Nestled between the Ottawa River and Algonquin Park, the Ottawa Valley is home to over 900 lakes and four major river systems—making it Eastern Ontario’s perfect cottage vacation or staycation destination. Enjoy off-the-beaten-track beaches, Instagram-worthy lake views and warm, clean water—without the crowds. Even better, “the Valley” is within a two-hour drive from Canada’s capital city.
Whether you’re after an off-grid escape, deluxe waterfront retreat or pet-friendly cottage, these stunning properties make inviting and convenient bases for exploring the Valley’s breathtaking natural beauty. Discover the 20 best cottage rentals and cottage resorts close to Ottawa, and start planning your summer getaway today.
[This article is part of the Ultimate Ottawa Valley Adventure Guide. Find all the resources you need to plan an adventure-filled trip to the Ottawa Valley.]
Ottawa River Cottage Rentals
World-renowned as a natural whitewater playground, the Ottawa River is famous for thrilling whitewater rafting and wild and striking shoreline scenery. But the Whitewater Region offers something for every outdoor enthusiast—from outstanding hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding to wonderful calm-water kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing and swimming. In short, a cottager’s paradise!
Westmeath Beach House
If you’re looking for a luxurious home-away-from-home, check out this amazing vacation property located on the Ottawa River’s Allumette Lake at the village of Westmeath. A wraparound deck, massive lake-view windows, 240-foot private beach and two outdoor fire-pits make for a cushy cottage experience. Dip your toes, cast a line or slip into the complimentary canoe or kayaks and explore the wetlands of neighbouring Westmeath Provincial Park. In the evening, watch the sunset, enjoy a bonfire on the beach and gaze at the star-filled skies above the lake. For adrenaline-seekers, the world-famous whitewater rafting resorts are just a 20-minute drive away.
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Nangor Cottage Resort
Located right on a beautiful sand beach overlooking a secluded bay off the Ottawa River near Westmeath, these budget-friendly, three- and four-bedroom cottage bungalows are perfect for a family getaway or weekend with friends. Each waterfront cottage features a fully equipped kitchen, three-piece bathroom and private fire-pit on the beach. Bring your own canoe, SUP or kayaks to paddle right from the beach to explore an impressive sand spit and adjacent cluster of wild islands. Cyclists will find the quiet backroads of the Westmeath Peninsula are perfect for a laidback tour.
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Whitewater Cottage Resort
Just a 10-minute drive from Ontario’s whitewater rafting resorts, Whitewater Cottage Resort offers a wide range of cottage accommodation for all types of budgets and groups. The rustic waterfront chalets feature a kitchenette, three-piece bath and sleeping for up to six people, all while being easy on your pocketbook. Or treat yourself to the luxurious log Lake House with Jacuzzi. Large groups or multi-family gatherings will find plenty of space in the resort’s cozy Log Cabin or comfortable Beach House with its outstanding view of the Ottawa River. Whitewater Cottage Resort guests can take advantage of the wide range of adventure activities available through Wilderness Tours—including whitewater rafting, laidback SUP and kayak touring, hiking and mountain biking.
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Calabogie Cottage Rentals
Crystal-clear water and stunning views of some of the Ottawa Valley’s tallest highlands make Calabogie Lake one of the region’s best lakes for adventure vacations. The Madawaska River tumbles into the south end of the lake near the four-season Calabogie Peaks Resort and flows out the north side at the village of Calabogie. Those planning a cottage escape will find a variety of waterfront rentals and resorts around the shores of this large lake. Best yet, it’s just an hour’s drive from Ottawa.
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Jocko’s Beach Resort
Minutes from the amenities of Calabogie village, the cozy lakeside chalets and waterfront beach house at this budget-friendly, family resort are just steps from a spacious sand beach with amazing views across the lake and southern exposure for all-day sun. Paddle from your cottage to peaceful Grassy Bay with the resort’s complimentary canoes, kayaks and SUPs. Listen to the lap of waves or build a sandcastle on the beach while enjoying all the comforts of home.
Cape Calabogie Lakefront Cottage
This waterfront cottage rental is the last on the cape adjacent to the causeway separating Calabogie Lake and Grassy Bay, making for wonderful seclusion and panoramic lake views. The cozy three-bedroom cottage is pet-friendly and boasts 500 feet of lakefront with a waterfront gazebo and private sandy beach with volleyball net, fire-pit and barbecue area. A canoe and kayak are included with your cottage rental—perfect for a tranquil half-day exploration of Grassy Bay.
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Calabogie Beachfront Cottage
Perfect for busy families and outdoor enthusiasts, this two-bedroom beachfront cottage is located steps from Calabogie Peaks Resort, where you’ll find hiking trails, scenic lookouts, mountain bike rentals, a lakefront golf course and the popular Boathouse Bar & Grill. Catch gorgeous lake views and refreshing summer breezes from the cottage’s sun-filled rooms, lakefront deck and screened porch. Other highlights include a sandy beach with excellent swimming, complimentary canoe and well-stocked kitchen. This cute little cottage is also pet-friendly.
