How do I book Redstone Ridge?
Please contact us at rental.info@redstoneridge.ca to confirm availability and obtain the rental forms. The rental Application asks for the name of your homeowner insurance provider, which simply acts to assure us that those to whom we entrust our property are responsible adult homeowners or renters. Most home-owners policy will cover your belongings while travelling. Our insurers also require that we limit rentals to families and/or groups of mature adults over 25 years.
Bookings will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis on receipt of:
- the completed Rental Application
- the signed Rental Terms & Conditions Agreement
- payment of 30% of the rental fee (see payment options below)
- All rentals subject to 13% HST effective April 1, 2022
The balance of the rental fee and a damage deposit is due 30 days prior to your rental date or upon the date specified in the rental agreement. The damage deposit is fully refundable upon leaving the premises in a clean and orderly condition suitable for the next renters and with no damage to contents of property, as stated in the Rental Terms & Conditions.
Bookings made less that 30 days in advance require full payment....... we accept Interac email money transfer. Sorry we do not accept credit cards or PayPal due to high associated fees.
Where are we?
Redstone Ridge is located approximately half-way (5 kilometres) along the eastern shore of Big Redstone Lake. You are about 20 miles from Haliburton and approximately 10 miles from the southern edge of Algonquin Park.
Redstone Ridge is located approximately half-way (5 kilometres) along the eastern shore of Big Redstone Lake. You are about 20 miles from Haliburton and approximately 10 miles from the southern edge of Algonquin Park.
What is the Lake like?
Redstone and Kennisis (to the north) are two of the largest lakes in the region that form the headwaters of the watersheds that feed the Trent System. It is for this reason that the water levels of both lakes will have a vertical drop of approximately 5 feet from spring through the fall. Floating docks will adjust accordingly leaving ample deep water diving and mooring. Lower levels will often expose sand beaches which otherwise would not be available. Natural rock shorelines and ecosystems become evident into the late summer and early fall.
Redstone, Little Redstone ( connected by the narrows) and Pelaw (connected by Pelaw river) make up a 3 lake chain, over 9 miles long and 2.5 miles wide with numerous bays and coves.
East Bay is one of three early developments dating back to the '50s. Much of the lake was not developed until starting in the mid 1980's. New cottages like ours must all meet stringent regulations such as 100' setbacks and minimum 150' frontages, which has helped keep Red stone pristine and development less visible from the lake. An increased awareness of delicate ecosystems has also placed priority on maintaining original rock shorelines.....fish habitat during spawning seasons. Please appreciate the minimal disturbance to our shoreline.
Redstone and Kennisis (to the north) are two of the largest lakes in the region that form the headwaters of the watersheds that feed the Trent System. It is for this reason that the water levels of both lakes will have a vertical drop of approximately 5 feet from spring through the fall. Floating docks will adjust accordingly leaving ample deep water diving and mooring. Lower levels will often expose sand beaches which otherwise would not be available. Natural rock shorelines and ecosystems become evident into the late summer and early fall.
Redstone, Little Redstone ( connected by the narrows) and Pelaw (connected by Pelaw river) make up a 3 lake chain, over 9 miles long and 2.5 miles wide with numerous bays and coves.
East Bay is one of three early developments dating back to the '50s. Much of the lake was not developed until starting in the mid 1980's. New cottages like ours must all meet stringent regulations such as 100' setbacks and minimum 150' frontages, which has helped keep Red stone pristine and development less visible from the lake. An increased awareness of delicate ecosystems has also placed priority on maintaining original rock shorelines.....fish habitat during spawning seasons. Please appreciate the minimal disturbance to our shoreline.
Is the availability calendar up to date?
We will do our best to update the web page. The calendar will indicate 'Available' or
' Booked'. We will post tentative dates as 'Booked' when payment is received.
We will do our best to update the web page. The calendar will indicate 'Available' or
' Booked'. We will post tentative dates as 'Booked' when payment is received.
What is there to do?
- Summer
For more fun on the water please feel free to use the canoe and various kayaks or paddle boat.
The Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve provides a myriad of interesting and challenging activities for young and young at heart including: hiking, mountain-biking, the Wolf Centre, 'Walk in the Clouds Canopy Tour' and the Astral Observatory....great for looking even closer at the amazing stars in the night sky.
- Winter
One of the main snowmobile trails passes in a north/south direction on the main part of Redstone...just catch the trail....it links Tall Pines and Haliburton Snowmobile Trail systems. If Big Redstone and Kennisis are not yet frozen the Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve is located just 15 minutes north and boasts 200 kms of well groomed trails with small, heated rest facilities interspersed throughout the area. The 'Wildlife' area also has cross-country ski trails, dog sledding and a restaurant. The wolf centre will bring you up close to grey timber wolves in their natural habitat. You might want to try the new Luge run located on the west shore.
