Staying in the Lakelands of Muskoka
Arriving in Muskoka, it doesn't take long to understand why the Algonquin people called this the land of red earth. As the sun rises over this lakeland, the skies, the earth and even the endless waters seem to light on fire. Muskoka is a popular vacation destination because of its dramatic natural beauty, wealth of recreational opportunities and convenient location two hours north of Toronto. The region lies beside Algonquin Provincial Park and encompasses three main communities: Gravenhurst, Huntsville and Bracebridge, as well as a number of smaller settlements.
Visitors come to Muskoka for many reasons: a family vacation, a weekend getaway or simply a chance to reconnect with nature. Some recreationists seek exhilarating adventures waterskiing or cycling over the rugged terrain, relaxed vacationers enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing and horseback riding, while others just want the opportunity to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whatever the reason for visiting Muskoka, there are accommodations suited to everyone.
ENJOY COMFORT & LUXURY
Visitors, especially those who come from a great distance, may appreciate an extravagant stay in Muskoka. Resorts in this region offer a full range of services and amenities, including world-class golf courses, European-style spas and award-winning gourmet restaurants. Even if not staying at one of these lake-shore luxury resorts, they are still worth visiting. For the price of a cup of coffee at a resort cafe or a drink at an on-site bar, patrons are treated to astonishing views of lakes and forests.
The lakeside Deerhurst Resort, a few minutes' drive from Huntsville, is a beautiful getaway with a wide range of accommodation options; guests can choose from comfortable hotel rooms to fully equipped condo suites. The more modern Taboo Resort in Gravenhurst is stunningly set on the water's edge, rising out of the lake and framed by over 405 ha (1,000 acres) of terrain.
Even with such luxurious accommodations and amenities, guests will still be drawn to the expansive landscape, accessible in all seasons. In summer a variety of water sports can be enjoyed, including canoeing, kayaking, fishing and waterskiing. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling on winding trails through the rolling hills. And in winter, families can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate after skating on a frozen lake, or huddle under furs in a horse-drawn sleigh. All of these activities can be arranged through the concierge.
TRAVEL LIGHT & EASY
Bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels and inns are sprinkled throughout Muskoka and concentrated in the towns of Gravenhurst, Huntsville and Bracebridge. This makes it easy to have a spontaneous or loosely planned vacation because visitors can travel lightly and find a room by dropping in, though booking in advance can be more economical. Hotel staff at the front desk can give guests information about activities and attractions in the area and bed and breakfast hosts are always willing to share personal knowledge about secluded spots off the beaten track.
In this resort area even economical options have a range of amenities, typically including gyms, hot tubs, saunas and pools. In Bracebridge, Canada's waterfall capital, the Sleep Inn and the Travelodge Hotel are both affordable choices that are centrally located close to attractions, restaurants, shopping and recreational opportunities. Many rooms at the Travelodge also have private sundecks and Jacuzzi baths, an ideal way to relax after a long day of adventure. Similarly, in Gravenhurst, the Howard Johnson Inn is a conveniently situated, economical choice.
STAY A WHILE
Visitors coming to the Muskoka region are often tempted to extend their stay. Families, groups and those staying for longer visits have plentiful long-stay options, including vacation rental properties, cabins, chalets and cottages.
These accommodations are generally equipped with kitchen facilities and hideaway beds, making them an affordable and comfortable way to spend a vacation with a large group. These lodgings are also well suited to travellers with special needs, such as dietary requirements or small children.
Lakeside cottages are a particularly popular form of accommodation deep in the Muskoka Lakes District. Near Port Carling, Muskoka Birch Cottage is a spacious lodging set on a beach, with a wealth of water sport activities on its doorstep and close to the attractions of this small community.
On the remote north shore of the Lake of Bays lies the small hamlet of Dwight. Surrounded by towering pines, North Shore Vacation Residences and Tapawingo Place are beautiful vacation homes offering a full range of amenities and boasting private beaches.
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
First Nations people inhabited these forests and hills for hundreds of years and early European explorers lived like them in the outdoors. Relive their experiences by sleeping outdoors at one of the many campgrounds scattered throughout the region.
Campgrounds close to major centres are ideal for those who aren’t willing to give up creature comforts for a night under the stars, offering washrooms, showers, laundry facilities and trailer sites with water and sewer hookups. Staying at the Silver Sands Tent and Trailer Park in Huntsville is far from roughing it. This family-oriented campground has three playgrounds, a sandy beach and a dense forest as well as plenty of structured activities such as hayrides, canoeing, badminton and volleyball.
For those desiring a back-to-nature experience, the Black River Wilderness Park is an ideal accommodation set on four islands. It is operated by the Chippewas people of Mnjikaning First Nations, a tribe with knowledgeable guides that teach guests about the history and unique ecology of the area.
Backcountry lodges are clean, comfortable indoor accommodations in more remote locales. Idylwyld Lodge offers a range of accommodation options on beautiful lakeside grounds in the Lake of Bays region. Guests can stay in guest rooms in the farmhouse or in private cottages. Facilities include a sandy beach, docks, a tennis court, playground, paddleboats and canoes.
