Madawaska River Escape

Madawaska River Escape is a hidden gem that welcomes you with warmth and charm from the moment you arrive. Our first visit was on a snowy March day in 2025, and despite the wintery roads, the cozy atmosphere of the cottage and Bunkie Loft made us feel right at home. Just a few kilometers off Highway 41, and within the Madawaska River Provincial Park, the location is perfect for families traveling from the GTA, Ottawa, Kingston, and even across the border, making it an ideal meeting spot.

As you step into the cottage, you’re greeted by the screened-in porch, a convenient space for unloading, rain or shine. The kitchen is just beyond, offering ample storage space for all the groceries you’ve packed for the week. The open-concept living and dining areas lead to a spacious back deck, where you can BBQ, dine, or simply relax while enjoying riverfront views. On lucky days, you might spot some local wildlife passing by.

The main floor also features a cozy sunroom, ideal for night owls or early risers. With a queen bed, rocking loveseat, and a dining table, it’s a versatile space that opens up to the large back deck. Upstairs, the cottage offers two comfortable bedrooms, including a primary bedroom with a king-sized bed and a second with a bunk bed, perfect for small families.

For a unique experience, head to the Loft Bunkie above the garage. Recently renovated (2024), it’s a spacious retreat with a queen bed, bunk beds, and a comfy seating area for movie nights. The TV has a Nintendo Wii system with games, and there is a BluRay DVD player with a selection of movies. Although there’s no internet, the strong cell signal throughout the home allows for work on the go with a reliable hotspot.

Outside, the 300 feet of riverfront offers peaceful waterfront activities. Swim off the dock or paddle upstream to a large rock feature, perfect for lounging. With western exposure, the property basks in afternoon sun, making it an idyllic spot for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re here for adventure or simply to unwind, Madawaska River Escape promises an unforgettable experience.

Inside the Cottage

Sleeps 10 (max 6 adults
3 bedrooms (1 with king, 1 with double/single bunks, 1 with queen (sun room), plus loft with queen and double/single bunks)
1 3-piece bathroom (shower only)
TV in loft with Nintendo Wii with a selection of games (TV is for games and DVD watching only (there is no channel reception or streaming)
BluRay DVD player with a selection of BluRay DVDs
Fully equipped kitchen with washer, dryer, two fridge/freezers (no dishwasher)

Outside the Cottage

BBQ, fire pit (firewood is not provided)
Dock (in place from May 1st to Oct 1, water levels permitting)
2 canoes, 2 kayaks, 2 stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets
Ninja course with swing

Things you need to know:

A maximum of one dog is welcome
Linens are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
Check In time 5:00pm, Check Out time10:00am. Please don't ask for extension
The river is not suitable for motorized boats
Rentals include a cleaning service; however, the departure checklist must be completed
Garbage disposal for up to 2 bags of garbage/recycling is provided following departure, but guests will need to go to the local transfer station on Wednesday afternoon with everything collected to date
There is no internet available
The wood stove is not available for guest use
Electric vehicles: Access to trickle charge
Parking: There is room for 4-6 vehicles
Cell signal: Good to excellent

Accessibility

Property would be difficult/impossible to navigate and would not recommend for anyone with mobility challenges

Waterfront

This cottage offers 300 feet of peaceful waterfront along a natural river’s edge. Swim off the dock (4–6 feet deep, depending on water levels) or paddle 300m upstream to a large rock feature, perfect for lounging. The river also has deeper sections with gentle currents, great for floating downstream. With western exposure, the property enjoys full afternoon sun, fading 1–2 hours before sunset as it dips behind the trees.

Boating

The river is not suitable for motorized boats, but it’s great for canoeing and kayaking.

Close-By Attractions

Madawaska River Provincial Park: The cottage is located within this lovely park! Guests can paddle and portage to the bridge in Griffith and arrange for a pickup with Greater Madawaska Canoe Rentals.
Griffith Uplands Hiking Trail: This 8.4-km loop trail near Griffith, Ontario is considered a moderately challenging route, taking an average of 2 1/2 hours to complete. The park offers hiking as well as canoeing, fishing and camping. (10 mins)
Bon Echo Provincial Park: Beautiful park featuring a 100 metre high Mazinaw Rock featuring over 260 Indigenous pictographs. Great hiking trails from 1 km in length to 17 km in length are available for use from mid May to mid October. (40 mins)
Centennial Lake Provincial Nature Reserve Park: Nature reserve offering hiking trails. This area is protected for its unusual geological features and many rare plant species, with several lakes and creeks, steep hills, ridges of bare rock and stands of mixed forest. (35 mins)

At a Glance

Sleeps 10 (max 6 adults)
A maximum of one dog is welcome
Linens and towels are provided, but please bring your own outdoor towels
Fully equipped kitchen with washer, dryer, two fridge/freezers (no dishwasher)
TV in loft with Nintendo Wii with a selection of games (TV is for games and DVD watching only (there is no channel reception or streaming))
BluRay DVD player with a selection of BluRay DVDs
BBQ, fire pit (firewood is not provided)
Dock, 2 canoes, 2 kayaks, 2 stand-up paddleboards, lifejackets
Ninja course with swing

House Rules (must meet these to book):
Rents Friday-Friday only during summer season
Sleeps 10 (max 6 adults)
Lead guest must be 30+ years of age
A maximum of one dog is welcome
Linens are provided – please bring your own outdoor towels
No smoking and parties are allowed
Departure checklist must be completed
The river is not suitable for motorized boats
There is no internet available
The wood stove is not available for guest use
Garbage disposal for up to 2 bags of garbage/recycling is provided following departure, but guests will need to go to the local transfer station on Wednesday afternoon with everything collected to date
Check In time 5:00pm, Check Out time10:00am. Please don't ask for extension
Pets - allowed
Smoking - not allowed