- Indoors
There is an LCD TV in the great room and a second TV for playing video games. Bring along a supply of DVDs/VCRs or check out the selection at the cabin. We have Starlink, high speed unlimited wifi, (password required) and access to some streaming services though you can login to your personal streaming services and use our wifi connection. A corner cupboard contains a selection of games, puzzles, books and some binoculars for bird watching. Other activities include table tennis, and Foosball on the lower level.
We have recently created a second lounge area with propane fireplace in the basement....somewhere to send the kids or games/gaming area. It has made the basement warm and inviting.
How Private is Redstone Ridge?
The cabin, covered porches and extensive wrap around deck are completely private....neighbour cottages are out of view. Nearby cottages only become visible as you approach the shoreline and proceed out onto the dock. As we are at the end of East Bay you will see cottages on the north and south shore as you look westerly down the bay.....they are quite distant. Our generous 420' frontage allows for ample 'space' for privacy....having said that, we love our neighbours.....there is a real sense of community on the 'bay'. We trust you will find them so as well.....it is generally about respect for noise and property.
How Private is Redstone Ridge?
The cabin, covered porches and extensive wrap around deck are completely private....neighbour cottages are out of view. Nearby cottages only become visible as you approach the shoreline and proceed out onto the dock. As we are at the end of East Bay you will see cottages on the north and south shore as you look westerly down the bay.....they are quite distant. Our generous 420' frontage allows for ample 'space' for privacy....having said that, we love our neighbours.....there is a real sense of community on the 'bay'. We trust you will find them so as well.....it is generally about respect for noise and property.
Is Security provided?
There is a wifi based security system. The entry is a electronic key less entry. We added 2 exterior security cameras to monitor the property and dock/boats/waterfront for those rare occasions when someone is not enjoying Redstone Ridge. They can be easily disconnected upon arrival and privacy assured. Some guests prefer to leave them connected....the choice is yours.
There is a wifi based security system. The entry is a electronic key less entry. We added 2 exterior security cameras to monitor the property and dock/boats/waterfront for those rare occasions when someone is not enjoying Redstone Ridge. They can be easily disconnected upon arrival and privacy assured. Some guests prefer to leave them connected....the choice is yours.
What do we need to bring?
- Linens
- Kitchen Supplies
- Water Sports
Is the drinking water safe?
The water is from a 200' deep drilled well system. It tastes great and yet is quite soft for washing. Any water test is a measure of current quality and can not guarantee future condition. We drink the water, but you may feel more comfortable bringing your own bottled water. We assume no responsibility for the water beyond the test results.
The water is from a 200' deep drilled well system. It tastes great and yet is quite soft for washing. Any water test is a measure of current quality and can not guarantee future condition. We drink the water, but you may feel more comfortable bringing your own bottled water. We assume no responsibility for the water beyond the test results.
Are guests expected to clean the cottage?
Most cottages in cottage country do NOT include cleaning....guests are required to return the cottage to the state of cleanliness in which it was found. While it is our preference to always provide full cleaning upon departure, services in cottage country are in very short supply and scheduling difficult. Effective Oct 1, 2023 we can no longer assure cleaning services months in advance, so the default is Renters are expected to thoroughly clean and leave the cottage in the state of cleanliness in which it was received IF cleaning service is not available. Rental rates WILL include cleaning and indicated on the rental agreement. If services are not available following a rental, the cleaning fee will not be charged or refunded if already paid. In speaking with our many returning families, this is not a problem.
Cleaning services in remote cottage country are expensive and are averaging $2-300 for cottage rental turnover . This would include kitchen, bath and bedroom hard services/knobs,, garden and entry door windows and damp mop of floors. If self cleaning, departure time will be 2 hours later. As this is a large property with many amenities, we do require some assistance FOR ALL RENTERS on a few items. A Checkout list will be provided with final details the week of arrival. There are additional copies found in the welcome binder on the foyer table:
1. Dog owners are required to vacuum using the Central Vac system, including power head for mats. Extra care is needed for shedding dog breeds.
2. Clean up major spills in the oven.
3. Guests are expected to have dishes washed and returned to cupboards....wash last dishes by hand if necessary.
4. Tea towels, dish cloths etc. washed and in the dryer.... preferably folded and returned to drawers
5. Ashes removed from the fireplace and safely discarded outside. Glass doors cleaned with Easy Off found in the cleaning closet
6. Burn off and thoroughly clean the BBQ grill, remove grease catcher and drip trays from front access and dump/scrape
7. Organize and return all furniture, fixtures, appliances and kitchen items to their original locations
8. Last check of hot tub for PH, Chlorine, water levels, temp (set to max of 104 F)......required whether used by guests or not
These listed items are very time consuming tasks for our housekeeper and could delay arrivals for incoming guests.
