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Your Early-Spring Outdoor Bucket List

Spring Awakening: Your Essential Guide to Early-Season Outdoor Adventures

As we emerge from the grip of winter, the shoulder season is upon us! This is your guide to embracing the wild wonders of nature during these transitional months, packed with exciting activities to keep you outdoors and loving every muddy minute of it.

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

Early Spring hiking offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature as we transition into a season of renewal.

Our Guide to the Best Hiking Trails will help you plan your route.

From there, enhance your outdoor adventure by including a scavenger hunt, perfect for families and solo hikers alike. Enjoy observing the emergence of new plant life and listening to the melodies of the forest. Kids will love playing “Eye Spy”, discovering the sights and sounds of the wilderness. While adults may enjoy a slower pace, turning their hike into a mindful meditation surrounded by the tranquility of the forest.

Don’t forget to gear up the muddy, wet and occasionally icy terrain with waterproof boots!

Jumping in puddles is optional (but definitely encouraged!)



TRY COLD PLUNGING

As the lakes begin their spring thaw, consider adding cold plunging to your outdoor activity list.

Beyond the exhilarating rush, cold plunging offers numerous benefits for both physical and mental health, such as improved circulation, heightened alertness, enhanced mood and lower anxiety levels.

Our waterfront cabins are the perfect location to practice plunging, with the lake just steps from your door.

Be sure to exercise caution whenever cold plunging and always go with a buddy!




ENJOY MAPLE SYRUP SEASON

March & Early April is Maple Season in Ontario. Celebrate the sweetest season of all with a visit to the Sugar Shack to check out how sap is collected and produced into the sticky, sweet deliciousness we all know and love. With all four of our regions featuring nearby Maple activities, this is one experience you won’t want to miss out on.

For more inspiration be sure to check out our detailed Maple Season Guide.

LOOK UP AT THE STARS

With temperatures becoming less frigid, early Spring is an excellent time to bundle up and head outside gaze up at the stars. With several celestial events on the horizon this season you won’t want to miss out on the awe-inducing beauty of staring up at the night sky!

Get out of the city and head to one of our remote cabin locations which provide the perfect, unobstructed backdrop for viewing the stars and constellations.

Upcoming celestial events include:

For more details check out our Guide to Star Gazing in Ontario

CREATE A CABIN CRAFT

Let nature spark your creativity! When weather conditions aren’t ideal consider an indoor craft inspired by the great outdoors.

Cabin crafts are for adventurers of all ages and can include:

  • Colouring, drawing & sketching
  • Fibre arts such as knitting and crochet
  • Needlepoint & embroidery
  • Painting

Kids (and kids at heart) will love creating a Leaf Collage. During a hike collect fallen leaves of varying kinds and bring them back to the cabin. Spend time arranging the leaves into a collage and use a glue stick to stick them to your paper of choice. The perfect souvenir to take home from your trip!

EXPLORE LOCAL-WONDERS

Early spring is a great time to explore the local wonders of the region, visit small towns, farms, provinicial parks and partake in unique activities.

Fan Favourite:
The Wolf Centre in Haliburton Forest. This self-guided experience offers educational exhibits on wolf behaviour and ecology. Be sure to visit the observatory where you may even catch an exciting glimpse of the forest’s Wolf Pack!

Local tourism sites are a great resource when planning the perfect, early-spring getaway. Each of our four regions, Lanark, Calabogie, Haliburton and Kawartha offer a wide range of local experiences and activities for you to enjoy.




Grab your boots and your sense of adventure, because the shoulder season is calling! Embrace the mud, the challenges and most importantly embrace the beauty of early spring in all it’s untamed glory.

Ready to turn your early spring daydreams into reality? Our cozy cabins offer the perfect sanctuary to reconnect with the great outdoors. Reserve your time in nature and let the rejuvenating magic of early spring unfold around you.

