Cottage season has finally arrived! When it comes to planning the perfect summer getaway in Canada, nothing beats the comfort and charm of a private cottage retreat. Whether you’re looking for lakeside views or a coastal breeze, Vrbo offers a wide selection of vacation rentals that cater to every type of traveler.
Each year, Vrbo’s team of experts handpick standout properties for their Vacation Rentals of the Year list—and The Waverley Cottage in Nova Scotia earned a coveted spot in 2025 for good reason. This charming, waterfront escape showcases everything you should look for when booking a summer getaway.
Here’s how you can find your own dream cottage this summer using the same expert criteria:
Read Through Ratings and Reviews
One of the most reliable ways to gauge the quality of a vacation rental is by reading reviews from past guests. The Waverley Cottage has a perfect 10/10 Exceptional rating thanks to the host’s top-notch responsiveness and incredible service.
Before booking, read through reviews to see what past guests thought of cleanliness, amenities and more.
Look for the Premier Host Badge
Filter for Premier Hosts on Vrbo to find property owners with a proven track record of high ratings and five-star guest experiences, just like The Waverley Cottage has.
These hosts offer a premium experience for guests by giving thought to details that make your stay extra special.
Space and Amenities
Traveling with friends or family? Vrbo lets you filter by the number of rooms so you can have a comfortable stay. You can also tailor your search for must-have amenities like:
- Hot tubs
- Grills, fire pits, and patios
- Beachfront, oceanfront, or waterfront—like the Waverley Cottage
- Pet-friendly
With Vrbo, it’s easy to find your perfect stay down to the last detail.
‘Book with Confidence’ Guarantee
While scam attempts are rare, the best way to protect your vacation investment is to book and pay directly through the Vrbo app or website. If a host ever asks you to take the conversation or transaction off-platform, consider it a red flag.
Booking through Vrbo automatically offers a Book with Confidence Guarantee, including payment protection and options if anything changes last minute.
Get Inspired by Top Canadian Destinations
Not sure where to go? Vrbo’s trending destinations for summer 2025 are full of inspiration.
Top picks include:
• East Kootenay, BC – for hiking, hot springs, and alpine lakes
• Victoria & Kelowna, BC – for wine country vibes and ocean views
• Charlottetown, PEI – for red sand beaches and rich history
• Huntsville, ON – the gateway to Algonquin Park
• Calgary, AB & Whistler, BC – rising stars in summer travel
Or, discover the magic of Nova Scotia’s coastline! The Waverley Cottage is just one of many hidden gems on Canada’s East Coast.
Looking for a summer getaway? Find more travel inspo here!
