In the Parry Sound District of Georgian Bay, the most common sounds are bird calls and breeze rustling the evergreens. It’s a place where time slows, and the tranquil waters provide a haven for boating and fishing enthusiasts. Summertime brings together family and friends for leisurely outings on the water or laid-back days on one of the many islands dotting these placid waters.

Burritts Island is a 7.4-acre private island with a high-end rental compound delivering front-row access to this region’s serene beauty. Ensconced in a secluded stretch of the bay south of Byng Inlet, the property is accessible only via boat and takes cottage living and entertaining to new heights.

William Dewson of Toronto’s Dewson Architects designed the island’s contemporary post-and-beam cottage to complement the surrounding water and boreal forest of the Canadian Shield. The timber structure is Douglas fir from western Canada and the finishes are locally sourced spruce, birch, maple, pine, and walnut giving the property a warm glow. The central living space cantilevers over Burritt’s Inlet to provide sweeping sunrise and sunset views, as well as southern exposure throughout the day. A massive granite fireplace, its stone mirroring the gray bedrock that forms the island, anchors this area. Sleeping and bathing facilities are tucked away into the trees beyond.

Monthly rental of Burritt’s Island includes housekeeping and a full-time caretaker who can manage shopping excursions, fishing trips, and boat service for the 30-minute journey to and from the marina in Britt, seven miles away. A flotilla of kayaks, canoes and fishing boats also are provided to make the most of the surrounding waterways.