Barry’s Bay Cottage Rentals
The town of Barry’s Bay serves an eastern gateway to the world-famous lakes and wilderness canoe routes of Algonquin Park, but it also boasts a beautiful lake of its own. The town perches at the north end of Kamaniskeg Lake, one of the largest lakes found along the Madawaska River system and renowned for terrific fishing. For paddlers, Barry’s Bay is also just 15 minutes from the friendly rapids of the Middle Madawaska River, where you’ll find an acclaimed whitewater paddling school, the Madawaska Kanu Centre.
Lakeview Lodge
Don’t let the name fool you; you’ll have this luxury cottage on Kamaniskeg Lake all to yourself. A private beach, chef’s kitchen, fieldstone fireplace, floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the lake and four bedrooms that sleep 10, all located just a few strokes from the lake’s best paddling locations—it sounds too good to be true. But it gets better; there’s also a hot tub, gorgeous lakefront deck, and kayaks and canoe for you to use. Paddle to the pair of islands just offshore for rock point swimming and jumping, and see if you can find the sunken shipwreck! This spot is perfect for two families or one large clan.
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Pine Cliff Resort
Situated on the Madawaska River where it flows gently out the south end of Kamaniskeg Lake, this family-oriented and pet-friendly cottage resort offers two-, three- and four-bedroom waterfront cottage rentals. These housekeeping cottages feature fully equipped kitchens, covered decks and water views. Even better, guests have access to the resort’s stunning sand beach, swim dock, water trampoline, hot tub and indoor saltwater pool for those cool or rainy days. There’s even an onsite spa for Mom and Dad.
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Kaszuby Cottage
If you’re looking for a more traditional cottage experience, check out this waterfront cottage in the Polish hamlet of Kaszuby, just a 15-minute drive from Barry’s Bay. This is the last cottage on a dead-end lane, and is situated on an acre of forested land beside peaceful Serran Lake. In a word: secluded. This tidy rental is pet-friendly and offers two bedrooms, sunroom, lakeside deck and a modern kitchen so you don’t have to rough it. There are also bicycles and a kayak for your use. Nature enthusiasts can walk to Wadsworth Lake Beach, hike to the summit of Gun Mountain for spectacular views or pedal timeless backroads to scenic Crooked Slide Park.
Killaloe Cottage Rentals
The charming village of Killaloe is home to a fascinating fusion of artists, hippies and homesteaders, making for a colourful cottage experience—and an array of funky rental options. Two beautiful lakes—Golden Lake and Round Lake—as well as the meandering Bonnechere River mean there’s no shortage of prime waterfront.
The Beach Cabin on Round Lake
Picture the perfect little cedar log cabin, perch it on a pristine beach so close to the lake you can feel the lap of the waves, and then add a panoramic glass wall and spacious deck to enjoy those lake views. Voila! The Beach Cabin is an utterly unique renovated 1930s log cabin, making for a cottage rental unlike any other. Add an incredible location on Round Lake just a short paddle, walk or cycle from the gorgeous golden-sand beach and mature forests at Foy Provincial Park. An arc of small islands invites mellow paddling journeys in the complimentary kayaks or canoe. The Beach Cabin is perfect for couples or young families (there’s just one bedroom) and is pet-friendly.
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Greystone on Golden Lake
Vacationing for just a few days, or a few weeks? Looking for a cottage rental with plenty to keep the kids busy, or seeking a romantic couple’s retreat? This acclaimed resort on Golden Lake boasts an incredible selection of immaculate, classy cottages, each one uniquely decorated with Instagram-worthy touches (can you say girls’ weekend?) and claiming a stunning lake view. Flawless country rustic, storybook retro or cheerful cozy, there’s a cottage to suit every taste. Choose from one, two or three bedrooms; all guests enjoy use of the resort’s private beach, outdoor swimming pool, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and bicycles.
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Lakepoint Cottage Resort
Located on a scenic peninsula on the secluded south shore of Golden Lake, this family-owned, four-season cottage resort has a relaxed atmosphere and boasts beautiful sunsets. Each of the six lake view cottages is privately situated and just steps from a sandy beach, where you can enjoy paddling the lakeshore in the resort’s kayaks and canoes. Cottages are pet-friendly and include a kitchenette and cozy woodstove with one- or two-bedroom options.
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Eganville Cottage Rentals
Nestled in a deep, limestone valley at the Fifth Chute of the Bonnechere River, the town of Eganville is central to three beautiful, large lakes and a host of amazing outdoor attractions. Hike scenic trails, explore cool underground caverns at the Bonnechere Caves, cycle along the tumbling cataracts of the Bonnechere River and marvel at the astounding clarity of Lake Clear as you paddle to wild islands and breathtaking lookouts.
Sandy Beach Cottages
Just like its name suggests, this idyllic gathering of four cozy cottages enjoys a sublime sand beach on stunning Lake Clear. The cottages are well-spaced on the leafy grounds, with grassy lawns for field games when you need a break from the beach—although with lake views this breathtaking, you may never want to leave. Housekeeping cottages feature modern kitchens and two or three bedrooms. Kayaks and paddleboards are available for rent—don’t miss paddling over to nearby Big Rock (you’ll know it when you see it, trust us!) and hiking to the top for sunset.
