Charleston Lakeside Retreat
Colin & Angela Bourbonnais, Owner
www.charlestonlakesideretreat.com
40 Greer Point Lane, Lansdowne ON, K0E 1L0
613-659-4463
info@charlestonlakesideretreat.com
Tell us about yourself! Hobbies? Fun facts? How did you get started?
Colin and I have three children together and have spent most of our home lives and leisure time in nature. We spent many summers camping at Charleston Lake and Algonquin Provincial Parks. We love to hike and Colin is an avid fisherman.
I have been making natural skincare products for over 20 years. The selling of these products took a back seat to parenting and work responsibilities, but I have been consistently making them throughout the years for family and friends.
Having my own skincare boutique has always been a dream for me. Owning a cabin rental business has always been a dream for us. When we discovered that the old Charleston Heights property was up for sale, we were so pleased to finally have the opportunity to plunge head-first into our dreams.
Define your business in your own words.
Our property began its life as a Pentecostal Church camp. It has seen many owners since then. We have chosen to bring back the vintage quality of the cabins and provide a peaceful vacation destination for families. We include all boat use to our guests at no extra charge and are working with a local company to provide locally-sourced food packages to guests. We do our best to encourage our guests to experience all the wonderful activities our area has to offer.
We also have a small artisan soap and skincare boutique on site. Our skincare products are all vegan, paraben-free, phthalate-free, sulphate-free and palm-free. Our focus is on home-grown, wild-foraged, locally sourced ingredients and essential oils. Our main goal is to transition entirely to zero waste or low waste packaging.
What business achievement are you most proud of?
1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year for 2018.
Why did you choose Leeds and the Thousand Islands to start your business?
We grew up in a small town similar to Gananoque and have been in the area for many years. We really love this area. There are so many beautiful lakes and hiking trails. There is a strong sense of community, and the people are very warm and welcoming.
What words would you use to describe Leeds and the Thousand Islands?
Nature. History. Community. Supportive.
Provide a message to your future guests!
We have met so many wonderful people on this journey and are always happy to speak with our customers and guests. We love to hear about your adventures and experiences while staying in our cabins. If provoked - Colin will talk your ear off about fishing, and I may talk your ear off about soap.
Charleston Lakeside Retreat described in one word:
Adventure