10/10 Excellent
Elyse F.
15 September 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing location
Elyse F.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Entire home
Best view of the 1000 islands Plenty of dates open for 2025
Photo gallery for Best view of the 1000 islands Plenty of dates open for 2025
Reviews
9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms1+ bathroomSleeps 692.9 sq m
Popular amenities
Explore the area
Lansdowne, ON
- Thousand Islands National Park6 min drive
- 1000 Islands Tower9 min drive
- Thousand Islands Bridge10 min drive
- Alexandria Bay, NY (AXB-Maxson Airfield)25 min drive
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
2 Single Beds
Living Room 1
1 Queen Sofa Bed
1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet · Shampoo · Hair dryer
Bathroom 2
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet
Spaces
Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area
About this property
Best view of the 1000 islands Plenty of dates open for 2025
O'Connor Island is a 1.1-acre island in the St. Lawrence River. The cottage, which is about 1000 sq. feet, and is on the highest part of the island, 40 feet above the water line, with extensive decks and unparalleled views of the river. Enjoy coffee out front in the morning and cocktails in the afternoon.
The cottage has a master bedroom with a queen size bed and private half bath, and a second bedroom has bunk beds. The second bathroom has a tub and shower. All linens are provided. There is a large flat screen TV with satellite and Firestick in the living room. There is also a smaller smart TV with a DVD player in the bedroom with the bunk beds. The Wi-Fi works throughout the cottage and on the decks outside of the cottage. Download speeds are good for about 2 to 4 devices streaming at once, on those rainy days you are stuck inside. We added a new wi-fi router this year with a larger footprint area. Speeds are ok for 2 or 3 devices at once, but if you bring an XBOX and try to stream movies and play games all at once, you will get lag. Remember you are in the middle of the river, so speeds vary.
The kitchen has a microwave, automatic ice maker, coffee maker, and a four-burner range with an oven. Bring bottled water to drink. While we do have running water it is strongly advised not to drink it. The dining room table seats 6 to 8. The sofa bed in the living room sleeps 2.
The cove is ideal for swimming, make sure you wear some type of protective footwear when wading in the water, it is a rocky bottom along with zebra muscles. The boathouse can accommodate 2 smaller boats and there is extensive dock space which can accommodate boats up to 36 feet. There are shore power hookups inside the boathouse and on the dock outside for larger boats. Drafts with average river water levels are 8+ feet deep to 2.5+ feet closer to the island.
In the afternoon, enjoy the breeze coming off Lake Ontario. It the wind is too strong, retreat to the decks on the east side of the cottage where someone may be using the gas grill.
Tired of cooking? The Ivy Lea Club has a five-star restaurant. It is just a few minutes away by boat.
O'Connor Island will be available for rental from mid June 2025 to October 2025.
Rates are $275 USD in 2025, a 2-night minimum stay is also required
O'Connor Island is only accessible by boat, we only accept renters who can comply with these options for arriving to our island.
1 - Bring your own boat, launching is available at Peck's Marina (which is closest to the island, but other options are available in the Ivy Lea area)
2 - Rent a boat at Peck's Marina, or at other close by marinas in the area
Former renters, I know in times past we have worked with you with water taxi services to get you to and from the island. We have come to the decision that the liability is too high for you and your family to be on the island without a way to get off quickly if you have emergency. I hope you understand.
Whichever option you can choose, Jeff will be there to greet you and show you around. The boat ride from Peck’s Marina/Ivy Lea area to the island is about 5 - 10 minutes.
The cottage has a master bedroom with a queen size bed and private half bath, and a second bedroom has bunk beds. The second bathroom has a tub and shower. All linens are provided. There is a large flat screen TV with satellite and Firestick in the living room. There is also a smaller smart TV with a DVD player in the bedroom with the bunk beds. The Wi-Fi works throughout the cottage and on the decks outside of the cottage. Download speeds are good for about 2 to 4 devices streaming at once, on those rainy days you are stuck inside. We added a new wi-fi router this year with a larger footprint area. Speeds are ok for 2 or 3 devices at once, but if you bring an XBOX and try to stream movies and play games all at once, you will get lag. Remember you are in the middle of the river, so speeds vary.
The kitchen has a microwave, automatic ice maker, coffee maker, and a four-burner range with an oven. Bring bottled water to drink. While we do have running water it is strongly advised not to drink it. The dining room table seats 6 to 8. The sofa bed in the living room sleeps 2.
The cove is ideal for swimming, make sure you wear some type of protective footwear when wading in the water, it is a rocky bottom along with zebra muscles. The boathouse can accommodate 2 smaller boats and there is extensive dock space which can accommodate boats up to 36 feet. There are shore power hookups inside the boathouse and on the dock outside for larger boats. Drafts with average river water levels are 8+ feet deep to 2.5+ feet closer to the island.
