inclusivity, and the idea of a home-away- from-home. The property features a variety of options, including a three-bedroom cottage, several two-bedroom cottages, and a five-room motel. Each space has been thoughtfully designed to offer guests a peaceful retreat without sacrificing the comforts of modern living. The three-bedroom cottage is the largest on the property. With two bedrooms upstairs - each with a double bed - and a master bedroom on the main floor, the space is perfect for larger families or groups. The cottage also offers a spacious living area, a full kitchen, and a recently renovated bathroom. “This year, we made a few upgrades to the cottage, including adding an air fryer because, honestly, who can live without one?” Allison laughed, highlighting the business’s focus on providing modern amenities to make guests’ stays more comfortable. The two-bedroom cottages are a favorite for smaller groups or families. These units provide ample space, full kitchens and cozy living rooms. “Our guests love the cozy feel, but also the spaciousness of the cottages,” said Allison, noting that many visitors appreciate the privacy and relaxation the accommodations offer. The motel rooms are designed for maximum comfort. “Our motel rooms are far from ordinary,” Allison explained. “They feature large, open spaces with kitchenettes, dining areas, and cozy living rooms with futons for additional sleeping arrangements.”The rooms also feature rustic pine log accents, giving them a warm, inviting feel that matches the natural beauty of the surroundings. One of the standout features of Ingonish Chalets is the attention to detail in its amenities. Each accommodation is equipped with full kitchens, heat pumps for year-round comfort and covered verandas, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors no matter the season. “We’ve tried to create an environment where guests feel like they have everything they
Together, Allison and Alyssa are not only reshaping Ingonish Chalets but also redefining what it means to create a business with heart - one that is driven by authenticity, inclusivity, and a shared vision of peace and connection. “We live here, we breathe this space, and we want our guests to feel as comfortable as we do when we’re here,” Allison said. While the transition hasn’t been without its challenges, the personal touch and dedication to improving the guest experience are evident in every corner of the business. Running a business in rural Cape Breton presents its own unique challenges, especially for those in the tourism industry. The biggest hurdle? The seasonal swell of tourists during the summer months, followed by the quieter winter months. “The biggest challenge we face is the dramatic shift in tourism from summer to winter,” Allison explained. “While we do have winter enthusiasts and workers here for projects, the off-season can be tough.”
Fortunately, Ingonish Chalets has developed solid relationships with local workers who come to the area for long-term projects, such as hospital renovations and roadwork. These partnerships help ensure a steady stream of business during the winter months. “It’s a blessing to have built such strong connections with people who rely on the area for their work,” Allison said. These relationships have become an important part of their off-season strategy. However, the reliance on summer tourism remains a challenge, especially as operational costs in rural areas continue to rise. Another factor is the limited accommodation options in the area during the winter. Many tourists come to Cape Breton for skiing and other winter sports, but the region still struggles to attract a larger winter tourism base. “We’re hopeful that projects like Ski Cape Smokey will help boost winter tourism in the future,” Allison shared. The accommodations at Ingonish Chalets reflect the brand’s commitment to comfort,
74 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 25 ISSUE 2
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 75
Made with FlippingBook - PDF hosting