Entire home

Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town!

Photo gallery for Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town!

Welcome to the lovely Birchwood!
Aerial shot of Birchwood
Bonfire anyone?
Lakeside hot tub for your enjoyment!
A gourmet chef's delight awaits!
Reviews
9.0

Wonderful

4 bedrooms3+ bathroomsSleeps 8269.4 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Hot tub
    Hot tubHot tub
  • Washer
    WasherWasher
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grillBarbecue grill
  • Kitchen
    KitchenKitchen
  • Air conditioning
    Air conditioningAir conditioning
  • Fireplace
    FireplaceFireplace

Check-in time

4:00 PM

Check-out time

10:00 AM

Explore the area

Map
Bala, Ontario
  • Popular LocationBala's Museum9 min walk
  • Popular LocationMuskoka Lakes Winery8 min drive
  • Popular LocationHardy Lake Provincial Park8 min drive
  • AirportParry Sound, ON (YPD-Parry Sound Area Municipal)31 min drive

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 8)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

Bedroom 3

1 King Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

3 bathrooms, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Office
Balcony
Garden

About this property

Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town!

Summary:
If Olde world cottaging charm appeals but you still want all the comforts then look no further then Birchwood at Bala. This beautiful cottage in the heart of Muskoka has a rich history yet is fully modernized for your comfort!

The Space:
PROPERTY
Birchwood is situated on much sought after Lake Muskoka and just minutes to the village of Bala. With a southwest lakefront exposure, there is sun all day on the dock plus take in the stunning sunsets in the evening from the eight person hot tub! Children will enjoy the sand beach with sandy shallow entry and ample gentle sloping lawn and for swimmers water is 6 feet deep water off the dock! Bring your boat and dock in the 26' covered boat slip plus friends can visit as there is space for 2 more boats! This is truly a perfect Muskoka family cottage! There is a large chef's kitchen with ample counter space and everything you require for easy family meal preparation and cleanup. All upstairs bedrooms have ensuite washrooms complete with Egyptian cotton bath towels for a touch of luxury. The master bedroom has its own private Muskoka Room with comfortable seating for guests who would like some private quiet time. In the 1890's, this was the owner's favourite room to write in. The owners have strived to maintain the original charm of this cottage built in the 1890's by maintaining the cedar wood floors and Muskoka stone fireplace while modernizing with amenities such as Air Conditioning, municipal water and high quality linens and mattresses plus on demand hot water means you will not run out of hot water even with 8 people showering!

NOTABLE COTTAGE FEATURES
TV
BBQ 
Private dock with Muskoka Chairs
Southwest lakefront exposure
Hot Tub
Air Conditioning 
Municipal Water 
High Quality Linens 
No Pets Please

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
8 Person Hot Tub 

PARKING
4 cars

Sleeping configuration:
Main floor
Primary Queen sleeps 2
Second floor
Guest room 1 king sleeps 2
Guest room 2 queen sleeps 2
Guest room 3 king sleeps 2


Please note: Birchwood has are exterior cameras onsite. There is a train that runs through Bala which can be heard at the cottage, most guests find this to be a very interesting part of Bala & Muskoka history. 

We have a video of Birchwood at Bala on Muskoka District Rentals youtube channel.


Speak with our cottage Concierge about additional fee for service add ons Catering, private chef services (proof of vaccination required), daily maid service, water taxis, yoga on the dock, boat rentals, trampoline and water lily rentals, grocery, wine and beer stocking and we can even arrange to have cocktails waiting upon your arrival. Whatever you need just ask! We want to make your time at the cottage as relaxing and fun filled as possible!

Guest Access:
The entire place is yours for the duration of your stay!

The Neighborhood:
AREA

Located on the shores of Lake Muskoka and walking distance to the amenities of Bala! A short walk to Don’s Bakery or the local ice cream shop and walkable from the Kee to Bala if you decide to take in a concert or the weekly water ski shows. This incredible family cottage is just minutes from town where you will find quaint shops and restaurants plus groceries and an LCBO. A short drive to Gravenhurst with its famous Wednesday farmers market. Make sure to also check out PIE on your way to Gravenhurst, a great spot to stop for a wood fired pizza and salad and to check out the newest microbrewery in Muskoka. A short distance north to the dining and shopping in Port Carling. Lots of room for kids to run and play and swim with a shallow sandy area at the shore and deep water off the dock. Cruise the big three lakes by boat, and explore the bays and inlets by kayak or paddle board. Enjoy walks, running, and cycling on the hilly cottage roads. The western exposure provides glorious sunsets for your end of day campfire by the lake!

