Surrounded by the beauty and tranquillity of the Bideford River, Red Shore Cottages and Adventures was officially opened today in East Bideford.
Located on the Lennox Island Road on Route #163, Red Shore Cottages feature seven deluxe cottages that have received a 4 ½-star rating under the Canada Select grading system. The fully equipped, spacious cottages have decks that overlook the Bideford River and interiors finished with pine, oak cupboards and hardwood floors. There are two, four-bedroom cottages and five, two-bedroom cottages.
"We started discussing the cottage idea after we spent a summer living at the shore. Since we opened in the summer, the response we have received from visitors has been very positive. They really enjoy the magnificent view and the peacefulness," said owners Charlene and Roger Palmer.
Along with the accommodations, adventure is another aspect of the new business. Guests at the cottages or people interested in day adventures can use the 275-foot floating dock and rent kayaks and canoes. Bicycles rentals are also available.
"Quality accommodations and recreational activities will help to keep visitors in the West Prince area for longer periods of time. It is an exciting new venture for Charlene and Roger Palmer and I wish them every success with their new business," said Joe McGuire, Member of Parliament for Egmont, on behalf of the Honourable Robert Thibault, Minister of State for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).
Under the Business Development Program, ACOA provided a repayable loan of $212,750 for the construction of Red Shore Cottages. The Department of Development and Technology is providing $22,838 to the project through Prince Edward Island Business Development's Low Interest Loan Program.
"The Province of PEI is committed to further development of the West Prince region which is why we proudly support such initiatives as this one undertaken by the Palmers," said Philip Brown, Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cascumpec-Grand River, who was speaking on behalf of the Honourable Mike Currie, Minister of Development and Technology. "The provincial government congratulates the Palmers for their efforts and wishes them many prosperous years."
Red Shore Cottages will be open from late May until late October and winter rentals are also available. Plans are now underway to add an office and craft shop next spring.