The Best Spots to Embrace Cottage Life in Ontario

Cottages are known for their surrounding great lakes and are a cheaper and accessible alternative to flying out of Canada. Since the pandemic, many Canadians have been on the hunt for a staycation, renting waterfront cottages and even purchasing one. 

Camping and cottage life has been a prominent Canadian tradition for decades. In the 1800s and early 1900s cottage life was for the upper class. Muskoka, one of the most popular cottage cites to date, was known as “Millionaire Row”, according to the National Post. 

The rapid growth of city life caused a longing for an escape to somewhere that brought comfort and allowed families to keep memories in one place. 

Today cottage life continues to grow in popularity throughout Canada. Let’s take a look at the most popular areas to visit. 

Muskoka

One of the most popular areas in Canada is Muskoka. It is mainly known for its beautiful lakes and rivers and the multiple family-friendly activities. If you are looking for more private rentals for your family or for couples, this is the place for you. Most cottage and lodge rentals are located in Huntsville, Sprucedale, and Bala. Many waterfront rentals are available in these areas where guests can indulge in water activities.

Muskoka also has a huge entertainment district with live performances including theatre performances at Gravenhurst Opera House and the Huntsville Festival of the Arts. There are also music venues like Peters Plays and the Key to Bala. Outdoor activities are one of Muskoka’s main attractions with endless activities and events available daily. Activities such as treetop trekking, biking trails at Algonquin Park and canoeing are extremely popular.

Niagara Falls

Niagara, known for its beautiful waterfalls, is a wonderful location for couples. Caspian Cove and Hero Heights, close to Lake Erie, are both popular locations for waterfront cottages. Southeastern rentals are close to Crystal Beach, Port Colborne, and Lake Erie. Vacationers can attend Wine Country and experience luscious wine tasting tours. There are many shops, museums, golfing, restaurants and more in Port Colborne to explore as well. 

Kawartha Lakes

Kawartha is another popular area including cottages available on both waterfront and remote locations. Kawartha Lakes was named after its 14 chain-linked lakes. Some well-known lakes are Scugog, Deer, and Pigeon. Cottages at Kawartha are larger and more secluded than other popular areas, making them a great choice for larger families. Peterborough, Havelock, Coboconk and Bancroft are also known cottage rental spots. Kawartha is a great place for those looking for a quiet and cozy vacation spot. There are many family-friendly activities as well, including fishing, golfing, ATV’ing, cycling and more. 

Lake Simcoe

Lake Simcoe is another well-known cottage spot in Canada with it being so close to Wasaga Beach. Most of the waterfront cottages are located for rent in Wasaga and Orillia. There are also Airbnb cottage rentals available along the water. Lake Simcoe is a location for everyone and includes many activities that all ages may enjoy. Paintballing in Georgina, relaxing at Briar spa, and golfing at Briars Golf Club are some of the many activities around Lake Simcoe.