Summary:
If Olde world cottaging charm appeals but you still want all the comforts then look no further then Birchwood at Bala. This beautiful cottage in the heart of Muskoka has a rich history yet is fully modernized for your comfort!
The Space:
PROPERTY
Birchwood is situated on much sought after Lake Muskoka and just minutes to the village of Bala. With a southwest lakefront exposure, there is sun all day on the dock plus take in the stunning sunsets in the evening from the eight person hot tub! Children will enjoy the sand beach with sandy shallow entry and ample gentle sloping lawn and for swimmers water is 6 feet deep water off the dock! Bring your boat and dock in the 26' covered boat slip plus friends can visit as there is space for 2 more boats! This is truly a perfect Muskoka family cottage! There is a large chef's kitchen with ample counter space and everything you require for easy family meal preparation and cleanup. All upstairs bedrooms have ensuite washrooms complete with Egyptian cotton bath towels for a touch of luxury. The master bedroom has its own private Muskoka Room with comfortable seating for guests who would like some private quiet time. In the 1890's, this was the owner's favourite room to write in. The owners have strived to maintain the original charm of this cottage built in the 1890's by maintaining the cedar wood floors and Muskoka stone fireplace while modernizing with amenities such as Air Conditioning, municipal water and high quality linens and mattresses plus on demand hot water means you will not run out of hot water even with 8 people showering!
NOTABLE COTTAGE FEATURES
TV
BBQ
Private dock with Muskoka Chairs
Southwest lakefront exposure
Hot Tub
Air Conditioning
Municipal Water
High Quality Linens
No Pets Please
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
8 Person Hot Tub
PARKING
4 cars
Sleeping configuration:
Main floor
Primary Queen sleeps 2
Second floor
Guest room 1 king sleeps 2
Guest room 2 queen sleeps 2
Guest room 3 king sleeps 2
Please note: Birchwood has are exterior cameras onsite. There is a train that runs through Bala which can be heard at the cottage, most guests find this to be a very interesting part of Bala & Muskoka history.
We have a video of Birchwood at Bala on Muskoka District Rentals youtube channel.
Speak with our cottage Concierge about additional fee for service add ons Catering, private chef services (proof of vaccination required), daily maid service, water taxis, yoga on the dock, boat rentals, trampoline and water lily rentals, grocery, wine and beer stocking and we can even arrange to have cocktails waiting upon your arrival. Whatever you need just ask! We want to make your time at the cottage as relaxing and fun filled as possible!
Guest Access:
The entire place is yours for the duration of your stay!
The Neighborhood:
AREA
Located on the shores of Lake Muskoka and walking distance to the amenities of Bala! A short walk to Don’s Bakery or the local ice cream shop and walkable from the Kee to Bala if you decide to take in a concert or the weekly water ski shows. This incredible family cottage is just minutes from town where you will find quaint shops and restaurants plus groceries and an LCBO. A short drive to Gravenhurst with its famous Wednesday farmers market. Make sure to also check out PIE on your way to Gravenhurst, a great spot to stop for a wood fired pizza and salad and to check out the newest microbrewery in Muskoka. A short distance north to the dining and shopping in Port Carling. Lots of room for kids to run and play and swim with a shallow sandy area at the shore and deep water off the dock. Cruise the big three lakes by boat, and explore the bays and inlets by kayak or paddle board. Enjoy walks, running, and cycling on the hilly cottage roads. The western exposure provides glorious sunsets for your end of day campfire by the lake!
Other Things to Note:
Please note we will place a hold of $3,000 onto your credit card at check in as a hold against potential damage, we will release this hold 7 days after check out.
2023 Code of Conduct & House Rules:
All potential guests must complete a rental application where you will be asked to provide a full guest list, ages of all guests, the name, address & employer of the primary applicant as well as your home insurance policy details as your third party liability travels with you when you rent. The primary guest must be 30 years of age or older to book. No reservation is confirmed until approved by MDR. The application will form the basis of your short-term lease agreement with MDR and you understand and agree that you will abide by the terms therein. Rates are subject to change until your reservation is confirmed.
Linen, beach & bath towels included.
If Pets are permitted at this rental, this will be limited to 2 small or one large dog, other types of animals must be approved and approval will be solely based on the discretion of the owner. You will be asked to sign a pet waiver and possibly to pay an additional pet cleaning fee. Wet pets are not permitted inside. Pets are not permitted on the furniture at any time.
No smoking, electronic or otherwise, inside the cottage. If you do smoke outside, you must NOT flick ash or butts on the ground as these represent a fire hazard.
Open fires in the fire pit only please & check burn restrictions for the area before you arrive.
Fireworks are NOT permitted.
Please leave the property as you found it, tidy and with all garbage disposed of per the welcome letter.
Note there may be a garbage removal fee. Professional cleaners will prepare the cottage for your arrival and also complete a check out clean & inspection. Please leave the cottage as you found it, tidy and in good repair (you do not need to clean).
WIFI is available at all of our cottages (unless specifically noted).
INDEMNIFICATION: You indemnify the owners of the rental property, their heirs and also their agent Muskoka District Rentals for any and all damage or injury that may occur either prior to, during or after your stay. Further, you acknowledge that Snowmobiling, Boating and all water sports are inherently dangerous. Please make sure you wear proper lifejackets at all times on the water and note these may not be provided for you at the rental property thus are your responsibility.
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LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: I/we represent, warrant, acknowledge and agree that I/we will use the cottage and its facilities in accordance with the booking agreement/rental contract and the household rules and I/we do so at our own risk and that I/we indemnify and save Muskoka District Rentals, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, all employees & owners of aforementioned companies, the property owner and their heirs harmless from any personal injury, sickness or death, loss or damage, however caused to person or property of the Renter, his/her family, or guests before, during or after the time of occupancy.
To ensure the quiet enjoyment of the lake by our neighbours, music or loud noise of any kind is not permitted after 10pm or before 8am.
Resort Fee: For a one-time fee of $99.00, the Accidental Damage Limited Waiver of Liability will waive a claim against the Guest for the cost to repair or replace any accidental damage taking place at the property during the rental period for up to a total of $3,000.00 in damages. The Accidental Damage Limited Waiver of Liability only applies to accidental damage as determined by Muskoka District Rentals. A damage deposit will still be required for casual damages, internet overage charges, extra cleaning charges, garbage disposal, pet cleanup, etc. The Accidental Damage Limited Waiver is not Insurance.
We hope you have a wonderful time at the lake!
The MDR Team
Interaction with Guests:
We are available by email if you need us!
