The Rustic Cabin

The Winter Wonderland

2011-12-13T16:18:00.002-05:00

Already a winter wonderland awaits you!!! The only tracks you will find are from wildlife. Coming in the winter is a different experience. The first consideration is getting back up our driveway. Getting down the hill is not a problem but getting back up needs WINTER TIRES or a 4 wheel drive vehicle again with WINTER TIRES. It is possible to park at the top of the driveway but you will have to haul your gear a lot further and you will still have to go up the incline onto the road.

You will have to walk your gear into the cabin. The laneway is not open in the winter. You will need to bring your own water if we are away. If we are home, we will supply the water and have the cabin heated up for your arrival. If we are away we may be able to find someone to start the woodstove for you for an extra $25 fee.

The outhouse with the great view will be a little cooler but you will still have access to the porta potty for night time if you require it.

This is wonderful place to be in the winter. It is quiet the other 3 seasons except for the river noise but in the winter at some point, the river will freeze over. It is so Quiet!!!! This is Peaceful. This is truly a unique winter experience!!!!

Thanksgiving Weekend Available!!!

2011-10-05T19:34:00.002-04:00

I can't believe it!!!! Today is Wednesday and the Thanksgiving long weekend is just two days away and our lovely cabin isn't booked!!! All the years we had the family here for the weekend and the cabin wasn't available, we had lots of requests to rent it. This year, when it is available, just one request for one night. Please remember that long weekend rentals are for three nights.

Other weekends are two night rentals.

We have had a great summer with lots of former guests returning yet again. We really have the greatest people staying with us. We are truly blessed by your presence with us!!! Thank you.

The leaves are gorgeous and the weather looks great for the weekend. Come on up!!!!!!

438 Deer Lake Rd.

2011-07-13T20:04:00.003-04:00

This is my latest endeavour. Putting most of my loves under one roof. I have been talking for years about opening up the garage at the road into a little shop and this spring I did it. There is quite the collection of old things - old and interesting I call it. There are my scarves that I sell for $10 each to buy vitamins for my 32 kids in Mexico. There are pieces of my glass creations and other creative endeavours AND the big seller - jams, jellies, pickles ( including Sir John A. Mac Donald's original pickled egg recipe ) and surplus veggies from the garden.

Business has really picked up for the last two weekends as the tourists flood the area. You can find directions in the Almaguin Day Tripper brochure. I'm number 2.

Come for a browse soon. Saturday and Sunday from 10 to 4!!!!

What an awesome summer!!!

2011-07-13T20:00:00.003-04:00

The river is quite low and oh so warm. We have spent hours floating around on the chairs or with a noodle. A great way to spend these incredibly hot days of the summer of 2011!!!

The veggies are doing great. We have purple and green beans available right now. I have made a second planting of peas. Garlic is just about ready to harvest and the carrots are getting there. Swiss chard looks good and tastes good but it needs some convincing for others to share it!!!! Garlic scapes are ready to pick. I sold some today!! I could probably harvest some potatoes any day now. Gardening is such a joy!!!!!!!

Lots of flowers!!!!

Amazing day lilies!!!! Purple and orange!!! What a combo!!!

Everything is growing like never before around here. The flowers are higher than ever before. There are more blooms per flower. The veggies are growing like crazy. The bush is gorgeous in all of its shades of green.

We have had great weather lately. Lots of hot days and cooler nights. The water in the river is nice and warm. This is just the best of times.

Come and join us!!!!!!!

Gay Positive

2011-05-11T15:51:00.002-04:00

I'm not sure what else to say other than, the Rustic Cabin is Gay Positive. Everyone is welcome here who is looking for a different vacation experience. Back in time to a simpler life style. No hydro or running water. Oil lamps and containers of fresh water are provided. An awesome place for the creative soul. Come paint, write, compose, draw, sing. Whatever it is in life that frees your creative spirit and gives you joy. We are just north of Muskoka with lovely surroundings at a better price!!! Come and experience the sounds and sights of nature in total privacy. The Rustic Cabin is an awesome destination!!!!

Welcome to our 2011 Season

2011-04-09T16:05:00.002-04:00

We arrived home from Mexico on March 30th. In the three months that we had been away it seems that the dear deer above and her herd moved in. Every day we see these gorgeous creatures wandering through stopping to nibble here and there.

