Discover tranquility, quirkiness at Wolfe Island’s Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast

Laurie Weir

Guests come for peace and quiet, great food and hospitality, and fall in love with the chickens.

Wolfe Island is a picturesque ferry ride from Kingston, Ont., or Cape Vincent, N.Y., and is home to the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast, a serene retreat that enchants guests seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. It’s also home to several chickens that lay fresh eggs for breakfast.

This stately lodge was built in 1895 and served as a summer retreat and inn. It’s had a few reincarnations along the way. From the St. Lawrence River Resort to the Villa on the St. Lawrence, it changed to the Woodman House in 1923, owned by the Woodman family. It was then called Dreamcatcher’s Inn which was owned by the Maracle family in 2003.

Over the last century, the place has transformed from outhouses and horse and buggies, to seven guest rooms with private ensuites and modern amenities and a nightly capacity of 17 guests. The ground-floor guest-suite bathroom ensures accessibility and comfort, making it welcoming for everyone.

Since 2018, the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast has been owned by Katherine Slagle, her husband James Bambury and their children, Wesley and Ella.

Being with family is the most exciting part about owning this former lodge. “Our family is at the heart of everything we do,” Katherine says. “James and I left our hectic jobs to be with our children. At the time of purchase, Ella was three and Wesley was five. We have rebuilt this home together. I absolutely love building, painting, plastering and constantly repairing with our children – we all do our own renovations.”

The connections they make with guests truly make it worthwhile. “When you walk into the home, there is a huge bulletin board of thank-you notes from guests, and it makes my heart truly happy,” Katherine says.

Being a small business owner also has its perks. “Generations of my family are small business owners and I wanted our children to experience an upbringing like I did,” she says. “Our children have become so confident and capable because they are living this life.”

The house is in the heart of Marysville and, over the years, has not only provided guest accommodation but was a central meeting place for Islanders. The home was known for parties, reunions and wakes. It has been a meeting place in times of joy and sorrow.  “When we purchased the property we wanted a name that was quirky and lighthearted,” she says.

“Our goal is to provide a home away from home for our guests,” Katherine says. “When guests stay with us, they truly become part of the family.”

Breakfasts are filled with family recipes and enjoying that morning meal on the enclosed back deck, watching the chickens roam.

“Nearly every guest leaves with a chicken selfie,” Katherine says with a laugh. “Some of our guests are leaving the big cities and staying here is an opportunity to experience country living.”

At dusk, take comfort in watching the sunset from the front porch with a glass of wine while embracing the sights of the City of Kingston across the St. Lawrence River.

“We make a special effort for our guests,” Katherine says, be that with balloons, a bottle of champagne, fresh flowers, baked goods or foods to meet everyone’s preferences (think allergies or intolerances). “My gluten free muffins are pretty spot on at this point.”

Arriving at the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast, you are greeted by a quaint, blue-trimmed lodge set against a backdrop of lush greenery and the St. Lawrence River. The ambiance is warm and inviting, promising a stay filled with comfort and relaxation. A full-lodge rental is an option if looking for a wedding party adventure (or family fun, or a friends’ get-together), or you can book just one unique room with a view.

Step inside, and you will find meticulously designed rooms exuding rustic charm and modern comfort. Each room is thoughtfully furnished with plush bedding, antique décor, and all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. Wake up to the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds, and start the day refreshed and rejuvenated.

Katherine says her favourite room may be Room 2 – the former parlor of the house and it has all the original moulding, high ceilings, water view and a beautiful four-poster bed.

Early in their mission, Katherine notes, it has been paramount that they make the B&B more accessible. In 2021 they received an Enabling Accessibility Grant and transformed the bathroom in Room 2 into an accessible one. It has a full wet room with roll-in shower. They have also lowered the bed height in the room to help with transfers and have ramps on site for guest use.

Just last year, the family was honoured at a Frontenac County event as the recipients of the Celebration of Accessibility – Access Award. “We are extremely proud to be the first accessible accommodation on the island,” Katherine says.

Wolfe Island is a haven for nature lovers, and the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast serves as the perfect basecamp for exploring its natural wonders. Lace up the hiking boots and embark on scenic trails that wind through forests and meadows, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Birdwatchers will delight in the island’s diverse avian population, including majestic snowy owls and herons.

“I’m the honourary tour guide of the island,” Katherine says. “The island is a hidden gem and I love talking about all it has to offer. I love telling guests about Big Sandy Bay which is an absolutely stunning horseshoe beach. You can walk two kilometres, through what seems like three different eco-systems, and then you begin to hear the water and see the beautiful secluded beach. We have beach towels, walking sticks and a picnic knapsack for guests to borrow.”

If staying longer than a couple nights, it’s a quick ferry ride to Kingston to explore historic landmarks, immerse in its vibrant culture, or indulge in its culinary delights. Confederation Park offers stunning views of Lake Ontario and the harbour. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Fort Henry, the former home of Sir John A. Macdonald at Bellevue House, and the intriguing Murney Tower are worth a day trip visit. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Agnes Etherington Art Centre, while history buffs can delve into Kingston’s past at the Pump House Steam Museum and through tours of the Kingston Penitentiary. Downtown Kingston offers charming shops, boutiques, and dining options, while the Kingston market showcases local produce and crafts. Then there are the boat cruises from the docks in Kingston.

Cape Vincent can be visited by ferry (seasonal), located in upper New York State. It boasts the iconic Tibbetts Point Lighthouse and embodies the charm of a quintessential river town. With picturesque vistas of both the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, visitors are treated to a blend of scenic beauty and small-town hospitality. Explore the town’s offerings that stretch from Cedar Point to Snug Harbour.

After a day of exploration, be that on the island or off-site, satisfy your hungry appetite with a culinary journey through Wolfe Island’s local flavours. Back at the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast, unwind on the charming patio overlooking the garden, or cozy up by the fireplace with a good book and let the day melt away.

What truly sets the Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast apart is the warm hospitality extended by its hosts, who go above and beyond to ensure that every guest feels right at home. Whether you’re looking for insider tips on the best trails or recommendations for local attractions, the hosts are always on hand for a memorable stay.

The Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast has won several awards for Best Hotel, Inns and Bed & Breakfast, Kingston: 2023, platinum; 2022, 2021, 2019; and bronze in 2020.

It is a special place to have an outdoor adventure, enjoy culinary delights, or simply unwind. This charming retreat offers everything needed for a memorable getaway, so book today, and embark on a journey of relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the tranquil landscapes of Wolfe Island.

MAKE YOUR TRIP TO THE ISLAND A MEMORABLE ONE

These are a few things that make a trip to Wolfe Island one of the best.

Fargo’s General Store: A quaint general store is full of groceries, odds and ends and an LCBO (400m from the B&B)

Three restaurants all within walking distance: 

The Wolfe Island Pub & Pizzeria – known locally as the WIPP (290m from the B&B)

The Restaurant at The Hotel Wolfe Island (200m from the B&B)

The Island Grill (re-opening summer 2024) (290m from the B&B)

Need a coffee or sweet treat? Check out The Wolfe Island Bakery (350m from the B&B) (Seasonal)

Outdoor Activities:

 Attractions:

Note that many attractions are seasonal and require booking in advance.

Gifts:

The Blue Moose Bed and Breakfast is located at 1277 Highway 96, Wolfe Island. On socials: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/bluemoosebandb , Instagram @thebluemoosebandb

To make reservations call 613-530-5228, email bluemoosebandb@gmail.com or visit the website for more information.