Getting away to Muskoka is one of the best nature prescriptions you can get if you live in Canada and can make your way to the nation’s “Cottage Country” in Central Ontario.
Muskoka, often called the Hamptons of the North, is more than that. To some, it is a dream, a concept, an almost indescribable delight that cannot be contained in mere words or plotted entirely on a map.
In technical terms, the District Municipality of Muskoka does have boundaries that can be shown on a map.
The District of Parry Sound borders Muskoka to the north and Simcoe County to the south.
The region encompasses land as far south as Gravenhurst, and to the north, the southern tip of Kearney (shared by the District of Parry Sound); to the east, Muskoka extends to Dwight, and to the west, it reaches Mactier. Even these markers, depending on who you ask, could be subject to amendment!
Towns and cities nearby may have a “Muskoka” feel, such as Washago and Orillia, but the District has its boundaries.
Dotted with lakes aplenty, Muskoka is home to Muskoka’s Big Three Lakes, including Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph.
When you drive up the 400 and choose between taking Highway 11 to Orillia and North Bay or taking Highway 69 to Parry Sound and Sudbury, a left lane change brings you closer to the heart of Muskoka.
Once on Highway 11, you’re en route to iconic Webers, the most posh Tim Hortons you’ll ever see, and of course, the Township of Gravenhurst, lovingly known as “The Gateway to Muskoka.”
A bit further north and to the west, on the shores of Lake Rosseau, rests Muskoka Birch, a family cottage available for short-term rental, owned and operated by Will Lenssen.
The Lenssens have cottaged in Muskoka for generations. Finding a nest of their own, Will and his family have called Lake Rosseau their cottage ‘home’ since 2000.
For the Lenssens, hospitality in cottage country is key. Their cottage comes with all the comforts of home (no need to pack your pillows and sheets!).
Located in the Village of Minett, just outside the historic town of Rosseau, the “Birch” bungalow features 2,300 square feet of natural pine throughout its living quarters.
The Birch accommodates a maximum of 8 guests at any one time and is available for rent throughout the year.
If you like curling up on the deck to watch the sunrise or sunset, you’ll love its generous size and stunning view of the lake.
Surrounded by perennial flowers, you’ll be sipping morning coffees and watching the fog roll off of Lake Rosseau, an experience you can only taste in Muskoka. The sun deck also offers excellent privacy.
Part of the Cedar Rail Community, The Birch rests on a quiet bay facing east toward the sheltering islands that surround Wallace Bay, just 2 minutes south of Minett, 7 minutes north of Port Sanfield, and 15 minutes north of the popular Muskoka hub of Port Carling, where the locks bridge Lake Muskoka with Lake Rosseau.
A quick trip to Rosseau takes you back in time as you visit the Rosseau General Store that recently celebrated its 150th anniversary, and a beautiful boutique, Hilltop Interiors, specializing in high-end, classic Muskoka finds.
For the more adventurous, the nearby Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent outing for the entire family (please note that dogs are not permitted at Aspen Valley).
Want to stick closer to ‘home’?
The Birch offers access to a variety of amenities that will keep the family active and entertained, including a beach.
“Our cottage is on 9+ shared acres on the waterfront, and it is accessed from the mainland. The spacious setting features a tennis court and a full beach front, both of which are very rare for a cottage in the Muskoka region,” the website relates.
If you’re looking for a retreat into nature, Muskoka over-delivers in every season.
What can families expect at Muskoka Birch?
“The Birch is surrounded by colour from the natural surroundings and the perennial gardens in the spring, summer, and fall. The fall takes the prize, however, with a full colour cavalcade. In winter, the quiet days, star-filled skies, and white blanket of snow and ice capture our attention. The natural hues of rocks, sky, forests, and waters that surround you become a painting right before your eyes, and the sounds of nature surround you.” – Muskoka Birch
To rent Muskoka Birch, or to learn more, visit:
