Located 2.5 mi (4 km) from Elvin Johnson Park, this cottage is within a 10-minute drive of Goat Island. The cottage includes a kitchen, a patio, and a sofa bed.
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake
Sunrise Cottage: A Private Waterfront Retreat on Halls Lake
While this home is listed as a Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake, we’ve always called it Sunrise Cottage. You’ll understand why the moment you’re on the dock before anyone else wakes up, coffee in hand, loons calling across the water, and the sky shifting from pink to gold. This is the morning you’ve been promising yourself.
Two bedrooms. Private waterfront. Five watercraft waiting on your dock, no rental fees, no reservations needed. This is a getaway on one of Haliburton's cleanest, deepest, and quietest lakes.
THE SUNRISE COTTAGE:
Inside, it’s the kind of place that only exists after years of family walking through the door. The screen door still swings with that familiar creak, the one that means someone's heading to the dock with a towel over their shoulder, or coming back in for another round of drinks.
With two queen bedrooms, a full bath and a kitchen built for actual cooking, the space is as functional as it is charming. The living room faces the water through oversized windows, so you can catch the sunrise without even leaving the couch.
THE LAKE:
The dock is yours alone. No sharing with neighbours; no jockeying for space.
Five watercraft are waiting for you: two kayaks, a canoe, a stand-up paddleboard, and a pedal boat. Rentals run $200+ a day elsewhere; here, they’re just sitting on your dock. We provide life jackets in every size, kids included.
Halls Lake is the "insider pick" in Haliburton County. It’s quieter than the tourist-heavy lakes and deeper and cleaner than most. The water is weed-free, no murky lake-bottom surprises when you jump off the dock. When the sun drops, there’s a firepit with wood already stacked. Watch the sky go from pink to purple to more stars than you remembered existed.
WHAT OUR GUESTS SAY:
"Watching the full moon rise while sitting by the firepit was a highlight." - Paul
"This was our second (and definitely not last!) time staying at this beautiful lake house." - Ryan
"Easy ladder in and out of the water. Great lake location where you could jump in right off the dock." - Brandi
"Every item I’d forgotten was stocked, which made our stay incredibly easy." - Nathan
WHO THIS IS FOR:
This cottage is for couples craving stillness, small families who want their kids off screens and into the lake, and remote workers who've earned a view better than their office wall.
20 minutes to Minden for supplies or 10 minutes to Carnarvon for Rhubarb, The Peppermill, and Haliburton Highlands Brewing. You can even walk to Marion's for fish and chips (order the halibut). Algonquin Park and the Dorset Tower are easy day trips, but honestly? Most guests never leave the dock.
PACK LIGHT:
The dock has everything you need. Inside, it's set up the way we'd want to arrive: real sheets (not rental-thin ones), beach towels so you don't pack wet ones home, and a kitchen with actual tools.
Families: Pack'n Play, highchair, and baby bath are here.
Pets: Your well-behaved dog is welcome; we just ask that you keep them leashed outside and clean up after them.
Connectivity: Reliable WiFi for streaming and video calls, plus cell service.
Parking: Space for 2 vehicles.
The last morning is always the hardest. You'll sit on that dock with your coffee, watching the mist rise one more time, already planning your next trip.
IMPORTANT PROPERTY NOTES:
Garbage: We do not have curbside garbage collection. A quick stop at the landfill on your way out keeps wildlife where it belongs. Garbage bags, landfill pass and directions are provided on arrival.
Taxes & Licensing: We are a registered short-term rental (STR) License: #STR25-00116. Our nightly rate includes the mandatory 4% Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) as required by the Township of Algonquin Highlands By-law.
Security & Safety: For the protection of our guests and the property, four exterior motion-triggered Blink cameras monitor the driveway and parking area only. There are no cameras inside the cottage or directed toward private outdoor living spaces.
The cottage is heated and features a kitchen and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 2 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a sofa bed, a coffee maker, and an ironing board.
Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
General
Bulk dispensers for toiletries
Eco-friendly toiletries
Garden
Local artist showcase
Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
Recycling
Water-efficient showers
Water-efficient toilets
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
Waste must always be kept indoors. Please drop your garbage and recycling at the landfill prior to your departure. Details provided on arrival.
Our cottage has a septic system. It is extremely important that only human waste and toilet paper are flushed down the toilet.
Please respect our neighbours and limit noise between 10:00PM - 8:00AM.
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Note from host: Dogs must be leashed outdoors.
Children and extra beds
Note from host: Infants under 2 yrs not included in guest count
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
There are no elevators.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to do within easy reach of this cottage?
This cottage is located in Algonquin Highlands, close to Hawk Lake Log Chute, Clear Lake, and Elvin Johnson Park. Big Hawk Lake Marina is also within a driving distance of 4.4 mi.
Is parking available on site at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?
