After a long work week and what felt like an endless stretch of rainy spring days, our family was more than ready to unplug and unwind. So on Friday, May 23rd, we packed up the car — myself, my husband Andrew, our two boys, Ryker (6) and Colin (2), and our German Shepherd, Mylah — and hit the road for Meisel House, one of our hidden gem properties nestled within the Meisel Conservation Woods near Sharbot Lake, Ontario.
We were soon joined by the rest of our weekend crew: my mom, Lynne, my brother Ben, and his girlfriend, Jess. They drove in via Highway 7 while we opted for the 401. Either route makes the cottage easily accessible — a nice perk for families coming from different directions, making Meisel House the perfect spot to reconnect!
First Impressions
Even the drive up the winding cottage road was exciting — each curve adding a bit more anticipation. The house was exactly as described, yet still full of surprises. Meisel House is like stepping into a beautifully preserved time capsule from the 1960s. No TV, no Wi-Fi, not even a microwave — and yet, not a single thing was missing. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and connect in a way most modern cottages don’t.
The access was seamless — the preset door code made for an easy check-in. We arrived just ahead of the rest of the family, so Andrew and I took the opportunity to capture some drone footage of the property (which you’ll be seeing on our social media and listing soon!). Surrounded by towering trees, a private lake, and total silence — Meisel House really is an escape within an escape.
Retro Charm & Unique Details
There’s no shortage of charm here. From the record player with its vintage vinyl collection to the indoor conservatory with lush plants and trees, it feels like you’re living in a storybook. A chandelier designed for candles hangs over the dining room table, while a 360° fireplace sits proudly in the center of the house.
The layout is as quirky as it is cozy: barn doors on some bedrooms, open entrances to others, and even a wood-fired sauna outside, down the little path. The bedrooms were ideal for our crew: the kids loved the massive bunk room full of retro toys (and yes, a foosball table!), while my mom settled into a comfy room with two twin beds next door.
The “lake view room” upstairs became Ben and Jess’s home for the weekend — it overlooks the private lake and catches the sun beautifully. Andrew and I took the top floor room with a balcony, figuring the boys would come find us there in the morning. (Spoiler: they did.)
Two full bathrooms meant no morning traffic jams, even with seven of us.
Saturday: Hikes, Games & Local Goodies
Saturday morning, we cooked up a big breakfast in the fully equipped kitchen and then hit the trails — right from the driveway! The hikes were a perfect mix of moderate and adventurous. Ryker led the pack with enthusiasm, while Colin got the VIP treatment with a few piggyback rides. Mylah had the time of her life running between us, keeping our little pack together.
After our hike, my mom and I took a short drive into town to check out Seed to Sausage, a local butcher shop. If you’re ever in the area — go. Their charcuterie, bacon, and breakfast sausages were a hit. Great pricing and even better flavors.
While Colin napped later in the afternoon, Ryker, my mom, and I tackled a second, slightly easier hike. Then it was time for showers — which were hot, had great pressure, and felt amazing after a long day outside.
Evenings at Meisel House were all about good food and even better company. My brother grilled steaks and veggies, I whipped up baked potatoes, and Andrew took the drone out again to capture the golden hour glow. Once the kids went to bed, we played cards, cracked open a bottle of wine, and laughed late into the night.
Sunday: Soaking It All In
Sunday came too soon. I made breakfast sandwiches with our Seed to Sausage haul, and we took one last walk down to the dock. The boys enjoyed the zip line (a major highlight for Ryker) and the tree swing, while we soaked in a few final moments of sunshine and serenity.
Packing up was quick and easy. As we drove away, we all agreed: Meisel House had given us a weekend full of peace, laughter, adventure, and memories.
Would we come back? In a heartbeat.
Whether you’re looking for a digital detox, a creative recharge, or just a chance to reconnect with nature and family, Meisel House is the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave.
Stay tuned for our videos on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok — and if you’re thinking about booking, don’t wait too long. This hidden gem won’t stay a secret forever.
