Superfans of the popular Crave hockey drama "Heated Rivalry" now have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the show's romantic storyline by booking the actual lakefront cottage in Muskoka, Ontario, that serves as a pivotal location in the series. The property, known as "Barlochan Cottage," has been listed on Airbnb, allowing enthusiasts to experience the intimate, off-the-grid atmosphere depicted on screen.
The Iconic Cottage Setting
In "Heated Rivalry," which follows the love affair between hockey players Shane Hollander (played by Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) from rival teams, the cottage is where the characters declare their love and contemplate their future together. The three-bedroom retreat, praised for its "intimate, off-the-grid vibe," features floor-to-ceiling windows and sweeping views of a secluded forest setting.
Booking Details and Charitable Component
Bookings for the cottage will open on March 3, with a single night's stay priced at $248.10—a clever nod to the jersey numbers of Hollander (24) and Rozanov (81) from the show. To mark this special listing, Airbnb is making a donation to the Children's Foundation of Muskoka, an organization that helps economically disadvantaged children in the area access sports, recreation, and other opportunities. The exact amount of the donation has not been disclosed.
Amenities and Rules
The property offers a cozy living room described as ideal for "ginger-ale-and-game nights," along with an open kitchen where guests can recreate comfort dishes like late-night tuna melts, burger flips, and smoothie rituals, as seen in the series. Renters will also have access to a private waterfront to enjoy Muskoka sunsets throughout the summer. While pets are allowed, visitors are warned that music must be turned down between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m., discouraging all-night parties.
Boost to Ontario Tourism
The availability of the cottage is part of a broader trend where "Heated Rivalry" has significantly boosted tourism in Ontario. Earlier this year, Destination Ontario added several Hamilton buildings and businesses, as well as Toronto restaurants featured in the Crave production, to its list of notable movie and TV show locations in the province.
Featured Locations
Notable spots include upscale Italian eatery Ciao Bella in Corktown, Le Tambour Tavern on James St. N. in Hamilton, Joni Restaurant in The Annex, and Lavelle's rooftop ambiance in downtown Toronto. Other filming locations include Hamilton's historic Dundurn Castle, First Ontario Concert Hall, the "Pink Tunnel" on Ferguson Ave., Guelph's Sleeman Centre (home of the OHL's Guelph Storm), and, of course, the Barlochan Cottage.
Liisa Sefton, communications manager for Destination Ontario, told The Canadian Press that while the organization wasn't involved in the production, they anticipate increased interest and visitation at these featured locations due to the show's popularity.
Cultural Impact and Industry Recognition
"Heated Rivalry" has become a cultural phenomenon, sparking theme nights at NHL games, dance parties, trivia nights, and watch parties across Canada. The show's stars, Hudson Williams and Connor Storrie, have served as torchbearers for the Olympics and presenters at the Golden Globe Awards, further cementing its influence.
Endorsements from Hockey Figures
The series has also garnered praise from within the hockey community. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman revealed he binged the show in one night, calling the storyline "very compelling and a lot of fun" and noting its clever references to real hockey events like the Olympics in Sochi and the All-Star Game in Tampa. Bettman credited "Heated Rivalry" with driving more viewers to the game.
Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski acknowledged the show's positive impact, stating, "It's definitely good for the sport of hockey. Whenever you can add more eyes to the game and have people talk about the game and talk about inclusivity, I think it's just great for the sport."
Increased Ticket Sales
Chris Leyden, Director of Category Marketing + Endorser Marketing at SeatGeek, reported that the show has piqued interest in hockey and the NHL, leading to more people shopping for NHL tickets on the platform and a notable increase in single ticket buyers, often first-time attendees.
This unique Airbnb offering not only allows fans to step into the world of "Heated Rivalry" but also highlights the growing synergy between entertainment and tourism, showcasing how popular media can drive economic and cultural benefits for local communities.
