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Tolkien Hideaway At Grey Havens

Hosted by Marc · Markdale, Ontario

2 sites · Lodging · 1 acre

97%

32 reviews

Staff verified

Accuracy verified by Hipcamp's on-the-ground team.

Romantic

Recent Hipcampers say this Hipcamp is romantic.

Tolkien readers will know the Grey Havens. The final chapter of the "Rings" trilogy is about going to "The Grey Havens" the last of the Elves' havens on Middle Earth." Looking for a retreat? We embrace Tolkien's imagination. We prefer, and encourage artists (writers, painters, musicians) and readers, who will especially like our lakefront property. We do our best to facilitate relaxation and inspiration. Each space has a unique small Library (try our public Little Free Library too). We have quiet, segregated spaces inside or outside for working or reading. As well, our lake is flushed with cool underground water: a small naturally special glacial kettle, source of the Styx River (different myth). Perhaps you'd rather fill your days with water recreation activities: swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing. We have a free boat launch for your watercraft. Lots of County Forest or Bruce Trailhead hiking opportunities also nearby. We have the following Free amenities: -Car parking (1 vehicle/site); Motorcycle friendly parking pads for touring riders -Wireless access -Spacious outdoor Privy and Wash House -Dock and canoe/kayak launch (for your own canoes/kayaks) -Patio/deck (20'x25') with fire circle, chairs and tables (burn only locally sourced wood-see our Extras) -Artist hosts with global perspectives and experience Hip Camp Extras: -"Firewood Bundle" ($25) for any open fires to cook or watch -"Failsafe fire starter kit" (5$) for 12 starters -"Butane Cook Stove" ($25) for camp stove cooking -"Hip Camper Workshop" ($60) patient instruction on safely starting a campfire, one fire setup demonstration and includes a Firewood Bundle and a Failsafe fire starter kit. Required for all First Time/Novice Hip Campers (zero Hip Camp trips) to avoid dangerous fire starting nightmares (for the host) like last year. -"Townsend Lake Cruise" ($30) learn about the natural history of lake on our unique eVessel, Swizzle Styx with the host as captain. -"Gear Wagon" ($10) to transport your luggage, tents, gear and/or coolers from the car to the site (and out again also). Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your site to get a cleaning refund on your booking. Hip Campers may wonder about the whale bench seen in many of our photographs. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench.

Select a site

Lodging

2 sites

Lakefront Log Cabin

97%

(29)

Cabin · Sleeps 3 · 1 bedroom · 2 beds · 1 toilet

Ours is a 16'x16' insulated true Log Cabin with covered porch, steps away from our quiet Townsend Lake. It has heat, hydro, water (washing and potable in bottle) and outdoor privy. The cabin is private. The covered (16'x12') privy/washing space is attached to the Log Cabin. Grey Havens is waste wise: remove your garbage and cleanup your Cabin to get a cleaning refund on your booking. For 2 adults, we provide a bed with fitted sheet, pillows and light blankets for cooler nights. For cooler seasons, you should consider bringing your own additional warmer bedding. The cabin also has a single sleeping loft available (one adult only). For 2 adults with a child we provide a single cot also. Extra adults and children will need to bring bedding. Indoor cooking: Galley style food prep space has a small bar fridge and microwave oven. Bottled potable water. Washup sinks are covered, located outside. Outdoor cooking: Camp-cooking equipment must be used outside only, on the attached private patio or the large campfire patio/deck (20'x25') that may be shared with other users. Campfire cooking must burn only locally sourced wood. Basic Cabin supplies provided: (see also photos) Small pot, cast iron skillet, electric kettle, coffee press, tea pot some plastic plates and eating utensils ceramic coffee/tea cups The lake is fed entirely with cool underground water great for swimming all summer. You have sunrises through the front window in summer. For sunsets view from the dock or get on the lake via your kayak/canoe. See our Property listing for a description of this unique lake. The Log Cabin is the creation of a retired biologist, author and nature-lover. Ask your host about the story of our Whale Bench. Available in Extras Gear Wagon to transport your gear on site Firewood Bundle for all open fires Butane Cook Stove Failsafe fire starter kit for 12 starters Hip Camper Workshop (see below) Townsend Lake Cruise for natural history of lake New for 2026 due to several dangerous camper incidents! New and seasoned Hip Campers are both welcome. We especially enjoy campers who relish nature, lakes and streams but Campers with no Hip Camp trips on record will be required to book our "Hip Camper Workshop" Extra or their Booking Request will not be accepted.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

No showers

Picnic table

Elvish Suite

100%

(2)

Vacation rental · Sleeps 2 · 1 bedroom · 1 bed · 1 toilet

This is an exclusive secluded space. Located on the second floor of our home this is an entirely separate, private lodging unit. Shielded by cedar trees, it is one short flight of stairs up to the covered, timber-framed deck (8'x12'). Tolkien's elves would be at home here but we do not allow pets in this suite. You will have a private bedroom and bathroom, shower and heated covered porch (for cool evenings). We provide bedding, pillows and towels. The inside space is super quiet, isolated from the humdrum of the household. For your meals we can recommend good local restaurants. You may use the timber-framed deck for coffee/tea and light cooking with the Butane/Propane Cook 1 Burner Stove included ($25 value). A cafe table and chairs are also provided. Alternatively open air cooking is possible on a large outdoor campfire patio/deck (20'x25') at our waterfront. Outdoor fires must burn only locally sourced wood. You must bring your own cooking/eating utensils for either indoor or outdoor meals. Other waterfront amenities include a dock and kayak/canoe launch (bring your own water craft). Available in Extras Butane 1 Burner Cook Stove (free for Elvish Suite) Gear Wagon to transport your gear on site Firewood Bundle for all open fires Failsafe fire starters for 12 starters Hip Camper Workshop Townsend Lake Cruise for natural history of lake Grey Havens is waste wise you must remove your garbage. All guests that leave the space clean and tidy like Hip Campers should, will have the Cleaning Fee refunded. Readers can relax with a book of their own on the cool (or heated) covered porch rain or shine. Or guests can enjoy an eclectic selection of books and travel-related material from the office of a working author. This space is your hosts writing retreat when not occupied by guests. The Elvish Suite is only available on Long Weekends, mid-week Holiday (Canada Day), and during autumn weekend September to October. Limited availability during winter skiing season. Inquire before booking.

Campfires allowed

Toilet

Potable water

No pets

Showers

Picnic table

Reviews

97% Recommend38 ratings · 32 reviews

The campsite offers a cozy, rustic cabin experience by the lake, making it a great spot for those looking to unwind in nature. Most visitors appreciate the peaceful setting and Marc's attentive hosting, noting the comfortable, albeit small, accommodations. Although the composting toilet and lack of climate control are noted, many find the charm and serenity outweigh these minor inconveniences. However, one review highlighted significant cleanliness issues, suggesting that experiences may vary.

Summary AI-generated from real reviews

Recommends

· August 2026

Tolkien Hideaway At Grey Havens

Select a site

Lodging

Lakefront Log Cabin

Elvish Suite

Reviews

Location

Hosted by Marc B.

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