Nestled in the heart of Ontario’s cottage country, Muskoka is a premier four-season destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant communities, and a dynamic real estate market. Covering approximately 6,475 square kilometers, Muskoka is home to over 1,600 lakes, rugged granite landscapes, and dense forests that offer breathtaking scenery year-round. Known for its crystal-clear waters, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage, Muskoka attracts visitors and homeowners seeking a peaceful retreat away from the city while still enjoying modern amenities.
Muskoka Summer
The Muskoka region includes quaint yet thriving towns such as Gravenhurst, Bracebridge, Huntsville, and Bala, each offering unique attractions, local businesses, and recreational activities. Muskoka’s economy thrives not only on tourism and hospitality but also on luxury real estate, outdoor recreation, and local artisan industries, making it a well-rounded and sustainable community. With its proximity to Toronto (just a two-hour drive north), Muskoka has become a sought-after destination for both seasonal cottagers and permanent residents, many of whom are drawn by the opportunity to work remotely while enjoying a higher quality of life.

Muskoka’s blend of a dynamic real estate market, diverse demographics, and rich cultural attractions makes it an enticing destination for prospective homeowners and visitors alike.

Exploring Muskoka’s Iconic Lakes

Muskoka’s numerous lakes provide an array of recreational opportunities, from boating and fishing to swimming and paddling. 

Best Lakes for Boating & Water Sports

For those who love the thrill of boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing, Muskoka has several lakes with expansive open waters ideal for motorized boats and high-speed recreation:

Lake Muskoka – One of the largest and most iconic lakes in Muskoka, offering extensive boating routes, marinas, and luxury waterfront properties. Popular spots include Gravenhurst Wharf and Beaumaris Marina.

Lake Rosseau – A favorite among boaters and cottagers, this lake provides large, open waters with beautiful island properties and connects to Lake Joseph for extended boating excursions.

Lake Joseph – Known for its pristine waters and high-end cottages, Lake Joseph offers excellent conditions for waterskiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.
Gloucester Pool – This scenic lake connects to the Trent-Severn Waterway, making it a top choice for boaters looking to explore beyond Muskoka.

Fairy Lake – Located in Huntsville, this lake is great for boating and has a direct connection to Peninsula Lake, offering an extended boating route.

Jet Ski Maskoka

Lakes with Sandy Beaches & Swimming Areas.

While Muskoka is known for its rocky Canadian Shield landscape, several lakes feature sandy shores that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and family-friendly beach outings:

Sand Lake – As its name suggests, Sand Lake is known for its soft sandy bottom and clear waters, making it one of the best places to swim in Muskoka.

Peninsula Lake – Near Hidden Valley Resort, this lake has sandy stretches ideal for beachgoers.

Skeleton Lake – This unique lake features sandy beaches and clear, deep waters, providing an ideal spot for swimming and paddle boarding.

Mary Lake – Located near Port Sydney, this lake is a great family destination with shallow, sandy shores.

Echo Lake – A small, tranquil lake near Baysville with soft sand and gentle slopes for safe swimming.

Muskoka Beach

Best Lakes for Fishing in Muskoka

Muskoka is a top-tier fishing destination, home to various species such as smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, lake trout, and muskellunge. Here are some of the best fishing lakes:

Lake Muskoka – Offers an excellent mix of smallmouth bass, northern pike, walleye, and muskellunge.

Lake Joseph – Known for its deep, clear waters, this lake is a great spot for lake trout and smallmouth bass.

Sparrow Lake – A favorite among anglers looking for walleye, largemouth bass, and northern pike.

Skeleton Lake – Provides excellent fishing opportunities for brook trout, smallmouth bass, and lake trout.

Kahshe Lake – A well-known location for pike and bass fishing.

Go Home Lake – An excellent fishing destination for smallmouth bass, walleye, and northern pike.

Muskoka Fishing

Non-Motorized Lakes for Canoeing & Kayaking

For those looking for a quiet, motor-free environment to enjoy paddling and nature watching, several lakes in Muskoka prohibit or limit motorized boats:

Bella Lake – A peaceful, non-motorized lake near Huntsville that is great for canoeing and kayaking.

Echo Lake – A quiet and pristine lake near Baysville, perfect for non-motorized water activities.

Wolf Lake – Offers a serene paddling experience surrounded by dense forests and wildlife.

