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Picturesque School House Retreat

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School House ... summer paradise.
Spacious open concept Living/Dining Room
Fresh cut sunflower bouquet in sun-filled Living/Dining Room
Coffee and/or coffee maker
Original black chalk boards in Living Room host creations of adults and kids.

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
3 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 6153.3 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Meaford, ON
  • Place, Meaford Golf & Country Club
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Meaford Hall Arts and Cultural Centre
    ‪8 min drive‬
  • Place, Meaford Harbour
    ‪9 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

Picturesque School House Retreat

Relaxing week-end get-a-ways in a tranquillity of the Century-Old Minnie Hill School House nestled on 2.75 acres of Secluded Luscious Green Grounds ... it's the laid back atmosphere, where the time stops ... and family & friends gather together.

Almost a Century-Old Minnie Hill School House is nestled on Rolling Hills of Grey County on the outskirts of small towns of Meaford & Thornbury.

Built in 1917 the School House with its original Bell Tower welcomed many kids up to mid-1970. Back then, boys and girls entered school separately through 2 entrances, one from South side, second one from North. Today, both entrances make interior space still accessible from outdoors.

Its original "School Room" houses today's Spacious Living & Dining Rooms where original black chalk boards exhibit colourful creations by kids and adults alike. Soothing interior décor relaxes the mind and offers pristine landscape views all-year-round.

Fully equipped Country-Style Kitchen and outdoor propane barbecue allow for preparing yummy family feasts. Rustic Cabana Seating overlooking 2.75 acres of luscious greens provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor entertainment and tranquillity. Enjoy a bonfire and star gazing at night ... you might see a shooting star.

Sleeping at the School House:
… "Modern Rustic" … Exposed brick bedroom with Queen-size bed with views of green grounds with mature trees & a private walk out to an oversized 30x12 feet deck.

… "Dreamy Oasis" … Bedroom with Queen-size bed ... for those who need complete darkness to take rejuvenating sleeps.

… "The Barn" ... Simply furnished attic bedroom with 2 Single beds … where adults revisit their childhood dreams and kids just love sleeping in.

The 4-piece bathroom has antique claw tub with a shower, toilet, sink and shelving with baskets to store all your toiletries.

Internet is available for guests. There is no TV. You’re welcome to use an original school desk for creative writing or working on your laptop.

Electric baseboard heating supplements propane fireplace heating in Living/Dining area in winter months. Triple brick walls will keep you cool during warm summer months.

When coming in May/June, you'll smell beautifully scented lilacs ... in June/July, you might be lucky to enjoy sweet & sour organic cherries ... in Late September & October, you might taste organic apples ... all grow in the garden surrounding the School House.

For more fresh organic produce, bread and protein, visit any of the many farmers’ market stores along Hwy 26 ... best way to get there is bicycle or car.

Oh, and one of the many locally made pies is a must! ... Thornbury Berry Pie and Sour Cherry Pie are my favourites.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor space
Parking available
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 18
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
mi casa, su casa ... Enjoy! Opening & Closing Tips are left on dining room table.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Meaford

Located in Meaford, this cottage is in a rural area. Meaford Harbour and Meaford Golf Club are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Lake Huron and Beautiful Joe Conservation Area. Take in the nearby slopes with cross-country skiing, snowboarding and skiing, or try out other outdoor activities such as snowmobiling.
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Map
Meaford, ON

What's nearby

  • Beautiful Joe Park - 8 min drive - 10.1 km
  • Meaford Golf & Country Club - 8 min drive - 10.4 km
  • Meaford Golf Club - 8 min drive - 10.5 km
  • Meaford Hall Arts and Cultural Centre - 8 min drive - 10.8 km
  • Meaford Harbour - 9 min drive - 11.2 km

Getting around

  • Kitchener, ON (YKF-Region of Waterloo Intl.) - 144 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪The Dam Pub - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Leeky Canoe Pub & Eatery - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Eggcitement Bistro - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬12 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Picturesque School House Retreat pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Picturesque School House Retreat?

As of 30 Mar 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Picturesque School House Retreat on 30 Mar 2026 start from AU$249, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Picturesque School House Retreat?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Picturesque School House Retreat?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Picturesque School House Retreat?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is Picturesque School House Retreat located?

Situated in a rural location, this cottage is within 6 miles (10 km) of Meaford Skatepark, Beautiful Joe Park and Meaford Public Library. Lake Huron and Georgian Bay are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 14 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 14 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 14 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 14 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Staff & service

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.4/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.6/10

Location

9.4/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gary

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Interesting historical location. Comfortable. Farmers' markets nearby were nice; good pies. Quiet and relaxing. Great and large outdoor space. Lots of nearby scenic views and photo ops.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022
Verified

8/10 Good

Martyn V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely, large property. Very private. The school house, while generally comfortable (living area nicely decorated), clean and functional as accommodations, is in need of some attention (e.g., one of the burners on the stove didn't work, screen doors didn't close well and latches were difficult, faucet taps were loose, etc). Expect somewhat rustic.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Hélène L.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A charming house

