Skip to main content
Entire home

The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)

Photo gallery for The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)

Exterior - The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) (DYSART ET AL)
TV, fireplace, video games, stereo - The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) (DYSART ET AL)
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop - The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) (DYSART ET AL)
Exterior - The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) (DYSART ET AL)
Games room - The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) (DYSART ET AL)
Nestled in a private 2-acre forest, this spacious 3-level retreat offers easy ski-in/ski-out access to Sam's Ski hill and features a hot tub, fire pit, screened gazebo with chimenea & more. Perfect for multiple families or those who want extra space.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Pet-friendly
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space

Add dates for prices

About this property

The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)

  • !!!SKI-IN / SKI-OUT LOCATION!!!

    Spacious 3 level oasis, hidden in a private 2 acre forest, with kitchen and wet bar (basement) 2 living rooms, 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, private office, wrap around porch nestled in meticulously landscaped grounds featuring a hot tub, fire pit, screened in gazebo, lounge area with chimenea & more. This property offers easy ski in/ski out access to Sam's Ski hill in the Winter & bike in/bike out in the summer, along with ample hiking trails at your door step. 10min walk to Eagle Lake. ATV & snowmobile trails galore, hundreds of km of cross country ski trails.
    Fast charging EV station available for our guests!

    Suitable for multiple families!! Two twin sized cots available for extra sleeping.

    Main floor - large fully stocked kitchen with counter top bar and seating area, dining area, living room with TV (Netflix, Prime Disney plus, Spotify), full 4ps bathroom, hallway with closet / mud room and a master bedroom.

    Second floor - 3 bedrooms, full bathroom / laundry

    Lower level - has a second full kitchen, full bathroom, living room with TV, Xbox one with games and DVDs, bedroom with 2 bunk beds (sleeps 4) as well a mud room / equipment room.

    PLEASE NOTE: the lower level can be used is a very private space that has its own separate entrance from the outside but also has access to the rest of the house from the inside. Perfect for in-laws or families that like to be together and still have their own space!

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Ski

  • Ski-in/ski-out access

Pool/Spa

  • Sauna

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 3 bathrooms
  • Hair dryer
  • Shower/bathtub combination

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace

Entertainment

  • Stereo
  • TV
  • Video games

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Office

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • 2 pets total

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Ski-in/ski-out access

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)

General

  • Electric car charging station
  • Garden
  • Property located in a resort

Similar properties

Front of property
Bonnie View Inn
Dysart et al
  • On private beach
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Restaurant
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, 134 reviews
The price is NZ$433
includes taxes & fees
16 July - 17 July
Bonnie View Inn
Compare similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

Pets are allowed
Service animals are welcome, and are exempt from fees
Welcoming dogs only
2 total pets

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

About the area

Located in Dysart et al, this cottage is on a lake. Sir Sam's Ski / Ride and Moon Shadows Estate Winery are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Barnum Creek Nature Reserve and Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve. Rails End Gallery and Arts Centre and Ski-Mazing Water Sports are also worth visiting. Visit our Dysart et al travel guide
View more Cottages in Dysart et al
Map
DYSART ET AL, ON

What's nearby

  • A calm lake with clear water, a wooden dock, and a boat.
    Lake of Bays
    49 min drive - 66.4 km
  • Sir Sam's Ski / Ride
    1 min walk - 0.0 km
  • Eagle Lake
    8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Haliburton Sculpture Forest
    17 min drive - 17.8 km
  • Haliburton Forest and Wild Life Reserve
    29 min drive - 35.2 km

Restaurants

  • Todd's Your Independent Grocer
    20 min drive
  • West Guilford Shopping Centre
    12 min drive
  • Maple Avenue Tap & Grill
    17 min drive
  • Hook Line & Sinker
    18 min drive
  • Kosy Korner
    18 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much is parking at The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna)?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) located?

Located on a lake, this slopeside Dysart et al cottage offers ski-in/ski-out access within 2 miles (3 km) of Sir Sam's Ski / Ride, Eagle Lake and Moose Lake. Bushwolf Lake is 2.9 mi (4.6 km) away.

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.