EXPLORE OUR CABINS

Blog by: Rachel Naish & Photo Credits: Zach Washburn, Sarah Vander Zaag, Vanessa Moniz

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Off-Grid Camping Tents

Off-Grid Camping Tents

Get back to basics this summer by embracing the wonders of off-grid camping in Ontario!

Just 1.5 hours away from the hustle and bustle of Toronto city life, our six canvas glamping tents provide a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, rejuvenate your spirit, and create cherished memories with loved ones.

Here’s the low-down on what makes our tents awesome:

THE BASICS

Our six tents are located in the Kawarthas on a magnificent 230-acre property encompassing a 55-acre crystal clear spring-fed quarry lake.

Tents are located in a forested area on our private property, each on its own secluded lot. All tents are identical in design and come with:

  • A comfy, queen sized bed
  • A bistro set with 2 chairs
  • 2 Muskoka chairs
  • Picnic table
  • Campfire pit with fire top grill
  • Storage containers
  • Drinking water

WHAT TO PACK

  • Food & drink
  • Dishware, cutlery, and pots/pans for cooking (tents include a fire top grill, but guests should bring their own camp stove if preferred)
  • Sheets, pillows, and blankets
  • Towels for the lake
  • Firewood 
  • Bug repellent (critters are a reality of the great outdoors!)

HOW TO COOK

To provide an authentic camping experience, our tents do not have a cooking stove or running water.

We provided 40L of potable water for drinking, cooking, etc and campers can enjoy meals cooked over the fire OR bring their own camp stove.

THE CALL OF NATURE

There is a shared comfort station on site with two composting toilets, and two outdoor showers to ensure you have a comfortable and convenient stay.

ADDED COMFORTS

At Cabinscape, it’s all in the details so we added a few comforts of home to enhance your stay:

  • Romantic festoon lighting
  • 2 Bedside table lamps with a USB phone charger (this is low voltage, so other items cannot be plugged in)
  • A couple board games and playing cards
  • Biodegradable dish soap, shampoo, body wash and conditioner


FUN THINGS TO DO

The opportunities are endless!

  • Swimming or snorkeling off the communal dock
  • Paddle-boarding or canoeing (available to rent)
  • Hiking the onsite trails
  • Share stories and meals by the campfire
  • Roast marshmallows under the stars
  • Create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

If that’s not enough action, visit our Kawartha Summer Adventure Guide HERE for great activities to do in the surrounding area.


Off-grid camping is more than just an escape—it’s an opportunity to forge deeper connections with your loved ones. Spend your days exploring nature trails, swimming in the lake, or simply basking in the tranquility of your surroundings.

Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the serenity of a canvas tent or opt to unwind in a cozy cabin instead, your off-grid experience promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Book your stay today and let the adventure begin!

EXPLORE OUR KAWARTHA TENTS

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Marianne, Eleftheria Vatti, Bianca Compagnoni, Martha Edmunds

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Ontario Group Getaways

Planning Your Group Getaway to Ontario’s Best Tiny Cabins

Looking to break free from the hustle and bustle of city life?

Gather your squad and head to the serene woods of Ontario for an unforgettable group getaway in our cozy tiny cabins!

Here’s how to plan the ultimate adventure:

1. Choose Your Crew:

Round up your closest friends or family members who share your love for nature and adventure. From intimate gatherings to larger friend groups, our tiny off-grid cabins can accommodate groups of up to 35 people!

2. Pick Your Neighbouring Cabins:

Explore our selection of charming 2 to 4 person cabins nestled in the heart of Ontario’s wilderness:

HALIBURTON

These Base Camp Cabins are located in Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve and surrounded by beautiful forest lots, giving you that elevated camping feeling (but with the convenience of an indoor toilet and kitchenette!)

At only 50 meters apart, neighbouring Jade and Ivy Cabins are ideal for pairs of friends who want to be as close as possible.

