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How to say “No” this November

Saying “No” in November: Embracing Self-Care, Family Time, and Relaxation

In a world that often glorifies constant busyness, November presents the perfect opportunity to embrace a different narrative.

This month, let’s challenge the norm and prioritize the self-care, family time, and genuine connection. Here’s how to gracefully say “no” this November, allowing space for what truly matters.

Step 1: Set Boundaries

Learn to set clear boundaries, both at work and in your personal life. Take a pause and ask yourself “does this activity align with my priorities?” or “do I really want to do this?”

Respect your time and energy, and others will too.

Step 2: Learn to Say “No” Gracefully

As social creatures, we have a desire to please others and to be looked upon favourably. This can lead to overcommitting and stretching yourself too thin out of a misplaced sense of obligation. Practice saying “no” gracefully and without guilt.

Remember: Saying “no” to one thing means saying “yes” to something more meaningful.


Step 3: Embrace JOMO

Swap FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) for JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out). Revel in the joy of spending your time YOUR way. Whether that be staying in, escaping to a tiny cabin in the woods, reading a book, or simply lounging with your loved ones. Realize that the most fulfilling moments often happen in the quiet moments.

Check out this book for more tips: The Joy of Missing Out: Live More by Doing Less by Tonya Dalton


Step 4: Prioritize Quality Time with Family or Friends

Spend quality time with your family or friends. Engage in meaningful conversations, cooking together, or outdoor activities. These moments create lasting bonds and beautiful memories, far more valuable than material possessions.

Click HERE to view our kid friendly cabins or HERE for cabins that can accommodate 3+ people

Step 5: Gratitude and Intentional Giving

Cultivate gratitude for what you HAVE rather than what you’re told you need. Reflect on the blessings in your life, fostering contentment and reducing the urge to constantly chase after more.

Instead of participating in the commercial frenzy of the holiday season, maybe opt for DIY or experiential gifts. Handmade presents and heartfelt gestures convey love and care, embodying the true spirit of giving.

CABINSCAPE offers gift cards to provide your loved ones with the gift of adventure, or (if gifts are your thing) explore slow-fashion Canadian brands like Onderbroeks whose cabin-wear is featured throughout this article.


November is the ideal month to shift focus from the external demands of a bustling world to the internal needs of your well-being and relationships. By saying “no” to unnecessary obligations and embracing what matters to you, you pave the way for a more fulfilling, balanced life. This November, let your “no” be a powerful affirmation of your priorities, leading you toward a more meaningful and harmonious existence.

BOOK YOUR CABIN ESCAPE

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Kassandra Melnyk Photography and Onderbroeks
IG @kassandramelnykphoto
Website: www.onderbroeks.ca

Sources: Article by Dr. Jennifer Hartstein, The Joy of Missing Out: Live More by Doing Less by Tonya Dalton

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Ontario Group Getaways

Planning Your Group Getaway to Ontario’s Best Tiny Cabins

Looking to break free from the hustle and bustle of city life?

Gather your squad and head to the serene woods of Ontario for an unforgettable group getaway in our cozy tiny cabins!

Here’s how to plan the ultimate adventure:

1. Choose Your Crew:

Round up your closest friends or family members who share your love for nature and adventure. From intimate gatherings to larger friend groups, our tiny off-grid cabins can accommodate groups of up to 35 people!

2. Pick Your Neighbouring Cabins:

Explore our selection of charming 2 to 4 person cabins nestled in the heart of Ontario’s wilderness:

HALIBURTON

These Base Camp Cabins are located in Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve and surrounded by beautiful forest lots, giving you that elevated camping feeling (but with the convenience of an indoor toilet and kitchenette!)

Moss, Pine, and Sage Cabins are about 100 meters apart from one another, offering guests relative privacy with the comfort of knowing others are close by. These three cabins are identical in design with lofted queen beds, and each has their own fire pit, BBQ, and picnic table.

Looking for amazing sunsets and lakefront views for you and a few friends? Our Bone and Baylight Cabins both reside on on Bone Lake, a gorgeous and private lake in Haliburton Forest & Wild Life Reserve.

These cabins are a medium remoteness level, so just a 10 minute drive from the main office/lodge at Haliburton Forest with access to their extensive trail network, outdoor adventure activities, camp store and restaurant!

