This hidden resort near Ottawa has private cottages surrounded by mountains and lakes

Close your eyes and imagine sipping on a cup of coffee on the porch of your very own private cabin, surrounded by the serene sound of a river flowing past and the natural beauty of the Laurentian Mountains.

Well, it's time to stop dreaming and start living, because this isn't just in your head — it's a reality, and it's only a quick road trip from Ottawa.

Just three and a half hours from Ottawa, this pet-friendly Ontario waterfront resort is a true hidden paradise nestled within the rugged Canadian Shield along the serene Mattawa River.

The Mattawa River Resort's 15 private cottages are surrounded by sprawling acreage of thick woodlands, mountain views, enchanting rivers, scattered lakes and a private beach. Plus, with an onsite restaurant adored by both guests and locals, your stay promises to be as delicious as it is relaxing.

But the real icing on the cake? The resort is currently offering limited-time discounts on its cottage rentals. It's an irresistible opportunity for an affordable and scenic vacation, and it won't be around forever.

The nightly cost of renting your very own cabin in the woods currently starts at $249, and each comes with its own layout, charm, personality and capacity. The largest, the Directeur Cottage, can sleep up to 16 guests for only $689 a night, and the smallest, the Radisson Cottage, sleeps two.

On top of getting an entire cabin to yourself, you can count on unlimited access to the resort's very own secluded beach as well as its wide selection of canoes, kayaks, paddle boards and pedal boats.

The property also features bonfire pits and multiple saunas, and nearby, you'll find plenty of hiking trails with panoramic views of the Laurentians. It'll truly feel like you have your own private cottage in the country.

The Mattawa River is one of Ontario's best places to paddle. You'll find many lakes, an incredibly picturesque landscape and plenty of natural wonders to discover. It's the ideal place to rent out a summer cottage for a romantic getaway or pals' weekend and enjoy a relaxing escape to the great outdoors.

Most cottages on the property have either a kitchenette or a full kitchen, meaning you can either make your own meals or eat at the onsite Cardinal Restaurant, with its unbeatable river and mountain view. For an even more stress-free all-inclusive experience, you can also add a meal plan to your stay.

It should be noted that guests are currently being asked to bring their own linens, towels, blankets and pillows, or rent them for an additional $50 per person, as the resort's supplier has stopped servicing the region.

This article has been updated since it was originally published on July 18, 2024.