Highland House Review: A Unique Stay In Lanark County, Ontario
Looking To Visit Highland House In Lanark County, Ontario In 2026? Keep Reading For The Full Review!
In this blog post, “Highland House Review”, I’ll take you inside the tiny home and share what it was like to stay there.
Highland House offers a peaceful escape surrounded by nature, with a cozy space designed for slowing down and enjoying a more relaxed pace.
Located in the countryside, this charming accommodation is a great option for anyone looking to explore Lanark County while having a comfortable place to come back to at the end of the day.
I recently had the opportunity to stay at Highland House and experience this cozy getaway for myself.
In this Highland House review, I’ll share what it’s like to stay here, what you can expect from the accommodation, and some of the things to do nearby.
What Is The Highland House?
The Highland House is a cozy tiny home located on five private acres in the Lanark Highlands in Lanark County, Ontario.
It is about an hour west of Ottawa and roughly 3 and a half hours from Toronto.
Surrounded by meadows, trees and a small hobby farm, the property offers a peaceful setting with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
The tiny home has two bedrooms, three beds (including the pull-out couch) and one bathroom, and can accommodate up to six guests.
It is located about 15 minutes from Lanark Village and 21 minutes from Perth.
Making it possible to enjoy the quiet of a rural getaway while still being within a short drive of restaurants, shops, hiking trails and other attractions in Lanark County.
👉 Book your own escape to the Highland House in Lanark County, Ontario
The Highland House Review – Amenities
Let’s take a look at some of the amenities that are available at the Highland House.
The Living Space
Highland House is a tiny home, but the interior is designed to make good use of the available space.
The open layout gives the main living area a surprisingly spacious feel, with the kitchen, dining area and living room connected rather than separated into small rooms.
This makes the space practical for spending time together, whether you are preparing a meal, sitting down to eat or relaxing at the end of the day.
The living room includes a sofa bed, which also provides additional sleeping space for larger groups.
There is also a 43-inch TV with Roku and access to streaming services including Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime Video.
Check-in is self-service, with a lockbox making it easy to arrive and get settled without having to coordinate with the hosts.
Also, Wi-Fi is available at the property for anyone who needs to get some work done during their stay.
There are books, board games, and puzzles as well. We ended up playing checkers and having a glass of wine.
However, there is no washer and dryer, so pack accordingly.
The Kitchen
The kitchen is set up to give guests the option of preparing their own meals rather than having to leave the property for every meal.
It includes a refrigerator with a freezer, a gas stove, cutting boards, pots, pans, along with oil, salt and pepper.
In addition, there is a hot water kettle for making tea as well as a toaster. Paper towels are available too.
Also, the kitchen has all the basic tableware you’ll need, including plates, bowls, cups, and cutlery.
Wine glasses are available as well, making it easy to enjoy a drink with dinner or unwind in the evening.
You will also find a dining table with two chairs where you can enjoy your meals.
There is a French press for brewing coffee, along with coffee grounds, sugar and powdered milk.
Also, the property has its own well water, which is safe to drink. Fresh spring drinking water is provided as an additional option.
The Bedrooms
Despite being a tiny home, Highland House has two separate bedrooms accessible by stairs.
The first bedroom has a queen bed, while the second has a double bed. There is also a sofa bed in the living room, bringing the total sleeping capacity to six guests.
Keep in mind that the bedrooms do not have doors and are open to the rest of the place.
Also, cotton bed sheets are provided on the beds.
The Bathroom
Highland House has one bathroom for the six-person maximum occupancy.
This is something to keep in mind when planning a stay with a larger group, as everyone will be sharing the same bathroom facilities.
Also, keep in mind that the toilet is compostable, meaning there is no actual plumbing.
It may take a little getting used to if you’ve never used one before. However, it fits with the whole off-grid feel.
We didn’t have a problem using it; there are instructions on the lid as well.
Other essentials that are provided by the hosts are hand soap, body wash and toilet paper.
There is a hair dryer, so you can leave yours at home and save some space in your luggage.
Don’t forget that guests are asked to bring their own bath towels and beach towels.
The Outdoors
The outdoor space is a major part of the Highland House experience.
Rather than simply having a small yard attached to the accommodation, guests have room to walk around and explore the grounds.
The elevated setting also provides views across the surrounding landscape and is particularly suited to watching the sunset.
There are several ways to spend time outside without having to leave the property.