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Deluxe Family Cottage on Mink Lake
Need more luxury in your life? Treat your family to this opulent escape with panoramic views of Mink Lake. This newly built waterfront cottage offers four spacious bedrooms, huge living areas and sun decks, a fabulous kitchen and much more—plus it’s just minutes away from the amenities of Eganville. Use the canoe and kayaks to explore Mink Lake, swim from the shallow beach or simply lounge dockside in the sun.
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Deep River Cottage Rentals
Deep River may not be as close to Ottawa as other cottage country hotspots, but its isolation is what makes this riverside town such a hidden gem. Located two hours northwest of the Capital, Deep River overlooks the wide waters of the mighty Ottawa River and the ancient rounded forms of Quebec’s Laurentian Mountains just beyond.
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Pinecrest Lodge
Cozy, affordable and tidy, these pet-friendly cottages nestled among towering pines 10 minutes west of Deep River make for a comfortably rustic vacation right on the shores of the Ottawa River. Families love the shallow, sandy beach, floating waterslide and clean water, while anglers can catch their fill of pickerel, smallmouth bass, whitefish, perch and even sturgeon—a living dinosaur that makes its home in the river’s depths! Splash about in the lodge’s kayak, or bring your own seaworthy boats to venture across the river to pristine sands on the undeveloped Quebec shore.
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Oiseau Bay Cottages
Calling all adventurers! If you are looking to truly get away from it all, Oiseau Bay Cottages are definitely off-the-beaten path—and we mean way off. This off-grid cottage oasis lies at the end of an epic backroad drive, hidden in a secluded bay on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River. With no neighbors for miles, abundant wildlife and views of the Ottawa River and Laurentian Mountains from your front porch, these cottages are ideal for reconnecting with nature. Each of the three historic cottages and the spacious farmhouse are turn-of-the-century buildings that have been restored to their original rustic charm. You’ll find canoes and kayaks to use, dozens of kilometers of hiking and biking trails to explore, three private beaches and swimmable waterfalls onsite. Don’t miss the half-day hike to the top of Oiseau Rock, a sacred Indigenous site with a secret swimming hole and spectacular view of the Ottawa River.
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Petawawa Cottage Rentals
Cottage life in the sister towns of Petawawa and Pembroke (see below) centers on peaceful and pastoral Allumette Island. At 30 km long and nearly 10 km across, the island fills nearly the entire breadth of the Ottawa River, splitting the river into two channels. Although it lies inside the Quebec border, Allumette Island is readily accessible by bridge from Ontario and most island locations are within a 30-minute drive from downtown Pembroke.
Crow’s Nest Cottage
Situated at the head of Allumette Island directly across from Petawawa, this traditional family cottage enjoys a choice waterfront location with a huge sand beach, shallow water and terrific lake view. Enjoy sunsets over the myriad islands of Allumette Lake (as this placid section of the Ottawa River is known). Bring kayaks, canoes or paddleboards from home—the dozens of small islands just offshore make for beautiful and sheltered paddling.
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Cottage Lac Allumette
Just down the road, this spacious cedar, A-frame cottage is literally right on the beach—watch sunsets from the comfort of your living room. No need to rough it; this well-appointed waterfront cottage features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, Jacuzzi, well-equipped kitchen and dramatic floor-to-ceiling fireplace. There’s also a canoe and kayak for your use, and inviting islands just offshore.
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Pembroke Cottage Rentals
Try a slice of island life with a waterfront cottage rental on Allumette Island, just 15 minutes from the historic town of Pembroke and only 1.5 hours west of Ottawa. Pembroke itself is a regional hub and has everything you’ll need for your vacation in the Ottawa Valley.
Ottawa River Loft Cottage
Located on the east end of Allumette Island, this tidy, tiny home-style cottage is perched on a huge sandy beach point with river views from every window. The sand point offers shallow swimming and sunsets on one side, and deep water and sunrises on the other. Compact design features like a spiral staircase and composting toilet mean six people can comfortably share this converted houseboat. Bring your own boats and bicycles to explore the nearby wetlands of Westmeath Provincial Park and the bike path that runs past this property.
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Ottawa River Modern Cottage
Directly across the river from Pembroke on Allumette Island, this awesome four-bedroom cottage is perfect for large family get-togethers or gatherings with friends. Imagine spotless, spacious and tastefully decorated living spaces with Pinterest-worthy lake views from nearly every room. Now add two lakefront decks, a tire swing, kayaks, paddleboards, a canoe and a to-die-for sandy beach and you have all the makings of a super chill vacation getaway. Did we mention the beach? At 3 km long, it’s perfect for sandcastle-building competitions, long walks (the sunsets are out of this world), swimming and water volleyball in the warm, shallow water.
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Stay lakeside in places that are both close to amenities and abounding in outdoor adventure. | Photo: Destination Ontario
