FAQ

Over the years, we've compiled a fairly comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQ), but if anything is missing or if you'd like clarification on anything, please feel free to Contact Us.


  1. What size are the beds?

    The descriptions of all the bedrooms can be found on our Layout & Rooms page.
  2. How many people does the cottage sleep?

    We comfortably sleep 12 people.  If you're okay to share the space a bit more, you're welcome to have a couple more guests and this may incur an additional charge, depending on the circumstances.  Feel free to Contact Us if you'd like to find out more.  Have a look at our Layout & Rooms page if you'd like to know what the sleeping arrangements could be.
  3. How much does it cost?

    Have a look at our Rates & Policies page or Contact Us if you are still uncertain.
  4. Do I have to pay a security deposit?

    Yes, have a look at our Rates & Policies page for the amount.  The security deposit will be returned in full when the cottage is left undamaged and in a clean, re-rentable state.
  5. Can we bring our pets?

    We can accomodate most well-behaved pets, please Contact Us to discuss.
  6. Are we allowed to smoke at the cottage?

    Smoking is not allowed inside the cottage but is fine anywhere outside.  Please be considerate to both the next renters and the environment by putting the cigarette butts into an ashtray and removing them with the garbage.
  7. Can we swim at the cottage?

    Our waterfront is best suited for fishing.  It has many reeds allowing the fish to enjoy an excellent habitat.  If you're okay with the fish, like our family is, you can swim off the end of the dock.  We have a large sand area in front of the dock, leading into the water that is designed for toddlers to be able to play and wade into the edge of the lake.  There is also a local public beach with a swimming area nearby - Franklin Park at the end of Kilworthy Road.  Many people will row or paddle out away from the reeds to swim.  There is a rock that is crown-land just out the inlet, heading to the right, which makes an excellent jumping off point :) You can also get there from a public pathway at the end of our lane but that can be difficult to spot.
  8. Is the cottage available for rent on weekends?

    Not in the summer.  We do, however, offer weekend rentals during all of the other seasons (fall, winter and spring)
  9. Can we have an early check-in?

    We try our best to accommodate all of our guests.  This means that in some cases, we will be able to offer an early check-in depending on circumstances.  In the summer, unfortunately, we are never able to offer early entry.  There is just too much to get done in a very short period of time between weekly renters.  During the other seasons (fall, winter and spring), please Contact Us to discuss the possibility.
  10. Can we have a late check-out?

    We try our best to accommodate all of our guests.  This means that in some cases, we will be able to offer a late check-out depending on circumstances.  In the summer, unfortunately, we are never able to offer late check-out.  There is just too much to get done in a very short period of time between weekly renters.  During the other seasons (fall, winter and spring), please Contact Us to discuss the possibility.
  11. Where is the cottage located?

    We are located on the southern most tip of the Muskokas, just 1.5 hours from Toronto, on a majestic body of water called Sparrow Lake.  Have a look at our About Us page for a map and more details.
  12. Are there fishing boats at the cottage?

    It depends what boat you would consider a "fishing boat" as we do offer several water vehicles.  See our list of What To Bring / What is Supplied for more information.  Sparrow Lake is renowned for being a great place to fish, and the front of the cottage is ideal.  Have a look at our (Ice) Fishing information about half way down on the Area Information page if you have any questions about the fishing on the lake.  Here's hoping you catch a big'un!
  13. Does the cottage have fishing equipment?

    No, you'll definitely want to bring your own fishing equipment with you.  Sparrow Lake is renowned for being a great place to fish, and the front of the cottage is ideal.  Have a look at our (Ice) Fishing information about half way down on the Area Information page if you have any questions about the fishing on the lake.  Enjoy!
  14. Are you on, or near, the snowmobile trail system?

    Yes, Sparrow Lake is a part of the OFSC snowmobile trails. There are numerous trails nearby including the 200 kilometers of trails with the Snowcrest Riders Snowmobile Club (trail head only 5 km’s away) and Trans Canada Trail (trail head only 10 km’s away).  Check out our Trails - Snowmobile, Hike, Ski, Cycle and more! page.
  15. What do we need to bring with us?

