. Will recommend to family and friends.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2017
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
What a fabulous expression to describe Lakeside Yurt!. Its fulfilling when we hear our guests are passing along references to family and friends. It means a lot to us. Thanks again for staying with us, and please do think of us if your travels bring you northward bound. Best regards, Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

Alexey P.

Absolute Relaxation and Privacy
This is one of the rare times when what you got was much better than pictures on site or description... Unbelievable place, with all things you can think about in one place - waterfall, lake, fire pits outside, bungalow with coach and terrace, and yurt with fireplace. Full relaxation and rest are guaranteed. Ideal for couples, to forget about daily routine and work, be submerged in the beauty of Nature and just enjoy the life as is. Definitely will stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2017
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you Alexey for your wonderful and detailed feedback! Your positive comments will certainly be helpful to others interested in renting off grid in this unique one -of-a-kind yurt experience. We are so delighted that you both enjoyed your stay and would love for you to be my guest again on your next Algonquin visit - Take care for now and hope to see you again soon! Doug and Orla

10/10 Excellent

Andra M.

Clean, natural, quiet, beautiful
The hosts are kind and down-to-earth, eco-friendly people. It was a joy to chat with them and to stay in their yurt and enjoy the property! There is a waterfall and beaver pond behind the yurt and we heard loons on the lake in the early morning. The woodstove kept us toasty warm and the lake made for some great polar bear dips! We look forward to going there again and again, in all seasons :)
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2016
Response from VrboOwner on Sep 3, 2023
Thank you so much Andra for your wonderful feedback. We certainly enjoyed meeting you too! Sounds like you mastered yurt living at its best. We strive to ensure that every guest is welcome and has everything conveniently on hand to ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. We look forward in seeing you both again very soon! Take good care, Doug and Orla