In the afternoon, enjoy the breeze coming off Lake Ontario. It the wind is too strong, retreat to the decks on the east side of the cottage where someone may be using the gas grill.
Tired of cooking? The Ivy Lea Club has a five-star restaurant. It is just a few minutes away by boat.
O'Connor Island will be available for rental from mid June 2025 to October 2025.
Rates are $275 USD in 2025, a 2-night minimum stay is also required
O'Connor Island is only accessible by boat, we only accept renters who can comply with these options for arriving to our island.
1 - Bring your own boat, launching is available at Peck's Marina (which is closest to the island, but other options are available in the Ivy Lea area)
2 - Rent a boat at Peck's Marina, or at other close by marinas in the area
Former renters, I know in times past we have worked with you with water taxi services to get you to and from the island. We have come to the decision that the liability is too high for you and your family to be on the island without a way to get off quickly if you have emergency. I hope you understand.
Whichever option you can choose, Jeff will be there to greet you and show you around. The boat ride from Peck’s Marina/Ivy Lea area to the island is about 5 - 10 minutes.
Property manager
Eric Mackenzie and family - Owner
Languages
English
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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- Hot tub
- Kitchen
- Washer
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10.0 out of 10, (12 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 12:00 PM
Children
Children allowed: ages 0–17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Pets
Pets allowed: less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Smoking
Smoking allowed: in designated areas
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
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 20
Seniors-only community.
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
We should mention
This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property
About the area
Leeds and the Thousand Islands
Located in Leeds and the Thousand Islands, this cottage is on the waterfront. Boldt Castle and Thousand Islands Bridge are local landmarks, and some of the area's attractions include Gananoque Boat Line and Alex Bay 500 Go-Karts. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Lansdowne, ON
What's nearby
- Smuggler's Glen Golf Course - 4 min drive - 3.1 km
- Thousand Islands National Park - 6 min drive - 5.2 km
- 1000 Islands Tower - 9 min drive - 7.6 km
- Thousand Islands Bridge - 10 min drive - 8.4 km
- St. Lawrence Islands National Park - 12 min drive - 9.1 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- McDonald's - 11 min drive
- Rapid Valley Restaurant - 9 min drive
- Boldt Castle Food Concession - 23 min drive
- Thousand Islands Winery - 18 min drive
- Jreck Subs - 24 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
9.6
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window8.6/10
Cleanliness
8.0/10
Staff & service
9.0/10
Amenities
9.0/10
Property conditions & facilities
9.8/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
10/10
Location
9.6/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
Michael N.
19 August 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place
Michael N.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
10/10 Excellent
Adam C.
22 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Awesome stay
Adam C.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
8/10 Good
Jessica R.
21 August 2023
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely location
Jessica R.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Shane G.
20 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely island
Shane G.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Natalie D., Ottawa, Ontario
5 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island property in the heart of the 1000 Islands!
Natalie D.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Emmett C.
29 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property
Emmett C.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
8/10 Good
Verified traveller
3 August 2024
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness
MRL Group
Verified traveller
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Judy H.
4 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Adorable Cottage!
Judy H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Russ A.
13 August 2021
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great escape
Russ A.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021
8/10 Good
Justin H.
30 July 2020
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
On the island
Justin H.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2020
10/10 Excellent
Laura-Lea C.
13 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Another amazing stay.
Laura-Lea C.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
10/10 Excellent
Kevin D.
2 September 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
O'Connor island
Kevin D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Laura-Lea C.
18 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect, private oasis
Laura-Lea C.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Laura-Lea C.
9 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing for a short or long, private getaway.
Laura-Lea C.
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
10/10 Excellent
Natalie D., Ottawa, Ontario
21 August 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island, great location
Natalie D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Lynn A., Burlington, Ontario, Canada
27 August 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Island Getaway
Lynn A.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
8/10 Good
Carmen A.
18 August 2022
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful island
Carmen A.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Roxanne S., Toronto
4 July 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Little piece of heaven!
Roxanne S.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
10/10 Excellent
Alexandra L.
26 May 2016
Peaceful vacation
Alexandra L.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
8/10 Good
Ann H.
31 July 2016
The View!
Ann H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
10/10 Excellent
Sherri
12 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Sherri
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Anne B.
9 September 2019
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Rustic getaway
Anne B.
10/10 Excellent
Alden G.
17 August 2020
Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Spectacular Location and beautiful views
Alden G.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2020
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.
8/10 Good
David D.
