Wren Cabin

Wren Cabin sits on the forested grounds of Calabogie Peaks Resort, perched above Calabogie Lake at the base of Dickson Mountain in Ontario's Ottawa Valley. It's one of three identical cabins here, built roughly 200 to 300 metres apart from its two siblings, Finch and Starling, each on its own private, forested lot with lake views.

Access in summer is by 4WD or a 300 metre hike; in winter the road closes and it becomes hike-in only. There's no wifi and no grid power — just a fire pit, BBQ, picnic table, and patio furniture outside, and a compost toilet, mini fridge, stovetop, sink, and basic pantry staples (salt, pepper, oil, sugar, coffee) inside. A fan and heater keep things comfortable, and two pairs of snowshoes are kept on hand for winter guests.

The location puts hikers and skiers close to the Eagles Nest lookout and a trail network that runs through thousands of acres of crown land. Resort day passes, sold separately, open up downhill skiing, paddling, tennis, a public beach, golf, and two restaurants back at Calabogie Peaks, though the cabin itself sits apart from that activity.

Pets are welcome, and combined with the privacy and lake frontage, this makes Wren Cabin a fit for couples traveling with a dog who want quiet over convenience. Check-in is at 4 pm and check-out at 12 pm. Rates run from $179 a weeknight in winter up to $239 on summer holidays, with booking handled directly through Cabinscape.