Our remote Cove and Quasi Cabins are our largest, 4-person models and nestled together on their own private lake. At just 300 meters apart, they are the perfect base camp for adventure loving groups wanting a place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the Haliburton Highlands. Each cabin features a lower queen-sized bed and queen loft bed.

One lake over is Duck Lake, where Willow and Kaya Cabin reside. Each 3-person cabin is located on their own private lot approximately 200 metres apart. (For an extra 3-person cabin nearby, Big Rock Cabin is just a short distance away, followed by the aforementioned Cove and Quasi cabins a little further down the road!) If renting all 5 cabins in this area, you could host 17 people.

Calabogie

Our Calabogie cabins (Finch, Starling and Wren) are located on the forested grounds of Calabogie Peaks Resort, suspended above the shores of Calabogie Lake near the base of Dickson Mountain.

Each cabin (spaced 200-300 meters apart on separate lots) offers picturesque views of the lake and land below with direct access to some of the best hiking trails in Southern Ontario.

These cabins are ideal for groups who prefer to be close to amenities with access to lots of outdoor activities!

Kawarthas

Looking for a large group retreat or family reunion? Our Cabinscape Kawarthas property can accommodate up to 35 guests between our cabins, bunkies, and tents! (Contact us a bookings@cabinscape.com for group pricing discounts, 10 people+)

This magnificent 230 acre property overlooks a sparkling blue, spring-fed lake in Kirkfield, Ontario – with dreamy desert-like vistas and a communal dock area for gathering.

For a smaller group of 6 or 9, book out a few of our neighbouring 3-person waterfront cabins!

In addition to indoor/outdoor showers in the summer months, each cabin has their own campfire area, private water access, and a paddle board rental to explore on! The perfect escape for a relaxing long weekend!

Tucked into the meadows of our Kawartha property are our 4 x two-person micro cabins! Callalily and Buttercup are the closest in proximity, but Bluebell and Marigold are not too far away and only steps away from our on-site hiking trail.

Each of our six off-grid canvas tents lies on its own shaded and secluded forest lot. All tents come with their own fire pit, outdoor twinkle lights, a picnic table and Muskoka chairs, with a shared comfort station and showers (in the summer months) centrally located. Explore Cress, Sorrel, Senna, Yarrow, Stargrass, and Cicely Tents.

The meadow cabins and tents have access to our communal dock with paddle board rentals available, so all guests can take advantage of this truly epic location!

lanark County

Meet Mica and Rhya Cabins, some of our most remote “Cabinscapes” to date. These off-grid retreats are just 400 meters apart and located in Eastern Ontario on Rideau Valley Conservation land in beautiful Tay Valley.

The cabins overlooks a quiet, protected lake and is surrounded by wilderness. Enjoy evening sunsets from your deck, hiking trails off your doorstep, bird watching and pristine paddling on Mills Lake.

Plan Your Activities:

Embark on outdoor excursions right from your doorstep! Hike scenic trails, roast marshmallows around a crackling fire, paddle on the lake, or simply reconnect amidst the tranquility of nature. Visit these handy guides for nearby adventure activities around our cabins in: HALIBURTON / KAWARTHAS / LANARK / CALABOGIE

Consider Logistics:

Coordinate travel plans, meal arrangements, and packing the essentials like bedding, firewood, and food, in advance to ensure a seamless experience for everyone.

Our cabins are equipped with jugs of drinking water, indoor composting toilets, kitchen essentials, and other amenities to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Embrace the Moment:

Disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. Bond with your group over shared experiences, laughter, and the simple joys of cabin life.

Ready to escape to the wild? Start planning your group getaway at our tiny cabin rentals in Ontario today!

BOOK YOUR GROUP ESCAPE

Blog Written by: Sarah Vander Zaag, Photo credits: Vinisha Lalchand (Wren), Tori Baird (Starling), Taylor Yhap (Moss), Bri Wardle (Hawkweed), Erica Lewis (Woodrush), Cassidy Chambers (Buttercup), Bianca Compagnoni

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Cabincore: Home Style Guide

How to Style Your Home to Feel Like a Cozy Cabin

Are you dreaming of the tranquil charm of a cozy cabin nestled in the woods? Transforming your home into a rustic retreat is easier than you think.