Other Things to Note:
Please note we will place a hold of $3,000 onto your credit card at check in as a hold against potential damage, we will release this hold 7 days after check out.

2023 Code of Conduct & House Rules:
All potential guests must complete a rental application where you will be asked to provide a full guest list, ages of all guests, the name, address & employer of the primary applicant as well as your home insurance policy details as your third party liability travels with you when you rent. The primary guest must be 30 years of age or older to book. No reservation is confirmed until approved by MDR. The application will form the basis of your short-term lease agreement with MDR and you understand and agree that you will abide by the terms therein. Rates are subject to change until your reservation is confirmed.
Linen, beach & bath towels included.
If Pets are permitted at this rental, this will be limited to 2 small or one large dog, other types of animals must be approved and approval will be solely based on the discretion of the owner. You will be asked to sign a pet waiver and possibly to pay an additional pet cleaning fee. Wet pets are not permitted inside. Pets are not permitted on the furniture at any time.
No smoking, electronic or otherwise, inside the cottage. If you do smoke outside, you must NOT flick ash or butts on the ground as these represent a fire hazard.
Open fires in the fire pit only please & check burn restrictions for the area before you arrive.
Fireworks are NOT permitted.
Please leave the property as you found it, tidy and with all garbage disposed of per the welcome letter.
Note there may be a garbage removal fee. Professional cleaners will prepare the cottage for your arrival and also complete a check out clean & inspection. Please leave the cottage as you found it, tidy and in good repair (you do not need to clean).

WIFI is available at all of our cottages (unless specifically noted).

INDEMNIFICATION: You indemnify the owners of the rental property, their heirs and also their agent Muskoka District Rentals for any and all damage or injury that may occur either prior to, during or after your stay. Further, you acknowledge that Snowmobiling, Boating and all water sports are inherently dangerous. Please make sure you wear proper lifejackets at all times on the water and note these may not be provided for you at the rental property thus are your responsibility.
.
LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: I/we represent, warrant, acknowledge and agree that I/we will use the cottage and its facilities in accordance with the booking agreement/rental contract and the household rules and I/we do so at our own risk and that I/we indemnify and save Muskoka District Rentals, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, all employees & owners of aforementioned companies, the property owner and their heirs harmless from any personal injury, sickness or death, loss or damage, however caused to person or property of the Renter, his/her family, or guests before, during or after the time of occupancy.

To ensure the quiet enjoyment of the lake by our neighbours, music or loud noise of any kind is not permitted after 10pm or before 8am.

Resort Fee: For a one-time fee of $99.00, the Accidental Damage Limited Waiver of Liability will waive a claim against the Guest for the cost to repair or replace any accidental damage taking place at the property during the rental period for up to a total of $3,000.00 in damages. The Accidental Damage Limited Waiver of Liability only applies to accidental damage as determined by Muskoka District Rentals. A damage deposit will still be required for casual damages, internet overage charges, extra cleaning charges, garbage disposal, pet cleanup, etc. The Accidental Damage Limited Waiver is not Insurance.

We hope you have a wonderful time at the lake!
The MDR Team

Interaction with Guests:
We are available by email if you need us!

Property manager

Muskoka District Rentals
Premier Host
Premier Host

Languages

French

Amenities

Hot tub
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Air conditioning
Outdoor space

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 30
Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Events

No events allowed

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Please note we will place a hold of $3,000 onto your credit card at check in as a hold against potential damage, we will release this hold 7 days a...

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
This property accepts cash
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Bala

Located in Muskoka Lakes, this holiday home is in a rural area and on the beach. Muskoka Lakes Winery and Lake Joseph Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Muskoka Sports and Recreation and Santa's Village.
Map
Bala, Ontario

What's nearby

  • Lake Muskoka - 1 min walk
  • Bala's Museum - 9 min walk
  • Muskoka Lakes Winery - 8 min drive
  • Hardy Lake Provincial Park - 8 min drive
  • Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve - 14 min drive

Getting around

  • Gravenhurst Station - 26 min drive
  • Muskoka, ON (YQA) - 38 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Clear Lake Brewing Co - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Don's Bakery - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Ice Dreams Soda Shop - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Kee to Bala - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪Cottage Cravings - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Birchwood at Bala Walking distance to town! located?