A little further along the road: Moss, Pine, and Sage Cabins are about 100 meters apart from one another, offering guests relative privacy with the comfort of knowing others are close by. These three cabins are identical in design with lofted queen beds, and each has their own fire pit, BBQ, and picnic table.

Looking for amazing sunsets and lakefront views for you and a few friends? Our Bone and Baylight Cabins both reside on on Bone Lake, a gorgeous and private lake in Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve.

These cabins are a medium remoteness level, so just a 10 minute drive from the main office/lodge at Haliburton Forest with access to their extensive trail network, outdoor adventure activities, camp store and restaurant!

Our remote Cove and Quasi Cabins are our largest, 4-person models and nestled together on their own private lake. At just 300 meters apart, they are the perfect base camp for adventure loving groups wanting a place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the Haliburton Highlands. Each cabin features a lower queen-sized bed and queen loft bed.

One lake over is Duck Lake, where Willow and Kaya Cabin reside. Each 3-person cabin is located on their own private lot approximately 200 metres apart. (For an extra 3-person cabin nearby, Big Rock Cabin is just a short distance away, followed by the aforementioned Cove and Quasi cabins a little further down the road!) If renting all 5 cabins in this area, you could host 17 people.

Calabogie

Our Calabogie cabins (Finch, Starling and Wren) are located on the forested grounds of Calabogie Peaks Resort, suspended above the shores of Calabogie Lake near the base of Dickson Mountain.

Each cabin (spaced 200-300 meters apart on separate lots) offers picturesque views of the lake and land below with direct access to some of the best hiking trails in Southern Ontario.

These cabins are ideal for groups who prefer to be close to amenities with access to lots of outdoor activities!

Kawarthas

Looking for a large group retreat or family reunion? Our Cabinscape Kawarthas property can accommodate up to 35 guests between our cabins, bunkies, and tents! (Contact us a bookings@cabinscape.com for group pricing discounts, 10 people+)

This magnificent 230 acre property overlooks a sparkling blue, spring-fed lake in Kirkfield, Ontario – with dreamy desert-like vistas and a communal dock area for gathering.

For a smaller group of 6 or 9, book out a few of our neighbouring 3-person waterfront cabins!

In addition to indoor/outdoor showers in the summer months, each cabin has their own campfire area, private water access, and a paddle board rental to explore on! The perfect escape for a relaxing long weekend!

Tucked into the meadows of our Kawartha property are our 4 x two-person micro cabins! Callalily and Buttercup are the closest in proximity, but Bluebell and Marigold are not too far away and only steps away from our on-site hiking trail.

Each of our six off-grid canvas tents lies on its own shaded and secluded forest lot. All tents come with their own fire pit, outdoor twinkle lights, a picnic table and Muskoka chairs, with a shared comfort station and showers (in the summer months) centrally located. Explore Cress, Sorrel, Senna, Yarrow, Stargrass, and Cicely Tents.

The meadow cabins and tents have access to our communal dock with paddle board rentals available, so all guests can take advantage of this truly epic location!

lanark County

Meet Mica and Rhya Cabins, some of our most remote “Cabinscapes” to date. These off-grid retreats are just 400 meters apart and located in Eastern Ontario on Rideau Valley Conservation land in beautiful Tay Valley.

The cabins overlooks a quiet, protected lake and is surrounded by wilderness. Enjoy evening sunsets from your deck, hiking trails off your doorstep, bird watching and pristine paddling on Mills Lake.

Plan Your Activities:

Embark on outdoor excursions right from your doorstep! Hike scenic trails, roast marshmallows around a crackling fire, paddle on the lake, or simply reconnect amidst the tranquility of nature. Visit these handy guides for nearby adventure activities around our cabins in: HALIBURTON / KAWARTHAS / LANARK / CALABOGIE

Consider Logistics:

Coordinate travel plans, meal arrangements, and packing the essentials like bedding, firewood, and food, in advance to ensure a seamless experience for everyone.

