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Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat!

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Exterior
Terrace/patio
Marina
Interior
Terrace/patio

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 81966 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
  • Kitchen
  • Washer
  • Dryer
  • Pet friendly
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
Bala, ON
  • Place, Lake Muskoka
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Place, Bala's Museum
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
    ‪15 min drive‬
  • Airport, Muskoka, ON (YQA)
    ‪32 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Bala

This cottage places you next to Lake Muskoka and within a 10-minute walk of Bala's Museum. The cottage includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.
View more Cottages in BalaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Lake Muskoka - 1 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Bala's Museum - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Hardy Lake Provincial Park - 7 min drive - 5.9 miles
  • Muskoka Lakes Winery - 9 min drive - 4.5 miles
  • Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve - 15 min drive - 10.9 miles

Getting around

  • Gravenhurst Station - 21 min drive
  • Muskoka, ON (YQA) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Clear Lake Brewing Co - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Don's Bakery - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Hook and Ladder - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Bala Falls Pub - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪El Gringo - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat!

Welcome to Birchwood in Bala, a meticulously preserved historic cottage nestled in the heart of Muskoka. This beautifully maintained retreat seamlessly blends timeless charm with modern comforts, ensuring an unforgettable getaway.

Property Highlights:

Birchwood graces the shores of scenic Lake Muskoka and offers a quick stroll into the enchanting lakeside town of Bala. Revel in the southwest lakefront exposure, providing sun-drenched days on the dock and breathtaking sunset views from the 8-person hot tub in the evenings.

For families, the sandy beach entry is perfect for children, while swimmers can enjoy 6 feet of refreshing water off the dock. Boating enthusiasts will appreciate the convenience of the 26' covered boat slip, making Birchwood an ideal choice for the perfect family cottage experience.

All upstairs bedrooms boast ensuite washrooms, ensuring privacy and convenience for all guests. Modern amenities include high-speed wireless internet, Netflix-enabled TV, air conditioning, on-demand hot water, municipal water, an induction stove, a cocktail ice ball-making fridge, and high-quality linens and mattresses.

Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Birchwood in Bala, where historic allure meets contemporary luxury. Book your Muskoka escape now for a truly exceptional experience.
The cottage is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 3.5 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Pool/Spa

  • Hot tub

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee grinder
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Smart TV

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 20 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoking not allowed

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • Near the marina
  • On a lake
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • 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
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Energy-saving switches in guestrooms
  • Garden
  • Local artist showcase
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 1,966 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

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

Check-out instructions

The host requires you complete the following before checking out:
Start the dishwasher
Remove personal items
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets
  • Dogs only
  • 1 total (20 lbs is the maximum weight per pet)
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children allowed: ages 0-17

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, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
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: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 25

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, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Long-term renters welcome.

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see close to this cottage?

This cottage in Muskoka Lakes is within a 10-minute walk of Lake Muskoka and Bala's Museum. You'll also find Muskoka Lakes Winery and Hardy Lake Provincial Park within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat!?

No, there isn't parking available at the cottage.

Is this cottage adjacent to a casino?

No, this cottage is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this cottage?

No, this cottage doesn't have an indoor pool; however, there is a hot tub.

Is Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat! good for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this lakeside cottage include a fireplace and a smart TV in each cottage, and some feature lake view.

Does Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat! have a hot tub?

No, this cottage doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this cottage offer breakfast?

No, this cottage doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this cottage allow pets to stay for free?

Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this cottage.

Does Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat! have connecting rooms available?

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 22.2 mi away (31 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat!?

Yes, every cottage at Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat! comes with a patio and some offer lake views.

Birchwood in Bala - Stroll to Town from Your Lake Muskoka Retreat! Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 13 out of 14 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 14 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Janet B.

Liked: Cleanliness
So welcoming! Wonderfully equipped kitchen. Beautiful decor. Even special occasion decorations. Great location. Superlative stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Garry F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marie M.

Liked: Cleanliness
We loved our stay at this property. The home has been lovingly updated while retaining bits of its history. The view of the lake and proximity to both town and the marina is perfect (shout out to the team at Bala Cove Marina who are wonderful!) Liam is responsive and helpful and we were able to extend our stay an extra day. If you want to visit Bala this the place … bonus hummingbird sightings and terrific mugs!!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

patrick m.

Liked: Cleanliness
The owners were great to communicate with, the property could not have been cleaner, and the property was just as described and better
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tyrah K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Colleen G.

Liked: Cleanliness
A beautiful cottage on Bala Bay. Has everything to entertain guests of all ages. We would book again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Ellen K., Toronto

Liked: Cleanliness

A taste of historic Bala

We enjoyed our the lake house and it’s well laid out common area including many thoughtful tidbits - well stocked kitchen, tons of towels, blankets..even hiking trail maps. We felt right at home in no time at all. Only caution we had relate to the location - there is a train track not more than 150 yards from the property. The train appears to run about every 3 hours. Our party included two infants 2 and 3 years old…at first they were enthusiastically taking it in but after awhile, the horn and rumbling did disturb their sleep.Were it not for the proximity of the train, we would all have rated this property 5 stars.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Abe F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Bala

Overall, five star
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kyle W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Awesome Property!

It was a great weekend with friends. Communication was great with host. Would stay there again for sure!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful spot

Great weekend with family. On the lake and a 5 minute walk to town. Enjoyed the train! Every room upstairs has their own washroom. Lots of places to relax!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kelly H.

Liked: Cleanliness

End of Summer get-away

We were beyond happy staying at this gorgeous cottage, it was stunning and described perfectly in the ad. The cottage had everything we may have needed in the kitchen, plenty of clean fluffy towels, very comfy beds and exquisitely clean. Don’t hesitate on booking.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Birchwood

Just a beautiful property, with the perfect combination of historical architecture with modern amenities. Very well provisioned and easy access, made for a tremendous stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Paula R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Pretty Cottage

Thoroughly clean and well kept. It had all the ammenities you would need. Very pretty cottage.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jenningsg f T., Houston

Liked: Cleanliness

Best Cottage Experience

There are to many outstanding things to say about this cottage and the wonderful host. The location is walking distance to awesome restaurants, marina and local shops. The cottage itself is fantastic! The beds are comfortable, the cottage is very clean, and the amenities are abundant. We loved the boat house and dock with the steps down to the little beach / lake. The kids loved their rooms as well as the parents. We cannot wait to go back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024