Celebrate Autumn in the Muskoka Lakes District
by Maryrose Coleman
Summer is slowly winding down here in the Muskoka Lakes District, which, of course, signifies we’re nearing everyone’s favourite cozy season. Autumn is beloved by millions because we can finally turn off the air conditioner, pull on a comfy flannel, and whip up a delicious pumpkin spice latte. Fall lovers from across North America escape to Lake Muskoka for the breathtaking foliage, the Bala Cranberry Festival , and the best luxury lake cottages in Canada. Muskoka District Rentals has beautiful lakeside cottages across this active southern Ontario region, and there’s never a shortage of fall-focused activities. Here are some of the best ways to celebrate autumn on your upcoming visit to tranquil Lake Muskoka.
Bala Cranberry Festival
Book a lavish lake cottage in mid-October and partake in one of Ontario’s best fall festivals. The Bala Cranberry Festival is a 34-year-old Lake Muskoka family-friendly tradition filled with live music, art, unique cuisine, daily activities, and, of course, deliciously tart cranberries. Tourists will have a chance to take a cranberry plunge, eat cranberry crepes, pet local animals and reptiles, watch the flying dog show, and embark on a lazy Lake Muskoka pontoon ride. You can’t visit Bala in the fall without an afternoon spent at Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery. Embark on their “bog to bottle” tour or strap in for a helicopter ride over the colourful trees. If you’re planning on spending multiple days at the Bala Cranberry Festival, Birchwood at Bala is the ideal cottage for your family or group. This luxurious Lake Muskoka cottage is a 1890s lake home with cedarwood floors, a tall, stone fireplace, and a glamorous kitchen with granite countertops. You’ll be steps from the lake and close to the festival.
Fall Harvest at Gravenhurst Farmer’s Market
The Gravenhurst Farmer’s Market welcomes over 80,000 people each year. Tourists and locals alike flock to this southern Lake Muskoka staple for crisp apples, tart cranberries, yellow squash, and giant pumpkins. Stroll through the market and taste samples of local honey, artisanal nuts, fried doughnuts, and freshly-baked bread. Local artists sell pottery, clothing, jewelry, soaps, and much more. Our Sunnyside Up property is a short, scenic drive from Gravenhurst. This beautifully landscaped, nestled in a quiet bay with deep water off the dock, stunning lake views and a level lot close to the water make this the ideal family cottage. Sunnyside Up is a lovely family cottage on Lake Muskoka, surrounded by beautiful grounds that provides glorious all-day sun and amazing views!
Huckleberry Rock Overlook
If you enjoy trekking through the vast wilderness on foot, the Huckleberry Rock lookout trail has splendid Lake Muskoka valley vistas near Milford Bay. This 2.5-kilometer loop is rewarding for hikers of all skill levels. After a long, rewarding day of Lake Muskoka hiking, watch the sunset under the colourful treeline at your Todholm! Located right in Port Carling, the hub of the Muskoka lakes, where there are boutiques, art galleries, shops, plus several great local restaurants, this location is perfect for multigenerational families.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park
Mountain bikers should take the ferry to Georgian Bay Islands National Park. This national gem, located on the southeastern corner of the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, has sensational bike trails and some of the best foliage in Canada. If you’re planning on visiting the Georgian Bay, seek out the charming Silver Linings cottage. Located on Silver Lake, this cottage offers the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. Guests will enjoy all the amenities of home while enjoying the great outdoors. Nothing has been left untouched with this beautifully furnished property offering gorgeous views of silver lake, this cottage is the perfect place to relax and enjoy your vacation. Hugging the shores of Georgian Bay, the Town of Parry Sound is the world renowned jewel of the 30,000 Islands of Georgian Bay.
La Belle Vue
Look no further, La Belle Vue is the perfect 4 season Muskoka family getaway! Completely renovated, the cottage has perfect sun orientation facing south west providing for all day sun and sunsets. With shallow water and sandy bottom access is easy for little ones plus it is deep enough off the dock for those who want to jump in and boat. There is also a large selection of water toys and lifejackets for almost every size perfect for exploring long lake. This cottage was completely renovated in 2021 and offers beautiful designer touches throughout. Offering a very well equipped kitchen, new appliances and high speed internet which can support any type of remote work this property is ideal for anyone looking for a family friendly incredibly well equipped home away from home. This year round four season cottage located on historic Long Lake, just minutes from restaurants and quaint shops in the town of Bala, a must-see small town in Muskoka, is a perfect relaxing getway.
Lake Muskoka Cottages
Muskoka District Rentals has over 100 cottages in the region, so we guarantee you’ll find one that perfectly suits your large family this fall. Muskoka comes to life every autumn with terrific fall festivals such as the Bala Cranberry Festival and Gravenhurst Farmer’s Market . If you’re planning on staying at home, don’t forget about our luxurious yet affordable Toronto staycation rentals . Treat your family to an overdue vacation to peaceful Muskoka this autumn by dialing 1-800-615-2537 or visiting our up-to-the-minute Muskoka District Rentals website .
