Entire home

Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea

Cottage in Upper Kingsburg with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea

Fireplace, books
Interior
Outdoor dining
Exterior
Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
Perched on the South Shore of Nova Scotia, Writer's Retreat offers a serene coastal escape with sea views and a two-kilometer sand beach. Unwind in the screened porch, stroll to the nearby lake or take advantage of three bedrooms and two full bathrooms.

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen

Add dates for prices

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea

Cottage in Upper Kingsburg with kitchen and patio
Laundry facilities, a garden and barbecues are available at this smoke-free cottage. The cottage boasts a fireplace and offers a kitchen and a washing machine. Guests can appreciate conveniences, such as 2 bathrooms and a fridge, and other amenities include a patio and a microwave.
Guest accommodation at this cottage offers fireplaces and coffee/tea makers. Rooms open to patios. Kitchens offer fridges, stovetops, microwaves and kitchenware and utensils.

Bathrooms include baths or showers and hairdryers. Business-friendly amenities include desks, desk chairs and telephones.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on-site or nearby; fees may apply.

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car required
  • Parking on site

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Iron/ironing board
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the sea

Things to do

  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Surfing/bodyboarding nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • 100% renewable energy
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Garden

Similar properties

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:30 PM
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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
Property Registration Number STR2425B3823

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Map
Riverport, NS

What's nearby

  • Hirtle's Beach - 10 min drive - 5.4 km
  • Ovens Natural Park - 20 min drive - 14.3 km
  • Bluenose II - 28 min drive - 23.5 km
  • St John's Anglican Church - 28 min drive - 23.5 km
  • Lunenburg Visitor Information Centre - 29 min drive - 23.9 km

Restaurants

  • ‪Rose Bay General Store - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪LaHave Bakery - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Becca's Bayport Pub - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Purple Leprechaun Roadhouse - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Ol' Miner Diner - ‬17 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea?

Check-in begins at 3:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea located?

Situated by the sea, this cottage is 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from Hirtle's Beach and within 9 miles (15 km) of Indian Path Commons and LaHave Ferry Terminal. Ovens Natural Park and Fort Point Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Have a question?

AI iconBeta

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

Writer's Retreat: Privacy within sight and sound of the sea Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 46 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 46 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 46 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 46 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jane L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely time at this well-appointed home. We were close to a great hike at Gaff Point and could walk to Hirtle’s Beach as well. Everything was very clean and as it was very chilly the night we arrived, it was wonderful to be able to sit in front of a fire and warm up. The rest of the week was warmer and we especially loved sitting out in the screened porch. We would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Benjamin Q.

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

Lovely place to stay

One of our favorite stops on our tour around the province.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

bonnie r.

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

Beautiful property

A true home away from home fun cottage. A bit of manoevering to get to the beach but well worth it!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ayesha B.

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

Lovely visit

This was our third time staying at Rosalie's cottage and it was as lovely as ever.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Sally T.

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

Our stay in Upper Kingsberg.

We had a wonderful stay at the property close to Hirtles Beach. The house was very comfortable and well equipped. We’ll look forward to a return visit.
Stayed 11 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonnie D.

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

Wonderful stay!

We really enjoyed our stay at Writer's Retreat - it was very clean, comfortable, and well-stocked with everything needed. The privacy, wonderful views and surrounding area exceeded our expectations!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Richard Z.

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

Great cabin

This cabin is beautifully done, with great views and nice decor. Has everything you need and is close to a great general store and a wonderful trail to Gaff Point. Also convenient to Lunenburg and Mahone Bay. Secluded, quiet restful place.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anne T.

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

Beautiful Nova Scotia

Comfortable and well equipped cottage with an extraordinary view. Sitting in the sun on the porch and viewing the cove, wildflowers and evergreen trees was a beautiful experience. The host provided all the information we needed for a wonderful visit.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Country idyll

Perfect country cabin. Every convenience with the atmosphere of a family home. Excellent centre for exploring the Lunenburg area. We watched birds, walked trails, paddled in the sea and panned for gold.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Tim S., Yukon Territory, Canada

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

Rustic Retreat

Quiet, ocean view, and ocean sounds. Comfortable beds.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linda R.

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

Gorgeous location!

Had a wonderful few days at this comfortable cottage that is beautifully located! Host was very responsive- thank you!!
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Olivia H.

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

Wonderful Family Vacation!

We had a wonderful family vacation here! It was a great home base which allowed us to discover Nova Scotia's South Shore and location allowed day trips to Halifax and Peggy's Cove. Hirtle's Beach and Sand Dollar Beach were both convenient and lovely. It was clean and had lots of space for everyone! Owners were easy to communicate with and responsive to questions throughout our stay. It had everything we wanted and more!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roslyn H.