Our cabins are equipped with jugs of drinking water, indoor composting toilets, kitchen essentials, and other amenities to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Embrace the Moment:

Disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Bond with your group over shared experiences, laughter, and the simple joys of cabin life.

Ready to escape to the wild? Start planning your group getaway at our tiny cabin rentals in Ontario today!

BOOK YOUR GROUP ESCAPE

Blog Written by: Sarah Vander Zaag, Photo credits: Vinisha Lalchand (Wren), Tori Baird (Starling), Taylor Yhap (Moss), Bri Wardle (Hawkweed), Erica Lewis (Woodrush), Cassidy Chambers (Buttercup), Bianca Compagnoni

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Cabincore: Home Style Guide

How to Style Your Home to Feel Like a Cozy Cabin

Are you dreaming of the tranquil charm of a cozy cabin nestled in the woods? Transforming your home into a rustic retreat is easier than you think.

Here are some “cabincore” design tips to infuse your space with the warmth and coziness of a cabin in the woods:

Layered Textures

Create depth and dimension in your space by layering different textures. Mix and match cozy fabrics like faux fur, chunky knits, and soft blankets to add visual interest and tactile comfort.

Traditional Tools

An old-fashioned stovetop kettle and french press offer a timeless style and grounds us in a morning ritual that wakes up all the senses.

Books & Personal Touches

Incorporate personal touches and cherished keepsakes that reflect your love for the outdoors. Display favourite books, vintage maps, hiking gear, and photos from outdoor adventures to add character and warmth to your space.

Embrace Natural Elements

Incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather into your décor. Opt for furniture pieces with a distressed finish or reclaimed wood for that rustic appeal.

Plaid


Plaid can enhance the design and coziness of a home by adding a timeless and comforting aesthetic that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Whether used in throw blankets, pillows, or upholstery, plaid patterns infuse a space with rustic charm and visual interest, creating a cozy space reminiscent of traditional cabin living.

Comfort Is Key

If embracing the full cabincore life, adopt it in your own style too! Celebrates simplicity, comfort, and a deep appreciation for nature with chunky knit sweaters, flannel shirts, wool socks, and sturdy boots or slippers.

Bring the Outdoors In

Incorporate elements of nature into your décor, such as botanical prints, landscape paintings, and nature-inspired artwork. Display fresh greenery, branches in rustic vases, or even a favourite paddle.

Cozy Lighting

Set the mood with warm, ambient lighting. Opt for soft, diffused lighting fixtures like table lamps, string lights, and lanterns to create a welcoming glow reminiscent of a cabin retreat.

Warm Colour Palette

Choose earthy tones like deep browns, warm neutrals, forest greens, and rich reds to create a cozy ambiance reminiscent of the outdoors. Add pops of colour with throws, wool rugs, and accent pillows inspired by nature.

Grab our Cabin in the Woods Palette Print for inspo!

Woodsy Scents

If you have a fireplace, make it the focal point of your living space. If you’re limited to only outdoor fires (like at our cabins!) adorn the mantel with nature-inspired candles to enhance the cozy ambiance and charm all the senses.

Our bespoke Cabin in the Woods Candle is the perfect soothing forest medley of balsam, sage, cedarwood, and morning dew.

By incorporating these simple tips and embracing the rustic charm of cabin living, you can create a cozy retreat in the comfort of your own home. Let the beauty of nature guide you or visit a Cabinscape Cabin across Ontario to be inspired!

BOOK YOUR CABIN IN THE WOODS

Written by Sarah Vander Zaag

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Ontario Maple Season Guide

Celebrate the Sweetness of Maple Season


Maple season is upon us and there is no better time of year to adventure to one of our tiny cabins and enjoy all the Maple goodness the local towns have to offer!

Celebrate the sweetness of Spring by visiting sugar bushes, tapping trees, eating delicious treats, and exploring the quaint regions of Ontario while on your tiny cabin adventure!


LANARK COUNTY

In the heart of the Ottawa Valley, Lanark County is touted as the ‘Maple Syrup Capital of Ontario’ and it’s not hard to see why!

