Our Late Fall Family Getaway (Family Vacation) at Retro Glam Cabin in the Woods

Late fall is often overlooked as a time for a family getaway or vacation or to travel locally around Manitoba; most of the vibrant foliage has already turned and fallen, and the last crunchy leaves cling to barren branches. But as you drive through the winding hills of Riding Mountain National Park in mid-October, there’s something truly beautiful on the horizon: total tranquility. Peace.

Get cozy in the cabin

My family and I were excited to escape the city for the weekend and cozy up at the Onanole Retro Glam Cabin in the Woods, hosted by Bowerbird Stays. Located just outside of the small town of Onanole near Clear Lake and Riding Mountain National Park, this charming cabin stay is quietly tucked away into the woods. Driving into the cabin’s clearing, you’re welcomed by a spacious deck, Adirondack chairs, an outdoor barrel sauna, and fire pit. First impressions let you know that this is a peaceful spot to gather close-knit friends and Family perfect for a family getaway.

Stepping into the cabin, the warm, welcoming feeling continues. The space is open concept, flanked by a rustic cabin kitchen that’s spacious enough for a couple cooks in the kitchen and little ones to run around. The Bowerbird Stays team has thoughtfully considered all the things one might need when visiting a more remote locale: spices and cooking oils you may have forgotten last minute, children’s cutlery and dishes, all the bowls, pots, pans, and cutting boards you could need. There was even a slow cooker if you want to whip up fresh fall soup or chili! As a mom who will forget something without fail, I appreciate these considered details.

Disconnect and recharge

While we came out to the Onanole cabin to disconnect, it’s nice to know there’s WiFi available (especially with a toddler in tow). Bowerbird Stayshas recently installed Starlink internet and hooked up a Smart TV in the living room with all the Netflix (AKA: Paw Patrol) parents might need in pinch. For remote WFH folks like myself, this is the perfect spot to set up shop for a week to get some work done amongst the solace and endless inspiration of the surrounding forest.

With a fire crackling in the wood stove, we spent a lot of time cuddled up on the two large velvet couches just relaxing and unwinding. Our two-and-a-half-year-old daughter enjoyed exploring the wicker baskets filled with books, small toys, playing cards, and (her personal favorite) Cadoo. She also loved the outdoor cedar barrel sauna. We kept it heated at a warm but mild temperature for her; the large panoramic window in the sauna is a lovely way to enjoy the forest scenery in chilly temps.

Find magic in the off-season

The Retro Glam Cabin is a short ten-minute drive to Riding Mountain National Park and Clear Lake, making for a more spacious and private experience than some of the other cabins situated directly in the towns of Wasagaming or Onanole. While mid and late fall is considered off-season here, there’s something special about having the park all to yourself. Instead of the beachside bustle of summer months, you can stroll the boardwalks and trails uninterrupted for hours. Our daughter even got her own private tour of the Visitor’s Center and loved spending time at the local playground.

Most of the local shops in Wasagaming had closed for the season the week before our visit, butLakehouse was still open (and no lineups)! While we love dining at the local restaurants when we visit the area, this time we decided to get cozy at the cabin and make a few home-cooked meals instead since it’s a family vacation. The cabin’s dining area has a large table that can easily seat eight to ten people, and with five double beds, it can sleep just as many. That said, Retro Glam Cabin isn’t a party destination, so those wanting to pull all-nighters should book elsewhere. If you’re looking for some quality family time away from the demands of everyday life—this is the place for you.

Bring your furry friend

Being a family-friendly destination, this cabin also welcomes your furriest family members. The Retro Glam Cabin allows dogs, so you can bring your pooch along like we did! Be sure to pack a lint roller to dust off any fur from the velvet couches and chairs at the end of the day.

We truly enjoyed our time together here and would love to bring our extended family the next time we visit—perhaps in the winter? I imagine the snow-covered forest and the sauna’s woody, cedar aroma are the makings of an incredible cold-weather vacation. If you’ve been looking for a rustic family getaway or a family vacation location nestled in the woods, your search ends here. Until next time!