Enough of the stress of everyday life? A holiday is just the thing to get away from it all and find new inspirations! But once you arrive at your destination, the hustle and bustle often continues. Vacation stress? Yes, that exists... If you are looking for absolute deceleration, a floating home from Voyageur Houseboats in Manitoba, Canada, is the perfect place to be!
The two brand-new houseboats bob comfortably in the Winnipeg River at the marina of the small town of Pinawa on the northern edge of Whiteshell Provincial Park. An impressive waterway that spreads to several lakes on its way from Lake of the Woods in Ontario to Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba. "Odyssée" and "Sérénité" – these are the names of the houseboats which are proudly emblazoned on their wooden walls. Each is unique, handcrafted by a Canadian artisan woodworker from local products with great attention to detail.
Guests embark in Pinawa and are transferred on the Winnipeg River to a sheltered mooring location inside Whiteshell Provincial Park by a licensed Voyageur captain - their scenic and secluded home for the next few days. Whiteshell Provincial Park's rocky and forested landscape with more than 200 crystal clear lakes matches the scenery of the Canadian Shield par excellence and is candy for eyes and soul.
Each houseboat can accommodate up to four people and offers not only plenty of comfort and coziness, but also a nearly 360° view of the surrounding nature - and that 24/7! A particularly chill spot is promised by the hammock, which dangles just above the water! Where else could you relax in a better way…. You can quickly revive your spirits with a bold jump into the refreshing water. Thanks to the swimming ladder, everyone can easily get back on board. Each houseboat also provides up to four kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for exploring the waters of Whiteshell Provincial Park on historic fur trader routes.
The feel-good equipment of the houseboats also includes one XL bed as well as twin bunk beds for two people each, an RV-style kitchenette with sink, 2-plate propane stove-top, an electric fridge with small freezer section, a BBQ, a shower and a dry composting toilet. Towels and bed linen are provided. Electricity is obtained by solar panel and distributed via 12 V USB sockets.
If you feel like a change of pace and need some time off from the houseboat, you can take the Pontoon Shuttle for a 2- or 4-hour trip to Pinawa, where you can play a round of golf or enjoy the Pinawa Channel float on XL tubes. A Voyageur captain can also be booked for 1- to 2-hour panoramic cruises to explore the six scenic lakes along the Winnipeg River. Or take an evening cruise into the sunset – it can’t get more romantic!
When night falls in Whiteshell Provincial Park, the canopy of stars begins to twinkle. Far from the lights of the nearest town, a magnificent view of the deep dark night sky is a guaranteed sight.
Further information can be found at www.voyageurhouseboats.com and www.travelmanitoba.com.