On a quiet corner on Mooswa Drive in Wasagaming, Manitoba guests will find the Mooswa Resort along with its sister resort Arbutus Cabins.
The newest owners Pam and Cam McMillan purchased the resort in 2019.
“We were about to retire and noticed it was for sale in the fall of 2018. On a whim and a prayer we put in an offer. It has been an energizing adventure to transition from farming and education to the hospitality industry,” shares Co-Owner, Pam McMillan.
In 2021 they took over the Arbutus Cabins located adjacent to the Mooswa Resort.
“We wanted the sister resort to stay a part of the Mooswa Resort. The two resorts offer a full range of accommodations in a naturally blended environment,” explains Co-Owner, Cam McMillan
In operation for 59 years, the Mooswa Resort boasts a variety of accommodations – including six chalets, eight unique suites and two cottages located around the newly renovated pool courtyard. The Arbutus Cabins are a small enclave of six cabins. Four of the cabins are two storeys and the largest rentals in Riding Mountain National Park with 2,200 square feet of living space. The other two cabins are a spacious single storey with an open concept kitchen, dining and living area.
The suites are all unique with open concept living, kitchen and dining areas. Three are street side, while the other four are poolside. Some are single storeys and several have lofted bedrooms.
“Our newest walkout suite has a large deck facing the forest. It features an open concept kitchen, living and dining area, master bedroom with tv and ensuite, two other queen bedrooms and a second bathroom,” describes Pam.
The two cabins have three bedrooms, two bathrooms, living/dining areas, and a covered/screened in deck facing the pool courtyard.
“The rustic poolside mountain chalets have a peeled log staircase to lift you up to the open lofted bedroom. The loft has two single beds and the main level has a queen bedroom. The chalet has a kitchenette, and a small dining and living area. New sofa beds and the air conditioning help make our guests’ stay more comfortable. Decks on both sides of the chalets allow guests to enjoy the sun or shade anytime of day,” shares Cam.
All units are outfitted with new air conditioning, fire boxes are available for guests’ use, and its own barbecue and patio set. A small playground and green space are available for use. The resort provides satellite tv and limited Wi-Fi. Two of the Arbutus Cabins even have an outdoor electric barrel sauna.
The Mooswa Resort and Arbutus Cabins’ design indeed is one of a kind.
“The layout of the lodge, chalets and cabins surrounding the pool courtyard with the forest backdrop gives it a tranquil ambience perfectly suited for a family/friend vacation or business retreat,” shares Pam.
“We believe the footprint of the resort is part of its unique appeal,” adds Cam. “There is a sense of space as well as a sense of privacy with the units. The classic A-frames encompass green space and the pool.”
The A-frames are the distinct initial feature of the resort. The transformation of the large dining room into suites that are individually unique provide rustic charm and modern comfort. The addition of the large, more luxurious Arbutus cabins offers accommodations for larger family get togethers, golfing trips and working retreats.
“The A-frame chalets have been a Riding Mountain National Park landmark for decades due to long they have been there. They surround the central pool courtyard creating an oasis of relaxation that marries well with the adventures of visiting Riding Mountain National Park. The expansion with suites, cabins and cottages has created a one-of-a-kind memorable experience for all who visit,” explains Pam.
The resort is family-oriented with accommodations that are well suited for multigenerational gatherings, reunions, retreats and get togethers.
“Guests are so delighted with the accommodations that they return annually and request the same units and sometimes booking additional accommodations for friends and family,” says Cam. “With the outdoor activities and spaces, guests come for the relaxing experiences not just the accommodations. They have a strong connection to the resort experience.”
“They love that we are making improvements while preserving its charm that harmonizes so well with the National Park setting,” says Pam.
“We have worked hard to upgrade and enhance the unique resort experience. Our vision is to ensure a continuity of Mooswa heritage blended with improvements and upgrades that enhance the holiday experience,” concludes Cam.
Western Hotelier Magazine - Nicole Sherwood