If you're a local who's planning a staycation close to Canada's capital, but you're tired of the same old rentals, there are some unusual and unique homes near Ottawa that might be just what you need.
Across the National Capital Region, there are so many awesome local Airbnb experiences, ranging from woodland cabins with life-changing views, to simple and rustic treehouses.
All of these experiences are located within a couple of hours of Ottawa. There's really no shortage of places around the city that will make you feel like you're in another world.
Whether you’re looking for a solo adventure within your own city, a romantic getaway, or simply an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, these unique stays are the mini-vacation you’ve been searching for.
With options available for almost every budget, what are you waiting for?
Straw Castle
Straw Castle.
Terra | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $138 per night
Location: Harrington, QC
Why You Need To Go: This rustic paradise is known as the “Straw Castle,” as it’s made from straw bales and cement. It has a peaceful and private location in the forest, so you’ll be able to totally switch off and escape your day-to-day concerns.
You and three other guests can enjoy an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, and a grill. Sounds perfect for a family cookout!
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Perched Cabin at Mariposa Farm
Perched Cabin at Mariposa Farm.
Ian | Airbnb
Price Per Night: From $162
Location: Plantagenet, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for an Airbnb with a top-notch location, this one's for you. This cabin has floor-to-ceiling windows in all directions, so you can enjoy the extraordinary forest views all day, and then uninterrupted views of the starry sky at night.
Unwind next to a wood stove (firewood included) and the sounds of nature as you won't even have any neighbours around to disturb your getaway.
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Cocon #1
Cocon #1.
Annie | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $124
Location: Sainte-Lucie-des-Laurentides, QC
Why You Need To Go: This serene retreat is just a short drive from Ottawa, but it will make you feel like you’re a whole world away from home. It’s got such peaceful vibes, and it's the perfect place to get back-to-basics with nature. This impressive space also sleeps up to six guests, so there’s plenty of room to bring your loved ones along.
It's located in Massif du Mont Kaaikop, which is described by the host as "one of the highest inhabited points in Quebec."
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Mountainside Chalet
Mountainside chalet.
Patrick | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $393+
Location: Sainte-Adèle, QC
Why You Need To Go: This mountainside home is seriously beautiful, both on the inside and the outside. With panoramic views of the Laurentian Mountains, there’s no better place to get lost in nature, while also enjoying the luxuriousness of the property.
If you're a fan of skiing, the host noted that there's "easy access to the five ski centers of the region as well as all other Laurentian activities."
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Laurentian Lake House - Off The Grid
Laurentian Lake House - Off The Grid.
Francois Hugo | Airbnb
Price: $3690 per month
Minimum Stay: 30 days
Location: Wentworth-Nord, QC
Why You Need To Go: Located on a small peninsula, this home is only accessible by boat, which makes the experience an adventure in itself! There are no neighbours and no nearby properties, so you’ll really feel like you’ve got the world to yourself. With “incomparable” views of the lake and the sunset, as well as your own private beach, this is a rentable slice of paradise.
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Romantic Cottage Getaway
Romantic Cottage Getaway.
Cindy | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $180
Location: Golden Lake, ON
Why You Need To Go: This precious little cabin just screams “romantic getaway.” It’s got a private deck with seating, that overlooks the panoramic views of Golden Lake. It’s fully equipped with all the modern amenities you could possibly need, so you’ll have nothing to worry about upon arrival.
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Picturesque Waterfront Tree House On 100 Acres
Picturesque Waterfront Tree House On 100 Acres.
Arthur | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $280+
Location: Ottawa, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you’ve always wanted to experience life off-grid, this treehouse is for you. The unusual Airbnb has no power or central water, so you’ll need to arrive prepared. Here, you’ll be able to embrace nature with over 100 acres of deep forest, a waterside location and wildlife all around you.
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Mongolian Yurt at Terra Perma
Mongolian Yurt at Terra Perma.
Terra | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $138
Location: Harrington, QC
Why You Need To Go: This “authentic Mongolian yurt” is a forest retreat like no other. Overlooking a valley, this peaceful place is spacious and modern, while still offering a totally unique experience. A window has even been inserted into the roof, so you can actually stargaze from your bed! Dreamy.
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Hobbit House
Hobbit House.
Dior & Sylvain | Airbnb
Price Per Night: $172
Location: Nominingue, QC
Why You Need To Go: You can star in your own The Hobbit movie in this inspired “Earth House.” Created to mirror the home of Bilbo Baggins, this awesome rental is certainly one of the region’s most unusual places to stay. Whether you're a film fanatic or simply a lover of all things weird-and-wonderful, this place is bound to lead to an unexpected adventure.
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These prices and terms of occupancy are confirmed at the time of publishing, but they can change at any time. Taxes and fees may not be included.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
This article has been updated since it was originally published on July 2, 2022.
Exterior of the Airbnb.Francois | Airbnb 
Living room.Francois | Airbnb 
Solarium.Francois | Airbnb 
Bathroom.Francois | Airbnb 
Dining area. Francois | Airbnb 
