Local Getaway: Relax at an Earthy Cob Home on an Organic Farm

Location: Mayne Island, British Columbia 

The details: $165 per night plus fees (two-night minimum stay); sleeps two

The amenities:

Disconnect from the city’s hustle bustle energy in this cob home’s all-natural atmosphere.  Situated on a working farm, this stay offers a stunning valley view of the farm and its barn animals for you to admire as you unwind.

This hand-built earthen home is reminiscent of a fairytale dwarf house, with its rounded structure, sloped roof and creative design. Step into this fairytale-like space and enjoy the various unique interior and exterior design elements it has to offer.

Starting off on the exterior, you’ll find a ‘Tree of Life’ design, symbolizing how rejuvenated you’ll likely feel after your stay. The extensive wooden deck along the home gives you plenty of room to sip your morning coffee as you watch the sheep and cows prance along the farm.

Something interesting to note is that the toilet and shower is located outside the home in its own private area, which is accessible from the bedroom through a covered walkway. This might sound atypical, but actually offers dwellers the unique experience of showering under a starry night (how poetic)!

As you head inside the home, you’ll find that much of the earthen elements from the exterior is translated exceptionally well to the interior. The walls are built from copper-coloured cob, with the floors dressed in stone tiles and rustic wooden beams across the ceiling. The arched and circular windows throughout the home creates a warm and soft atmosphere.

The kitchen features a beautiful stone countertop with mosaic details throughout. You’ll find colourful glass bottles hanging from the ceiling above the counter, acting as lamp shades. The bottles offer an interesting juxtaposition to the otherwise earth-toned home. 

Head over to the living room to find a simple and cozy space. The curved walls in this area makes dwellers feel as if they’re wrapped in a big, warm hug. One of the couches here is built with the same cob material as the home’s walls, further adding to the space’s rustic atmosphere. 

As you head over towards the back of the home, you’ll be greeted by a Japanese bath and sink in the bedroom. This ensuite convenience provides you with the luxury of soaking in a warm bath right before bedtime. 

The bedroom itself features a queen-sized bed with a skylight above. Stare into the starry night as you fall asleep, and get awoken by the first signs of morning light. If you’d prefer to have complete darkness, the hosts also have blackout shades available upon request.

This fairytale stay is ideal for a couple or a small family, as it offers just enough space for everyone to feel comfortable and enjoy the unique experience of living in a cob house.

Activities in the area:

This home is neatly tucked away from civilization, on a private farm, where you can truly unwind and disconnect. That being said, there are still plenty of spots on Mayne Island that are only a drive away for you to explore!

The most popular sight to see is the Lighthouse Park at Georgina Point. This is a lovely spot for a light stroll or picnic as you watch the harbour seals (or if you’re lucky, orcas passing by). If you’re hoping to do some physical activity, the Mount Parke hiking trail is a great choice. It takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the top, where you can enjoy excellent views overlooking the island. The island also offers 14 beach access points, including but not limited to Piggott Bay, Bennett Bay and Campbell Bay. There is sure to be a beach that you’d enjoy during your stay!