Notice the snow. We have quite a bit but because the weather is so warm it is going quickly. I hope to make it down to the cabin tomorrow for the first time. The river is roaring. It will be interesting to see the height of the water as we noticed today that Doe Lake is considerably lower than normal.

Please book early so you are not disappointed. There is a two night minimum. No pets. Not young child friendly. No hydro or running water. We welcome everyone who shares our love of nature and respect for all things living.

Hope to see you soon!!!!!

Getting Here.....

2010-10-13T17:55:00.003-04:00

We are willing to pick you up if you would like to come and visit via bus. The bus leaves Toronto from Bay Street or Yorkdale. The line is Ontario Northland. You would arrive in Burk's Falls at approximately 1:45 in the afternoon. The return bus leaves at 8 in the morning or 5 in the afternoon from Burk's Falls. The charge for picking you up and dropping you off is $20. I'm even willing to take you to the grocery store on the way home!!! How's that for service???

Fall News

2010-10-01T13:21:00.002-04:00

Whoosh...the summer has passed. It was great. So many wonderful people returning or coming to stay for the first time. We are so blessed to have you stay with us and share in our land. Thank you.

The fall leaves are looking good. Snow is forecast for tomorrow sooooooo all that gorgeous colour will soon be on the ground. This is still a great time to come north to enjoy the peace and quiet and magic of the Rustic Cabin.

Jam, relish, jelly and pickle sales continue to go well. I am sold out of many jams and now know I need to produce a lot more for next year. I will be opening the garage at the road as a store next spring and will sell old and interesting stuff, jams etc., lamb, chicken, garden produce and glass creations. Really looking forward to it.

It has been many years since we increased our rates and have decided to do that in the new year. For one or two people the rate will go to $90 a night, three $100 and four $110. If you book a week you will continue to get a free night so for one or two it will be $540 and for four it will be $660. Please book early as we hate to disappoint you by not having the cabin for when you would like to book.

Pantry Update...

2010-07-13T13:53:00.002-04:00

The list is getting longer by the day. I now have Rhubarb Jam, Rhubarb and Strawberry Jam, Rhubarb Relish, Strawberry Jam, Deer Lake Jam, Red Pepper Jelly, Mint Jelly and Blueberry Jam. Sales are brisk and feedback excellent. Eggs, lamb and chicken are still available. Yum, yum!!!!

Another little change.....

2010-07-13T13:41:00.003-04:00

Last summer I was delighted to receive this bear hide as a gift. It was hunted by a Metis fellow in Manitoba. First I wanted it on the kitchen floor but The Man kept tripping over it. Next, it went to the cabin floor. Earlier this summer we had a delightful young man in a wheelchair visiting us and I thought after that for his next visit mobility could be improved by having the bear skin off the floor and that is how he/she came to be where he/she is!!!! The moose antlers make it look like he/she has wings!!! A lovely addition to the Rustic Cabin!!!! Migwetch!!!

The Ultimate Glamping Experience

2010-05-16T12:40:00.002-04:00

I was listening to CBC radio yesterday morning and heard this really interesting talk about the new rage - Glamping. It is glamorous camping. After listening to the whole show I realized that that is exactly what we offer!!! Whenever I'm talking to prospective new guests and they tell me they are campers, I always say, "That's great. You will love it here. It is like 5 star camping." So when you hear your friends talking about the new rage be sure to mention us. Oh and I almost forgot, the average price is $150 a night!!!! What an incredible deal we are!!!!! Glamping just north of Muskoka!!!!

Grandmama's Cold Cellar

2010-05-12T15:34:00.008-04:00

From the garden to the jar in just a couple of hours. Now how fresh can that be? The first yummy to be offered this year is "Rhubarb Jam". Small jars are $3 and larger ones are $5.

The next yummy is going to be "Rhubarb Relish". I've been making this for about 40 years. It is so delicious!!! Rhubarb, brown sugar, onions, lots of spices and brew for 5 or 6 hours. It is wonderful with any cold meats, cheese, pork or chicken. Everything I have to offer comes with a taste first. Just to make sure it suits your fancy.

When you book, let me know if you would like to purchase eggs, lamb sausage, jams or pickles and then I can have them ready for you when you arrive. You could also take home a roast of lamb or a chicken that has been raised right her when you leave!!! We only raise happy meat!!!

The Shower!!!!

