The best thing Canadians do is flock to the cottage for any and every weekend they can in the summers. If you’re lucky, you’ve already got a family cottage spot to hang out at this summer. If not, we’ve compiled the best of cottage country to help you make your choice in renting or buying in Ontario’s cottage regions. Either that or you can be real picky with your friends who do own a cottage and stick with the best locations only. Let’s be real though, any cottage is going to be a great hideout from the busy city life. When’s the next cottage weekend, guys?
Cottage Country Regions
Georgian Bay
Distance from Toronto: 2-4 hours
Georgian Bay hosts a number of great cottaging areas. From Midland all the way up to Tobermory or Killarney, you can find some really beautiful places to set up camp for all your summer weekends. One of our favourite cottage towns even sits along the Georgian Bay but you’ll have to keep reading to find out which one.
Simcoe County
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
While Simcoe County also includes some cottages along Georgian Bay, we’re talking more Lake Simcoe vibes. Either way, this is a great place to go for a cottage weekend away since it’s so close to the city. One of our favourite cottage locations along Lake Simcoe is the town of Orillia. You can hop on a boat cruise and check out everything the serene lake has to offer. Don’t forget to check out some of the town’s quaint storefronts too. It’ll make you feel like you’re living the simpleton small-town life instead of the usual big-city buzz.
Muskoka District Municipality
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
The Muskoka region is infamous for being one of Canada’s best cottage spots. I mean, we even have Muskoka chairs to commemorate the cottage relaxation in full Muskoka style. Now that’s some dedication right there. Other than lounging around in pure cottage bliss, a cottage along the region of Muskoka Lake will give you some insane morning canoe trips or even evening kayaking sunsets. Either way, you’ll be so happy you chose to spend the weekend in Muskoka.
Kawartha Lakes
Distance from Toronto: 2 hours
Kawartha Lakes hosts a number of cool cottaging spots for all your Canadian cottage needs. Just East of Lake Simcoe, the Kawartha Lakes region gives you access to Sturgeon Lake, Cameron Lake, and Balsam Lake. More lakefront property means more chance of renting that perfect cottage getaway. At only a 2-hour distance from Toronto, Kawartha Lakes is a great option for that much-needed weekend getaway.
Cottage Country Towns
Parry Sound
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
This beautiful town sits in a nook of Georgian Bay. It is a quintessential cottage location and will give you beautiful views of the Bay as well as ample space for canoeing, kayaking, or pleasure boat-rides. Sit back and relax along the waterfront with sunset views to die for, or spend the night next to the firepit and roast some marshmallows. Whatever your cottage activity, Parry Sound is sure to impress.
Huntsville
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
Located in the Muskoka Region, Huntsville is a popular destination for frequent cottage goers. There’s lots to explore here, but mostly, you’ll want to soak in every minute of the Ontario natural landscape. That blue lake water and green treeline is an iconic Ontario cottage scene. Don’t miss out on exploring the natural world around you and enjoy this cottage town like never before.
Haliburton
Distance from Toronto: 3 hours
Haliburton might also be an Ontario county, but we’re talking about the town of Haliburton inside of Haliburton County. I know, confusing, right? Either way, this town has become a huge tourist attraction for cottage goers. It’s a great place to be looking for a cottage, but also a great spot to consider renting one for the summer. Whatever your choice, Haliburton will definitely provide for any and all cottage going needs.
Where will you go cottaging this summer? Tag us in all your cottage pics or let us know what cottage country you’re planning to explore on Instagram @ViewtheVIBE.