You can gather around the fire pit in the evening, with dry firewood included, or play yard games and horseshoes.
Also, there is a BBQ for cooking outside, along with a small seating area on the deck where you can enjoy your meals or a morning coffee.
A picnic table provides another place to sit and eat, while Muskoka chairs around the fire pit create a comfortable spot for relaxing by the fire in the evening.
The Farm
One of the features that sets Highland House apart from a typical tiny-home rental is that it is located on a working hobby farm.
The property is home to sheep, chickens and Chef, the resident pig.
You can see the animals around the property and experience a much more hands-on connection with the rural setting than you would get at a conventional cottage or vacation rental.
During our stay, the hosts were generous enough to give us some of the fresh chicken eggs, which was awesome!
Also, you will encounter Brewski, the hosts’ rescue pup who enjoys greeting visitors.
Brewski is the sweetest and friendliest boy ever, who loves pets and attention.
The farm adds another layer to the stay and makes Highland House feel more like a small farm escape than simply a tiny house in the countryside.
👉 Book your own escape to the Highland House in Lanark County, Ontario
FAQs: Highland House Review
Let’s take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to staying at the Highland House.
Do you need a car?
Yes, you most certainly will need a car. In fact, there is no other way to get to the Highland House.
Is there a parking spot?
Yes, there is a free designated parking spot.
Is it good for families?
Yes, the Highland House is perfect for families. The Highland House sleeps up to 6 people.
Is it dog-friendly?
No, unfortunately, the Highland House is not dog-friendly. However, you will get a chance to say hi and pet their cute dog Brewski.
How long should you stay?
A weekend or a long weekend will be perfect! However, a long-term stay is also available.
Is there Wi-Fi/cell service?
Yes, there is fast Wi-Fi at the property. However, cell service can be spotty.
What To Bring With You To Highland House?
Highland House provides many of the basics, but there are a few things worth packing to make the most of your stay.
Towels: Bring your own bath and beach towels, as these aren’t provided.
Food & snacks: The kitchen is well stocked for cooking, but you’ll want to bring the groceries and snacks you’d like during your stay.
Bug spray & sunscreen: You’ll likely be spending plenty of time outdoors, especially around the fire pit, deck and trails. Do not go on the trails without bug spray!
Outdoor shoes: Comfortable shoes are a good idea for exploring the property and the surrounding Lanark Highlands. You would not need actual hiking shoes; just sneakers are fine.
Warm layers: Evenings can get cool, particularly when you’re sitting around the fire or enjoying the property after sunset.
Fire-pit treats: Firewood is provided, so bring marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers if you want to make s’mores.
Warm socks & indoor slippers: Perfect for keeping your feet cozy inside, especially on cooler mornings and evenings.
A good book: Highland House is a great place to slow down, unplug and enjoy some quiet reading time.
Toiletries: Pack your usual shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, skincare and other personal essentials. Also, don’t forget your prescriptions and any medicine you may need.
5 Things To Do Near Highland House
Highland House is surrounded by plenty of things to see and do, from charming small towns and scenic trails to local farms and restaurants.
If you’re looking to explore beyond the property, here are five places worth adding to your itinerary.
1. Spend a Few Hours in Perth
If you’re looking for a charming town to explore, Perth is an easy choice.
Its historic downtown is compact enough to explore on foot, making it possible to see quite a bit without needing an entire day.
Take some time to wander around Gore Street, where you’ll find locally owned shops, cafés and specialty food stores.
The Perth Cheese Shop and Perth Pie Co. are two stops worth checking out if you’re looking for something tasty.
One of Perth’s more unusual attractions is the Mammoth Cheese.
Back in 1893, a massive 22,000-pound wheel of cheese was produced in Perth and sent to the Chicago World’s Fair.
A replica is now displayed at the Crystal Palace, while the Perth Museum has some of the original artifacts connected to it.
Another place you shouldn’t miss is Code’s Mill.
The limestone buildings date back to the 1800s and were originally used as a wool and felting mill.
Today, the restored complex is home to several businesses, including Perth Chocolate Works, where you can pick up some handmade chocolates.
My recommendation? Get the Biscoff cheesecake slice.
And if you want somewhere peaceful to finish your walk, head to Stewart Park.
This five-acre park sits along the Tay River and has gardens, walking paths and pretty bridges.
2. Take a Hike at Blueberry Mountain
For some time in nature, head to Blueberry Mountain for a lovely hike.
