Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a reservation?
Please contact us by email. If the cottage is available on dates you have requested, we will send you a rental agreement. Once we have received the completed rental agreement and your 50% deposit plus damage deposit you will receive a confirmation email of your booking. If we do not receive these items in a timely fashion the next renter in line will get priority.
How do we self check-in / check out?
When you arrive, there is a lock box on the door. Your booking confirmation will have the 4-digit code (codes are changed weekly). For check out we ask you to put the keys back in the lockbox and leave the cottage locked.
How do we receive our damage deposit back?
Within 10 days of your departure, you will receive your $400.00 damage deposit back through e-transfer if there are no damages.
Please let us know right away if there is any damage done and if the broken item is due to normal wear and tear, we will not charge you.
What if we need to contact the owners during our stay?
You will have access to our contact information and are welcome to contact us at any time during your stay. Our contact information is listed in the Welcome Binder and we are happy to assist you with any questions or needs during your stay.
How private is the cottage?
We have neighbours on both sides. There is privacy fencing and many trees between both. Each cottage has their own private beach and private parking.
How big is Dalhousie Lake?
The Dalhousie Lake watershed area is 1,288 square kilometers that includes the Mississippi River at the inlet of the lake along with seven smaller creeks.
How deep is Dalhousie Lake?
The maximum depth is 16.8 meters and the main depth is 5.2 meters.
Is the water warm?
In the summer, water temperatures usually range from 22 to 23 degrees Celsius at the surface. Our beach is shallow and has sun exposure so it is typically warmer.
Is the water safe for my kids?
Yes, Big Rock Cottage is perfect for children as our sandy beach is shallow and weed free. There are no steep drop offs. Supervision is still required, and lifejackets are highly recommended.
Can I bring a fishing boat or watercraft?
Yes, you can bring your own fishing boat. Public boat launches are situated at the east end of the lake beside Sylvania Lodge and at the west end of the lake at Centennial Park. Please note there may be fees associated with launches.
Is there a dock for my boat?
Unfortunately, we do not have a dock at our cottage. You may pull your boat on shore or anchor it offshore. Our bay is shallow so any damage due to rocks is the responsibility of the renter.
What types of fish are in Dalhousie Lake?
Dalhousie Lake is fished mainly for yellow pickerel and northern pike although this lake also supports a good smallmouth bass and panfish fishery. Types of fish in Dalhousie: Lake Pickerel, Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, Rock Bass, Sunfish, Yellow Perch, Brown Bullhead Pumpkinseed, and Northern Pike.
Do we need to bring life jackets?
We have a few adult / youth life jackets but do recommend that you bring your own for any boating activities. Infant / toddler lifejackets are not available onsite.
Can we bring a camping trailer?
Yes, we are fully equipped with the space as well as the hook up for a camping trailer. Additional fees are required. Information will be provided at the time of your booking.
Is there anything to do nearby?
Not that you will want to leave but there are lots of additional things to do. We have a welcome binder in the cottage upon your arrival full of places to go and things to see, such as golf courses, hiking trails, local shops, museums, restaurants, etc. all with detailed directions for your convenience.
What type of wildlife might we see?
Loons, ducks, swans, rabbits, deer, chipmunks. We ask that you please not feed any of the wildlife including the ducks that swim close to shore.
Do cell phones work at the cottage?
Cell phone service is very limited depending on which provider you have. Internet calling works well.
Is there internet?
Yes, we have high speed internet access at the cottage.
Are pets permitted during our stay?
Yes, pets permitted on the property during your stay with prior notice to the owners. Leash walking out of courtesy of our neighbors and yard clean up prior to departure is required. Failure to comply will result in the loss of your damage deposit.
Is smoking permitted on the property?
There is no smoking in any of the buildings including the screened in porch. You can smoke anywhere outside but ask that you use the ashtrays on site to discard any butts.
Where is the closest hospital?
If it is an emergency always dial 911. Perth & Smiths Falls District Hospital is located at 33 Drummond Street West, Perth, Ontario. Approximately 30 minutes away.
For more information please email us as we are happy to answer any questions you may have!