2010-05-04T20:33:00.004-04:00

What an exciting time we had this morning!!! We built the outside shower. It is done. We have a hook on one of the trees for a towel and your clothes. There is a soap dish and shampoo holder. I'm going to leave the directions posted in the cabin as it claims to get really hot after 3 hours in the sun. Our plan is to fill it and get it up in position for you before you arrive. Obviously it will be pretty chilly in the morning and toasty by mid afternoon. The showers in the house will also be available if you feel shy about using this new addition. This will really prove how one with nature you are!!!! Really hope you enjoy it!!!

Welcome to 2010

2010-04-03T15:26:00.002-04:00

What amazing weather we are having on this Easter weekend. It is gorgeous.

The cabin is available tonight and tomorrown night. The family all left about 2 this afternoon.

We enjoyed a wonderful winter in San Blas Mexico and you can read that blog if you want at sanblasnayaritmexicowinter2010.blogspot.com .

The lane way to the cabin isn't ready to drive on yet. The frost is still coming out and it is rough but will soon settle down.

This year for your bathing pleasure we intend on building a new outdoor shower beside the cabin. As soon as it is ready we will send you a pic. Eggs will be for sale at $3 a dozen, lamb sausage at $6 lb. , small Deer Lake Jams for $3.75, bread and butter pickles $4 a jar and who knows what else the cold cellar may hold!!!

We look forward to seeing you again here at the Rustic Cabin and if it will be your first visit we hope it will be the first of many!!!

A Winter Wonderland for Sure!!!!

2009-12-08T14:22:00.003-05:00

We have had quite the dump of snow in the last few days. Everything is laden with snow. Very white and still.

Should you wish to visit now, you will have to walk your gear in. As you remember, it is not a long walk. The driveway is always ploughed but you will need a 4x4 or excellent winter tires. Getting down the driveway is never the problem but getting up can be a tad of a problem.

We can get a neighbour to light the woodstove for you for an additional $25 if you wish. It will also give you a broken trail. If you are feeling adventurous, blaze your own trail and be patient for about 4 hours while the cabin heats up.

The cabin holds its heat well but we do recommend something warm for your feet.

Hiking in the bush can be great fun, follow in the deer trails. Snowshoes are always a good idea. We get a lot of snow.

As always, enjoy, enjoy!!!!!

Women of the cabin

2009-10-31T20:37:00.002-04:00

It is interesting to me that we have more women coming to the cabin than men. Many women choose to come on their own. They love it and return time after time. Some women come with a female friend and they tend to return again and again. Women appear to connect with the energy of the land. They feel safe. They have a great time and we look forward to all of their return visits!!!!!!

I should mention that we have had a pack of brothers coming for years and we do have many couples. All are always welcome!!!!

Such a beautiful time of year

2009-10-07T19:45:00.002-04:00

This is such a beautiful time of year. Each season is unique here and has a beauty all of its own. When you arrive on these crisp days, we will have the cabin all toasty warm and ready for your arrival. Don't let the cooler weather stop you from coming away for a few days of r&r. You can still drive to the cabin for the next few weeks. Take advantage of this unique time of year!!!!

2009-09-28T18:56:00.003-04:00

I'd say the colours are pretty well peaked. It is gorgeous here. It has been windy and rainy today so many leaves have hit the dirt!!! This weekend is still available but the next two are booked so you can't come until the 23rd - 24th of October weekend. If you can get away during the week, you can come a lot sooner.

The area gets lovely at this time of the year. Many leaves on the ground and you can see a lot further in the bush. The river is quite low right now and very pretty. The cabin is comfortable four seasons of the year!!! Right now you can still drive in but that will change with the snow!!!

Hope to see you soon at the Rustic Cabin for peace, quiet and a wonderful experience!!!!

They're coming........

2009-09-08T18:43:00.003-04:00

I can hardly believe that the wonderful colours of autumn are starting to paint our landscape. This is such a gorgeous time of year. For the last week the weather has been wonderful and the next week looks like it is going to be the same.

Weekends are almost all booked for September but if you can get away during the week you will probably find a vacancy to your liking.

This has been a great year for the Rustic Cabin. Many old friends have returned and we have met some wonderful new people. We already have three confirmed reservations for next August so if you are thinking about returning please get your request in early so you won't be disappointed!!!!!

The Who's Who of the Rustic Cabin

2009-09-08T15:30:00.012-04:00

We have such interesting and amazing people stay with us that we would like to share them with you. We think you will agree that they are very diversified, talented and come from a wide range of interesting backgrounds. They generally all come to the Rustic Cabin for its peace, quiet, privacy and to relax.