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

Privacy

Very private and quiet. Reminded me of a cabin my family had when I was younger. Well-supplied and owners very accommodating. One would be hard- pressed to find another property as unique.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

David R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The Writer's Retreat was a lovely spot to experience the wild beauty of the Riverport/ Upper Kingsburg area of Nova Scotia. The directions were patiently provided to drive to this house, which had a wonderful view of the water through the downward slope of the extensive lawn.Rabbits, deer, and even a badger were sighted while we were there! It was a comfortable house layout for 3 adults which provided 3 private bedrooms , and 2 bathrooms. A wood burning stove was an additional heating option, though we only used it a few times since the weather was Spring like through our stay in early June. The Rose Bay store was a convenient country store with a variety of foods to cook, as well as wine and cider to accompany them. There is also a restaurant on site to consider if the drive to Bridgewater,or Lunenberg for larger markets is not on the immediate schedule. We also enjoyed the views, beaches, and museums, just short drives away. There is a fun, brief ferry ride, while sitting comfortably in your own car as well. The house was clean and the pictures were accurate.A great choice to explore the region, just about an hour drive from Halifax!
Stayed 9 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Fantastic Spring break in upper KIngsberg

Authentic family holiday cottage. The house is very comfortable and full of character and personal touches. The view of the waves crashing against the rocks on Goff Point is spectacular. Hirtles Bay beach is a joy to walk along. Lots of wildlife -deer, porcupines, ospreys plunging into the bay to take fish! A wonderful place!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Melinda S.

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

Beautiful Rustic Cottage

Overall, this rustic cottage was a great place to stay. Daily walks to the beach were fabulous as was the beach itself. The walking paths to the beach might be challenging for some and it took a bit to find the access points. The screened in porch was nice and the southern exposure deck has a lovely view of the ocean. One of the bedrooms is an open loft area. It was definitely very private and relaxing with the sound of waves in the distance. Would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jane O.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great spot, as advertised

A wonderful place to get away from it all. The cottage came as advertised; very clean and well-stocked (a new vegetable peeler in the kitchen would be nice!). Location is wonderful for solitude and relaxation. Look out for deer - they are everywhere, and we came inches from hitting one in the fog one night. Rosalie (and Oliver) was very attentive to our needs, and responded very quickly whenever we had a query, like finding the key to get in.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Bob B.

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

Charming quiet cottage

Set in rolling hills with views and sounds of the sea and surf, this cozy, clean, well-equipped cottage deserves its many 5-star reviews . The master bedroom and the loft, each with a full bathroom, were perfect for two couples. There are two interesting paths to the beach. We delighted in the outdoor warm water shower for salt and sand removal and the spectacular dark sky views of stars and the Milky Way. Rosalie, a writer and university educator, was a pleasure to work with (her books are now on our reading list). We look forward to our next visit to Writer's Retreat. Thanks, Rosalie.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jacob B.

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

Great Stay At Writer's Retreat

My wife and I had a wonderful week at this rustic and well appointed cottage in Upper Kingsburg. The place was clean, comfortable, and has a completely outfitted kitchen. Most importantly, the bed in the master bedroom slept well. The location is gorgeous. The sound of the surf on Hirtle's Beach was a constant companion. The hike around Gaff Point is a must. The scenery is fantastic and the trail is moderate with some sections crisscrossed by tree roots. Stay safely back from the eroding cliff edges - if you're sensible you'll be fine. If the fates allow it, we'll be back some day for another stay, without question! PS. Don't miss having a meal at the Rosebay General Store. The lobster roll there is the best I've had anywhere.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

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

Enjoyable stay!

Great location and excellent accommodation. Kitchen very well equipped.
Stayed 13 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ayesha B.

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

beautiful and relaxing ocean view cottage

This is the second time we've stayed at Rosalie's cottage and we had a lovely time! The cottage is very clean and well-cared for. This is a lovely place to watch the ocean from a distance and relax in the Sun. Its a short walk or drive to Hirtle Beach (though you should look out for ticks if you do walk). The only issue we had this trip was a leak coming through the roof during a very intense rainstorm. Rosalie was very responsive when we let her know and it sounds like it'll get all fixed up soon! We would definitely stay again and recommend the cottage for others.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

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

Another great stay in Kingsburg

This is our second stay here and it was great again. Cottage was in great condition when we arrived, and the privacy and proximity to Hirtle's Beach can't be beat. We're looking forward to visiting again!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Steve M.

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

Enjoyed our stay!

The place exactly how it appeared in the photos. It was very comfortable and we found it easy to relax. A short walk to Hirtle’s beach, and a short drive to Kingsburg Beach, the place is well situated. was convenient Having the washer and dryer was a plus.
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lexie L.

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

Oasis by the ocean

Delighted by the beautiful walking trails and the peaceful setting. So we'll equipped and comfortable
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Christiane Q.

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

Formidable très très bien

Très très bien
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2021