Castalia Marsh Retreat — Hotel in Grand Manan Island

I’ll start with the one thing that may not be your bag: dry toilets (actually cleaner and less smelly than your traditional toilet). If you think that’s a big issue, then this place is probably not for you.|But if you dig family and pet-friendly, eco-conscious holidays, if you love nature, sunrises, sunsets, birds and a slower pace of life, then let me tell you: you are in for a treat! |We stayed for 2 nights and wished we could have stayed for longer. We also instantly knew we would be coming back and the feeling never left us. |Castalia Marsh Retreat is a labour of love. Everything was designed and built by James, the owner. Each cabin is individual, both practical and playful. |James and his son are welcoming, gentle-mannered and genuine. It was so lovely to chat with them.|The cottage (Fern Alley) was spotlessly clean and extremely well appointed, the beds were very comfortable. |We loved the balcony overlooking the marsh (perfect place to watch the sun go down and the ferries leave the island) and the view from our bed downstairs (the sunrises were spectacular). |Our kids loved the chicks, the barbecue at The Gathering Place, the organic garden, the little playground... well everything! ||It’s a truly individual, magical place and we cannot wait...

Castalia Marsh Retreat is one of the most magical places I've ever had the chance to visit. I found a picture of one of the cabins on the internet, and knew I had to see it in person. 2 years later, we've decided to make it a annual tradition. Castalia Marsh Retreat is made up of a handful of cabins, each more beautiful and unique than the last. The cabins themselves reflect the beauty of their location. They are surrounded by trees and look out onto a salt marsh- there is no shortage of beautiful views and birdwatching available. The cabins come equipped with a kitchen and the essentials needed for cooking. They have composting toilets and outdoor solar showers, but there are also flush toilets and indoor showers on site (check their website to make sure this is accurate for every cabin). The owner James is warm, friendly and helpful. He built all of the cabins, and keeps them running. He is always willing to take time to talk to you about the marsh and the island. Grand Manan island provides countless adventures, and short or long hikes. It's an amazing place to come and relax, and...

This is a home away from home for us! We have been coming here since our Daughter was 4 and she is now 20. Coming to Castailia marsh is completely unplugging from the pressures of society and to a more simpler time. Unique and rustic is two of the things I love about being here! To be able breathe in ocean air completely surrounded by nature is something that is so precious and is a true treasure! James has become an extended member of our family! He is welcoming and warm and very very accommodating! I have travelled all over the world and this is truly my favourite place to be! I love that I grab a bag of clothes and arrive to every thing I need in the cabins and the grocery store is so handy! We have brought our family and friends and all of our family pets over the years! We have created so many wonderful memories, too many to count! This is the place to be one with nature and to take in some of the most amazing sunrises and sunsets! I wish I could give this more stars!...