Outdoor dining

Reviews of LUXURY FRENCH GARDEN COTTAGE SURROUNDED BY NATURE, FOREST BATHING ANYONE?


Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 111 out of 112 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 112 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 112 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 112 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 112 reviews" "

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

MARILYN C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Relaxing, comfortable and beautiful
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay with you. I had such adventures on the island and returned to a very calm, relaxing and comfortable place away from the crowds. I felt safe and I was able to recharge. The bed was very comfortable. It was great and I thank you very much! Marilyn
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ian & Janet S.

Liked: Cleanliness
You can’t beat aces!
From beginning to end this was a remarkable holiday rental. The peaceful woodsy setting and beautiful cottage were enhanced by ease of entry and the host’s caring communication throughout. If one wants town temptations Sidney and Victoria are but a short drive away. Rentals don’t get better than this. Hated to leave but plan to return. A huge thanks to our host from my daughter and me .
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Dreamy French Cottage
This is the most amazing place! It so far exceeded anything we expected. So much thought was given to the smallest, kindest details. The cottage itself and all of the amazing artwork are beautiful. It is a wonderful place to recharge amid all of the creativity - it is inspiring!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Srdjan

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing cottage in the woods...
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nancy J R.

Liked: Cleanliness
A slice of heaven
Cottage is exactly as described if not better. Kitchen is well appointed. Bed was very comfortable. Shower was a dream. Even watched 2 dvds while away. Our stay was cut short by weather mishaps and i truly would have relished an extra day. Close proximity to Victoria, Sydney, hikes, kayaking, the Butchart Gardens, wine and so much more. If we didnt live so far away, i would go back in the next month or two. A plus
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Dal S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great little weekend getaway!
This little cottage was perfectly isolated from the world, yet close to amenities. The hosts provided great suggestions for local hikes and restaurants. The home was beautifully kept and the kitchen was more than expected for a Vrbo. The countless movie selection and fireplace made the evenings perfect.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Cindy F.

Liked: Cleanliness
A treat for the senses
This beautiful cottage is an artistic delight. The setting, a forest glen with a touch of whimsy. Not a single thing was diappointing.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Diane R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our Butchart getaway
We loved our stay at the comfy French cottage. Very clean, comfortable and Kathleen was very accommodating. The quiet, tucked-away feel was just what we wanted. All while being close to what we came to see. Thank you!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

ernest g., Walker, Michigan, USA

Liked: Cleanliness
heaven on earth
We both absolutely loved this cottage and the owners. Every bit of it, The location, the surroundings, the interior decor, all the amenities were all perfect. My wife and I both had the same initial thought: "let's just spend our time here and forget sightseeing" We highly recommend this place Ernie and Sheila
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Abby B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful!
Amazing, cute little (actually big and spacious) cabin! High ceilings, well built and made. Beautiful designs and art inside made by the host. European design that makes you not feel like you’re in Canada. Extremely private and clean. Would totally stay again!!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fairy Tale-like Luxury French Cottage with Incredible Host
Kat’s Cottage: What an incredible combination: a very comfortable fairy-tale-like cottage in a lovely, forested setting, a gracious hostess who had anticipated and provided for our every need or desire, and a great location, very close to world renowned attractions, yet an easy drive to downtown Victoria. This has to be a 5* Vrbo property all around! The cottage has large windows in every direction to enjoy the beautiful setting comprised of natural forest and many potted plants, lots of outdoor seating, a quality grill, and an abundance of nature. It is comfortably furnished and has a great selection of movies and music available for the guests' enjoyment, lots of storage and a kitchen that most of us would dream of having in our primary residence, let alone a vacation home. The host, Kathleen, is a talented artist who has used that talent to tastefully design and furnish the cottage. Many of her own original works are on display in the cottage. She has also provided a notebook with recommendations for restaurants, farm markets, and grocery stores in the area. If you are fortunate enough to be able to book Kat’s Cottage for your stay (and it must be very much in demand), be sure to visit some of the following attraction right in the area: 1. Butchart Gardens (a 55 acre exquisitely designed and maintained flower garden), 2. The Butterfly Gardens, 3. Heritage Acres and 4. Vancouver Island Model Engineers, a steam-driven model railroad (big boys and their toys).
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

George B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Delightful cottage in the woods
The cottage is simply delightful. The owners are artists, and it’s beautifully done. The kitchen was one of the most well-stocked we have ever seen. Really loved our stay! Would definitely book again.
Stayed 11 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kurt B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great cottage
If you are looking for a place that is away from all of the other tourists but still close to Victoria and Sidney, this is the perfect spot. Very close to Butchart Gardens and a short drive from the two cities, this was great. My only small suggestion would be to add screens to the windows in order to open them at night to cool the house down and so no mosquitos can get in.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 24 July 2023
Thanks so much for the review! The windows do have screens, kitchen and bedroom, the only window that does not have a screen is the bathroom. Cheers🌲

10/10 Excellent

Wayne P S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome retreat
Everything good, nothing bad!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Ted B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Much needed break. Peaceful and beautiful.
Delightful French cottage in the woods on the Saanich Peninsula. Everything you need is in Brentwood Bay (5 minutes) Our favorite town was Sidney-by-the-Sea. The property is exceptional. If you are looking for views and ocean air, this is not it. If you are looking for forest, privacy, and refined rustic luxury, you will love this place. We had nesting birds, a doe and two fawns, a buck in velvet, and other critters within 10 feet. Really. And yes, we will likely return.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Don H.

