Big sky country.
Head Lake
X Cottage Location
Sunset Escape is located on Head Lake which is nestled within the Kawartha Lakes region of Ontario. Head Lake is a picturesque body of water located between Uphill to the west and Norland to the east. The lake makes up part of the Great Lakes Basin and stretches approximately 5km in width and 8km in length. The Head River acts as both its main inflow, entering from the northeast, and outflow, exiting from the northwest. This river’s journey continues through the Black River and the Severn River before reaching Georgian Bay on Lake Huron.
Welcome to our charming cottage, a delightful blend of timeless charm and modern convenience. The cottage incorporates all of the modern comforts you desire.
Indoors, the cottage offers three cozy bedrooms, an inviting open-concept lounge complete with a wood stove for warmth and ambiance, a wellappointed kitchen area, and a sunroom that bathes the space in natural light. Ascend to the second-floor loft space which provides a picturesque west-facing view overlooking the serene lake.
Outdoors, a world of leisure awaits. Gather around the fire pit for evenings filled with stories and s’mores. Seek refuge from bugs and sun alike in the screened-in gazebo, or indulge in the wood-fired sauna for a truly rejuvenating experience. The boathouse stands ready with a canoe and kayak, inviting you to explore the tranquil waters. Don’t miss the expansive dock area for hours of lakeside relaxation.
Inside, the cottage’s essence remains rooted in its history, with tongue-ingroove pine walls, wooden beams, and a distinctive gambrel-style ceiling harkening back to its origins.
Renovations
The cottage underwent extensive renovations over the past four years, including a new sauna, wood stove, screened-in gazebo, fencing, landscaping, exterior painting, major foundation repairs, driveway upgrades, firepit, and deck restaining. Interior upgrades include new oak floorboards, second-floor loft (including new window overlooking the lake, staircase, new insulation installed in the roof and walls, shiplap style pine paneling, tiled bathroom, and updated furnishings including all new furniture, fridge, kitchen essentials, BBQ, mattresses, and linens. For the full list of work completed, please see the next page.
BEFORE BEFORE AFTER AFTER
BEFORE BEFORE AFTER AFTER
Renovations
• Installation of a wood-fired sauna.
• Construction of a 10x10ft screened-in gazebo.
• Constructiton of a wood-fired sauna.
• Creation of a second-floor loft space complete with a staircase and dormer window overlooking the lake.
• Addition of a new wood stove and chimney (WETT certified).
• Replacement and extension of the existing dock.
• Upgrading of the plumbing system with new PVC pipes.
• Installed insulation for both walls and roof, complemented by the installation of new tongue-and groove-pine panelling on the walls.
• Installation of new wood flooring throughout the main living area.
• Reinforcement of the cottage foundations underneath the cottage along with the addition of new foundations along the perimeter.
• Construction of a new driveway.
• Installation of a privacy fence around the firepit.
• Each room has been freshly painted.
• Acquisition of all-new furniture, including fridge, couches, artwork, TV, mattresses (Endy and Casper), as well as new bedding and towels + so much more.
• Tiling of the bathroom.
• Extensive landscaping and garden work.
Community
The community formed by our two northern and one southern neighbors is truly remarkable. Over the years, we have cultivated a close-knit bond, creating a small haven for ourselves. Whenever there’s a need for an extra pair of hands for cottage tasks, we willingly pitch in to help one another. Our nights are often spent gathered around firepits, sharing BBQs, drinks, and during colder months, enjoying Leafs games together. Leaving this idyllic paradise, nurtured by the camaraderie of these cottagers, will undoubtedly be the most difficult part of leaving.
Our cottage is part of the Sunset Beach Cottager’s Association (SBCA), a wonderful community comprising all cottage owners on the east end of the lake. Twice a year, on the May 24 and Labour Day long weekends, we come together for events filled with camaraderie, games, and updates on matters concerning our local community. The SBCA takes care of essential tasks such as road maintenance and trash and recycling collection. Additionally, we collectively own a parcel of land situated directly behind our cottages, which is home to enchanting hiking trails - a treasure we all share.
Renting it out on AirBnB
We’ve achieved outstanding results by renting out our cottage on Airbnb. For the past four years, we’ve consistently rented the property on Airbnb, generating a substantial annual income that not only covers the ownership costs, but also provides extra funds which were reinvested in the cottage. If you’re interested, you can take a look at our Airbnb listing by visiting: www.airbnb.com/h/sunsetescapeontario
SUNSET ESCAPE \\ KAWARTHA LAKES
The Kawartha Lakes region resides on the ancestral lands of the Anishinaabeg, Huron-Wendat, and more recently, the Haudenosaunee peoples. The area takes its name from the Kawartha Lakes themselves.
The term “Kawartha” originates from “Ka-wa-tha,” an anglicized version of “Ka-wa-tae-gum-maug” or “Gaa-waategamaag,” a term coined in 1895 by Martha Whetung of the Curve Lake First Nations. In the Anishinaabe language, this aname translates to “land of reflections,” a concept deeply meaningful to Whetung. Over time, tourism promoters adapted the term to “Kawartha,” which evokes the essence of “bright waters and happy lands.”
SUNSET ESCAPE \\ KAWARTHA LAKES
The Outdoors
the Sauna
the Deck
the Gazebo
the Firepit
down by the Water
the Cottage
The Cottage
The cottage’s essence remains rooted in its history, with tongue-in-groove pine walls, wooden beams, and a distinctive gambrel-style ceiling harkening back to its origins. Recent updates include inviting hardwood floors, new wood stove, and the addition of the second floor loft space, complete with unparalleled lake views.
The open-concept living area welcomes you with the crackling woodstove fireplace and a cozy lounge featuring a vinyl player, TV and an array of board games for entertainment.
The compact yet efficient kitchen boasts a farmers washbasin, 4-burner stove top, and essential appliances like a fridge, freezer, coffee maker, and toaster oven.
The Loft
The second story loft space offers a stunning west-facing lake view. The perfect space to enjoy your morning coffee, or cuddle up late in the evening and watch a movie with your loved one.
The Sunroom
The sunroom is the perfect spot for morning coffee or relaxing with a glass of wine while watching the sunset over the lake. It also doubles as a dining area. Open the windows at night and you’ll hear the loons calling to each other. There’s nothing better!
LAKEVIEW
cottage master bedroom
The sunlit cottage master bedroom boasts natural light streaming in from two sides, complemented by stunning views over the lake.
FORESTVIEW
lakefrront queen bedroom
The coziest bedroom and a favourite amongst the older guests for it’s privacy and views over the lake. This bedroom also comes complete with a reading area.
SUNSET ESCAPE \\ KAWARTHA LAKES
THE WRITER’S ROOM
queen bedroom
The nautical-themed room is accompanied by your own secluded area perfect for writers or bookworms.
