A Whimsical Design Journey in Canada’s Cottage Country by Once Upon a Stay

Journey through the charming vacation rentals of Once Upon a Stay, where every space tells a unique story through its decor, blending vintage charm with modern luxury for an unforgettable stay.
Creamsicle sign, cottages for vacation, house cottage
In the heart of a quaint lakeside town, nestled among the whispering pines and shimmering waters of Lake Huron, lies a collection of enchanting vacation rentals by Once Upon a Stay, each with its own tale to tell. These properties bear the signature design touch of founder Carmen Campagnaro, whose unique style is evident in every detail.
Carmen Campagnaro
Meet Carmen Campagnaro, our founder and visionary designer
With a keen eye for whimsy and a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Carmen has transformed each rental into a unique retreat that captures the imagination.
Primary Room Wish lakehouse
A storybook master bedroom at Wish Lakehouse, complete with pastel decor

From the retro charm of Creamsicle to the rustic allure of Li’l Ranch, let’s embark on a journey through these sun-filled spaces.

Creamsicle Reto kitchen, places to visit in ontario in summer
Retro-modern kitchen at Creamsicle
Our adventure begins at Creamsicle, a cottage straight out of a 1970s dream. With its vibrant hues and boho-themed decor, it’s like stepping back in time to the era of bell bottoms and lava lamps.
creamsicle dinning room, once upon a stay
Where vibrant colors and boho decor create a 70s paradise
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Dance the night away under the vibrant disco lights in Creamsicle's retro kitchen

This whimsical retreat boasts three cozy bedrooms and a charming outdoor area overlooking the lake. As the sun sets, guests gather around the fire pits, reminiscing about days gone by and savoring the sweet taste of nostalgia.

Backyard of creamsicle cottage, The fire pit at Creamsicle, is perfect for stargazing and making memories
The fire pit at Creamsicle, is perfect for stargazing and making memories

Our journey then takes us to Sunflower Shores, a chalet brimming with Austrian-inspired charm.

Sunflower shores living room
Rustic elegance and expansive views from the cozy living room at Sunflower Shores

Surrounded by lush greenery and bathed in natural light, this cozy retreat is a haven for nature lovers. After a day of exploring the great outdoors, guests gather on the wrap-around porch to watch the sunset over the lake, the scent of pine mingling with the sound of laughter.

Sunflower shores picnic table
This wrap-around porch at Sunflower Shores is the perfect spot for some morning coffee

Wish Lakehouse adds a fairytale touch to the collection, with its whimsical decor and customized furniture pieces.

The house’s famous life-sized unicorn, Sunshine-Sugar Boots Sparkle-Farts, adds to the magical ambiance. With Lake Huron just steps away, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of lakeside living.

Wish lakehouse, once upon a stay
Meet Wish Lakehouse’s whimsical unicorn, Sunshine-Sugar Boots Sparkle-Farts
wish lakehouse, once upon a stay
Charming decor with pastel colors, at Wish Lakehouse
Next, we arrive at Li’l Ranch, a rustic hideaway nestled on six acres of pristine wilderness. With its TEX-MEX-inspired decor and authentic log cabin charm, this retreat is a true escape from the ordinary.
li'l ranch, Once Upon A Stay
Li'l Ranch, featuring vaulted beamed ceilings and authentic early 1900s wood flooring

Guests can explore the trails, fish in the ponds, or simply relax by the fire, enveloped in the warmth of the wood and the quiet of the forest.

li'l ranch, Once Upon A Stay
Charming rustic vanity at Li’l Ranch
Finally, we venture to On the Rocks, a sanctuary of luxury and elegance. Here Carmen teamed up with her award-winning interior designer sister, Regina Sturrock from Regina Sturrock Design, who turned this lakeside cottage into a masterpiece of style and sophistication.
once upon a stay, on the rocks
once upon a stay, on the rocks
Cozy up for a girls' night at On The Rocks

From the vaulted ceilings to the plush furnishings, every detail exudes opulence. The master bedroom, with its panoramic views of the lake, is a sanctuary of tranquility where guests can unwind in the lap of luxury.

Charming dining for memorable meals at On The Rocks

In each of these whimsical vacation rentals, there is a story waiting to be told. From the nostalgia of days gone by to the promise of new adventures, these spaces are more than just places to stay – they are portals to another world, where charm and character reign supreme. So come, escape the ordinary and embark on your own Once Upon A Stay adventure in Ontario, Canada, where you can find the best cottages for vacation, romantic getaways, and weekend getaways, while exploring the beauty of Lake Huron and the Bruce Peninsula.

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Bookings at Hacienda Hermosa for stays until December 22.