Most cottages in cottage country do NOT include cleaning....guests are required to return the cottage to the state of cleanliness in which it was found. While it is our preference to always provide full cleaning upon departure, services in cottage country are in very short supply and scheduling difficult. Effective Oct 1, 2023 we can no longer assure cleaning services months in advance, so the default is Renters are expected to thoroughly clean and leave the cottage in the state of cleanliness in which it was received IF cleaning service is not available. Rental rates WILL include cleaning and indicated on the rental agreement. If services are not available following a rental, the cleaning fee will not be charged or refunded if already paid. In speaking with our many returning families, this is not a problem.
Cleaning services in remote cottage country are expensive and are averaging $2-300 for cottage rental turnover . This would include kitchen, bath and bedroom hard services/knobs,, garden and entry door windows and damp mop of floors. If self cleaning, departure time will be 2 hours later. As this is a large property with many amenities, we do require some assistance FOR ALL RENTERS on a few items. A Checkout list will be provided with final details the week of arrival. There are additional copies found in the welcome binder on the foyer table:
1. Dog owners are required to vacuum using the Central Vac system, including power head for mats. Extra care is needed for shedding dog breeds.
2. Clean up major spills in the oven.
3. Guests are expected to have dishes washed and returned to cupboards....wash last dishes by hand if necessary.
4. Tea towels, dish cloths etc. washed and in the dryer.... preferably folded and returned to drawers
5. Ashes removed from the fireplace and safely discarded outside. Glass doors cleaned with Easy Off found in the cleaning closet
6. Burn off and thoroughly clean the BBQ grill, remove grease catcher and drip trays from front access and dump/scrape
7. Organize and return all furniture, fixtures, appliances and kitchen items to their original locations
8. Last check of hot tub for PH, Chlorine, water levels, temp (set to max of 104 F)......required whether used by guests or not
These listed items are very time consuming tasks for our housekeeper and could delay arrivals for incoming guests.
Are there stairs to the lake?
NEW FALL 2023: Yes, there 21 risers along two sections of wide tread wooden steps with railing. (pic coming soon) There is a natural sloping, chip covered path as well. The cottage is situated on a ridge, (hence the name) giving a nice view of the lake. This is not a level lot and as such will not be suitable for those who may have significant physical challenges. |
Where do we buy groceries and fuel?
The closest store is located in the small village of Eagle Lake....they will have most everything you will need including all food, fuel, propane, wine, beer, and movie rentals. Haliburton is about 30 minutes away and has an 'Independent' food store (Loblaws), upscale Foodland, butcher shop, M & M, several restaurants, beer, liquour, art galleries, hardware and lumber stores, fuel, propane, marinas, and automotive repairs.
The closest store is located in the small village of Eagle Lake....they will have most everything you will need including all food, fuel, propane, wine, beer, and movie rentals. Haliburton is about 30 minutes away and has an 'Independent' food store (Loblaws), upscale Foodland, butcher shop, M & M, several restaurants, beer, liquour, art galleries, hardware and lumber stores, fuel, propane, marinas, and automotive repairs.
What is the road access?
We are located on Boice Bradley Drive, five kilometres north of county road # 14. Boice Bradley is a privately owned road, maintained by the local cottage association. It is a course gravel surface and is accessible by all vehicles in the dry months. Winter often provides more challenge....while front wheel drive vehicles are often able to navigate the road, we require a minimum of one 4 Wheel Drive vehicle or All Wheel Drive....all should have winter tires during the winter months. This is to assure safe access for our guests and avoid inconvenience to our permanent neighbors caused by stuck vehicles blocking the access road. All season tires simply will not manage the hills of the Highlands. Less navigable vehicles can be parked at the private cottager's road entrance and guests shuttled to the cottage.
We are located on Boice Bradley Drive, five kilometres north of county road # 14. Boice Bradley is a privately owned road, maintained by the local cottage association. It is a course gravel surface and is accessible by all vehicles in the dry months. Winter often provides more challenge....while front wheel drive vehicles are often able to navigate the road, we require a minimum of one 4 Wheel Drive vehicle or All Wheel Drive....all should have winter tires during the winter months. This is to assure safe access for our guests and avoid inconvenience to our permanent neighbors caused by stuck vehicles blocking the access road. All season tires simply will not manage the hills of the Highlands. Less navigable vehicles can be parked at the private cottager's road entrance and guests shuttled to the cottage.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are often an important part of the family. We do NOT allow cats at our cottage due to allergies. Responsible dog owners are welcome to bring well house-trained dogs only, to a maximum of two. Please clean up all droppings before your departure from the property. Any damage resulting from the your pet will be deducted from the deposit. Dog owners in particular are required to vacuum the cottage (central vac system) with particular attention to the mats throughout, under sofa, love seat and beds.
