Frequently Asked Questions

Below, we have provided answers to some of the questions we have been receiving.  If you don’t see your question answered here, please send us a message on our Contact page.

Can we rebook our cottage for the following summer?

While we try to allow our guests to rebook the same spot(s) for the following summer, please note that we do NOT have an official rebooking policy that guarantees this privilege.   There are two main reasons for this:

  1. This property is not just a rental property, it is also a space that our owner families like to enjoy together.  As such, certain weeks/cottages may not be eligible for rebooking.   We apologize for any disappointment this may cause. 
  2. Some families may have difficulty in following or adhering to our posted instructions and policies.  In order to keep things running smoothly for ourselves and our other guests, we may have to make the difficult decision of not extending an invitation to rebook. 

What is included in/with each cottage?

A list of what is included and a list of what you should bring with you can be found here (opens in new tab). 

Why do you have occupancy limits for the cottages?

Are you wondering why the occupancy limit says 6 if you can squeeze 8 people into a cottage?  Our cottages are simply not intended to accommodate more than the posted occupancy limit.  However, we will allow exceptions if the number of immediate family members exceeds the occupancy limit (not including married children).  We have provided bunk beds to give families with five or more children some options and not to make it possible to squeeze two families into one cottage.  The occupancy limit is necessary to prevent overcrowding of the cottages and the property and to better comply with standard occupancy guidelines (such as septic system capacity and insurance guidelines).

Is the water potable?

Yes!  Our water is safe to drink and to cook with.  It is from a drilled well and is run through both a UV system and a sediment filter.  The filtration system is approved by the local health unit and water quality tests are done regularly.

Are there canoes and kayaks available?

Yes, we have a couple of canoes, several kayaks and a paddle boat available for our guests to use.  Please ensure that all boating safety guidelines are followed.  Boater safety kits are available by the shed at the beach.  Guests must bring their own lifejackets.

Is campfire wood available?

We have crates of campfire wood available for purchase.  A crate full of firewood is $10 cash.

** Please note:   You MUST check the local fire rating before starting a fire.  This can be found here: Township of Armour Fire Rating.  Information on what type of burning is allowed and when can be found on that website.

Do you permit fireworks?

Fireworks are permitted in the Township of Armour and we will allow them at Pine Haven with the following guidelines:

    • Fireworks are ONLY allowed if the fire rating is set to low or moderate.  If the rating is set to high or extreme, there is a complete ban on fireworks.
    • Any guests hoping to use fireworks on the property must check with us prior to their check-in date.  Additional guidelines will be provided at that time.
    • Please set off all fireworks by 11 pm out of consideration to our other guests and our neighbours.

Are there motor boats available to rent?

No, we do not rent out motor boats at this time.  There are several aluminum boats (without motors) available for the use of our registered guests. 

Are guests allowed to bring pets?

We love our pets and we know you do too.  However, guests may not bring pets with them to Pine Haven.  Many of our guests and our own family members have allergies to pets and we would like our cottages to be safe for everyone.  We also realize that pet owners have very different ideas and standards regarding acceptable pet behaviour and cleanliness in the home/cottage (pet hair, dirty paws, wet dogs, etc.).  To keep everything fair for all of our guests, we have decided on a no pets policy. 

How is the cell service at Pine Haven?

Cell reception is spotty but there are many areas on the property where you should receive a decent signal if you are with Bell or Rogers. Telus service is extremely spotty. Let us know if you would like more information on the best spots on the property for a Telus signal.

Do you have WiFi?

Wifi is now available at Pine Haven and the network reaches a large area of the property, though the signal is not typically as strong inside the cottages.  If you require a stronger wifi signal inside your cottage (for business communications, meetings, etc.), we have a couple of extenders that can be leant out upon request.  If you would like to connect to our wifi, one of the owners on site can provide you with the password, or you can request it by email.  

What if the power goes out?

The Lodge and the four newer cottages are equipped with automatic standby generators.  The older cottages are not.  However, the generator does power the water pump, which means the older cottages would still have water if the power goes out. Occasional power outages are a fact of life and generally not a cause for alarm.  If the power does go out during your stay, please be patient as the hydro company works to restore power.

What can be found in Burks Falls?

If you discover you have forgotten something, you have run out of something or you just don’t feel like cooking one evening, you can find all the basics in Burk’s Falls (about a 10 minute drive).  Here’s what’s available there:

      • valu-mart – small-town grocery store
      • Tim Hortons
      • LCBO
      • Gas stations
        • Petro-Canada
        • Shell
      • Home Hardware
      • Laundromat
      • Restaurants/Take-out:
        • Yetti’s Pizza (popular pizza place with great reviews)
        • Curb Your Appetite
        • DiCasa Foods
        • The Potbellied Stove
        • Subway

A map of Burk’s Falls showing these businesses will be available in an information booklet in each cottage. We will try to keep this information up-to-date but you may find that some businesses listed above close or change over time.

Where is the nearest hospital?

Huntsville Hospital (Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare) is the nearest hospital.  If you need emergency care, this is where you should go.  It is located at 100 Frank Miller Drive, Huntsville.