The Deerhorn Lodge is a beautiful resort that can only be accessed by boat. Hosts organize recreational activities—including cliff jumping, snorkelling, waterskiing and boat cruises—so that visitors can explore the beauty of the private island.
Visitors come to Muskoka for many reasons: a family vacation, a weekend getaway or simply a chance to reconnect with nature. Some recreationists seek exhilarating adventures waterskiing or cycling over the rugged terrain, relaxed vacationers enjoy outdoor activities such as boating, fishing and horseback riding, while others just want the opportunity to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Whatever the reason for visiting Muskoka, there are accommodations suited to everyone.
ENJOY COMFORT & LUXURY
Visitors, especially those who come from a great distance, may appreciate an extravagant stay in Muskoka. Resorts in this region offer a full range of services and amenities, including world-class golf courses, European-style spas and award-winning gourmet restaurants. Even if not staying at one of these lake-shore luxury resorts, they are still worth visiting. For the price of a cup of coffee at a resort cafe or a drink at an on-site bar, patrons are treated to astonishing views of lakes and forests.
The lakeside Deerhurst Resort, a few minutes' drive from Huntsville, is a beautiful getaway with a wide range of accommodation options; guests can choose from comfortable hotel rooms to fully equipped condo suites. The more modern Taboo Resort in Gravenhurst is stunningly set on the water's edge, rising out of the lake and framed by over 405 ha (1,000 acres) of terrain.
Even with such luxurious accommodations and amenities, guests will still be drawn to the expansive landscape, accessible in all seasons. In summer a variety of water sports can be enjoyed, including canoeing, kayaking, fishing and waterskiing. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling on winding trails through the rolling hills. And in winter, families can enjoy a cup of hot chocolate after skating on a frozen lake, or huddle under furs in a horse-drawn sleigh. All of these activities can be arranged through the concierge.
TRAVEL LIGHT & EASY
Bed and breakfasts, hotels, motels and inns are sprinkled throughout Muskoka and concentrated in the towns of Gravenhurst, Huntsville and Bracebridge. This makes it easy to have a spontaneous or loosely planned vacation because visitors can travel lightly and find a room by dropping in, though booking in advance can be more economical. Hotel staff at the front desk can give guests information about activities and attractions in the area and bed and breakfast hosts are always willing to share personal knowledge about secluded spots off the beaten track.
In this resort area even economical options have a range of amenities, typically including gyms, hot tubs, saunas and pools. In Bracebridge, Canada's waterfall capital, the Sleep Inn and the Travelodge Hotel are both affordable choices that are centrally located close to attractions, restaurants, shopping and recreational opportunities. Many rooms at the Travelodge also have private sundecks and Jacuzzi baths, an ideal way to relax after a long day of adventure. Similarly, in Gravenhurst, the Howard Johnson Inn is a conveniently situated, economical choice.
STAY A WHILE
Visitors coming to the Muskoka region are often tempted to extend their stay. Families, groups and those staying for longer visits have plentiful long-stay options, including vacation rental properties, cabins, chalets and cottages.
These accommodations are generally equipped with kitchen facilities and hideaway beds, making them an affordable and comfortable way to spend a vacation with a large group. These lodgings are also well suited to travellers with special needs, such as dietary requirements or small children.
Lakeside cottages are a particularly popular form of accommodation deep in the Muskoka Lakes District. Near Port Carling, Muskoka Birch Cottage is a spacious lodging set on a beach, with a wealth of water sport activities on its doorstep and close to the attractions of this small community.
On the remote north shore of the Lake of Bays lies the small hamlet of Dwight. Surrounded by towering pines, North Shore Vacation Residences and Tapawingo Place are beautiful vacation homes offering a full range of amenities and boasting private beaches.
RECONNECT WITH NATURE
First Nations people inhabited these forests and hills for hundreds of years and early European explorers lived like them in the outdoors. Relive their experiences by sleeping outdoors at one of the many campgrounds scattered throughout the region.
Campgrounds close to major centres are ideal for those who aren’t willing to give up creature comforts for a night under the stars, offering washrooms, showers, laundry facilities and trailer sites with water and sewer hookups. Staying at the Silver Sands Tent and Trailer Park in Huntsville is far from roughing it. This family-oriented campground has three playgrounds, a sandy beach and a dense forest as well as plenty of structured activities such as hayrides, canoeing, badminton and volleyball.
For those desiring a back-to-nature experience, the Black River Wilderness Park is an ideal accommodation set on four islands. It is operated by the Chippewas people of Mnjikaning First Nations, a tribe with knowledgeable guides that teach guests about the history and unique ecology of the area.
Backcountry lodges are clean, comfortable indoor accommodations in more remote locales. Idylwyld Lodge offers a range of accommodation options on beautiful lakeside grounds in the Lake of Bays region. Guests can stay in guest rooms in the farmhouse or in private cottages. Facilities include a sandy beach, docks, a tennis court, playground, paddleboats and canoes.
The Deerhorn Lodge is a beautiful resort that can only be accessed by boat. Hosts organize recreational activities—including cliff jumping, snorkelling, waterskiing and boat cruises—so that visitors can explore the beauty of the private island.
Delta Grandview Resort - Huntsville
has been known for its splendid hospitality since 1911.