Pets are often an important part of the family. We do NOT allow cats at our cottage due to allergies. Responsible dog owners are welcome to bring well house-trained dogs only, to a maximum of two. Please clean up all droppings before your departure from the property. Any damage resulting from the your pet will be deducted from the deposit. Dog owners in particular are required to vacuum the cottage (central vac system) with particular attention to the mats throughout, under sofa, love seat and beds.
Is there telephone service? What about long distance charges?
As of summer 2020 we discontinued the Bell landline service. It has been rarely used by anyone in recent years, including us, as most all guests have cell phones. Reception for all cell users is quite good in and around the cottage, dock areas and on the lake.....other areas such as along the Boice Bradley or Eagle Lake can be intermittent. Haliburton has good cell reception.
As of summer 2020 we discontinued the Bell landline service. It has been rarely used by anyone in recent years, including us, as most all guests have cell phones. Reception for all cell users is quite good in and around the cottage, dock areas and on the lake.....other areas such as along the Boice Bradley or Eagle Lake can be intermittent. Haliburton has good cell reception.
What happens if the barbeque tank runs out of gas?
We keep several tanks in rotation on the grill and extras stored in garden shed. On rare occasions when we've been absent for some time we do ask weekly summer renters to monitor the supply and if necessary to refill during a trip to town for supplies....guests will be reimbursed. Please remember all tanks now have a safety valve.....open slowly or the valve will engage and limit gas supply to burners and not be sufficient to grill
We keep several tanks in rotation on the grill and extras stored in garden shed. On rare occasions when we've been absent for some time we do ask weekly summer renters to monitor the supply and if necessary to refill during a trip to town for supplies....guests will be reimbursed. Please remember all tanks now have a safety valve.....open slowly or the valve will engage and limit gas supply to burners and not be sufficient to grill
What do we do with our garbage?
RECENT CHANGES: The municipality no longer offer the one-time garbage kits which we were happy to provide. They also no longer permit renters to use the colored pass tags.....they are for owners only and if attempted to be used by renters, may be confiscated. Consequently it's PAY AS YOU GO! You can pay the attendant at the entry....now approximately $5.00 minimum charge. GARBAGE MUST BE SORTED, RECYLABLES ARE ACCEPTED FREE, NON RECYBLABLES MUST BE IN CLEAR BAGS, THEY WILL NOT ACCEPT DARK BAGS. There are several dump locations - all garbage must be disposed of before leaving the premises. Hours vary at the various local dumps....see the welcome binder. If you have an open pickup, strongly suggest you take garbage home with you....we do....its just easier! The most important thing is to NEVER leave garbage outside - please use the STEEL garbage containers in the Garden Shed ..... or you may have an unwanted visitors (bears, raccoons etc.)
RECENT CHANGES: The municipality no longer offer the one-time garbage kits which we were happy to provide. They also no longer permit renters to use the colored pass tags.....they are for owners only and if attempted to be used by renters, may be confiscated. Consequently it's PAY AS YOU GO! You can pay the attendant at the entry....now approximately $5.00 minimum charge. GARBAGE MUST BE SORTED, RECYLABLES ARE ACCEPTED FREE, NON RECYBLABLES MUST BE IN CLEAR BAGS, THEY WILL NOT ACCEPT DARK BAGS. There are several dump locations - all garbage must be disposed of before leaving the premises. Hours vary at the various local dumps....see the welcome binder. If you have an open pickup, strongly suggest you take garbage home with you....we do....its just easier! The most important thing is to NEVER leave garbage outside - please use the STEEL garbage containers in the Garden Shed ..... or you may have an unwanted visitors (bears, raccoons etc.)
Do septic systems require special attention?
Only to the extent that you respect the maximum number of guests allowed during your vacation...., most vacation properties are on a septic system and are designed for a certain 'usage'. We also ask that NOTHING be flushed other that bathroom tissue (NO diapers, feminine hygiene products, so-called "flushabe wipes ' (they're NOT) . Septic systems plug easily and we do not want your vacation compromised by improper use. Please do not pour grease/fat down drains - collect in containers until solidified and disposed with your garbage. Please avoid use of anti-bacterial soaps as they destroy bacteria necessary for proper septic system function.
Only to the extent that you respect the maximum number of guests allowed during your vacation...., most vacation properties are on a septic system and are designed for a certain 'usage'. We also ask that NOTHING be flushed other that bathroom tissue (NO diapers, feminine hygiene products, so-called "flushabe wipes ' (they're NOT) . Septic systems plug easily and we do not want your vacation compromised by improper use. Please do not pour grease/fat down drains - collect in containers until solidified and disposed with your garbage. Please avoid use of anti-bacterial soaps as they destroy bacteria necessary for proper septic system function.