Cottage Getaway? You Bring the Friends, We’ve Got the Games!

A cottage getaway with friends can be a fantastic way to unwind, bond, and create lasting memories. There are so many things to do, and the beauty is that you can be as active or as relaxed as you want with the right group! Here are some suggestions for a perfect cottage vacation!

Before You Play, Prepare! 10 Tips for a Smooth Cottage Stay 

1. Choose the Right Cottage: Start by deciding on a location that is convenient for everyone. Consider the distance, accessibility, and the type of environment you want (lakefront, mountains, countryside, etc.). Look for a cottage that can comfortably accommodate your group size. 

2. Book in Advance: Popular cottage destinations tend to get booked quickly, especially during peak seasons. Plan ahead and book your cottage well in advance to secure the best options. 

3. Prepare a Budget: Discuss the budget with your friends to ensure everyone is comfortable with the expenses. Decide how you want to split the costs to make things as fair as possible. 

4. Create an Itinerary: While you don’t need a minute-by-minute plan, having a rough itinerary can help ensure you make the most of your time. Plan some activities together and leave room for relaxation and spontaneous adventures. 

5. Pack Smart: Coordinate with your friends about what to bring to avoid duplicating items and ensure you have everything you need. Don’t forget essentials like food and drinks, toiletries, first-aid kit, board games, outdoor equipment, and any other items specific to your plans. 

6. Food and Cooking: Decide how you want to handle meals. You can plan for everyone to contribute to a communal food fund and take turns cooking, or you can assign meal responsibilities to different individuals. 

7. Disconnect to Reconnect: A cottage getaway is a great way to disconnect from the digital world and enjoy quality time with your people. Consider setting aside designated “tech-free” hours or zones to encourage more face-to-face interaction. 

8. Safety First: Be aware of any safety guidelines or rules specific to the cottage and its surroundings. Stay cautious during outdoor activities, especially if you’re near water or in unfamiliar terrain. 

9. Cleanup Responsibility: Decide as a group how you’ll handle cleaning up before leaving. Assign tasks to ensure the cottage is left in good condition for the next guests. 

10. Entertainment: Think about the types of activities that your group enjoys. Consider outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, fishing, lounging by a bonfire, and playing… 

Games!

Tabletop games offer a great, low-pressure way to make your cottage time even more special. They provide shared, unplugged experiences that can foster communication, laughter, and even a little friendly competition—a perfect complement to cottage life. Here are our top five games for your next cottage getaway. 

SETUP 
Age: 8+ / Players: 2-4 | Duration: 15-30 minutes

Think rummy with a twist! SETUP is an innovative, strategic game of tiles and tactics, where players combine suits and numbers on the board while trying to reach the finish first. With its fast, turn-based gameplay, SETUP makes a perfect addition to cottage fun, keeping all players engaged on every turn. 

Azul 
Age: 8+ / Players: 2-4 | Duration: 30-45 minutes

Flex your strategic muscles as you take turns drafting and placing coloured tiles to decorate the Royal Palace of Évora. Perfect for when the cottage calls for a little competition, so get ready to roll up your sleeves!

Fun Facts 
Age: 8+ / Players: 4-8 | Duration: 15-30 minutes

Relax and laugh, with this simple and engaging party game guaranteed to spark fits of laughter! See how well you know your friends as they reveal shocking surprises (all rated G, of course). The perfect game to get to know each other in a warm and welcoming setting. 

Exploding Kittens 
Age: 7+ / Players: 2-5 | Duration: <15 minutes

This kitty-powered version of Russian Roulette is a card game that never fails to keep players on their toes. Betray your friends. Try not to explode. The last player left alive wins!

Spot it! – Spot it! DC Universe 
Age: 6+ / Players: 2–8 | Duration: <15 minutes

Channel your inner superhero, with this version of the classic game of Spot it!, based on the DC Universe. Spot the unique matching symbol between two cards in a playful battle of speedy observation.  

If you’ll be hitting the cottage this summer, a little prep and lots of games can help make it more memorable, enjoyable, and special. 

For more summer game suggestions, check our most recent issue of Game On! Magazine. 

Find ALL the games mentioned in this article at a store near you!