22 August 2016
Wonderful property for a relaxing vacation on the water
David D.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2016
About the host
Hosted by Eric Mackenzie and family - Owner
Although the official name is O'Connor Island, it has long been known by the locals as Butternut Island, due to the presence of a grove of Butternut trees during the early part of the 20th century down near the cove. Until 1956 the only structure on the island was a "hunter's shack" with neither water nor electricity. It was purchased by my great aunt and uncle, Dr. and Mrs. Harry F. Pennington of Meriden, CT that year. They converted the existing structure into what is now the two bedrooms and two bathrooms, enlarged the cottage to what is now the living room and kitchen, and built the decks and a boathouse. Plumbing was installed, and the hot water heater, refrigerator, and stove were fueled by propane. Electricity was supplied for lights and small appliances by a generator located in the pump house. The cottage was wired in such a way that, when a light switch was turned on, the generator would start. In 1967, Dr. Pennington passed away, but Mrs. Pennington spent every summer here for the next 25 years. She had telephone service installed after his death for extra security. In the spring 1987, five of the islands (including Butternut) signed up for Hydro (electricity). The generator disappeared, and electric appliances replaced the propane. Two years later the now existing boathouse replaced a much smaller one. The island was passed along to my father and Aunt. Our families spent every summer here as their children were growing up. As we married and had their own families, the island was visited less frequently. In 2014 the decision was made to share this unbelievable destination with others. To that end, some furniture was replaced, and Wi-Fi and satellite TV were installed. We sincerely hope that you, our guests, enjoy the island as much as we do when we are here. Sadly in 2021 my father died and the island was passed down to myself and sister. We have been slowly been making improvements to the cottage each year since his passing.
Why they chose this property
This vacation destination offers something for everyone. For those seeking privacy and relaxation, the island is yours and yours alone. The only sound you will hear is the call of the loons in the morning, and the occasional flock of geese flying by. There is definitely no need to lock the doors at night! On the other hand, there is much to do a short boat ride back to your car. For those so inclined, there is a Casino just outside Gananoque. This town, just a few kilometers away on the 1000 Islands Parkway, calls itself the "Canadian Gateway to the 1000 Islands". Enjoy shopping on King Street. Spend some time by the river where the Gananoque Boat Line Tours come and go. There is an interesting Museum there, which is free but donations are accepted. Be sure to have an ice cream cone across the street, but only order one scoop - it is all you can handle! The Gananoque Boat Line offers a 1 hour tour, a 2 hour tour (which passes by O"Connor Island), and a 5 hour tour with an unlimited stopover at Boldt Castle. For those who like live theater. the 1000 Islands Playhouse offers performances daily except Mondays. The playhouse can be reached either by car or by boat. Back at the island, you can keep the children busy all day fishing off the dock. Be sure to use hooks without barbs for easy catch and release. The fish love bologna. When the Canada geese come by, give the kids some bread to feed them in the cove. Swimming in the cove is excellent because the water is shallow and protected from the wind. In the afternoon or evening you can toast marsh mellows in the grove. There is a fire pit for that purpose. Finally, there is always the board games, Wi-Fi, and streaming services on those wet days stuck inside. Enjoy your stay!
What makes this property unique
The view is worth the price of admission. We were lucky enough to have a island that has elevation change so you can see so much or the river, and also do not have any neighbors to share the island with. To have complete privacy on your vacation has always been important to us and we are sure that is for your family as well.
We also have been slowly making improvements each off season. Nothing major, we always want to have the cottage feel, but we do realize this is 2020s and not 1955. So each year we have done some minor changes. New roof, new windows, modern appliances, and so on. Our big projects for the off seasons of 2023, 2024, and 2026 will be; new living room furniture, new floors in the grand room, updates to both bathrooms, and a major overhaul of the boat house. We are hoping to turn the upstairs/loft of the boathouse into a play area for kids and teens who need time away from mom and dad on the long stays stuck in the rain.
My sister and I have been coming up every summer since 1977 and it is a true family getaway and we want to keep it that way. You will never see marble countertops in the kitchen or super high end fixtures in the bathrooms. We want to keep this feeling like a cottage until the next generation comes along and decides what they would like to do with it. We do out best to make you feel like you are staying with the extended families of Mackenzie's and Pennington's.
We also have been slowly making improvements each off season. Nothing major, we always want to have the cottage feel, but we do realize this is 2020s and not 1955. So each year we have done some minor changes. New roof, new windows, modern appliances, and so on. Our big projects for the off seasons of 2023, 2024, and 2026 will be; new living room furniture, new floors in the grand room, updates to both bathrooms, and a major overhaul of the boat house. We are hoping to turn the upstairs/loft of the boathouse into a play area for kids and teens who need time away from mom and dad on the long stays stuck in the rain.
My sister and I have been coming up every summer since 1977 and it is a true family getaway and we want to keep it that way. You will never see marble countertops in the kitchen or super high end fixtures in the bathrooms. We want to keep this feeling like a cottage until the next generation comes along and decides what they would like to do with it. We do out best to make you feel like you are staying with the extended families of Mackenzie's and Pennington's.
Languages:
English
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