The most beautiful places to buy a cottage in Canada

Owning a cottage in Canada is like having your own slice of paradise. From breathtaking landscapes to tranquil settings, Canada offers some of the most picturesque spots for cottage living. Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat or a cozy winter getaway, these locations have it all. Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to buy a cottage in Canada.

Criteria for selection

We carefully selected these locations based on several factors:

• Natural beauty: Stunning landscapes, clear lakes, and lush forests. 
• Accessibility: Ease of travel to and from the location. 
• Community amenities: Availability of local attractions, dining, and recreational activities. 

1. Lake Louise, Alberta

Lake Louise is renowned for its turquoise waters, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Located within Banff National Park, this area offers year-round activities including hiking, skiing, and canoeing.

Key attractions:

• Moraine Lake
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Lake Louise Ski Resort

2. Muskoka, Ontario

Often referred to as “cottage country,” Muskoka is famous for its serene lakes and charming towns. It’s an ideal spot for boating, fishing, and enjoying the great outdoors.

Key attractions:

• Algonquin Provincial Park
• Muskoka Lakes Winery
• Santa’s Village

3. Tofino, British Columbia

Nestled on Vancouver Island, Tofino offers rugged coastal beauty and a laid-back vibe. Known for its surf culture and stunning beaches, Tofino is perfect for those looking to connect with nature.

Key attractions:

• Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
• Long Beach
• Hot Springs Cove

4. Prince Edward Island

With its rolling hills, red sand beaches, and charming villages, Prince Edward Island is a fairy-tale setting for cottage living. It’s a haven for seafood lovers and history buffs alike.

Key attractions:

• Green Gables Heritage Place
• Confederation Trail
• Basin Head Provincial Park

5. Laurentians, Quebec

The Laurentians offer a blend of lakes, mountains, and quaint villages. Known for its vibrant autumn foliage and excellent ski resorts, it’s a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts.

Key attractions:

• Mont Tremblant
• Parc régional Val-David-Val-Morin
• La Route des Belles-Histoires

6. Emma Lake, Saskatchewan

Perfect for families, Emma Lakes is a great destination for outdoor lovers. Just north of Prince Albert, this community comes alive in the summertime. Close by you’ll find Christopher Lakes, home to the boreal forest in central Saskatchewan.

Key activities: 

• Hiking & camping
• Fishing
• Camping
• Cross-country skiing
• Snowmobiling

Practical tips for cottage buyers

Buying a cottage involves more than just falling in love with a location. Here are some practical tips to consider:

• Budgeting: Factor in not just the purchase price, but also maintenance, utilities, the cost of insurance, and potential renovations.
• Legalities: Ensure you understand local zoning laws and property taxes, so you’re not surprised down the line.
• Year-round accessibility: Consider how accessible the cottage is during different seasons, and when you’ll be traveling there.
• Safety: Take account of potential safety threats in the area. Consider the flood risk of your dream location, and understand how you can protect your home. Vulnerability to wildfires is also a crucial consideration; while you can’t predict when and where wildfires will happen, it’s important to stay updated on areas at risk, and take the appropriate measures to protect your home. Take a look at Westland’s comprehensive guide on wildfire information for tips.

The importance of having home insurance for your cottage

Protecting your investment is crucial. While you have primary home insurance, it’s important to secure a separate policy for your cottage or cabin – that’s where Westland comes in.

Depending on where your cottage is located, there could be special considerations for your secondary home insurance policy. Remote locations, how your home is heated, and where it’s located can all impact the coverages and policy limits you should have. Our advisors can help you navigate cottage insurance and build the perfect policy for your property.

Coverages that typically come standard with cottage insurance include:

• Property protection: Covers damages from certain natural disasters (like forest fires), vandalism, and accidents. 
• Liability coverage: Protects you if someone gets injured on your property. 
• Contents insurance: Safeguards your personal belongings within the cottage. 

Canada offers some of the most beautiful and serene locations for cottage living. Whether you prefer Tofino’s rugged coastlines or Muskoka’s tranquil lakes, there’s a perfect spot for everyone. Explore these stunning destinations and make your dream of owning a cottage a reality – and when you do, Westland Insurance advisors will be here to help you find the perfect policy to protect it.