Pine Brae cabins near Perth, On: Guest Experience

On the first night, I fell asleep with the windows open as the storm passed in the distance and the fireflies came around with their own forest magic. After a day of wildlife encounters, hiking, swimming, and watching the sun set over the lake – there was no doubt that the oasis of Pine Brae that owners Connie and Blair created was a special place. If you are lucky enough to visit and stay at one of their two off-the-grid modern cabins, it’ll no doubt be a highlight to the year.

The Low Down

• 20 minutes from Perth.
• Access to Long Lake for swimming, canoe, kayak.
• Short hike into cabin (5-10min). Luggage is driven up by hosts.
• Adults only (18+). No dogs permitted.
• Off-the grid cabins (solar + propane).
• Embrace your wild mane! No hairdryers or hair irons.
• Blissfully no wifi and limited cell reception.
• So. Much. Wildlife.
• The most kind, thoughtful, and eco-conscious hosts
• Book and more info: pinebrae.ca

“Pine Brae is a modern rustic, boutique resort, providing an upscale wilderness experience like no other (…) you can truly enjoy nature’s playground without all the discomforts  of camping.  The property fronts on Long Lake, which offers superior swimming conditions. With only two cabins on this stunning 100 acre lakefront property, Pine Brae offers the privacy and tranquility every nature enthusiast is seeking but seldom finds. ” ~ Pine Brae  

Off The Grid Luxury Cabins

When someone states that they have an off-the-grid cabin, you tend to think that’ll be a little more on the rustic side. The Pine Brae cabins however, are an absolute dream. With running water, flush toilet, fridge, stove, and propane fire pit centered in the screen in porch – there is hardly a want in the world.

I stayed in the Coorie cabin (pictured) which is a one room cabin with king bed, full washroom, and kitchen. The best spot however , was the screened in porch. It is perfectly set up for quiet mornings to enjoy your coffee and breakfast as much as a nighttime retreat with the fire pit and lounger.

The cabin was stoked with everything you needs from cookware, coffee percolator…basically all-the-kitchenware.

Recommendation: Bring a small throw blanket to enjoy evenings/early mornings in the patio and perhaps indoor slippers/wool socks.

Pine Brae Wildlife

When I saw that the property is part magical forest – you’ll see what I mean with all the wildlife around.

If you’re a birder, you’ll absolutely love it. Sitting on the patio, you will be able to hear and watch the birds relatively closely. I was able to identify over a dozen different species thanks to the Nature Guide created by Connie in each cabin. This included two types of woodpeckers, blue herons, nuthatches, and either an eagle or hawk in the distance.

As for other animals, well, deer and racoon came right up to the cabin. There are beavers in the pond that the patio overlooks. And there’s black bears in the area but none that I saw.

Recommendation: bring binoculars and have fun making use of the Nature Guide in your cabin. You can also use the iNaturlist app, if cell reception is strong enough.  Also, like most trails and sites, there are ticks which is easy enough to take precaution against: use bug spray with deet (especially on shoes/legs), wear your socks over your pants (there’s no one around to comment on your fashion), and always to a tick check once inside.

Pine Brae Activities

Catching the sunset from the dock at Long Lake is a must at least once during your stay. There are small decks and Adirondack chairs to lounge in. Or you can do like I did and have a little picnic on the dock while the sunsets. Kindly remember to hike back everything with you.

Besides the fabulous sunset views there’s also a hiking trail (great for plant identification practice!), kayaks, canoe, and swimming.

Recommendation: Bring a headlamp, waterproof case for you phone, and water shoes.

Trails and Treats

If you are staying longer than a few days and want to check out nearby hiking trails, you can download or pick up the Hiking Trails Guide that I specifically made for Perth from Perth Tourism. There are so many nearby options! Don’t forget to stock up on treats from North Folk Cafe in Perth as well – the have the best vegan treats along with incredible gelato, coffee, and kombucha.

Have you stayed here? What aspect did you enjoy most?! Comment below!