Here are some “cabincore” design tips to infuse your space with the warmth and coziness of a cabin in the woods:

Layered Textures

Create depth and dimension in your space by layering different textures. Mix and match cozy fabrics like faux fur, chunky knits, and soft blankets to add visual interest and tactile comfort.

Traditional Tools

An old-fashioned stovetop kettle and french press offer a timeless style and grounds us in a morning ritual that wakes up all the senses.

Books & Personal Touches

Incorporate personal touches and cherished keepsakes that reflect your love for the outdoors. Display favourite books, vintage maps, hiking gear, and photos from outdoor adventures to add character and warmth to your space.

Embrace Natural Elements

Incorporate natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather into your décor. Opt for furniture pieces with a distressed finish or reclaimed wood for that rustic appeal.

Plaid


Plaid can enhance the design and coziness of a home by adding a timeless and comforting aesthetic that evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Whether used in throw blankets, pillows, or upholstery, plaid patterns infuse a space with rustic charm and visual interest, creating a cozy space reminiscent of traditional cabin living.

Comfort Is Key

If embracing the full cabincore life, adopt it in your own style too! Celebrates simplicity, comfort, and a deep appreciation for nature with chunky knit sweaters, flannel shirts, wool socks, and sturdy boots or slippers.

Bring the Outdoors In

Incorporate elements of nature into your décor, such as botanical prints, landscape paintings, and nature-inspired artwork. Display fresh greenery, branches in rustic vases, or even a favourite paddle.

Cozy Lighting

Set the mood with warm, ambient lighting. Opt for soft, diffused lighting fixtures like table lamps, string lights, and lanterns to create a welcoming glow reminiscent of a cabin retreat.

Warm Colour Palette

Choose earthy tones like deep browns, warm neutrals, forest greens, and rich reds to create a cozy ambiance reminiscent of the outdoors. Add pops of colour with throws, wool rugs, and accent pillows inspired by nature.

Grab our Cabin in the Woods Palette Print for inspo!

Woodsy Scents

If you have a fireplace, make it the focal point of your living space. If you’re limited to only outdoor fires (like at our cabins!) adorn the mantel with nature-inspired candles to enhance the cozy ambiance and charm all the senses.

Our bespoke Cabin in the Woods Candle is the perfect soothing forest medley of balsam, sage, cedarwood, and morning dew.

By incorporating these simple tips and embracing the rustic charm of cabin living, you can create a cozy retreat in the comfort of your own home. Let the beauty of nature guide you or visit a Cabinscape Cabin across Ontario to be inspired!

BOOK YOUR CABIN IN THE WOODS

Written by Sarah Vander Zaag

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The Perfect Valentines Day Experience

Top 7 Ideas for Sharing the Love this Valentines Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches, the pressure to plan the perfect romantic outing can sometimes feel overwhelming. Flowers, chocolates, and candlelit dinners are classic choices, but why not step outside the box this year?

From exhilarating hikes to romantic stargazing sessions, here are seven outdoor activities that are sure to make this Valentine’s Day one to remember:

A Sunrise Hike

Start the day on a breathtaking note by embarking on a sunrise hike together. Choose a nearby scenic trail (like the famous Eagle’s Nest close to our Calabogie Cabins– Starling, Finch, or Wren) with a vantage point that offers sweeping views. Witnessing the first light of day together will create a magical and unforgettable experience.

Try a New Experience Together

For the more adventurous souls, why not try your hand at ice climbing, snowmobiling, or wildlife spotting? Embrace the thrill of discovery as you encounter majestic creatures in their natural habitats, from playful wolves (viewed from the safety of the observation room at the Haliburton Forest Wolf Centre) to elusive deer.


Pack a Picnic

What better way to cap off a day of exploration than with a romantic picnic amidst the splendor of the woods? Pack a few of you and your partner’s favourite treats, uncork a bottle of wine, and savour each bite as you soak in the sights and sounds of nature all around you.

We can even have a special moment prepared for your arrival, with our Irresistible Romance Kit to set the romantic mood!


