Our History
Our House has deep roots. Take a stroll through our lounge and you’ll travel back in time to the 1800s, when the bar and back rooms of the restaurant were the heart of a log cabin belonging to the Barry family – after whom Barryvale was named. Industrialist and future senator M.J. O’Brien visited the picturesque area on the shores of Calabogie Lake in the late 1800s while surveying it for the construction of his new Kingston and Pembroke (K&P) Railway. He fell in love with the cabin and bought it as his summer retreat, later expanding it into much of the building that stands today. As the story goes, O’Brien used his own railcar to reach the lodge from the main tracks, and even had the engineer carry his bags to the door. Frederick “the Major” Fleming bought the building and adjoining farm and property in the late 1940s. His son Rick, the current owner, took over in the 1960s, and his first wife, Ann, ran the building as the Madawaskinn Lodge for a number of years. Rick went on to transform part of his property into the spectacular 27-hole Calabogie Highlands Golf Resort. The lodge served as the course clubhouse for many years before closing to undergo further expansion and renovation, reopening as the new Highlands Social House in the spring of 2025. Our commitment to preserving and polishing this historic gem is
ongoing – as is its story, which continues to unfold more than a century and a half after its first walls were built.
Our Vision
Over much of its lifetime, our House has served as a community hub – a gathering place for locals and visitors to swap stories over a cold drink and a hearty meal, and for travellers to rest their heads. We see our role as much the same today: to create a casual, comfortable place to unwind with friends and family, take in the incredible
scenery and serenity of the Highlands, and enjoy delicious downhome cooking with an upscale twist. Located minutes from downtown Calabogie, off Highway 511, we’re handy to ATVers, snowmobilers, bikers, hikers, and boaters – who can tie up at our docks. After all, our House is your house.
Our Venues
Our big, beautiful House has a spectacular view of Calabogie Lake and the peaks – and the most jaw-dropping sunsets you’ve ever seen! In spring, our blossoming magnolia tree will take your breath away. Out front, you’ll find our giant weeping willow, beautiful annual and perennial gardens, and a striking rock waterfall with a large pond. Step inside, and you’ll see how the original 19th century cottage has been uniquely expanded to create several distinct spaces under one roof – each with its own character and charm. And, of course, we have a large, covered patio. Contact us by phone or email for more information.
Dining Room
Our dining room features large, wraparound windows that overlook our gardens and shimmering Calabogie Lake. It has a capacity of 160, and tables can be combined to
accommodate virtually any size of group. At the far end of the long room are a cluster of high-top tables, our vintage jukebox, and space easily cleared for a dance floor or band. In the cooler months, our wood stove is a focal point of the dining room – and an ideal place to warm up after a day of snowmobiling, skiing, or snowshoeing in the beautiful Calabogie highlands.
Bar-Lounge
Our cozy lounge occupies the more than century-old cottage section of our House, so it’s oozing with history. Exposed brickwork and a beautiful pressed-tin ceiling add to its charm. In addition to a long bar with comfy, low-back padded-leather chairs, you’ll find a trio of snug, semi-circular booths, and a back room where folks gather to play cards or darts, or to relax and watch the game on TV. It’s a friendly and favourite meeting place for locals and visitors alike, who have been known to get the jukebox rocking on a Friday or Saturday night.
Covered Patio
Whether the skies are clear or there’s rain in the forecast, our spacious patio has you covered (literally)! We’re steps away from the 18th green, so a popular place for golfers to wrap up their round with an ice-cold beverage and some fabulous food. Our patio is pet friendly for friendly pets, so Rover is welcome to stop by for break and a bowl of cold water. We’re open as long as temperatures permit and can accommodate up to 180 people – so keep us in mind for your next group event.
Private Dining Room
An intimate dining room in the more than century-old cottage part of the House features a massive, two-sided fireplace and a large dining table. This cozy space will be perfect for smaller groups who want a bit more privacy, with seating available for 24 people. The space will also be ideal for other events, such as wine and food tastings.
The Social Cigar
Love a good cigar and a glass of fine scotch? Our covered, open-air gazebo is the perfect place to enjoy both. The Social Cigar outdoor lounge offers richly upholstered,
padded chairs and a sweeping view of Calabogie Lake. Bring you own cigar and choose from a selection of premium liquors available at our bar.