About Shawnigan Retreats
How much does it cost to rent a property on Shawnigan Lake?
The cottage (2 bedrooms, sleeps 4) starts at $350/night. The lakeside house (6 bedrooms, sleeps 12) starts at $650/night. The whole property (8 bedrooms, sleeps 16) runs from $900/night off-peak or $1,550/night in peak season (June through September).
All stays include private beach, dock, sauna, hot tub, pickleball court, and waterfront access.
Can you host a wedding at Shawnigan Lake?
Yes. Shawnigan Retreats is an intimate lakefront wedding venue for up to 50 guests. We offer four ceremony locations: a private dock over the water, a sandy beach, a forest clearing, and a lakeside lawn.
The property includes on-site accommodation for 16 guests, a bridal suite, and a chef's kitchen for catering. Peak wedding season runs June through September.
Learn more on our Weddings page.
How far is Shawnigan Lake from Victoria?
Shawnigan Retreats is 45 minutes by car from downtown Victoria and 30 minutes from Victoria International Airport (YYJ). Take Highway 1 north and exit at Shawnigan Lake Road.
Is Shawnigan Lake good for corporate retreats?
Yes. We host executive offsites and team-building retreats for 2-50 guests. The property offers high-speed WiFi (100+ Mbps), flexible indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, and activities including pickleball, guided hikes, and wellness workshops.
All-inclusive packages with private chef, facilitator, and activities are available. We're 45 minutes from Victoria, making us accessible for Vancouver Island and Lower Mainland teams.
See our Corporate Events page for details.
What is there to do at Shawnigan Lake?
On the property: swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, sauna, hot tub, pickleball, gym, and home theater.
Nearby: hiking at Kinsol Trestle and Mount Baldy, wine touring in the Cowichan Valley (30 minutes), dining in Mill Bay and Duncan, and exploring the Shawnigan Lake village.
Can I book through Airbnb?
Yes, our property is listed on Airbnb. However, booking direct through our website saves you platform fees and gives you access to personalized concierge service, flexible dates, and custom packages not available on Airbnb.
What's the best time to visit Shawnigan Lake?
Summer (June-September) is peak season with warm lake temperatures, outdoor dining, and the longest days.
Fall offers wine touring and hiking with fewer crowds.
Winter is ideal for cozy retreats with sauna, hot tub, and home theater.
Spring brings wildflowers and the best rates.
Booking & Reservations
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM
Early check-in or late check-out may be available upon request, subject to availability. Please contact us in advance to arrange.
What is the minimum stay requirement?
We have a 2-night minimum stay year-round.
During peak season (June-September) and holidays, a 3-night minimum may apply.
For wedding or event bookings, please contact us to discuss your specific needs.
How do I book?
Book direct through the Book Now page, or pick up the phone — +1 (236) 638-1478.
Brianna writes back to every inquiry within four hours, 9am to 7pm Pacific.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept credit cards, e-transfer, and bank transfers. A 50% deposit is required to confirm your booking, with the balance due 30 days before arrival.
Cancellation Policy
Standard Bookings
- 60+ days before arrival: Full refund minus $100 processing fee
- 30-59 days before arrival: 50% refund
- Less than 30 days before arrival: No refund
We strongly recommend travel insurance for all bookings.
Wedding & Event Bookings
- 50% deposit required at time of booking to secure your date
- 90+ days before event: Deposit refundable minus $500 administrative fee
- Less than 90 days before event: Deposit non-refundable
- Balance due: 60 days before your event
We understand plans can change. In extenuating circumstances, we may offer to reschedule to available dates within 12 months.
Property Rules
Are pets allowed?
We ask that you leave pets at home — we want the house to work for guests with allergies too.
Service animals are welcome with a note in advance. Drop Brianna a line and we'll sort out the details.
Is smoking allowed on the property?
We ask that you don't smoke anywhere on the property, including outside.
That covers cigarettes, vaping, and cannabis. A cleaning fee applies if we have to air the house out.
Are parties or events allowed?
Weddings, corporate retreats, and family gatherings are welcome — booked and approved with us in advance.
We ask that you keep the noise reasonable after 10pm; the neighbours are close and they're good people.
How many guests can stay?
Lakeside House: Up to 12 guests
Cottage: Up to 4 guests
Entire Property: Up to 16 guests
For events with additional day guests (up to 50), please contact us to discuss.
Amenities & Property
How fast is the WiFi?
We offer high-speed fiber internet with speeds over 100 Mbps.
This is suitable for video conferencing, streaming, and remote work. The entire property has WiFi coverage.
Is the property wheelchair accessible?
The main floor of the Lakeside House is accessible, including one bedroom and bathroom. Upper floors are accessed via stairs.
The dock and beach area have uneven terrain. Please contact us to discuss your specific accessibility needs.
How many cars can park on the property?
We have free parking for up to 6 vehicles. Additional parking may be available for events - please contact us in advance.
What's included in the rental?
We leave you with everything we'd want ourselves:
- All linens, towels, and basic toiletries
- Fully equipped kitchen with cookware and dishes
- Access to private dock and beach
- Sauna and hot tub
- Pickleball court and equipment
- Paddleboards and kayaks
- BBQ with propane
- Firewood for fire pit
Is there air conditioning?
Yes, the Lakeside House has full air conditioning throughout. The cottage has ceiling fans and excellent natural ventilation.
Location & Getting Here
How far is the property from Victoria?
Shawnigan Retreats is approximately 45 minutes from downtown Victoria and about 30 minutes from the Victoria International Airport.
From Vancouver, take the ferry to Swartz Bay (about 1.5 hours), then drive approximately 45 minutes to Shawnigan Lake. Total travel time from Vancouver is approximately 2.5-3 hours.
Is there anything nearby?
Shawnigan Lake village is a 5-minute drive with a grocery store, restaurants, and cafes. Mill Bay (15 minutes) has additional shopping and dining options.
Popular nearby activities include hiking at Mt. Baldy, Cobble Hill, and Christie Falls, wine tasting in the Cowichan Valley, and exploring the charming town of Duncan.
Anything we missed?
Write Brianna — she answers in plain English, usually within the afternoon.