Madawaska River Escape

Welcome to Madawaska River Escape, a hidden gem on the serene Madawaska River. Ideal for family getaways, it sleeps 8 and welcomes one dog. Enjoy a cozy cottage and Bunkie Loft, a fully equipped kitchen, and a loft with a Wii and BluRay player. Spend days paddling with canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards, or relax by the fire pit. Kids will love the Ninja course. Just a short drive from the GTA, Ottawa, or Kingston — your riverside escape awaits!

As you step into the cottage, you’re greeted by the screened-in porch, a convenient space for unloading, rain or shine. The kitchen is just beyond, offering ample storage space for all the groceries you’ve packed for the week. The open-concept living and dining areas lead to a spacious back deck, where you can BBQ, dine, or simply relax while enjoying riverfront views. On lucky days, you might spot some local wildlife passing by.

The main floor also features a cozy sunroom, ideal for night owls or early risers. With a queen bed, rocking loveseat, and a dining table, it’s a versatile space that opens up to the large back deck. Upstairs, the cottage offers two comfortable bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with a king-sized bed and a second with a bunk bed, perfect for small families.

For a unique experience, head to the Loft Bunkie above the garage. Recently renovated (2024), it’s a spacious retreat with a queen bed, bunk beds, and a comfy seating area for movie nights. The TV has a Nintendo Wii system with games, and there is a BluRay DVD player with a selection of movies. Although there’s no internet, the strong cell signal throughout the home allows for work on the go with a reliable hotspot.

Outside, the 300 feet of riverfront offers peaceful waterfront activities. Swim off the dock or paddle upstream to a large rock feature, perfect for lounging. With western exposure, the property basks in afternoon sun, making it an idyllic spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re here for adventure or simply to unwind, Madawaska River Escape promises an unforgettable experience.

Inside the Cottage

• Sleeps 8 (including children)
• 3 bedrooms (1 with king, 1 with double/single bunks, 1 with queen (sun room), plus loft with queen and double/single bunks)
• 1 3-piece bathroom (shower only)
• TV in loft with Nintendo Wii with a selection of games (TV is for games and DVD watching only (there is no channel reception or streaming))
• BluRay DVD player with a selection of BluRay DVDs
• Fully equipped kitchen with washer, dryer, two fridge/freezers (no dishwasher)

Outside the Cottage

• BBQ, fire pit (firewood is not provided)
• Dock (in place from May 1st to Oct 1, water levels permitting)
• 2 canoes, 2 kayaks, 2 stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets
• Ninja course with swing

Things you need to know:

• A maximum of one dog is welcome
• Linens are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
• Check In time 5:00pm, Check Out time10:00am. Please don't ask for extension
• The river is not suitable for motorized boats
• Rentals include a cleaning service; however, the departure checklist must be completed
• Garbage disposal for up to 2 bags of garbage/recycling is provided following departure, but guests will need to go to the local transfer station on Wednesday afternoon with everything collected to date
• There is no internet available
• The wood stove is not available for guest use
• Electric vehicles: Access to trickle charge
• Parking: There is room for 4-6 vehicles
• Cell signal: Good to excellent

Accessibility

Property would be difficult/impossible to navigate and would not recommend for anyone with mobility challenges

Waterfront

This cottage offers 300 feet of peaceful waterfront along a natural river’s edge. Swim off the dock (4–6 feet deep, depending on water levels) or paddle 300m upstream to a large rock feature, perfect for lounging. The river also has deeper sections with gentle currents, great for floating downstream. With western exposure, the property enjoys full afternoon sun, fading 1–2 hours before sunset as it dips behind the trees.

Boating

The river directly at the property is not safe for motorized boats. However, motorized boats can be safely launched in Griffith and used downstream of the Griffith Bridge.

Close-By Attractions

Madawaska River Provincial Park: The cottage is located within this lovely park! Guests can paddle and portage to the bridge in Griffith and arrange for a pickup with Greater Madawaska Canoe Rentals.

Griffith Uplands Hiking Trail: This 8.4-km loop trail near Griffith, Ontario is considered a moderately challenging route, taking an average of 2 1/2 hours to complete. The park offers hiking as well as canoeing, fishing and camping. (10 mins)

Bon Echo Provincial Park: Beautiful park featuring a 100 metre high Mazinaw Rock featuring over 260 Indigenous pictographs. Great hiking trails from 1 km in length to 17 km in length are available for use from mid May to mid October. (40 mins)

Centennial Lake Provincial Nature Reserve Park: Nature reserve offering hiking trails. This area is protected for its unusual geological features and many rare plant species, with several lakes and creeks, steep hills, ridges of bare rock and stands of mixed forest. (35 mins)

At a Glance

• Sleeps 8 (including children)
• A maximum of one dog is welcome
• Linens and towels are provided, but please bring your own outdoor towels
• Fully equipped kitchen with washer, dryer, two fridge/freezers (no dishwasher)
• TV in loft with Nintendo Wii with a selection of games (TV is for games and DVD watching only (there is no channel reception or streaming))
• BluRay DVD player with a selection of BluRay DVDs
• BBQ, fire pit (firewood is not provided
• Dock, 2 canoes, 2 kayaks, 2 stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets
• Ninja course with swing

House Rules (must meet these to book):
• Rents Friday-Friday only during summer season
• Sleeps 8 (including children)
• Lead guest must be 30+ years of age
• A maximum of one dog is welcome
• Linens are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
• No smoking or parties are allowed
• Departure checklist must be completed
• The river is not suitable for motorized boats
• There is no internet available
• The wood stove is not available for guest use
• Garbage disposal for up to 2 bags of garbage/recycling is provided following departure, but guests will need to go to the local transfer station on Wednesday afternoon with everything collected to date
• Check In time 5:00pm, Check Out time10:00am. Please don't ask for extension