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"I visit the Rustic Cabin to rejuvenate body and soul. I'm deeply grateful to Val and her family for sharing this sacred land with me, allowing healing in a place of gentle vitality."

Judith Cockman

writer

Toronto

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Bio: Rae Ellen is an actor, teacher and director who lives and works in Toronto.

"My stay at the Rustic Cottage is exactly what I wanted it to be - restful, quiet and serene. Waking up and falling asleep to the sound of the river was blissful - not to mention having a skinny-dip in the swimming hole! Surrounded by trees, away from the noise and speed of the city, I spent whole afternoons sitting in a Kawartha chair reading and writing the day away. Val and Ray could not be more accommodating, generous and kind - they are amazing hosts. I can't wait to return!"

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I have been a guest of the "Rustic Cabin" for seven years now and look forward to my annual weekend there throughout the year. The cabin is truly a phenomenal place located on over 100 acres of forest and just steps away from the Magnetewan River which has a beautiful, refreshing swimming area. If you are looking for privacy, seclusion & the essence of true nature, the Rustic Cabin is the place to be.

Debbie
Port Perry, ON.

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I'm a reformed lawyer, who went back to school and has not quite managed to get out of school again. I work for government by day, teach by night, and will one day finish that Ph.D. In the meantime, I spend far too much time in front of my computer.
Staying at the Rustic Cabin was fabulous. It was secluded, cozy, with everything you need, and the river and surrounding area are beautiful. It made for a truly reviving break.

Janna, Toronto, Ontario.

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“It's like camping, but with a warm cabin instead of a tent. Lots of cut wood and kindling for evening camp fires, and down a shady path through the woods, an outhouse with a million dollar view. A short walk across the foot bridge, the forest path wanders by fallen remains of rotting birch trees. Mushrooms, mosses and new trees compete with each other for the nutrients that nature is recycling.”

Peter & Diane, Toronto

On Those Hazy Crazy Days of Summer.....

2009-06-29T17:23:00.004-04:00

This is how we spent every afternoon last week. Don't forget to look in the green garbage pail at the patio. It is for stuff you might need not garbage!!! There is a hammock which will probably put you to sleep with its movement along with the sound of the river!!! There is a rope that you can tie off one of the floating chairs. That way you can take an icy cold drink out in the chair along with a good book and just float the day away and not go anywhere.

The water is really warm. Feels a little cool when you first get in but then it is just wonderful!!!

As well as the floating chairs, there are also two noodles and large trianglular tubes. We have two kayaks for dumbies ( plastic mold ) open concept. You can swim in the swimming hole or go outside of the swimming area into the river. You can start a river run upstream from the bridge and float down until you see the cabin down stream on the left. Get out of the water on the right hand side and follow the path back to the bridge. That should keep you happy for a few hours!!!!

We own both sides of the river which is why it is so private. We rarely see kayakers on the river. You can always hear them coming as they are yelling and talking through the rapids.

This is an awesome spot to spend the days of summer!!!!

Why We Don't Allow Pets.....

2009-06-29T16:53:00.005-04:00

Yes, we love animals BUT we don't allow pets. Let me show you why. These critters live at our place.

Availability Calendar

2009-06-03T17:28:00.001-04:00

If you would like to see the availability for our cabin please click on the following link http://www.homeawayconnect.com/calendar.aspx?propertyid=464216

Look what's new!!!!

2009-05-29T15:33:00.002-04:00

These are a fun addition to the cabin. As most of you know who know me, I love whimsical. There are chains under the birds and when you pull on them they fly. Like little air conditioning units!!!!

The Outhouse Story

2009-05-29T15:16:00.004-04:00

When you don't have hydro or running water, you need an outhouse. Ours is lovely. I always tell people that it has a beautiful view as it is three sided. It does have a roof and floor!!! There is no door. Our outhouse is odourless. Should an odour ever develop we can solve the problem with chemicals ( not our usual way to deal with things ) or by adding wood chips or wood ash to the mix. Works like a charm!!!!

One of our guests in the past left a portapotti which is quite a convenient luxury in the middle of the night. It will be in pristine condition when you arrive and that will be the expectation on your departure.

Every spring we clean the "debris" from down the hole. I'd hate to make a list of what we have discovered!!! Please do not use baby wipes. They do not decompose at all!!! Yuck!!! And if you drop a bottle down there be sure to include your name so we can send it back to you!!!! Toilet paper etc. only please!!!!

