Why Cottages Are the Perfect Family Getaway (And Why Kids Love Them!)

Written By Breanna Brooks

Finding a family-friendly escape that brings everyone together can feel like a challenge in a world filled with screens, schedules, and stress. 

That’s where renting a cottage comes in—especially one designed with connection in mind, like our home-away-from-home – Skipping Rock Cottages in Meaford, Ontario.

Perched on the scenic shores of Georgian Bay, Skipping Rock isn’t just a cottage – it’s a place where childhood memories are made, and families find space to breathe, play, and reconnect. 

From sunny beach days to starlit bonfires, it’s the kind of getaway both kids and parents will treasure (trust us… we go all the time!).

1. Space to Spread Out and Be Comfortable

Unlike hotels or resorts, cottages offer true breathing room. 

At Skipping Rock Cottages, families can stretch out in spacious accommodations featuring multiple bedrooms, two cottages, two fully stocked kitchens, and plenty of cozy nooks for games, naps, or reading. 

There's even a games room with foosball and air hockey, and a wide outdoor space for lawn games like bocce and spike ball.

One recent guest shared:

“We had a great time – it’s the perfect spot and the cottage has everything. We extra appreciate the well-equipped kitchen, and our friends who have a 9-month-old appreciated all the baby and kid items at the house.”
 — Alex, Airbnb Guest, March 2025

At Skipping Rock, even the smallest family members are considered, with high chairs, cribs, and toys available to make parents' lives easier and kids feel right at home.

2. Nature Becomes the Ultimate Playground

At Skipping Rock, nature isn’t just scenery—it’s the main attraction. With a private beach, on-site forest trails, and a 100-foot dock perfect for swim days, outdoor adventure is just steps from the door.

Kids can:

  • Build sandcastles along Georgian Bay

  • Skip rocks (naturally, lol!)

  • Swing life away on the swing set or hammock

  • Explore forest trails and discover native wildlife

  • Feed the bunnies who often hop by for a visit 

  • Pick fruit and veggies from the garden

  • Catch frogs, watch the birds, or collect beach treasures

  • Roam freely in a safe, natural environment

Even furry family members love it here:

“My daughter and I and our dogs really enjoyed our stay on the beach. We couldn't have chosen a better place for our short holidays. We loved our walks along the beach. Meaford deserves exploring on its own.”
 — Galina, VRBO Guest, 2025

With dog-friendly trails and waterfront access, everyone gets to enjoy the outdoors—paws included.

3. Quality Family Time (Without the Distractions)

Skipping Rock Cottages is designed to slow things down and bring families closer. With no traffic noise or hectic schedules, families naturally fall into a rhythm of connection.

Here, bonding looks like:

  • Watching the sunset from the porch 

  • Cooking together in the full kitchen or grilling outside

  • Reading a great book in the rocking chairs or hammock

  • Sharing stories and s’mores around the fire pit

  • Playing board games inside on rainy days

  • Watching the sunset from the porch or dock

  • Stargazing in Meaford’s wide-open skies

These small moments often become the highlights kids remember most.

4. Outdoor Activities for All Ages

Whether you want to relax by the water or chase a new adventure, Skipping Rock is the perfect home base.

On-site activities include:

  • Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding

  • Lawn games, forest hikes, and fishing from the dock

  • Foosball battles in the games room

  • Hot tub and sauna

Nearby experiences:

Everything’s within a short drive—or just steps from your door.

5. A Screen-Free Escape (That Kids Enjoy)

With so much to explore, screen time fades to the background. Kids are too busy:

  • Playing in the water

  • Catching minnows

  • Gathering firewood

  • Building forts

  • Roasting marshmallows under the stars

Add in foosball, lawn games, board games, and cozy movie nights, and there's always something to do… no tablets required.

6. Educational Experiences Disguised as Fun

The best kind of learning happens when kids don’t even realize it. At Skipping Rock, your child might:

  • Learn to identify local wildlife

  • Gain confidence swimming or paddling in the bay

  • Build a fire or spot constellations

  • Explore Meaford’s natural and cultural offerings

These moments build independence, confidence, and a lifelong love for nature.

7. A Stress-Free Vacation for Parents

Travelling with kids can feel like more work than rest, but not here. Skipping Rock blends the comfort of home with the magic of a retreat. With everything you need already in place, parents can relax.

Enjoy:

8. Affordable, Flexible & Built for Groups

With 7 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, Skipping Rock Cottages offers plenty of space for up to 16+ guests to relax and enjoy without feeling overcrowded.

The Cabin and The Loft provide the perfect balance of shared and private spaces, giving everyone the room they need for relaxation and fun.

Whether you're planning a family reunion, a group retreat, or a winter ski getaway, Skipping Rock Cottages offers everything you need for a relaxing and memorable cottage vacation on Georgian Bay.

Book Memories That Last a Lifetime

A cottage vacation at Skipping Rock isn’t just a trip – it’s a return to what really matters: family, connection, nature, and the simple joy of being together.

Whether you're roasting marshmallows, skipping rocks, or discovering the charm of Meaford, this is where stories are written and memories are made.

Book your stay now… the perfect escape is just a click away!

Breanna Brooks
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Spring at Skipping Rock Cottages: A Seasonal Guide & Itinerary