Liked: Cleanliness
A bit of paradise
The French themed cottage surpassed our expectations. The peace and quiet were so soothing. The dappled sunlight among the trees was so relaxing. Everything in the cottage was top quality. We will stay there again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lesley P., Penticton, BC, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
A Home away from Home
I think this is the fourth time we have stayed at Kathleen's beautiful French Cottage. It is nestled in a forest of very tall trees surrounded by nature - and yet, it is but a few minute drive into the city and numerous walking trails along the ocean. Divine. Thank you Kathleen!
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Andrea E.

Liked: Cleanliness
Lovely place to stay
This was a beautiful and relaxing place to stay, we felt off in our own little world in the woods. We had everything we needed, plus more, and communication with the owners was great. The nearby market and bakery/cafe were both excellent.
Stayed 9 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

ANDRIA M., Florida

Liked: Cleanliness
Love this cottage retreat!
We loved our stay at this beautiful cottage in the woods. It was very close to everywhere we wanted to go, and we enjoyed the peaceful location in the woods! Kathleen was very thoughtful and checked on us throughout the trip to make sure we had everything we needed! She even gave us advice prior to our arrival on good whale watching tours in Victoria! Thank you for a lovely vacation.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Maureen T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Our stay at "Kat's Cottage"
If you're looking for a quiet oasis, surrounded by nature, beautiful art work yet close to Victoria, Sidney the Butchart Gardens and other sites , look no further. The cottage description and comments from others are accurate. We would truly love to return Maureen and Dave Kemptville, ON
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Barbara S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Exactly as described, better than imagined
This delightful cottage is exactly as pictured, and exactly as described. It's a turnkey vacation guest house in a great area. It's away from crowds and cityscapes, but close enough to easily get to Victoria, wooded parks, pacific coast beaches and small towns with local food and attractions. The cottage is nestled into the trees and feels private and quiet. Kathleen is a fabulous host! 5 minutes to Butchart gardens, 25 to downtown Victoria and about 50 to Sooke, not to mention all the other gems nearby. Highly recommend Divine distillery and Bicycle Pizza! We wish we could have stayed longer.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole R.

Liked: Cleanliness
I Keep Coming Back
I'm so glad I decided to come back once again to spend 5 quiet and relaxing days at Kathleen's gorgeous cottage. You'll want for nothing as the cottage is so well appointed. As a solo traveller, I felt completely comfortable and safe nestled in the woods. I truly cannot recommend this property enough.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Todd G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Birthday/new Years Escape
The cottage was beautiful, cozy, and comfortable. We were just a few minutes outside Victoria City but felt like we were in our own private forest! We loved the entire experience. It was a simple and utterly relaxing long weekend!
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Howard J., Lake Elmo, MN

Liked: Cleanliness
Paradise in the woods
Beautiful place, everything you would need for a comfortable stay. This is out of a homes and garden magazine, except you are in the photos. If you want to live in a postcard, this is the place. Surrounded by trees, deer walking by in the morning, fireplace warming the room, mist in the trees, please tell me where there is a better place.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lesley P., Penticton, BC, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Sanctuary close to the city
This is a beautiful location to stay for a retreat. My Mother and I had our 3rd visit recently and we just love the idyllic forest setting and the gorgeous french cottage and all it has to offer. Kathleen has attended to everything and is a wonderful hostess. It was just what we needed - lots of R&R, yet also great shopping & restaurants in Victoria & Sidney. Thanks Kathleen!
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Forest cottage
Space is very comfortable for two people, well equipped kitchen, large bathroom with walk in shower, outdoor spaces for sitting and dining. We went out every day exploring and returned late afternoon to relax, read and ‘check our devices’. Location is about midway between Sidney and Victoria and worked for us.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Frank N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful cottage on the woods
This property is right out of a fairytale ( minus the grandma eating wolf). A private oasis far from. The maddening crowds. Everything promised was delivered and the online photos do not do justice to the inspiration and execution of putting this magical spot together.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Charles K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Just a lovely sta
The cottage was so clean, beautifully appointed and the attention to detail was impressive. We relaxed and refreshed our souls. Just what we needed.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness
Zen
Soo happy Seriously beautiful place Owners Kathleen and husband very helpful and quick on response Great place to clear head. Xoxo
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Deirdre L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Sweet Retreat
This cottage was beautiful. Very comfortable with all the basics provided. Kathleen was very nice and easy to reach for a couple of questions. We really enjoyed the QUIET! It was unseasonably warm but she had a fan ready for us.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Robert