No, there isn't parking at this cottage.
Is this cottage associated with a casino?
No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this cottage?
No, there is no indoor pool at this cottage.
What do couples enjoy most about Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a smart TV and a kitchen in each cottage, and some feature lake view.
Are there hot tubs at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?
No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.
Does this cottage include breakfast service?
No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this cottage allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.
Are there connecting rooms at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?
No, this cottage doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How close is the airport from this cottage?
The closest major airport to this cottage is Muskoka, ON (YQA), which is about 28.7 mi away.
Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake?
Yes, every cottage at Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake comes with a patio and some offer lake views.
Waterfront Cottage on Halls Lake Reviews
Reviews
9.4
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 18 out of 20 reviews
10 - Excellent
18
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 20 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 20 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 20 reviews
4 - Poor
1
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 20 reviews
2 - Terrible
1
9.6/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Emily K.
Sep 14, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Stay
We didn’t get to stay long but would happily come back. The hospitality was amazing and everything was very clean and in perfect condition when we arrived. Thank you for hosting us!
Emily K.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Mary H.
Aug 31, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Great week
I brought my son, his wife and my 15 year old grandson for the last week of August. We used the kayaks, paddle boost and SUP so everyone was happy. The cottage was lovely and the beds super comfortable. Everything we needed was supplied, better than most cottages we have rented. Everything was in good working order. Not t so much luck fishing this time around but had fun trying. Alison checked in in via email regularly. We would return to this cottage.
Mary H.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Shane K.
Aug 9, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cottage
We had a fantastic stay! The lake is incredible clean and warm, the best swimming lake we have been to in a long time. Rock entrance with sand bottom and no gross weeds. The cottage was really well appointed and exceptionally clean. Coffee on the deck was a highlight in the mornings with that view. Alison was super responsive and very helpful. We will absolutely be staying again. Thanks Alison!
Shane K.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024
10/10 Excellent
Paul N., Toronto, Canada
Jul 23, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
A wonderful weekend
We had a wonderful time at this cottage. We felt comfortable and at home from the moment we arrived. Watching the full moon rise while sitting by the firepit was a highlight. Alison, our host, was fantastic...communicative and full of great suggestions. We plan to be back.
Paul N.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
4/10 Poor
Michelle C.
Jul 13, 2024
Started out great but went downhill
Booked this late because we previously booked somewhere else and had a death in the family. Upon arrival, looked good. Nice day didn’t start cooking until 9….no propane. Luckily, host was able to bring by. Next day, awful weather, had to call host 2x because there was no water ☺️good part was host was always available, and good thing because we had to call multiple times. Last night there, not a good night. Pros, great location, Great Lake. Cons, even though host was available, shouldn’t need to contact in 48 hour stay. Not going to give all details. In the end, thankful I booked through VRBO, because they made everything better.
Michelle C.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Allison B., Markham, ON. Canada
Jul 1, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect week
We had a wonderful week at this spotlessly clean Halls Lake cottage. Everything was a described and Alison is a superb host and an excellent communicator. We will be booking again, thank you Alison and Jason.
Allison B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Biswadip G.
Oct 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
A Serene Escape Amidst Nature’s Splendor
Nestled deep within the woods of Algonquin Highlands, this lakeside property offers a tranquil retreat that seems like it’s straight out of a fairytale. The shimmering waters of the lake, juxtaposed with the maple trees, create a picturesque setting that is both breathtaking and calming.
From the moment you set foot on the property, the melodious calls of local birds and the gentle rustle of leaves greet you. The property itself offers modern amenities ensuring a comfortable stay without compromising the rustic charm.
The property, with its cozy interiors, perfectly complements the surroundings. Large windows ensure that you wake up to the sight of the sun reflecting off the lake, and the evenings are best spent by the wood fireplace, perhaps with a book in hand.
For the adventurous at heart, the Algonquin Highlands hiking trails that challenge and delight and there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature.
However, the real charm of this property lies in the simpler moments – perhaps sipping your morning coffee on the wooden deck overlooking the water.
The hostess(Alison) is a wonderful person who is always available at an arms length be it at late night for emergencies. The studio tour suggested by her was a hidden gem.
Biswadip G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Holly B.
Sep 25, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome Family Vacation
We had an incredible stay, the cottage was awesome and incredibly clean! Alison went above and beyond to make sure we were happy and comfortable during our stay. The view from windows of halls lake is breathtaking! We had a time wonderful time!
Holly B.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Verified traveler
Aug 28, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
The View!
We had a great stay on Halls Lake. The cottage is situated just steps up from the lake, and the view was breathtaking from both inside or outside the cottage. We have travelled quite a bit in the North and can say that this was the cleanest, best equipped lodging we have ever encountered. Clean spaces, fresh linens, great appliances, and all the amenities you could ever use. There is very little you need to bring as it is all supplied as advertised . We appreciated the empty fridge and ample cupboard space for our own supplies. When we did encounter a small issue, Alison was there within the hour and fixed the problem.