    Please see our comprehensive list of What To Bring / What is Supplied.
  16. Do we need to bring linen?

    Yes, please see our comprehensive list of What To Bring / What is Supplied for more information.
  17. Is the kitchen well equipped?

    Yes, it is.  Please see our comprehensive list of What To Bring / What is Supplied for more information.
  18. What size is the fridge?

    Details on the size of the two fridges in the cottage are available on the What To Bring / What is Supplied page.
  19. Is the oven self-cleaning?  Is the kitchen acceptable for kosher eating?

    Yes.  We have a lovely Jewish family who regularly rent the cottage and find the self-cleaning oven works great for their needs.
  20. What washing up liquid or dishwasher tabs must I bring?

    You will need to bring phosphate free varieties.  Please see the What To Bring / What is Supplied page.
  21. Can we drink the water?

    No, the water is pumped directly from the lake.  There is a water cooler provided which will require replacement jug(s) of bottle water.  Please see our comprehensive list of What To Bring / What is Supplied for more information.
  22. Where do we get the keys?

    Have no fear - entry information will be sent to you one week before your rental begins :)
  23. Can we come by and look at the property to see if we'd like to rent it?

    Certainly you can.  We don't, however, want to disturb the peace and tranquility of other renters, so please Contact Us to arrange a suitable time to view.
  24. Are there enough chairs?

    The cottage is fully stocked with both dining chairs and outside deck chairs.
  25. Is the hot tub open?

    The hot tub is open from May 24th weekend until Thanksgiving each year.
  26. Where is the nearest grocery store?

    Please see our detailed list of grocery stores and their locations at the bottom of the Area Information page.
  27. What is there to do in the Muskoka area?

    Please see our detailed list of fun and frolicking opportunities on our Things to Do in Muskoka (Area Information) page.
  28. Where can we get firewood?

    Excellent question.  There are usually a number of firewood sales offered on the journey up to the cottage on Highway 11 - keep your eyes open as you go.  Another source of bags of firewood are nearby grocery stores.  Please see our detailed list of grocery stores and their locations at the bottom of the Area Information page.  If you are renting the cottage in the winter, a reasonable quantity of firewood will be provided and available for your use in the cottage.

    In the winter season, we provide a starter bag of wood for the two fireplaces.  We will also provide within the cottage the ability for you to purchase additional bags of wood directly from our wood cutter :)
  29. When will the lake be frozen enough to skate on it?

    This is a very difficult question to answer as it, obviously, depends on the weather.  Generally speaking, the ice is at a suitable depth some time in January (occasionally earlier) until at least March.  Please refer to the How to Know When Ice is Safe wiki-how page for more information.
  30. Will the driveway be plowed if it snows?

    Yes, both the driveway and the private lane leading up to the cottage are plowed regularly by a professional company.
  31. How do I pay using EMT (electronic money transfer)?

    Please see our Email Money Transfers page for instructions.
  32. How do I pay using Paypal?

    We accept Paypal Personal Transfers - please refer to their website for more information. Important: If you choose to use "PayPal Purchase" with your credit card, please note that PayPal charges a 3% fee which we are unable to cover.  Please ensure that this charge is covered within your payment.


March Special!

Amazing March Specials

March is the perfect time to experience the beauty and tranquility of Trenanthia Cottage. Not only are we going to give you up to $300 off our already great rates, we'll pay for your gas to get here too! 

CLICK HERE for more info.


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i heart lake life

Humans were given memories so "that we might have roses in December"
-- J.M. Barrie

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Lots of products available, designed by an international artist who loves spending time at the cottage!
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In summary...

- 5 Bedrooms
- 4 Bathrooms
- Star gazing Hot Tub!

- 2 Living Rooms
- 2 Stone Fireplaces
- Huge kitchen
- Wrap around deck
- Waterfront, dock, 
- Canoe, pedal boat++
- 2 acres with forests
- Private and quiet
- Nature-lover's dream
- 1.5 hrs from Toronto
- Fast wireless internet
- Nintendo Wii
- And so much more...

see Details & Gallery