Depending on weather and traffic, 2 to 2.5 hours.
The Boathouse is located about 50 feet down-land from the main house, where Chase & Zach live when they're not in Toronto. The Boathouse has its own driveway/parking area.
4 guests is generally the maximum, except in the case of small children or pets. For more on pets, see below.
Yes, it's safe to drink from the tap. Although the water comes from the river, it goes through an ultraviolet lamp that kills 99% of bacteria and is double filtered for sediment and organic waste.
We regret that currently the boathouse is not accessible. Thirteen steps need to be climbed to get inside. If enough demand arises, we're willing to seriously consider installing an elevator or other assistive tech. so the space can serve more visitors. Please reach out to us at welcome@thecobyboathouse.com with questions or concerns about access to the apartment.
Yes. The Gull River is actually one of the cleanest rivers in Kawartha Lakes. Because it's federally protected, the water quality is continually monitored, and we've had the water quality tested twice—each time passing with flying colours. We do, however, recommend you bring or buy water slippers—the shore is predominantly rock. The local Home Hardware carries a variety of water shoes.
Please note: Because it's a healthy river, during the height of Summer there is a healthy amount of plant-life in the water near the shore.
Mild for most. A healthy bird and bat population keep the majority of annoying insects at bay. However, mosquitoes do surge at sunset during the summer. We recommend bringing a small can of bug spray. Complimentary citronella products are also available in the kitchen drawers of the bar.
Bedding and towels are provided. Please do bring your own toiletries. However, we usually have a good stock of extra toothbrushes, toothpaste and body wash in case you forget your own.
Currently, we do not have laundry on-site. We are considering installing a washer/dryer in the future based on feedback. If you're in a pinch, the Coboconk Laundromat is less than 5 minutes away.
There are dedicated outdoor bins for garbage and recycling, which we ask you place your waste in before you leave. Recycling is limited to bottles, cans and small plastic containers (like yogurt cups).
We also offer a compost bin for food waste (exempting meat and bones). You do not need to empty this when you leave.
We allow canoes and kayaks anytime, and small fishing boats on a case by case basis. We're lucky to be located directly across from a public boat launch. As our floating dock is 16 feet / 5.1 metres long, only small watercraft can safely dock. Please note there is an additional docking fee, based on your boat, battery charging requirements, & length of stay. Please reach out to discuss.
Dogs under 50 lbs/23 kg and cats are welcome on a case by case basis. We charge a $125 fee to cover cleaning and the potential for damage. (We want to welcome people with pet allergies, too, so we pay for a special extra-deep clean between bookings when non-human animals stay in the space.)
We do not provide a litter box or litter. And we ask that dogs not use the yard for toileting.
We also ask that you trim/file your pet's nails beforehand so they don't scratch the wooden floors. Booties for dogs may be helpful, if they’re open to it.
Feel free to message us to discuss details.
There are many things to see and do within short driving distance, including
- Create your own Butter Tart Tour: https://buttertarttour.ca
- Hiking & Canoeing in Balsam Lake Provinical Park
- Coboconk Go-Karts & Mini-Putt
- Highlands Cinemas & Cat Sanctuary (in Kinmount)
- Sturgeon Point Golf Club
- Eagan Ridge Resort (Golf, Spa & Restaurant)
- Shopping in Downtown Bobcaygeon
- Birdwatching in the Carden Alvar
Here’s an article about paddling on the Gull River:
https://kawarthasnorthumberland.ca/paddle-the-trent-severn-waterway-the-gull-river-coboconk/
Here’s an article with Top Tips of Things To Do In & Around Coboconk
You can also get some ideas for creating your own custom Kawartha adventure from the Coboconk, Norland & Area Chamber of Commerce