FAQ

Q: Is the tap water safe to drink?

• Yes, our tap water is filtered and safe to drink.

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Q: Will linens/towels be provided?

• We provide blankets, comforters, and pillows. For an additional fee we will provide full sets of linens and towels upon request.

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Q: What household appliances and entertainment are there at the cottage?

• We offer a fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave, washer, dryer, Propane BBQ, TV, DVD, Satellite Dish, Mini Hi–Fi, and WiFi.  Please see our "Amenities" page for a full list.

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Q: Will we need to bring dishes and cutlery? Pots and pans?

• A. No, we provide everything you need in the kitchen except consumables.

 

Q: Do you have air conditioning?

• We do not have air conditioning. Cool breezes in the highlands and off the lake are generally sufficient to keep our cottage at a comfortable temperature.​ Our cottage also has lots of portable fans in case it gets hot in our cottage.

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Q: Can we bring our pet?

• Please inquire about our pet policy. This is determined on a case-by-case basis.

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Q: Can we smoke in the cottage?

• Absolutely NO smoking is allowed inside the cottage. Cannabis is restricted in all cottage areas. NO EXCEPTIONS.

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Q: Can we set off fireworks at the cottage?

• Fireworks are strictly prohibited unless they are set off during specified long weekends.  Here is the Algonquin Highlands bylaw regarding fireworks:

  • "The bylaw relegates the setting off of fireworks to New Year’s Eve, the Victoria Day weekend, Canada Day, as well as the weekend either preceding or following Canada Day, depending on where during the week Canada Day falls; the Civic Holiday weekend and the Labour Day long weekend. With the exception of New Year’s Eve, the permissible time for the setting off of fireworks is between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. On New Year’s Eve, fireworks may be set off between 8 p.m. and 1 a.m."

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Q: Can we set up outdoor fires during any time of the day?

• Daytime burning in the firepits is not allowed at specific times.  Here is the Algonquin Highlands bylaw regarding outdoor fires and burning:

  • "Effective April 1 until October 31st, daytime burning is prohibited in Algonquin Highlands. This means no outdoor fires between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. No burning allowed at all if a fire ban is in effect."

  • Please also be aware of fire bans during specific times of the year when the risk of fire is high. Fire ban statuses in the Haliburton area can be viewed here: https://www.dysartetal.ca/en/living-in-our-community/fire-and-emergency-services.aspx

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Q: How private is the cottage?

• On a prime lake front location such as ours, it is not unusual to find adjacent properties. However, they are only vacation homes and cottages.  We are pretty private and peaceful all the time.  Be mindful that your neighbors are all on vacation too, and have a right to peaceful time as you do.

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Q: Is the lake water nice to swim in? Is there a shallow area for young children?​

• Yes, Halls lake is clear, weed-free, and very refreshing.  The rocky slopes provide a gradual entrance into the water. Stairs are available by our extension deck and shorelines for minors to maneuver.

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Despite having a shallow, sandy bottom nearby shorelines for youngsters, we suggest you never leave minors (and pets) unattended.  You may consider bringing along aqua shoes (particularly for young children).

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Q: Is there good fishing on Halls Lake?

• Yes. Halls Lake is known to be one of the famous ice-fishing destinations in winter. You can also expect to spot walleye, bass, lake trout, and muskie during the summer.

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Q: Should we bring our own life jackets?

• We provide 6 life jackets of various sizes, however for your safety and comfort we suggest you bring your own to ensure proper fit and sizing.

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Q: How close is the nearest hospital? Grocery store? Other shopping?

• Haliburton hospital is 30 minutes away with a medical clinic. Carnarvon and Minden is 8 and 20 minutes away respectively, with grocery stores, a selection of restaurants, a LCBO outlet and other specialty shops.

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Q: Is there a public boat launch and can I dock at the cottage?

• Yes, there is a launch area just about five minutes and can be seen by the cottage lakefront area. Our guests launch their boats from this location and keep it docked by our lakefront during their stay.

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Q: I have more people in my party than the occupancy level permits, can an exception be made? 

• The maximum occupancy level of 12 people is set based on wear and tear of the cottage, water levels/septic system capacity, and the number of guests we can comfortably accommodate. Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the owner upon request.

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Q: Do I have to clean the cottage?

• Yes, it is the responsibility of our guests to clean the cottage at the end of their stay. Cleaning supplies and equipment are readily available and you will be provided with a cleaning checklist. The cottage will be inspected prior to your arrival and again after your departure.  For a cleaning-hassle-free vacation, a professional cleaning service can be made available for an additional fee.

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Q: Can I have guests at the cottage?

• As long as the number of guests do not exceed our maximum occupancy, your guests are welcome to visit. However, due to liability concerns, you must contact the office to have each additional person added to your application. Only registered occupants are allowed on the premises.  This policy applies to day visitors as well as overnight guests. There is an additional charge of $150 per person per night if occupancy exceeds 10 guests. Failure to comply may result in immediate eviction without refund.

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Q: What if I have to cancel?

• If you have to cancel, we will make every effort to re-book the cottage for you. If successful, all money paid to date of cancellation will be refunded less a $200.00 cancellation fee. If we are unsuccessful, all money paid to date of cancellation will be forfeited to the company.​

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Q: What is there to do in the area?

• There are endless activities to enjoy while vacationing at our cottage year-round. Please check out our “Things to Do” page to assist you in tailoring your vacation to suit your own unique preferences.

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Q: Are we able to get the address to the cottage to view it prior to renting?

• For privacy, security, and insurance reasons of the guests who are or will be staying there, we are unable to give out the cottage address prior to your final payment. Our website gives a detailed description of the cottage as well as numerous photos showcasing the inside and outside of the property allowing you to see the cottage.

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Q: What do I do if there is a problem when I'm at the cottage?

• If there is a problem (including any wear and tear) when you arrive at the cottage or throughout your stay, please contact us or your emergency contact and we will try to remedy the problem for you as soon as possible. For your consideration and for our own, we ask that you do not wait until your vacation is over to advise us of any issue.

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Q: What do I do with my garbage?

• It is your responsibility to dispose of, and remove from the premises, all garbage and recyclables. Information on garbage disposal options in the area is posted in the cottage for your convenience.

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Q: Will my cell phone work at the cottage?

• Yes, we have good reception at the cottage.

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Q: How do I get the keys and directions to the cottage?

• The information will be provided upon the receipt of final payment.

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Q: Why do you require my Home Owners or Rental Content Insurance?

• This is a privately owned vacation rental property that is strictly covered by Liability Insurance only.  In fairness to all parties, your Home Owner's or Rental Content Insurance is required in the event of any negligent damages. Please let us know if you have any further concerns.

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Q: Where can I find the Booking Application?

• Please contact us to request the application.