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These are some of the most common questions guests ask us. Please take a moment to read through the answers:

Accommodation Questions:

When is check-in/check-out for cottage rentals?
Check-in time: 4pm
Check-out time: 10am

What day do weekly cottage rentals start?
All weekly cottage rentals begin and end on Saturday.

If we arrive early can we check-in early?
If you plan to arrive early on check-in day, we are only 10 minutes south of Mara Provincial Park. Check-In time is not before 4pm.

Do you allow pets?
No. We do not allow any pets. There is a lot of native wildlife up and down the river.

Can we invite extra guests to stay with us at the cottage during our rental period? After all, we’re renting the place…
No. Maximum numbers of overnight guests are listed for each cottage. If a cottage says it sleeps 6 it sleeps 6 (not 6 plus 4 on the floor). Every extra person at a property causes more stress on water systems, septic systems and fragile riverfronts. You must book enough accommodation to accommodate all guests during your stay. Mara Camping & RV is just a couple of minutes from the cottages for affordable overnite camping accommodation.

We are planning a family re-union. How many total guests can you accommodate?
Max. cottage and B&B accommodation: 26 guests
Max. campground accommodation: 32 guests (approx.)
TOTAL: 58

Are there any additional facilities available for large group events?
Yes. Please contact us if you are planning a re-union or group event to discuss your options.

Do you allow cottage rentals for less than a week during the July and August?
No. July and August weekly rentals fill up quickly, so we cannot offer daily rentals during these months.

How early do I need to book for July and August?
We have many returning guests, and much of our accommodation is full by the end of February for the upcoming summer. Book very early, if you require a specific week during July or August.

Is there a store close by for groceries?
Yes. The Mara Foodliner has a full fruitstand with affordable prices, gas station and groceries. If you prefer a larger grocery store, Sicamous is just 20min away, and Enderby is just 15min away.

Activities Questions:

Is there anything to do in the area besides go to the beach?
Yes. Please see our activities section for information about all activities in the area.

Do you offer a dock for ski boats?
We ask that guests do not moore ski boats overnite at cottage docks. Our docks are not designed for safe ski boat moorage. The public boat launch is just 10 minutes north of Shuswap River Cottages at Mara Provincial Park.

What is the weather like during shoulder season?
We are glad you asked! May/June and September/October are great months to stay with us. Weather is still pleasant and all the crowds are gone, so you will have the lakes to yourself. See our accommodation listings for discounted rates during these months.

How far are the cottages from Mara Lake and Shuswap Lake?
Mara Lake is 5 min, Shuswap Lake at Sicamous is 20min.

Is canoeing and kayaking safe on the Shuswap River?
Yes. At our end of the river it is very safe. There are only rapids at the far end of the Shuswap River near Mabel Lake, but this is nowhere near us.

Do you offer canoe or kayak rentals?
Canoe rentals and delivery can easily be arranged through a local business in Enderby.

How long does it take to canoe/kayak from Enderby to the cottages in Mara?
About 11 hours (there are many switchbacks in the river).

Do you have to pay to use the local Provincial Parks?
Parking fees have been implemented at local provincial parks. The fee is only $3/car.

Location Questions:

What is the driving time from Calgary?
Approximately 6 hours.

What is the driving time from Vancouver?
Approx. 6 hours

How far are the cottages from Revelstoke?

Just 1 hour by car.