Temple’s Sugar Bush in Lanark features a Pancake House Restaurant with a Maple breakfast special, a shop and a nature trail through the picturesque surrounding forest and gardens. Visit Perth, Ontario’s Festival of the Maples on Saturday, April 27th, 2024 which boasts an artisan food market, retail attractions, and lots of live entertainment.

Plan a trip during Ontario Maple Weekend from April 6th-7th. Various producers show how syrup is made while offering free samples of fresh maple syrup and confections. Enjoy a pancake breakfast, sugarbush trails, demonstrations, taffy on snow, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and more!

Throughout the year, visitors can savour the flavours of Lanark County and enjoy the virtual Sip & Savour Trail for chocolate, craft spirits, beer/cider, fine cuisine, and delicious delicacies.

BOOK YOUR SWEET LANARK ESCAPE

HALIBURTON

If you are staying at one of our Haliburton locations in March or April, be sure to check out our Canadian Maple Experience!

For a great adventure with the whole family, pack the kids up for some March Break Maple Magic. Geared towards kids of all ages, on this 2+ hour experience, you’ll hear the ins and outs of maple syrup production, follow the impressive journey from sap to syrup, check out a real sugar shack, eat a pancake meal and of course, sample some sweet treats!

For adults, make your way to Haliburton Forest Base Camp for a sap and tap experience like no other! Hike through the sugar bush, peek inside the rustic sugar shack, and take away interesting insights from the impressive journey from sap to syrup, all while tasting various local maple products. Finish it off with a maple flavoured alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage!

BOOK YOUR HALIBURTON ESCAPE

KAWARTHAS

For a truly rural experience, the charming family-fun Roost Farm is only a few minutes away from our Cabinscape Kawarthas cabins.

Enjoy a 5km walking tour of the property while surveying their maple bush and production process. Book a Roost Experience, or enjoy shopping their fresh seasonal produce, honey, farm-made preserves and local artisan gifts and products.

BOOK YOUR KAWARTHAS ESCAPE

JONI CABIN

Our Joni Cabin in Pakenham lives right next door to Cartwright Springs Brewery where our guests can enjoy Maple Porter & Carbonated Maple Sap available starting mid-March! Opt-in for a tasting made specifically for thirsty visitors who want to try it all! Stay for an in-depth Brewery Tour where stops include their on-site maple taps. Don’t forget the Artist Fair at the brewery the first weekend of April for more seasonal events and fun!

Nearby Fortune Farms in Almonte is gearing up for its 52nd Maple season and features tours and trails, and a shop that sells everything from maple sugar to maple vinegar!

BOOK JONI CABIN

CABIN CHASER: MAPLE SEASON ROUTE

For a limited time, our popular mystery road trip & cabin-hopping experience now features sweet maple stops along the way. Enjoy every drop of this new route on this surprise 2-day itinerary.

Originally designed for groups of two, this package has now expanded to accommodate families (one additional guest over the age of 12 or two additional guests 12 and under) Consider this an exciting surprise for the whole clan!

BOOK MYSTERY ROAD TRIP HERE

BOOK YOUR SWEET ESCAPE

Photo Credits: unguide.ca, yoursoutdoors.ca, @essoncreekmaple, roostfarm.ca, Piper’s Rescue Adventure

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The Perfect Valentines Day Experience

Top 7 Ideas for Sharing the Love this Valentines Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the pressure to plan the perfect romantic outing can sometimes feel overwhelming. Flowers, chocolates, and candlelit dinners are classic choices, but why not step outside the box this year?

From exhilarating hikes to romantic stargazing sessions, here are seven outdoor activities that are sure to make this Valentine’s Day one to remember:

A Sunrise Hike

Start the day on a breathtaking note by embarking on a sunrise hike together. Choose a nearby scenic trail (like the famous Eagle’s Nest close to our Calabogie Cabins– Starling, Finch, or Wren) with a vantage point that offers sweeping views. Witnessing the first light of day together will create a magical and unforgettable experience.

