5 Heated Rivalry-Inspired Cottages Around B.C.

If you’re wrapped up in a Heated Rivalry haze like I am, then you, too, haven’t mentally left the cottage since the hit TV show’s final episode aired on December 26.

If you don’t know what Heated Rivalry is (then congrats, you’re not chronically online), it’s the six-episode Crave series based on Rachel Reid’s book by the same name, which follows two star hockey rivals who secretly develop a romance over the course of a decade. It’s steamy, emotional, filled with yearning—and it’s taking the world (or the internet, rather) by storm. It’s also wonderfully Canadian.

The series finale, titled “The Cottage,” takes place at the main character Shane Hollander’s (played by B.C.’s Hudson Williams) cottage in Muskoka. While the locale of said cottage is actually in Ontario (pictured below), I’m manifesting a real-life cottage episode closer to home. These are five cottages (or, “cabins” as British Columbians call them) would be approved by Mr. Landlord himself.

 

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5 Airbnbs in B.C. with Same Vibe as the Heated Rivalry Cottage

1. Sunset Pines Cottage

Location: Harrison Hot Springs, B.C.

The breakdown: $530 per night (two-night minimum, price may fluctuate); sleeps six

The details: This bright lakeside cottage in Harrison Hot Springs is a peaceful escape from busy city life, only a 90-minute drive from Vancouver. With two bedrooms and a bathroom, this cottage sleeps six, perfect for friends or comfortable for a couple looking to get away. There’s a wrap-around porch, outdoor dining area and a barbecue so you can grill an excessive amount of burgers.

Aside from stunning views of Harrison Lake, other amenities include a new air conditioning unit for summer, a smart TV system complete with karaoke and gaming consoles to channel your inner professional athlete, a sauna, a usable fireplace and a small public beach access right beside the driveway

2. Woodlands Nordic Spa Retreat

Location: Peachland, B.C.

The breakdown: $258 per night (two-night minimum, price may fluctuate); sleeps two

The details: This cozy cottage in Peachland is perfect for a romantic getaway surrounded by mountain vistas. Equipped with a comfortable Murphy bed, full kitchen and bathroom, there’s also a wood-burning sauna, outdoor cold plunge tub and fire pit just steps away from the cabin where you can listen to the sounds of nature (watch out for those loons!). This stay is close to Okanagan wineries and downtown Peachland, along with several mountain resorts within a two-hour drive for skiing or snowboarding.

Read more: Local Getaway: 3 Modern Stays in the Okanagan

3. The Surf Ocean-Front Retreat

Location: Jordan River, B.C.

The breakdown: $345 per night (two-night minimum, price may fluctuate); sleeps two

The details: The Surf is one of three stays with ShoresBC in Jordan River. With high ceilings and panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait, this stay has a sunken outdoor patio area with a fire pit, as well as an outdoor shower and tub. This spot is perfect for surfers, with a private trail leading right to the beach. It’s also equipped with plenty of books and board games for a night in. Stay in and cook spaghetti in the fully equipped kitchen, or enjoy the neighbouring China Beach at this quiet retreat.

4. Saltwood Beach House

Location: Ucluelet, B.C.

The breakdown: $705 per night (three-night minimum, price may fluctuate); sleeps four

 

The details: Hear me out. Tofino and Ucluelet are the West Coast equivalent of Ontario’s Muskoka. Yes, they’re very different, but the cottage getaway vibe is the same. This modern retreat in Ucluelet has stunning views of the Pacific coast and access to the Wild Pacific Trail, all right at your doorstep. Guests can enjoy the surrounding nature from the hot tub on the private deck—or inside through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Pick between the master bedroom with a king-sized bed and beautiful ocean views, and the second bedroom with a queen-sized bed and forest views. Small dogs are allowed, and the Airbnb listing says there are even curated Saltwood Sessions playlists to set a relaxing—or romantic—ambience.

Read more: Local Getaway: Enjoy Waterfront Views at a Ucluelet Beach House

5. Swell Life Cottage

Location: Heriot Bay, Quadra Island, B.C.

The breakdown: $323 (two-night minimum, price may fluctuate); sleeps four

The details: Although it has a little more white paint than Shane Hollander’s cottage in Heated Rivalry, this new 800-square-foot cottage on Quadra Island is nestled into Gowlland Harbour. With two bedrooms, a soaker tub and plenty of natural light, those looking for a secluded retreat filled with paddling, kayaking and swimming will enjoy this getaway. There’s a covered porch to enjoy morning coffee, and even an outdoor shower with which to rinse off.