This property is full of character and history. It's in a very quiet area, close to the waterfront and small shops. A very large yard with plenty of room for children to play. Pleasant outdoor pavilion with BBQ and swing. Soft, clean bedding and towels. We had a lot of fun as a family with the school board. Please note: There's no real air-conditioning, but the large windows keep the house cool. C'est une propriété qui a beaucoup de cachet et rempli d'histoire. Elle est dans un secteur très tranquille et à proximité du bord de l'eau et des petits commerces. Une court très grande qui laisse de la place aux enfants pour s'amuser. Agréable pavillon extérieur avec BBQ et balançoire. Literie et serviette de bain douces et propre. Nous nous sommes bien amuser en famille avec le tableau d'école. À noter: Il n'y a pas de réelle climatisation par contre les grandes fenêtres qui rafraîchissent la maison.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dean B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historical Stay

My family was the first owner, 1969, of this one room school house. Rustic then, and a family retreat for 15 years. Upgraded now. Just interesting to have our daughters and a granddaughter to enjoy similar time.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hareem A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Heaven on Earth

Our stay was the most delightful and relaxing all thanks to the amazing location, build, atmosphere and character of this historical cottage. Very clean and thoughtfully designed to give the feeling of home. Plenty of amenities like extra towels, board games, fridge, stove, cooking supplies and more to ensure that everything needed for a enjoyable trip is present. Please don’t hesitate if thinking about staying at this location, you won’t regret it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nadia G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An historic school house with much charm

A very nice stay in a unique renovated school house. Close to the ski resorts for skiing, the Scandinavian Spa and the small towns.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Quiet and Peaceful

Beautiful property which is exactly as pictured/described. Main room has lots of natural light with large windows looking out onto property. It snowed while we were there and it was very relaxing to sit by the fire and look out to the snow covered trees. Kitchen is well stocked. We slept better at the cottage than at home, so much so that when we got home we realized how uncomfortable our own mattresses were compared to the cottage. Check in/ check out instructions were very clear and Alena was responsive to any inquiries. Very quiet area but close to Meaford. Definitely plan on coming back to this property.
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved it!

The School House was great! Everything as advertised and the owner Alena was very sweet and helpful. Wifi worked great so it was an awesome place to work remotely. And the blackboards were great to work out some ideas!
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2020
Verified

8/10 Good

Karen T.

Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good home base for our golf trip

Property was clean and comfortable. Coffee maker didn’t work so had to just pour hot water through it. Could use a hanging rack in the upstairs bedroom or something to put your suitcase on.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

diane b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Calm and relaxing

Very calm, relaxe, out of beated trails. Very Nice backyard to read and relaxe. An hour drive to main attractions. Perfect for a famiily. Only downside, not a lot of hot water.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hugh B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer Vacation 2020

This is a beautiful property just outside the town of Meaford. Essentially a turn of the century schoolhouse updated with modern amenities while retaining it's country charm. Beautiful 2+ acres of field and trees; plenty of shade and play space for the kids. Outdoor gazebo with dining table and BBQ for diner time meals. Quiet, secluded and peaceful, but within 10 minutes of beaches, tourist attractions and restaurants. Alena was prompt with answers to all our questions. An ideal spot for a family vacation!
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2020
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Well organized, clean and logical. High cleanup fee.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2019
Archival

8/10 Good

Sandy H.

Great location - close and far enough away from all that you need

Was on a motorcycle trip with 3 other friends and this location was perfect for our landing each day. It was close enough to all the amenities you could want (shopping; hiking; beach and activities) yet far enough away to give you the true cottage appeal. Price was right too!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2017
Archival

8/10 Good

James B.

Relaxing.

We stayed at the schoolhouse while skiing at Blue. The property is a 20 minute drive from the mtn not really near anybody. We turned on the fireplace and relaxed for three days. It snowed two days to add to the vacation so a good time was had by all.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2017

About the host

Hosted by Alena

Host profile image
... the School House & it's location lets me explore all my interests ... I love the century old homes, their architecture, uniqueness & history, Renovations, dinner parties, gardening, barbequeing, bonfire, watching the stars, luscious greens, exploring local antique stores & galleries, skiing ... it's a perfect place to relax & rejuvenate

Why they chose this property

I stumbled upon the School House back in the summer long weekend of 2012, when I was helping a friend to find a cottage in the area ... totally unexpected, I found one for myself ... it was a love at first site - the school house took me on a memory lane of magical family holidays of my childhood ... a few short months later, I became a happy owner & started with a brush & a few cans of paint to bring the calming palette of white and greyish-blue to let the outdoor in ...

What makes this property unique

I love the quietness, peacefulness & uniqueness of the School House & it's perfect setting for entertainment ... stunning views of luscious green gardens, the ever changing seasons - each with it's special treats - dandelion fields, goosberries, red currants, sweet & sour cherries, organic apples, colour full leafs, white snowy covers ... the birdies that return year after year, deer that snack on apples ... it's truly a special place where everyone feels at ease.

Languages:

English, Czech, Slovak
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