You’ve heard it before: Dogs are man’s best friend. But we don’t think that’s entirely true. Because if you’re a dog owner, you know they’re more than friends; they’re family.
But it makes vacationing tricky sometimes.
If you own a cottage, then heading up north is easy, because chances are your pup’s just as familiar with the space as you are. If you’re renting, however, or just vacationing up north for a weekend, then reality kicks in. What if your dog can’t come?
We can’t bear to board our furry friends, and if you’re reading this, chances are you feel the same. Fret not, then, because we’ve found some pet-friendly resorts in cottage country that will let you live luxuriously while keeping your four legged friends by your bedside.
Northridge Inn
Located right on the shores of Bernard Lake, Northridge Inn has something for everyone. There’s traditional lodge and camping options, but hippie-chic travellers can camp out in a vintage, restored Airstream caravan, while anyone looking for luxury can situate themselves in one of the lakeside chalets. Regardless of where you stay, Northridge has a few constants: Great Muskokan views, boat rentals, available tours for hire and a welcoming environment for both you and your pup.
Forest Rock Resort
Overlooking Three Mile Lake sites Forest Rock Resort, a family-friendly, pet- friendly resort that offers beachfront studios, 3 bedroom cottages and everything in between. Whether you’re bringing your dog to the boardwalk or down for a walk on the private beach, this Muskoka treasure has been serving families for decades, and if the reviews are to believed, has only gotten better over the years.
Westwind Inn
Looking like it belongs on a postcard, Westwind Inn sits on the edge of Lower Buckhorn Lake and offers stunning, if not outright romantic lakefront rooms that can just as easily accommodate newlyweds as it can mom, dad, two kids and the family dog.
Mapiya Retreat
If your summer getaway includes stops to the wineries and breweries of Prince Edward County, Mapiya Retreat is a beachfront, pet-friendly retreat found on a Picton farm. Consider this the ideal place for a digital detox, with veggie-friendly meals that will do just as well for your body as the peace will for your mind.
Tally Ho Inn
A short drive from Algonquin and Arrowhead Park, the Tally Ho Inn offers pet friendly cottages off the shores of Peninsula Lake. Once you and your family have settled in, you can make use of its tennis and basketball courts, bring your dog down to the 1,300 foot long beach, or rent a barbecue and sneak Fido the odd table scrap. This year-round resort also offers skating on the lake!
Airbnb
Looking for something a little more private? Airbnb is chock full of cabins and cottages, and you’d be surprised by just how many allow pets on their property. If you’re ever unsure, you can always ask. The host might say no, or they might charge you an extra cleaning fee, but they also might love dogs enough to say yes. It’s absolutely worth a shot.
Hitting the open road for an adventure with your family this summer? Visit Tales from the Modern Family, our roadmap to reconnecting families through authentic weekend experiences, brought to you by the all-new Kia Telluride.
Related Story Tips for boating with dogs
Featured Video