The outhouse is a pleasant stroll from the cabin. Out of sight in the bush and a great place to pick up kindling on the way to or from for the woodstove.

Painting and a new window.....

2009-05-14T10:51:00.004-04:00

We have been very busy for the last week painting both of the bedrooms and the living area. We painted all the same colours so there are no surprises there but the big news is the window over the couch. It faces west and gets sun all day. You can sit on the couch and read now!!!! Naturally there is a great view of the surrounding bush. Look for some new pics when the sunshines and does it justice.

Activities in the area.....

2009-05-03T17:42:00.003-04:00

There are many activities in the area. There are many artists with galleries you could visit. Numerous lakes and rivers are here for you to discover with public launch sites at most. Fishing and swimming are great seasonal sports.

During the winter you can find hiking, snowshoeing, snow sleding, cross country skiing and dog sledding.

Many local towns offer a flavour all of their own, ie. Burk's Falls, Magnetawan, Kearney, Katrine, Sprucedale, Novar, Sundridge, South River and Huntsville.

Huntsville offers a small enclosed mall and wonderful downtown shopping. The Almaguin Theatre always has something to offer the theatre minded. You can also find a movie theatre in town.

Things to do at the Rustic Cabin

2009-05-03T17:33:00.003-04:00

The number one activity that we recommend is to do nothing except sit in a chair and breath in the fresh air and listen to the birds and the river. You could lay in the hammock at the river which usually results in a nap in just a few minutes. You could sit by our pond and watch the goldfish. You could sit on the porch of the cabin and read a book, play a board game, converse or just be quiet. We have two kayaks available. The kind for idiots that are not enclosed, a plastic mold. There are trails throughout the property. You can fish in the fishing hole or swim in the swimming hole. The only demand on your time is that you do exactly what you want to do that will make you happy!

After six o'clock, you could enjoy a campfire at the pit on the way to the river and as the night progresses the stars will astound you.

Rates

2009-05-03T17:27:00.003-04:00

Our new rates starting in 2011 are $90 a night for one or two people. $110 a night for four. Our weekly rate for one or two is $540 and for four is $660. Should you decide to stay for a week, you get one free night.

Peace, quiet and privacy......

2009-04-29T11:21:00.003-04:00

The Rustic Cabin is the ideal location for those people looking for something different. A step back in time to a simpler life style. The Cabin is set in the bush. You can hear the Magnetewan River rushing by and the sounds of numerous birds. We have chosen not to clear a view to the river but to leave the area in its natural state. You will be surrounded by nature and all of its beauty.

The Cabin side of the river is located on sixteen acres. Our home is on the same side of the river but the Cabin can not be seen from the house. We offer complete privacy to our guests. There is a bridge crossing the river and we own fifty acres on the other side. There are marked trails. Behind our property is 200 acres of Crown Land that can also be used for hiking.

This section of the Magnetewan is rarely used by boaters as there are extensive rapids infront of our property. There is a patio with chairs and a hamock at the river. It is a very short walk from the Cabin.

The sounds and sights make this a special magical location. A place to relax and unwind from lifes stresses.

The Cabin

2009-04-29T11:12:00.004-04:00

The cabin is 15 feet x 24 feet. The outside is curly hemlock and the inside is drywalled. There is a front porch with furniture including a swinging chair, a barbeque and two burner propane hot plate. Inside you will find a main room with a dining area, sitting area and kitchen. There are two bedrooms each with a double bed. A central woodstove can be used for warmth and cooking on.

One of the unique features of the cabin is that there is no hydro or running water. Lighting is accomplished with oil lamps and we provide 10 litre containers of water. Guests are welcome to use one of the showers in the main house.

CANDLES - forget it!!!! We have candle wax on the floor, furniture, woodstove, porch!!! Get the picture? We don't like them one little bit. The only way they may be used is in a closed container so there is absolutely no way that they can drip. No tapers under any condition please!!! They may be romantic but not to us!!!

The kitchen is well equipped and if you can not find something you need we will probably have it in the house for you to use. Bedding is provided. If you would like to bring your own that's fine. We suggest you bring your own towels but if you forget we have extras.

How to Reach Us

2009-04-28T12:48:00.006-04:00

For more inofmation please call Val at 705 636-1679 or email us at sheekey@bell.net .