Muskoka

The Details

Muskoka is a picturesque cottage country region located north of Toronto, known for its many lakes, forests and recreational activities. It encompasses the districts of Muskoka Lakes, Lake of Bays, Huntsville and Bracebridge. The region is a popular tourist destination, especially in the summer months.

Architecture/Homes

The Muskoka region is known for its traditional Canadian cottage architecture with wood and stone exteriors. Many cottages have large windows to take in the views of the lakes and nature. Log cabins and A-frame cottages are also popular. In the towns and villages, the architecture reflects the history of the area with many buildings from the late 1800s and early 1900s still standing.

Amenities

The Muskoka region has many natural amenities given its location within the Canadian Shield. There are over 1,600 lakes, many conservation areas and parks for enjoying outdoor recreation like swimming, boating, hiking, cycling, etc. The towns offer shops, restaurants, farmers markets, golf courses, resorts and other services. Natural attractions include waterfalls, beaches and scenic lookouts.

During the summer, the Muskoka Lakes host many events and festivals celebrating the local culture, food, wine and beer. The Muskoka Wharf and Port Carling are popular spots for shopping, dining and entertainment.

Getting Around

The Muskoka region is about 2 to 3 hours north of Toronto. It can be accessed by driving north on Highway 400 and exiting onto Highway 11 towards Bracebridge and Huntsville. Within the region, getting around by car is the most convenient way to explore the area. Some roads are quite curvy, especially around the lakes, so extra caution is advised. There are also bike routes, walking trails and boat rentals for enjoying the area during the summer. Some private airlines offer flights into the Muskoka Airport from Toronto.