Try a New Experience Together

For the more adventurous souls, why not try your hand at ice climbing, snowmobiling, or wildlife spotting? Embrace the thrill of discovery as you encounter majestic creatures in their natural habitats, from playful wolves (viewed from the safety of the observation room at the Haliburton Forest Wolf Centre) to elusive deer.


Pack a Picnic

What better way to cap off a day of exploration than with a romantic picnic amidst the splendor of the woods? Pack a few of you and your partner’s favourite treats, uncork a bottle of wine, and savour each bite as you soak in the sights and sounds of nature all around you.

We can even have a special moment prepared for your arrival, with our Irresistible Romance Kit to set the romantic mood!


Capture the Moment

The ultimate gift? Memories to look back on. If you’re celebrating a special occasion during your Cabinscape stay (whether that be an anniversary, surprise engagement, or life milestone), our Celebration Photography Package will add that extra touch of magic, with none of the stress.

You’ll receive a full gallery of professional photos amidst a woodland backdrop, and it even comes with wine and treats!


Split a Smore Around the Fire

Cozying up to a crackling fire as you share stories and laughter late into the night is a core-memory waiting to happen. Pretend you’re lady and the tramp with a spaghetti noodle, but swap it for a gooey marshmallow instead!


Stargazing Under the Stars:

Escape the city lights and head to our remote cabins where you can stargaze together under the vast night sky. Bring blankets, cozy up together, and marvel at the beauty of the stars while sharing dreams amidst the peaceful night.

Check out our guide for upcoming celestial events to enjoy!


Take a Nature Walk Hand-In-Hand

The areas surrounding our cabins offer a plethora of activities to suit every adventurer’s taste. Take a leisurely hike together along scenic trails or explore tranquil lakes and breathtaking vistas, all waiting to be discovered just beyond your doorstep.

Here is a list to the best hikes (or snowshoe trails) near our cabins!

This Valentine’s Day, dare to be different. Trade crowded restaurants and clichéd gestures for an intimate woodland retreat that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, or cherished loved ones, our tiny cabins in the woods offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary this season of love. Book your woodland retreat today!

BOOK YOUR CABIN ESCAPE

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Allyson Elizabet, Heather Kerrison & Max Power, Bri Wardle, Michael Tan,
Liz – The Organic Moment

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Hiking Tips for Accessing Our Off-Grid Cabins

Hiking Tips for Accessing Our Off-Grid Cabins

Winter transforms Ontario’s woodlands into a magical wonderland, and what better way to experience it than by hiking in to our off-grid cabins nestled deep in the snowy forests?

Here are our top tips for an adventurous and safe winter hike to your cozy cabin retreat!

Know Your Route

Familiarize yourself with the directions and distances (found in your welcome email sent to you one week prior to your stay) before embarking on your hike. Keep an eye out for trail markers and signs along the way!

If you’re feeling lost, don’t panic! Our Cabinscape text support line is available to provide guidance between 8am-8pm (number in welcome email).

Give Yourself Time

Check-in at our cabins is at either 3 or 4pm (you can find this info under the FAQs on your cabins web page), so plan to arrive with plenty of daylight to get yourself situated at the cabin before the sun sets. We highly recommend that you start your hike before the check in time – our trails are well marked but it is easier to miss signs in the dark.

Check the Weather

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so stay updated on forecasts and conditions before heading out.

Pack Light, Pack Right

If hiking in after the sun has set, be sure to pack a flashlight or head-torch (and maybe some heat packs if your extremities get cold quickly and you have a longer trek)

Check out our handy guide here: THINGS TO BRING for a packing list, and to learn what’s already included at the cabin.

We provide a Pelican Pull Sled (or wagon when there is no snow) to assist you with hauling in your gear! This will be waiting for you at the parking area of your cabin.

