Muskoka is truly the heart of Ontario’s cottage region – a picturesque community boasting stunning views, delectable food and outdoor activities for children and adults alike.
National and Provincial Parks near Muskoka
The breathtaking wilderness is always within reach in Muskoka. There are many protected provincial and national parks in the area, including:
Arrowhead Provincial Park has a number of “Big Bend Lookout” to “Intermediate” (Mayflower Lake Trail) trails. The park is also well known for its wide range of winter activities, including snowshoeing and skating on a trail lined with tiki torches.
Algonquin Provincial Park is a place where visitors can hike, canoe and observe wildlife (black bears, white-tailed deer, and loons are native to the area).
The Georgian Bay Islands National Park is famous for boating, mountain biking and hiking (however, watch out for rattlesnakes). You can even camp one night in their new ” oTENTiks “, structures that are a cross between timber farms and prospector tents.
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Restaurants in Muskoka
For a gourmet menu, head to the Cottages Restaurant, located in the JW Marriott. If you prefer a more casual option, try tacos at the famous Toronto-based taqueria, Grand Electric Muskoka , and then make sure to visit the nearby cocktail bar, cafe and lifestyle boutique, Frankie’s Surf Club, where You can be tempted by a coffee and branded sweaters. Enjoy some of the finest wines and fine European cuisine at the Tall Trees Restaurant, located in a charming white house or, if you fancy sushi, enter Wabora Japanese Fusion Steakhouse. The restaurant R & L’s Bistro (high-end Canadian cuisine in a minimalist environment) and the Robots Family Restaurant (Greek and Italian) are also restaurants that are worthy of note.
Other fun activities in the Muskoka area
The RMS Segwun is the oldest operational steamship in North America. Sail on the boat and learn more about the history of the Muskoka Lakes shipping company.
Are you tired of spending your time outside? Visit the Bala Museum, which celebrates the life and writings of Canadian writer Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of Anne of Green Gables. Afterward, go and admire the Bala Falls, close by.
Windermere House is perfect for those whose pleasure design includes lounging in a spa, having a five-star manicure and pedicure, or relaxing with a drink at the country club.
Meet for a guided tour and maple syrup tasting at Sugarbush Hill Farms, where you can taste Canadian maple syrup and learn more about its production.
Stations and lodges
With all this fresh air and adventures, you will need a quiet place to rest. Port Cannington Lodge has lovely cottages with stunning views of Lake of the Bays (several of which include a hot tub). The Tulip Inn is a charming family-run hotel, with rooms and cabins for rent at reasonable prices ($ 64.95 per night in low season, $ 94.95 in high season). The JW Marriott the Rousseau Muskoka Resort & Spa, overlooking Rousseau Lake, is a more expensive option but was ranked among Canada’s top 20 resorts by National Geographic magazine. The Hart of Muskoka is a more rustic option, which offers a visit “Muskoka Beers” from three local artisan breweries. Finally, the Deerhurst Resort is a high-end resort with on-site hiking trails, indoor climbing, and a Shizen Spa.
Full of protected wilderness and magical wildlife, Muskoka is a place you will never forget. Whether it is to satisfy your sweet tooth, hike or enjoy the beautiful wilderness, Muskoka is a Canadian region worthy of your next vacation.