Muskoka
Muskoka, ON, Canada
Tips on renting in Muskoka
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Muskoka, Ontario’s storied lake district, is a world of polished pine lodges, sparkling freshwater lakes, and cottaging traditions that stretch back over a century. In the late 1800s, steel and finance magnates like Charles Schwab, J.P. Morgan, and Harry Payne Whitney built opulent summer retreats here, establishing what’s now known as “Millionaires’ Row” on Lake Muskoka and “Billionaires’ Row” on Lake Rosseau.
Today, the area still glows with old-money charm and new-world luxury. Grand resorts like Windermere House, JW Marriott The Rosseau, and Deerhurst cater to those craving spa indulgence and fine dining, but the real allure lies in the private waterfront cottages—many available to rent—that offer secluded docks, firepits, and a taste of the Muskoka lifestyle.
Paddleboarding, canoeing, and waterskiing are daily rituals on the Big Three lakes (Muskoka, Rosseau, Joseph), while historic steamships like the RMS Segwun and Wenonah II offer nostalgic cruises.
The Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst delves into wooden boat heritage and Indigenous history, while winter’s Fire & Ice Festival in Bracebridge swaps swimsuits for snow boots with skating trails and fire pits. Whether you’re dockside with a cocktail or out on the lake at sunrise, Muskoka delivers the perfect blend of natural serenity and lakeside glamour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Muskoka has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Millionaire’s Row is located along the shores of Lake Rosseau, particularly near the village of Rosseau and around Windermere and Minett.
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Billionaire’s Row refers to the stretch of ultra-luxury cottages on Lake Joseph, especially near the town of Port Sandfield and the north end of the lake.
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The Big Three lakes in Muskoka are Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph.
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A tour on the RMS Segwun or Wenonah II steamships in Gravenhurst typically costs between CA$40–$85 per person, depending on the length and type of cruise.
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For travelers considering a cottage escape in Ontario’s Muskoka region, there’s a clear distinction between luxury lakefront living and more budget-conscious inland options.
The “Big Three” Muskoka lakes—Lake Joseph, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Muskoka—offer some of the most upscale waterfront rentals in Canada. Lake Joseph, in particular, is renowned for its premium properties. A standout example is the “Sandy Shores” estate, which features eight bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms and rents for CA$3,725 per night. Similar high-end listings can be found throughout the area via platforms like Muskoka District Rentals.
Lake Rosseau delivers a comparable level of luxury with both high-end and mid-range offerings. While specific nightly rates vary, they tend to align with those on Lake Joseph, often including amenities like boathouses, chef-grade kitchens, and expansive docks. Properties are readily available on Lake.com and similar rental platforms.
Lake Muskoka, meanwhile, offers slightly more affordable accommodations. For instance, a four-bedroom cottage in Gravenhurst starts at CA$284 per night, as listed on Cottage Vacations. These properties may still include water access and modern comforts but cater to a wider range of budgets.
For those looking beyond the Big Three, smaller lakes such as Three Mile Lake, Skeleton Lake, and Otter Lake provide attractive alternatives. Rentals here are generally more affordable. A weekly rental on Otter Lake, for example, might be secured for approximately CA$1,425.
Inland cottages—those not situated directly on the water—present the most cost-effective option. These can range from rustic, basic cabins under CA$1,000 per week to more contemporary cottages with modern amenities priced between CA$1,500 and CA$2,500 weekly. While these properties may lack direct water access, they often compensate with forested settings, hiking access, and a quieter atmosphere.