It was a very restful week surrounded by nature.
Verified traveler
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Giovanna S.
Aug 26, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful End of Summer Getaway
We closed out our summer with this stunning cottage on beautiful Halls lake. Canoeing, fishing, swimming and bonfires don't even begin to sum up all of the family fun this place offered. Hosts were exceptional. Checked in just the right amount of times, left the cottage with everything you'd need and moving through the kitchen to prepare meals was literally seamless. Don't get me started on the beds, we literally had the most restful sleep with the most comfortable duvets ever. Neighbours are quiet and friendly too! .... We had such an amazing stay and would love to return! 10/10 would recommend! Thank you again for such an amazing weekend. P.S, don't sleep on the chip shop! They make an amazing halibut and chips and it's only a few mins away (heads up, cash only!)
Giovanna S.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Mary F.
Aug 20, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely quiet place with beautiful Lake Front view
Loved this place. Would come again in a heartbeat. Has everything you need with lots of special touches. Be ready for peace and quiet.
Mary F.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Jennifer R.
Aug 10, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Gorgeous view and immediate access to the lake!
We loved staying here... the kayaks, canoe and paddleboat made our time in the Algonquin Highlands so relaxing! The host provided a pack-and-play and high-chair, which made the stay so easy with our infant. Recommend!
Jennifer R.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
2/10 Terrible
Cynthia R., Montreal
Jul 18, 2023
Covert videotaping of guests ruined stay. Hope you weren't a guest like us that didn't know.
On checkout, when going into the storage room, we saw an active Blink module and found 1 camera well hidden outside.
We contacted VRBO, who told us the host confirmed multiple cameras, and the host told VRBO it was an oversight and not an invasion of privacy and not to worry.
I don't understand how multiple video cameras affixed to solid objects can be considered an oversight.
We have yet to receive the videos, but the host seems to believe we should take her word that it's okay to videotape people without their knowledge.
I would not recommend this property to anyone.
The host has now updated the property description to say video cameras.
Cynthia R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Brandi C.
Jul 13, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Set up so all you have to do is pack a bag and a cooler
We booked this cottage last minute and we’re so happy at all the amenities. Beach towels. Kayaks, canoe, life jackets all provided. Had every dish/ pot you could need. So clean and open. Bedding was comfortable. 2 docks one stationary and one floating. Easy ladder in and out of the water. Great Lake location were you could jump in right off the dock. Water was clear and not very busy with boats. Will go back.
Brandi C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Maggie B.
Jun 23, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Lake
We were very impressed with the peacefulness of the property. The lake was quiet and calm, which made paddling around in the kayaks so enjoyable! We were looking for rest and relaxation and this cottage delivered!!
Maggie B.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Kyle W.
Jun 13, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Great time at halls lake
We enjoyed our stay. The cottage and property were as advertised. Alison was a fantastic host and would definitely come back.
Kyle W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Rade V., Oakville
May 24, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it!
We stayed there for the Victoria Day long weekend. Beautiful cottage with a breathtaking view of the lake. Very well appointed and super clean. We liked the numerous personal touches and the welcome gift. You will find everything you need. From all bath necessities to cooking oil and spices. They even had a playpen, highchair, and a bathtub for our toddler. Alison, the host, was super responsive and friendly. Highly recommended!
Rade V.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Cathy H.
Sep 19, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Algonquin Highlands -Halls Lake
The cottage was very well organized making it feel like your home away from home (cozy towels & bedding, linens, shampoo/conditioner, body wash, body cream, well-organized kitchen). The welcome binder answered all our questions. Alison, our host, was very friendly and great to work with. She came and replaced a heater when the one we had wasn't working. The location was perfect. We used the cottage as our home base and hiked local trails and the Hiway 60 Corridor into Algonquin Provincial Park to see the Fall colours. Alison was helpful with good hiking trail suggestions. We had a relaxing and enjoyable time even with the overcast cooler weather.
Cathy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
10/10 Excellent
Monika B.
Aug 28, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Lake
Great quiet and relaxing getaway with the family for the week. The cottage was very clean and had everything we needed. Everything was just as described and as shown in the photos. The lake is super clear, great for swimming. The best part had to be enjoying the incredible sunrise from the deck and seeing two loons swim by on our first morning. The host, Alison, was super welcoming, responsive and just overall a pleasure. We’ve definitely fallen in love with Halls Lake and are eager to go back!
Monika B.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Eliza O.
Aug 27, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Cottage
We had a great stay. It’s the perfect cottage for proximity to the lake, relaxed comfort and nearby activities. Our host was very responsive and truly thought of everything. The cottage was full of thoughtful touches that made our stay even better.