Capture the Moment

The ultimate gift? Memories to look back on. If you’re celebrating a special occasion during your Cabinscape stay (whether that be an anniversary, surprise engagement, or life milestone), our Celebration Photography Package will add that extra touch of magic, with none of the stress.

You’ll receive a full gallery of professional photos amidst a woodland backdrop, and it even comes with wine and treats!


Split a Smore Around the Fire

Cozying up to a crackling fire as you share stories and laughter late into the night is a core-memory waiting to happen. Pretend you’re lady and the tramp with a spaghetti noodle, but swap it for a gooey marshmallow instead!


Stargazing Under the Stars:

Escape the city lights and head to our remote cabins where you can stargaze together under the vast night sky. Bring blankets, cozy up together, and marvel at the beauty of the stars while sharing dreams amidst the peaceful night.

Check out our guide for upcoming celestial events to enjoy!


Take a Nature Walk Hand-In-Hand

The areas surrounding our cabins offer a plethora of activities to suit every adventurer’s taste. Take a leisurely hike together along scenic trails or explore tranquil lakes and breathtaking vistas, all waiting to be discovered just beyond your doorstep.

Here is a list to the best hikes (or snowshoe trails) near our cabins!

This Valentine’s Day, dare to be different. Trade crowded restaurants and clichéd gestures for an intimate woodland retreat that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner, friends, or cherished loved ones, our tiny cabins in the woods offer the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary this season of love. Book your woodland retreat today!

BOOK YOUR CABIN ESCAPE

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Allyson Elizabet, Heather Kerrison & Max Power, Bri Wardle, Michael Tan,
Liz – The Organic Moment

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Hiking Tips for Accessing Our Off-Grid Cabins

Hiking Tips for Accessing Our Off-Grid Cabins

Winter transforms Ontario’s woodlands into a magical wonderland, and what better way to experience it than by hiking in to our off-grid cabins nestled deep in the snowy forests?

Here are our top tips for an adventurous and safe winter hike to your cozy cabin retreat!

Know Your Route

Familiarize yourself with the directions and distances (found in your welcome email sent to you one week prior to your stay) before embarking on your hike. Keep an eye out for trail markers and signs along the way!

If you’re feeling lost, don’t panic! Our Cabinscape text support line is available to provide guidance between 8am-8pm (number in welcome email).

Give Yourself Time

Check-in at our cabins is at either 3 or 4pm (you can find this info under the FAQs on your cabins web page), so plan to arrive with plenty of daylight to get yourself situated at the cabin before the sun sets. We highly recommend that you start your hike before the check in time – our trails are well marked but it is easier to miss signs in the dark.

Check the Weather

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so stay updated on forecasts and conditions before heading out.

Pack Light, Pack Right

If hiking in after the sun has set, be sure to pack a flashlight or head-torch (and maybe some heat packs if your extremities get cold quickly and you have a longer trek)

Check out our handy guide here: THINGS TO BRING for a packing list, and to learn what’s already included at the cabin.

We provide a Pelican Pull Sled (or wagon when there is no snow) to assist you with hauling in your gear! This will be waiting for you at the parking area of your cabin.

Gear Up for the Cold

Bundle up like a pro! Opt for breathable layers, waterproof outerwear, sturdy boots with good traction, and don’t forget your trusty mittens and toque.

We provide two sets of snowshoes as well so your feet can stay warm, dry, and conquer those trails!

Embrace the Winter Wildlife

Keep your eyes peeled for signs of wildlife along the trail—tracks in the snow, rustling in the trees, or the occasional glimpse of a furry friend sharing their home with you!

Respect “Leave No Trace” Principles

Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but memories! As there is no garbage services at our off-grid cabins, we ask that you pack out all your garbage and leave the wilderness as pristine as you found it. Let’s keep Ontario’s forests wild and beautiful for generations to come!


Most importantly, we hope you enjoy the adventure! Winter hiking isn’t just about reaching your destination—it’s about the journey. Take your time, savour the sights and sounds of the forest, and embrace the serenity of the snowy landscape.

Adventure awaits, explorers! See you on the trails!