Gear Up for the Cold

Bundle up like a pro! Opt for breathable layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy boots with good traction, and don’t forget your trusty mittens and toque.

We provide two sets of snowshoes as well so your feet can stay warm, dry, and conquer those trails!

Embrace the Winter Wildlife

Keep your eyes peeled for signs of wildlife along the trail—tracks in the snow, rustling in the trees, or the occasional glimpse of a furry friend sharing their home with you!

Respect “Leave No Trace” Principles

Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories! As there is no garbage services at our off-grid cabins, we ask that you pack out all your garbage and leave the wilderness as pristine as you found it. Let’s keep Ontario’s forests wild and beautiful for generations to come!


Most importantly, we hope you enjoy the adventure! Winter hiking isn’t just about reaching your destination—it’s about the journey. Take your time, savour the sights and sounds of the forest, and embrace the serenity of the snowy landscape.

Adventure awaits, explorers! See you on the trails!

BOOK YOUR CABIN ESCAPE

If you decided hiking wasn’t for you we also have some great low-remote and drive-up cabins! Read our handy blog here to find your PERFECT CABIN MATCH! Or travel to your cabin in style with our 4WD shuttle delivery- this is available for our Haliburton Base Camp Cabins (Moss, Pine, Sage, Ivy, Jade) and our Haberman Road High Remotness Cabins (Willow, Cove, Kaya, Big Rock, and Quasi)

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Chris and Nicole, thisis.jaeh

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How to Get into the Festive Holiday Spirit this November!

How to Get into the Festive Spirit this November!

November in Ontario marks the transition from autumnal hues to the cozy embrace of winter. While the snowflakes may not be falling just yet, the festive spirit begins to weave its magic across the province. There is no better place to embrace the season than a trip to our cozy cabins! Take a scenic drive through Ontario’s countryside and discover local, small towns that go all-out for the holidays!

Read on to learn about our top recommendations for fun and festive activities in Kawarthas, Lanark County, Haliburton and Calabogie!

LANARK COUNTY

Lanark County is so popular during the holidays, there is even a book written about it (Lanark County Christmas — Memories of a Yuletide Past by Arlene Stafford-Wilson)! Sleigh rides and baking Christmas cakes are strong traditions in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.

While visiting CABINSCAPE in November, the Once Upon A Christmas event in Downtown Perth is a must! On Saturday November 25th, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides, music, toasty fires, hot chocolate, and even meet Santa! The Annual Santa Clause Parade at Carlton place is also on the same day!

While visiting our Joni cabin, in particular, take a trip to Almonte with its inviting small bookstores, tempting bakeries, and cozy stores. This charming little town is home to many popular Christmas movies you see on TV!

Book your Lanark County escape at our Mason, Joni, Ember, Juniper, Rhya and Mica cabins.

KAWARTHAS

Don’t miss the 26th Annual Kawartha Lakes Festival of Trees from Fri, Nov 17th to Sun, Nov 19th! This year, the festival will offer an array of activities including wagon rides, a Candy Shoppe, and a magical visit from Santa Claus.
The main highlight, of course, will be the hundreds of exquisitely decorated and donated items displayed in the Village, all up for raffle and auction

The nearby historical waterfront town of Fenelon Falls also has their Santa Day on Sat, Nov 25. This free and fun-filled day includes a parade and fireworks display!

Book your Kawarthas escape at our Burdock, Goldenrod, Hawkweed, Stonecrop, Bluebell, Buttercup, Marigold, Callalily, and Woodrush cabins.

HALIBURTON

Our Haliburton location rests on 100,000 acres of forest with beautiful pine and evergreen trees all around. Watching fluffy snowflakes drift down around the cabin is sure to get you in the yuletide mood.

For some family fun, join either the Village of Minden for their Christmas in the Village and Parade on Sat, Nov 18 or the Haliburton Storybook Christmas & Santa Claus Parade on Fri, Nov 24th. Carolling, bands, marching and lights included!