The Hidden Porch at Sir Sam's (hot tub & sauna) Reviews

Reviews

Exceptional

All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
More informationOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 18 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 18 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 18 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 18 reviews

9.4

Cleanliness

9.6

Location

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Check in and check out process was easy. The host responds to inquiries right away. The area is very safe for kids because its far from the main road. Lots of activities to do, there will be no boring moment. We even saw a family of deer on our second day of stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Keegan P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend stay

Well stocked and large kitchen, good common areas. Lots of indoor activities for inclement weather. There is a small beach about 15-20 mins walking from the cottage in the summer. We didn't get a chance to use the smoker but hot tub, sauna, and bbq all worked perfectly. Thanks Peter!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Hidden Porch experience

Our family had the most amazing stay at this stunning Chalet! The property, as well as the Chalet were exactly as described. The host, Peter was awesome! There was so much space for everyone to enjoy everything included. The kids found the games in the lower level, and enjoyed the outdoor play set and basketball net. The hot tub was one of the highlights for everyone in our group. The beach was a quick drive and perfect with the floating dock for the kids to jump off. Overall, this property has it all! If you’re looking for privacy, a large space for your family to make memories surrounded by nature… I highly recommend “The Hidden Porch!” I would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ian L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a great time. Looking forward to going again next year.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Len G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Xmas stay

Best vrbo we have stayed in yet!!!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Heather A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot!

Perfect for a family getaway! Loved the sauna.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shezana M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great family friendly place

We were so impressed with this property - great amenities. It’s well stocked, clean and located in prime ski location. The host is wonderful.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kaitlyn H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls weekend

We stayed at Peters place for the weekend and there was 9 of us. Very nice place, exactly how it was stated.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shameeza S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer Family Vacation

My family enjoyed our stay, the place was amazing and very big, lots of stuff to do, however, the beach isn’t the best and too small too many people for a small beach! It’s best for relaxing and just hanging out with the family, and that is just what we needed to bonded. The host was very helpful and always there to answer any questions! I will recommend this place for your family vacation!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Monika P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Winter escape

Really enjoyed the outdoor experiences of the fire pit, sauna, hot tub, walking, and skiing. Great place for pets. Lots of space for a group. All the appliances work fine but the dishwasher, stove and double ovens are old tired. I would stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

4/10 Poor

Emmy H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Disliked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

BEWARE. SERIOUS SAFETY CONCERNS.

They promise a shuttle that takes no longer than 15 minutes and a safe parking space. Both turned out to be lies. I was left alone in an unlit parking lot in the middle of the woods near no businesses where I could at least wait in safety. Cell service in this lot is not good and I was told by property management to call an uber because they could not determine when a shuttle would even be able to reach me. The uber driver could not even find the lot. You have to check in and check out at an office off property which is super inconvenient. From the time I checked in to the time I finally arrived at the rental took 3 HOURS. In speaking with their driver, several complaints have been lodged by guests and drivers about proper equipment, towing, snow plows in the weather and Retreatia has done nothing to rectify those issues. They promise convenient, safe travel but take not actions to ensure that will be a reality upon your arrival. The property itself is adorable, but you cannot park near to unload so you have to haul all of your ski bags and luggage uphill through the snow and it is not a short walk. The property also states that it is ski in/ski out. It is not. It states that it is across the street from lifts. Also inaccurate. I have lodged a complaint with VRBO and Retreatia and was promised a response within one day. That was three days ago and the only message I have gotten since that promise was to please give them a review. Well here it is. My stay was terrifying.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful property

Great cottage, amazing outdoor space and ample entertaining space inside!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chris M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Comfortable base for a big group

10 of us came for an for an athletic event and and found this location ideal for socializing, resting and relaxing!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lynda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My family had a wonderful time.

This property was wonderful, the host Peter was so helpful , we couldn’t have asked for better. Looking forward to renting again .
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Andrea T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay!

We loved it there so much, perfectly calming - the property is so beautiful! We absolutely will be back next year :) thank you Peter
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

George D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best rental ever!

Description is short of all that the property offers, more amenities than the listing, everything is working well and well maintained. We enjoyed the hot tub and wood stove sauna, great week all in all. Peter is a pleasure to deal with, easily contacted. highly recommend!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Melanie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome Place!

My husband and I went with our friends for the weekend, it was so much fun! House was clean, neat and everything was in perfect working order. Just a heads up - if you're planning on having a fire bring your own axe to make some kindling ;) We had a fantastic time! Hope to come back again sometime.
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Walt K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Hidden Porch

This property was very well equipped and had more amenities than were listed. The property owner was very responsive to any questions we had and responded within an hour in most cases. We were very pleased with our stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2022