BOOK YOUR CABIN ESCAPE

If you decided hiking wasn’t for you we also have some great low-remote and drive-up cabins! Read our handy blog here to find your PERFECT CABIN MATCH! Or travel to your cabin in style with our 4WD shuttle delivery- this is available for our Haliburton Base Camp Cabins (Moss, Pine, Sage, Ivy, Jade) and our Haberman Road High Remotness Cabins (Willow, Cove, Kaya, Big Rock, and Quasi)

Blog by: Sarah Vander Zaag & Photo Credits: Chris and Nicole, thisis.jaeh

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Top Spooky Movies

Scary Movies to Watch at our Cabins!

As the autumn leaves fall and the nights grow longer, there’s no better way to embrace the spirit of spooky season than with a cozy movie night in your tiny, off-grid cabin deep in the woods. Whether you’re seeking spine-tingling scares, eerie mysteries, or feel-good nostalgia, we’ve curated a list of the top spooky movies that are perfect for your fall escape!

Bring your device with pre-downloaded movies, snuggle up, dim the lights, and prepare for a cinematic adventure that will send shivers down your spine.

The Cabin in the Woods (2011)

For the Gore/Horror Fans

A perfect blend of horror and humor, “The Cabin in the Woods” takes the classic cabin retreat scenario and twists it into something entirely unexpected. This movie promises frights, surprises, and a fresh take on the horror genre.

92% on Rotten Tomatos

Hocus Pocus 1 (1993) & 2 (2022)

For the Kids & Kids at Heart

A magical Halloween comedy film where three witches wreak havoc as they try to maintain their immortality by stealing the life force of children, leading to a hilarious and heartwarming adventure filled with spells, humour, and camaraderie.

Monster Squad (1987)

For the 80’s Retro Vibes

A nostalgic adventure where a group of young friends, armed with their knowledge of classic movie monsters, must band together to stop Dracula and his monstrous minions from taking over the world.

The Shining (1980)

A Quintessential Horror

A psychological horror masterpiece directed by Stanley Kubrick, depicting a writer and his family’s descent into madness while isolated in an eerie, haunted hotel during the winter.

83% on Rotten Tomatoes

Goosebumps (2015)

For the Jack Black Fans

A family-friendly adventure film where a group of teenagers discovers R.L. Stine’s manuscripts, unleashing the imaginative monsters from his books into the real world. Together, they must work with the reclusive author to capture the creatures and save their town!

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

NOT for the Faint of Heart

Set in the eerie Black Hills Forest, this film follows a group of filmmakers investigating a local legend. Its raw, documentary-style approach creates a sense of realism that will make you question what’s lurking outside your own cabin door.

86% on Rotten Tomatoes

BeetleJuice (1988)

For the Tim Burton Fans

Enjoy a darkly comedic fantasy where a deceased couple employs a mischievous ghost named Beetlejuice to scare away the new inhabitants of their former home. Tim Burton film is a whimsical and visually inventive exploration of the afterlife, featuring memorable characters and supernatural shenanigans.

86% on Rotten Tomatoes

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: 1 (2010)

For the Harry Potter Fans

Harry, Ron, and Hermione embark on a perilous journey to find and destroy Voldemort’s Horcruxes, leading them into the heart of darkness, where their friendship and courage are tested at every turn.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

For the Musical Lovers

A cult classic musical-comedy where a newly engaged couple find themselves trapped in the mansion of the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter. Amidst bizarre and outrageous events, they encounter a cast of peculiar characters and participate in a unique, glam-rock inspired tale of love, seduction, and acceptance.

The Witch (2015)

For the Supernatural Horror Fans

Transport yourself to 1630s New England with this atmospheric horror film. “The Witch” follows a Puritan family encountering supernatural forces in the woods beyond their farm. Its eerie ambiance and chilling storyline make it a must-watch for those craving a genuine scare amidst the wilderness.

90% on Rotten Tomatoes

With the crisp air and the rustle of leaves as your soundtrack, these spooky movies will enhance the ambiance of your fall getaway in your tiny, off-grid cabin. So, book your cabin, dim the lights. and let these cinematic tales weave their magic in the heart of the woods.

BOOK YOUR CABIN IN THE WOODS

Cabin Photo Credit: Denim Fradette, Written by Sarah Vander Zaag, Movie Poster & Film Credits to the original creator