Water skiing. Lounging on the dock. Warm summer evenings around the bonfire. For many Torontonians, summer is all about spending time at the lake. And while buying a cottage isn’t right for every family, renting is a convenient and affordable way to enjoy Southern Ontario’s spectacular cottage country. Today, I’m going to tell you about five scenic areas you should consider if you’re thinking about renting this summer.
1) Muskoka
Many cottagers see Muskoka as the ultimate summer destination, and it’s not hard to see why. Located just two hours north of Toronto, the region is teeming with natural beauty and vibrant local attractions.
The Muskoka District is massive, encompassing 1,600 lakes and 17 towns and villages. It boasts thousands of private cottage rentals, ranging in style from rugged to luxurious. No matter where you decide to rent, you really can’t go wrong.
While lazy days by the water may be what you’re looking for, you might also want to get out and explore the area. Take a boat cruise, tour a local brewery, or check out the bustling shops and restaurants in Port Carling. Pro tip: hikers will want to check out Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail, which provides one of the most incredible views you’ll ever encounter.
2) Haliburton County
Haliburton County offers an abundance of lakes (there are around 600) and breathtaking views of the Canadian Shield. While the region is a popular destination for cottage goers, it doesn’t contain as many resorts as Muskoka. For renters, this means fewer tourists and less traffic on the two-and-a-half hour drive from Toronto.
The Haliburton region is perfect for renters who are truly looking to get away from it all. It features pristine forests and some of the healthiest lakes in Ontario. Waterfront properties in the area tend to feature more privacy and longer shorelines than you’ll find in some of the province’s busier cottage regions.
While the Haliburton area is rugged, it certainly won’t leave you feeling isolated. Across the county, you’ll find towns and villages that offer all of the conveniences you might need while on vacation—including grocery stores, restaurants, shops, and LCBO outlets.
Want a “mini-vacation” without even leaving Toronto? Here are a few things you can enjoy close to home:
- Our Favourite Indoor Activities in the East End
- Hiking in the East End: Our Favourite All-Season Trails
- Our Top Boutique Shopping Experiences in Toronto
3) Kawartha Lakes
Every outdoor enthusiast in Ontario should check out Kawartha Lakes at least once in their lifetime. Just 90 minutes northeast of Toronto, the region is known for its friendly rapids and incredible beaches. It’s also home to the Trent Severn Waterway, a 386 km stretch of interconnected rivers, lakes, and canals.
Kawartha Lakes visitors are pretty much guaranteed a calm vacation. The pace of life in this mostly-rural region is relaxed. But if you’re looking for a taste of local culture, check out one of the many summer festivals, fairs, and events that take place in the area.
Rentals in Kawartha Lakes tend to be more affordable than what you’ll in other areas of cottage country, which is a major bonus for families on a budget.
4) Wasaga Beach
Part of Simcoe County, the town of Wasaga Beach is situated on the longest freshwater beach in the world. This gorgeous stretch of white sand and clear water is well worth the two-hour trip, and the area’s attractions will make you want to stay for at least a weekend. Luckily, there’s an abundance of motel cottages and private rentals in the area.
Once you’ve had some fun in the sun, consider taking a twenty-five-minute drive to the charming town of Collingwood. There you’ll find beautiful parks, quaint shops, and top-notch eateries. The area is also home to Free Spirit Tours, which provides outdoor adventures (including paddling, kayaking, and climbing tours) for explorers of all ages.
Torontonians looking for a lakeside getaway have many incredible options. But there’s also no shortage of fun things to do right here in the city. To learn more about some of the most exciting areas in Toronto, check out our neighbourhood guides.
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