Ya, you could stay in a hotel… or you couldstay in an adorable solar cabin.

Kind of an Eager Beaver

Leaving at ridiculously early hours in the morning kind of gets me off, so we ended up arriving a few hours earlier than check-in,  so we decided to swing by Mara Beach for a picnic. The sun was extra spicy, so a quick dip was a must. Coming from Alberta, where are waters look like murky foamy swamps and youre always kind of gambling if you are going to leave with the itch or not, these clear lake waters were a welcome refresher. We could even see fish swimming and they seemed to have no fear. And the best part? It’s just a five-minute drive from the mini solar cabin I had booked. Heck yeah!

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Warm Welcome

I shot Chantal a message to let her know we were early. She was incredibly accommodating, telling us the cabin was ready and we could come over whenever. We wrapped up at the beach and headed to the cabin a few hours ahead of schedule and with no real idea of what to expect. 

When we arrived, Chantal came right out to meet us, leading us past some friendly chickens and a pair of adorable goats. The cabin itself was nothing short of charming—tucked into the bushes, offering the perfect blend of seclusion and coziness.

 

 

 

About the Space

 

This mini “Solar Cabin” is the epitome of a retreat into the woods! It’s equipped with everything you need for a slow-living type stay. If you get stir-crazy however, it’s perfectly located by Mara Lake, hiking trails, Farmer Johns (the BEST ice cream around, vineyards (my personal favourite is Larch Hills Winery ) and more,  all within half an hour. It’s really got a bit of something for everyone. 

 

Chantal gave us a quick rundown on the off-grid essentials—a foot pump sink and a quirky toilet that took me a minute to figure out. Somedays Im a few french fries short of a happy meal so Id be lying if i didnt tell you the toilet was a struggle for me to figure out – half the time i could ever get the lid open…but im sure the average person would have no issues (smh). The shower was actually quite charming- as it is partially open to the outdoors, had nice hot weather and really  added to the rustic charm. Honestly, I was in love with everything minus the toilet. 

 

The outdoor space was incredibly private, making you feel like you’re the only one in the woods. You get your own BBQ and campfire area. The only noise you really hear is all the birds singing – I wasnt upset about it. There is also a wood stove inside that can keeps things toasty, but the time of year we visited it wasnt neccesary. 

 

Inside the cabin included so many cute rustic details – nothing fancy, but all you really need. 

 

 

Goat Shenanigans

Once settled I was eager to head down to visit the goats, and i can’t even, why are they so ridiculously cute? They make cute little noises and grunted. We picked wildflowers and fed them, and while we’re talking about the wildflowers, they were everywhere. Between wineries that had goats and thrones on this property, its safe to say that by the end of the trip, I was just a little obsessed with goats.



What I couldn’t get on board with was the snake I almost stepped on while heading back from the goats.  I’m not scared, per se; it’s just that they’re so startling when they slither out fast and creepy. Ok, maybe they do freak me out a bit.

 

 

Simple Perfection

This place was simple yet perfect—the kind of place you go to unplug and let your creativity flow. And the price? Totally reasonable, especially considering its location. We paid around $230 for two nights.

If you’re looking for a spot to unwind, recharge, and soak in the beauty of Mara, BC, this solar cabin is a dream come true. If you’re into the simpler things in life, than this place is for you. 

 

*I do believe there is a second larger cabin on the property if you have a family or maybe just prefer a little more space.