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
A beautiful and quiet retreat, that is well kept and clean.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michelle W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Higher than five stars
The cottage and overall experience far exceeded any expectations. This is a treasure, in a great location. Kathleen's hospitality was excellent.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Eva

Travelled with partner
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Fabulous cottage in a magnificent secluded area close to mayor attractions in the area.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

William K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Very Nice
A very nice cottage in the woods. Everything was clean and comfortable. Great location, far enough from the city to be quiet, but still convenient. We enjoyed eating breakfast outside, listening to the birds, and watching the deer.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dwayne T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Honeymoon getaway
Beautifully crafted cottage, tucked in the woods! We loved our stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Dora S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Superb Serenity
A slice of heaven! Spotlessly clean & high end comfortable in the middle of the forest. This was super easy to navigate to thanks to wonderful host communication and very private and pristine. I cannot remember the last time I heard so many birds joyfully chirping - it is an instant good mood 🎵. Grateful to find this gem ❤️
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Piece of paradise
The cottage is a wonderful place to stay for a quiet and peaceful getaway. Close to literally everything: Sidney, Victoria, hiking, wineries, restaurants. The cottage is very well appointed with everything you will need. Love the kitchen with outdoor bbq complete with a beautiful area for dining al fresco. Kathleen is a wonderful host and her property is truly a gem.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Vera P., SLC, Ut

Liked: Cleanliness
Fabulous Forest Retreat
Surrounded by beauty inside and out; we could have stayed for a year. We truly had a magical time. As you might expect from any 5 star property, everything was easy and convenient, well thought out, simple and easy to understand. The decorating and design were truly wonderful, balanced and beautiful every were you looked. My wife and I just truly enjoyed the artful care in every detail. Comfortable, Beautiful, Charming. And that's just the inside. Nestled in the midst of a stunning pine forest; we could just sit and enjoy nature in comfortable chairs thoughtfully placed around the property. We highly recommend this location for anyone visiting the area.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Nothing short of amazing!
We had a wonderful stay at the cottage! It is charming, comfortable, filled with amenities, centrally located, relaxing, inspiring….I could go on. We hope to return in the near future. Kathleen and her husband are incredibly talented artists and gracious hosts. You are truly staying in a masterpiece cottage.
Stayed 6 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Perry K., Saskatoon, SK Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Wonderful place
Everything is perfect! Such a beautiful relaxing place. The home is amazing!! Kathleen was a wonderful host!
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joanne W.

Liked: Cleanliness
An exquisite little gem!
The property is secluded in the woods, and yet very close to restaurants shops and things to do. We were there a month and there was always something to do. The "cottage" is beautifully designed, with amazing amenities and furnishings!
Stayed 31 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Vera Y.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charming French cottage in the woods
Would love to come again, beautiful peaceful area, hiking close by with all the convenients. Felt like a real holiday!
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

JAMES W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Luxury in the forest
Beautifully presented escape from the city. A chef's dream kitchen and an extensive DVD collection to enjoy by the fire.
Stayed 6 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Donna M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Close, yet so far!
Cottage was close to Victoria, yet far enough to escape the city lights and noise. Absolutely magical in every way. Kathleen and Bruce were perfect hosts! We will be back!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Douglas P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Charming little house in the forest.
Just a 15-20 minute drive from both the airport and downtown Victoria, this gem of a house is absolutely perfect! Beautifully appointed with high ceilings, a fireplace and lovely bathroom and kitchen, we felt like we were staying in a diminutive French chateau. Great hiking just 5 minutes away. We enjoyed our stay very much - already thinking about our next visit!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Julie P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect!
A beautiful cottage on a beautiful property!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Marcia G., Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

Liked: Cleanliness
Magical
The cottage is beautifully decorated. All the furniture is very comfortable. I really appreciated the firm mattress which often is not the case at a VRBO. The linens were lovely. This is a place for relaxing and hiking. But with a car nothing is far away, even downtown Victoria. Don’t hesitate to ask Kathleen for anything you need. She was very accommodating and helpful. We were there for 2 weeks and really felt at home. We hope to go again.
Stayed 14 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

John & Aminta T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful cottage in the woods
From the moment we booked our stay to departure, communication was great, it was like home away from home, we enjoyed the luxury and open space outside with all the cute little decorations,I would recommend highly to anyone who wants some peace and quite and a place to come to after a long day of activity…
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Laura H.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great Little Cottage!!
It was a perfect staycation, very clean, very spacious, perfect kitchen!! Definitely recommend this property! :)
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
peaceful, remote setting and fabulously clean and a well stocked kitchen with everything needed to cook the shower is amazing as were the bed linen. I will be sharing this unique and fabulous gem with friends when they visit. The gardens are so unique and the landscape is quiet and tasteful. Peaceful and elegant!!!!!!!!! Rhonda
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021