The approximately 5-km round-trip trail winds through forests and meadows, with sections alongside a creek before eventually reaching the lookout.
Most of the climb is gradual, although there is a steeper 185-metre section toward the top.
The reward is a beautiful view from the summit, which helps explain why Blueberry Mountain is considered one of the Seven Wonders of Lanark County.
The trail is self-guided, with parking available at the trailhead.
I recommend wearing comfortable, sturdy footwear and bringing plenty of water, especially for the steeper section near the top.
Also, the trail can become more challenging after rain, so keep that in mind when planning your visit.
And don’t forget the bug spray! We visited in early fall and still encountered plenty of mosquitoes along the trail.
3. Explore Almonte
Almonte is another great town to add to your itinerary, especially if you enjoy historic buildings, local shops and riverside scenery.
One of the easiest ways to see the town is by following the Almonte Riverwalk.
The route takes you past old mill buildings, bridges and viewpoints along the Mississippi River, including Grand Falls, which is right in the centre of town.
After your walk, spend some time browsing the shops and cafés around Mill Street and Bridge Street.
If you enjoy vintage shopping, keep an eye out for the town’s many vintage stores.
You can also visit the Mississippi Valley Textile Museum to learn about Almonte’s history as a major woollen textile-producing community.
Other landmarks to look for include Old Town Hall and the statue of Dr. James Naismith, the Canadian inventor of basketball.
And, of course, leave room for chocolate. Hummingbird Chocolate Maker is a local bean-to-bar chocolate maker known for its handmade chocolates.
If you have extra time, continue on to Mill of Kintail Conservation Area, which is about 10 minutes from Almonte.
The conservation area has hiking trails, an 1830s grist mill and museums dedicated to Dr. R. Tait McKenzie and Dr. James Naismith.
4. Have Breakfast at Wheeler Maple Farm
If you’re craving a hearty breakfast surrounded by farm scenery, consider stopping at Wheeler Maple Farm.
The family-run farm offers a glimpse into the local maple syrup tradition and how maple products are made.
The on-site restaurant keeps things simple with breakfast favourites such as pancakes, French toast and sausages, all served with their own maple syrup.
After eating, head into the maple shop to browse the selection of syrup and other maple treats.
There are also small museums on the property where you can learn about maple syrup production, farming and rural life.
The farm isn’t just about maple syrup, either. Alpacas and sheep live on the property, so you can spend some time looking around and seeing the animals.
It’s a fun stop if you want to combine breakfast with a little local history, farm life and, of course, maple syrup.
Just check the hours before heading over, since they vary throughout the year.
5. Walk the Baird Trail & Grab a Bite in Carleton Place
For an easier outdoor outing, check out the Baird Trail near Carleton Place.
This trail follows the Mississippi River and passes through the Baird Street Wetland, giving you a chance to see local birds and wildlife along the way.
There are wooded sections, river views, bridges and boardwalks, making it a scenic walk without being a strenuous hike.
Once you’ve finished the trail, continue into Carleton Place and explore the downtown area.
You can start around the historic Carleton Place Town Hall and then make your way along Bridge Street, where you’ll find independent shops, cafés and restaurants.
The Mississippi River is also worth checking out. The waterfront has walking areas and views of the rapids, making it a nice place to spend some time after exploring downtown.
When you’re ready for food, stop at The Copper Still. It has a cozy pub atmosphere, a good selection of comfort food and a patio overlooking the water.
We tried the Smashed Dumpling Tacos, Fish and Chips, and Jalapeño Poppers Grilled Cheese. If you like spicy food, the grilled cheese is definitely one to try.
For a local drink, you can also order a beer from Perth Brewery or Braumeister Brewery at the Copper Still.
👉 Book your own escape to the Highland House in Lanark County, Ontario
Conclusion: Highland House Review: A Unique Stay In Lanark County, Ontario
Highland House offers a different kind of getaway, especially if you’re looking to trade a busy schedule for a quieter few days surrounded by nature.
The cozy accommodation, outdoor space and farm setting make it easy to slow down and enjoy the simple things.
Whether that means cooking a meal, sitting around the fire or watching the animals wander around the property.
At the same time, you’re not too far from plenty of things to do, such as exploring Perth or hiking the Blueberry Mountain trail.
If you’re planning a Lanark County getaway and want a place that gives you both peace and quiet at your accommodation and easy access to local attractions, Highland House is worth considering.