Situated on the beach, this holiday home is within a 10-minute walk of Lake Muskoka and Bala's Museum. Muskoka Lakes Winery and Hardy Lake Provincial Park are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 7 out of 10 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 10 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 10 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 10 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 10 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

8.8/10

Communication

8.8/10

Location

8.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Christy E.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful
This is a lovely cottage within walking distance of Bala shopping and restaurants. The dock is perfect for boat watching and there is an easy entry into the water for swimming. The hot tub was a nice bonus. Well equipped and supplied.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Ron D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great cottage
As advertised, Very clean and up to date ! Close to the Bala train which runs every couple of hours, the horn blast is over whelming & scares the smaller children. Busy town dock (near by) so expect LOTS of boats going by the end of the cottage dock on the weekends. Overall a GREAT cottage - would book again.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, location, listing accuracy
Superb cottage on Bala Bay!
Wonderful property with covered dock (we rented a small motor boat), very nice hot tub, and great fire pit surrounded by large stones. Beautiful cottage with ample room to rest, spread out, tasteful cottage decor, and don’t forget to enjoy the sunroom!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Karen F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
great
We had a great time at the cottage.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021

8/10 Good

Brad C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Birch wood at Bela
Property was excellent but could not get used to train noise.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Drew M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Golf Getaway
Spent 4 nights at the Birchwood with 4 guys for a golf trip, great spot and would return for sure. Short walk to town and great access to golf courses.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2020

10/10 Excellent

Renella Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely
We had a wonderful stay!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020

4/10 Poor

Matt P., Toronto, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in
Disliked: Communication, location, listing accuracy
Very surprising experience
A very clean cottage located in the heart of Bala. The check-in process was seamless and everything was as it should. However, on Day-One we realized that we had been somewhat misled by the posting. The cottage is located at the very end of Bala Bay, where there is a ton of boat traffic. The neighbors are mere feet away, so forget privacy. The dock is very narrow and does not provide an opportunity to stretch out and lie down. There was purportedly a new hot-tub, which gave my two kids ear infections (one serious). These things I can live with, however at the stew price I was paying (I get it, COVID pricing) I felt duped. However, the icing on the cake was when the owners falsely accused us of causing significant damage to the flooring in the master bedroom. They withheld our 30% damage deposit and this resulted in me going to VRBO who, thankfully, intervened and remedied the situation. It was in truly poor form for them to try and essentially steal from us. All in all, not a pleasant experience. I suggest that future renters exercise extreme caution.
Stayed 9 nights in Aug 2020

10/10 Excellent

Denise M.

Bala Beauty
Location to everything Bala has to offer couldn't be beat! We could walk wherever we needed to be. And the drive to Gravenhurst was STRAIGHT forward! The cottage: huge, clean, cozy, all the amenities you could ever ask for both inside & outside!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Shelley W.

What a GEM!
We stayed at Birchwood by Bala a couple of weeks ago. The home is absolutely perfect! We had a full house, and everyone enjoyed their own bedroom and bathroom. Beds are super comfortable! The kids loved sleeping in the screened porch off one of the bedrooms. The home is so cozy, offers every amenity you could ever need, it's beautifully updated, and sits in a perfect location to walk to town to enjoy the local shops, bakery, ice cream shop. We thoroughly enjoyed using the boat dock - our boat fit perfectly. And the public boat launch is a couple minutes away. Very convenient. We also enjoyed the Tuesday evening Water Ski show in Bala - so impressive! We loved our home away from home! Well worth every penny!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2017

About the host

Hosted by Muskoka District Rentals

Host profile image
Muskoka District Rentals is a luxury rental agency operating in Canada’s top vacation destinations. We offer turnkey rental and property management services to property owners, and the highest level of hosting and concierge services to our rental guests. Founded in 2013 by Ross Halloran (marketing advertising and biz dev executive) and Maryrose Coleman (design builder), Muskoka District Rentals (MDR) has grown since inception in a measured way by adding selected properties each year that meet the strict requirements of MDR’s rental portfolio. We offer the highest level of service to our owners, and are focused on maximizing ROI while protecting their valuable real estate assets. Both MDR founders are also realtors with the world’s leading international luxury real estate brand, Sotheby’s International Realty, and bring a deep understanding of the real estate market to MDR’s bespoke vacation rental business. Visit us online or better yet come see us in Port Carling!

Languages:

French

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Premier Host
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