BURST
Fans of the hit hockey romance series Heated Rivalry will soon have the chance to step inside one of the show’s most iconic settings.
The Barlochan cottage waterfront property in Muskoka, Ont., featured in the show’s final episode, serves as the backdrop for the climax of the main characters’ relationship.
Starting in March, the lakeside home is being offered as a rental experience, giving fans the chance to experience it in real life.
Heated Rivalry, adapted from Canadian author Rachel Reid’s Game Changers book series, follows the long-running relationship between rival professional hockey players Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie). Spanning years of competition and secrecy, the story has built a devoted fanbase drawn to its character-driven storytelling and portrayal of a queer relationship within the world of professional hockey.
The cottage, fictionally set in Lanaudière, Que., features in the finale as a private retreat where the characters’ relationship reaches a turning point after years of tension and quickly became a favourite among viewers.
In a press release , Airbnb said it is inviting guests to Barlochan cottage, “which has captivated screens big and small,” allowing fans to book the private retreat for themselves. Booking requests for early access stays open March 3, with nights priced at $248.10, a nod to the jersey numbers worn by the fictional hockey players — Hollander sports a 24 on his sweater, while Rozanov wears 81.
To mark the opening, Airbnb says it will make a donation to the Children’s Foundation of Muskoka, which supports children and youth with access to sports and recreation opportunities in the Muskoka area.
Despite its name, the Barlochan “cottage” reflects a modern seasonal home rather than a traditional rustic cabin.
The pet-friendly property includes three bedrooms with queen-size beds and a large dining table. Large windows throughout offer unobstructed sunset views over the water, while a central fireplace serves as the perfect place to eat tuna melts and sip a ginger ale.
Located about two hours north of Toronto, Muskoka has long been known as Ontario’s cottage country, with seasonal homes and waterfront properties drawing visitors each year.
The owners, who have chosen to remain anonymous, are opening the property exclusively through Airbnb. A select number of stays will take place over four weekends in May before the cottage opens for broader bookings later in the season.
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