No crowds, no noise,
Just the lake, the willows
and the two of you.
A Place to Wander
Storybook landscapes inspired by the timeless countryside tale, The Wind in the Willows, surround the property.
Garden paths weave through mature trees, ponds, and hidden seating places before reaching the quiet edge of the lake.
A Walk Through the Gardens
Follow the paths and discover the quiet rhythm of life at Wind in the Willows.
The Guest Suite
A private guest suite overlooking the gardens and lake.
Enter through the gardens, passing a quiet pond, into a secluded wellness area with a private pool and steam shower. The space opens into a bright cathedral-ceiling room with skylights and a fireplace.
Designed for comfort and ease, the suite includes a king-bed, seating area, dining for two, refreshment nook, wardrobe, and private ensuite.
Feature Highlights
• Private pool & steam shower entrance
• King-size bed & ensuite bathroom
• Cathedral ceilings & skylights
• Refreshment nook with fridge, toaster oven, microwave & Keurig coffee
Mole End
A quiet hideaway nestled into the hillside just inches from the water's edge, one of the most peaceful places on the property to sit, read, and listen to the lake.
Mole End - Upper Patio
Above the hillside, the quiet patio unfolds between a covered gazebo and a sunlit deck with lounge chairs, inviting relaxed afternoons by the lake before the path begins its descent to the lakeshore.
Mole's Den
Hidden within the hillside on the lake, the den opens to sweeping views of the lake — a cozy refuge to read by the fire, and watch the changing seasons and passing storms unfold across the water.
An outdoor kitchen and barbecue sit beside the gazebo, offering a quiet place to prepare and share meals before heading down to the water.
Hidden Places of the Willows
Tucked among the gardens are quiet places inspired by the storybook world of The Wind in the Willows.
Each offers its own character; a place to pause, gather, or simply watch the lake.
The Wild Wood
Beneath a canopy of mature trees, a rustic flagstone path winds through the shaded garden, leading quietly toward Otter's House.
Otter's House
Tucked beneath a covered gazebo, the hot tub rests among the trees with views of the lake — a quiet riverbank retreat inspired by the playful home of the otters.
The New Moon
Gather beneath the covered garden arbour for open-air dining beside the warm glow of the chiminea, where the lake stretches before you and sunrise and sunset unfold across the water.
Ratty's Hideaway
Settle into the lakeside and watch the quiet rhythm of the water, where the spacious deck and comfortable seating invite long, quiet moments beside the changing light of the lake.
Toad Castle
Found along the garden paths, this handcrafted brick castle offers a charming place to gather, inspired by the grand imagination of Toad himself.
Toad Hall
Inspired by Toad's grand hall, this small garden landmark sits beside Toad Castle, quietly overlooking the gardens toward the lake.
The Lake
The lake shapes every moment at Wind in the Willows, from quiet mornings at the water's edge to changing skies and passing storms that bring the landscape to life.
Guest Experiences
With 75+ consecutive five-star reviews, our guests often describe their stay as stepping into a 'Wind in the Willows' storybook.
We're honoured to share a few highlights of the magical experiences our guests cherish most.
Saran S
Our stay at Wind in the Willows was nothing short of magical. The entire property feels like stepping straight into the pages of the book—peaceful, whimsical, and full of little surprises. The cozy room we stayed in was perfect, and the indoor pool and hot tub overlooking the lake made the experience unforgettable.
One of our favourite parts was the small underground room facing the lake—just like a little mole house—with a TV, heater, and the coziest atmosphere. Every corner of this place has a story to tell.
Lauren
We had a wonderful stay…it was above and beyond our expectations. The property was spectacular and we had such a relaxing time enjoying the pool, steam shower and the hot tub with views of the lake. The breakfast supplies were delicious and all the decorative lighting in the suite was beautiful. We will definitely come back.
Jeff
To say this is a hidden gem is an understatement. Terry and Christi were very friendly and helpful.
The photos don’t do it justice. The garden is out of a fairy tale, and the water view is breathtaking.
10/10 . We can’t wait to come back.
Your Stay Includes
Dining
In-suite dining overlooking the pool
Sea Turtle Pond
Garden dining beside the water
Toad's Table
Set near the hot tub
New Moon Arbour
Evening dinging with soft lighting and fire
Ratty's Upper Deck
Lakeside dining above the water
Mole End
Outdoor kitchen and barbecue
Private chef can be arranged during
high season upon request
Personal Wellness
Private indoor pool
In-room steam shower
Otter's House Hot Tub
Covered and overlooking the lake
Ratty's Upper & Lower Deck
Open space for yoga and reflection
Mole's Den
Quiet space for rest, reading, or meditation
Kayaks and private access to the water
Private massage can be arranged
Getting Here
Arriving by VIA Rail?
Pick up from the train station in Cobourg ON can be arranged with advance notice.
Telephone: +1 289 251 5525
E-mail: hello@willowsbythelake.ca
Address: 561 Lakeshore Road, Cobourg, Ontario, Canada
Questions?