Book your Haliburton escape at our Bone, Baylight, Big Rock, Willow, Quasi, Kaya, Cove, Moss, Sage and Pine cabins.

CALABOGIE

Our Calabogie Cabins sit next door to the Calabogie Peaks Resort, which is a quaint ski resort that becomes a winter wonderland once the snow falls! With all sorts of winter activities available, plus nightly bonfires, live music, and pond skating, just visiting feels like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie!

Book your Calabogie escape at our Starling, Wren and Finch cabins.

November in Ontario is a time of anticipation and preparation, a bridge between the colourful fall and the enchanting winter. Embrace the simple joys of the season, slow down and spend time with family, and don’t get too caught up in the pressure to “do” or “buy” as you prepare for the wonderful holiday season ahead! Booking a cozy cabin in the woods is a great way to unwind and enjoy a nice escape!

BOOK YOUR FESTIVE ESCAPE

Photo credits
First image & Lanark: https://kirstenwendlandt.com/, Haliburton: Evelyn Barkey, Calabogie: Calabogie Peaks, Kawarthas The Kawartha Promoter

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How to say “No” this November

Saying “No” in November: Embracing Self-Care, Family Time, and Relaxation

In a world that often glorifies constant busyness, November presents the perfect opportunity to embrace a different narrative.

This month, let’s challenge the norm and prioritize the self-care, family time, and genuine connection. Here’s how to gracefully say “no” this November, allowing space for what truly matters.

Step 1: Set Boundaries

Learn to set clear boundaries, both at work and in your personal life. Take a pause and ask yourself “does this activity align with my priorities?” or “do I really want to do this?”

Respect your time and energy, and others will too.

Step 2: Learn to Say “No” Gracefully

As social creatures, we have a desire to please others and to be looked upon favourably. This can lead to overcommitting and stretching yourself too thin out of a misplaced sense of obligation. Practice saying “no” gracefully and without guilt.

Remember: Saying “no” to one thing means saying “yes” to something more meaningful.


Step 3: Embrace JOMO

Swap FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) for JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out). Revel in the joy of spending your time YOUR way. Whether that be staying in, escaping to a tiny cabin in the woods, reading a book, or simply lounging with your loved ones. Realize that the most fulfilling moments often happen in the quiet moments.

Check out this book for more tips: The Joy of Missing Out: Live More by Doing Less by Tonya Dalton


Step 4: Prioritize Quality Time with Family or Friends

Spend quality time with your family or friends. Engage in meaningful conversations, cooking together, or outdoor activities. These moments create lasting bonds and beautiful memories, far more valuable than material possessions.

Click HERE to view our kid friendly cabins or HERE for cabins that can accommodate 3+ people

Step 5: Gratitude and Intentional Giving

Cultivate gratitude for what you HAVE rather than what you’re told you need. Reflect on the blessings in your life, fostering contentment and reducing the urge to constantly chase after more.

Instead of participating in the commercial frenzy of the holiday season, maybe opt for DIY or experiential gifts. Handmade presents and heartfelt gestures convey love and care, embodying the true spirit of giving.

CABINSCAPE offers gift cards to provide your loved ones with the gift of adventure, or (if gifts are your thing) explore slow-fashion Canadian brands like Onderbroeks whose cabin-wear is featured throughout this article.


November is the ideal month to shift focus from the external demands of a bustling world to the internal needs of your well-being and relationships. By saying “no” to unnecessary obligations and embracing what matters to you, you pave the way for a more fulfilling, balanced life. This November, let your “no” be a powerful affirmation of your priorities, leading you toward a more meaningful and harmonious existence.

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Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Kassandra Melnyk Photography and Onderbroeks
IG @kassandramelnykphoto
Website: www.onderbroeks.ca

Sources: Article by Dr. Jennifer Hartstein, The Joy of Missing Out: Live More by Doing Less by Tonya Dalton