Muskoka Kayaking

Popular Attractions and Festivals

Muskoka’s allure extends beyond its real estate, offering a plethora of attractions and events that celebrate its rich culture and natural splendor.

Attractions

Muskoka Wharf: Located in Gravenhurst, this 89-acre development features retailers, restaurants, and hosts events like Pirate Fest and the Gravenhurst Farmers’ Market.

RMS Segwun: Also based in Gravenhurst, the RMS Segwun is North America’s oldest operating steamship, offering scenic cruises on Lake Muskoka.

Santa’s Village: Situated in Bracebridge, this Christmas-themed amusement park provides family-friendly entertainment, including the upcoming Yeti Trek roller coaster set to open in 2025.

Festivals

Bala Cranberry Festival: Held annually in October in the town of Bala, this festival celebrates the local cranberry harvest with food, crafts, and entertainment, attracting over 20,000 visitors.

Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival: Scheduled for July 18-19, 2025, at Gull Lake Park, this festival features live music and art, offering a vibrant cultural experience.

Fire and Ice Festival: Bracebridge’s signature winter carnival, featuring tubing, ice sculptures, and fireworks, is set for January 25, 2025.

Bala Cranberry Festival

Muskoka Real Estate

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Showing 351 to 360 of 866 Properties

3140 ISLAND 1810 Georgian Bay (Gibson) Ontario $849,000 ID#: X11947390

RE/MAX By The Bay Brokerage

Escape to your exclusive waterfront sanctuary on Bone Island. This boat-access-only retreat is nestled on a spacious 3 -acre lot with 400 feet of mesmerizing water frontage, offering you the...

  • 3 Beds
  • 2 Baths
67 JACK STREET Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $849,000 ID#: X12018803

RE/MAX Professionals North

Welcome to this beautiful end-unit bungalow in the desirable community of Highcrest Homes. This spacious home has been upgraded throughout and features the largest windows of any of the homes...

  • 4 Beds
  • 2 Baths
15598 GEORGIAN BAY SHORE Georgian Bay (Baxter) Ontario $849,000 ID#: X12104867

RE/MAX By The Bay Brokerage

Nestled among the trees, this charming bungalow provides both scenic views and a sense of privacy. Situated near Gagnon Bay of Georgian Bay, the property boasts 242 feet of water...

  • 3 Beds
  • 1 Baths
37 JACK STREET Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $849,000 ID#: X12182222

RE/MAX Professionals North

This beautifully designed end-unit condo in the Highcrest Homes development offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and natural serenity. The open-concept living space features a stylish kitchen complete with...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
30 TODHOLM DRIVE Muskoka Lakes Ontario $845,000 ID#: X12162187

Royal LePage Lakes Of Muskoka Realty

What an amazing home this is!! Fully renovated from head to toe! Newer windows, newer roof, custom tile jobs, custom primary with ensuite, walkin closet, private water closet and walkout...

  • 4 Beds
  • 3 Baths
340 WILD ROSE DRIVE Gravenhurst (Muskoka (S)) Ontario $839,999 ID#: X12146653

Re/Max Professionals North

Welcome to this spacious two-storey home with 2500 sqft of finished living space situated on a premium corner lot in the desirable Kestrel Glen subdivision. This newer-built home (2020) features...

  • 5 Beds
  • 4 Baths
1400 OLD MUSKOKA ROAD S Huntsville (Stephenson) Ontario $839,900 ID#: X12185601

RE/MAX Professionals North

Spacious 4-level split home offering approx. 2,050 sq feet of living space set on a picturesque 1.66-acre flat lot. This well-maintained property features 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, and multiple living...

  • 4 Beds
  • 2 Baths
408 - 15 PINE NEEDLE WAY Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $839,000 ID#: X11936863

Chestnut Park Real Estate

Discover The Ridge at Highcrest by Edgewood Homes - a community where modern design meets the simplicity of hassle-free living. Among its standout offerings is Suite 408, The Antler, a...

  • 2 Beds
  • 2 Baths
1118 TOMINGAS ROAD Gravenhurst (Muskoka (S)) Ontario $839,000 ID#: X12141545

Re/Max Professionals North

First time offered in almost 40 years. This unique 2 bedroom, 1 bath cottage is nestled on a foundation of Muskoka granite and carefully situated overlooking the shores of Sunny...

  • 2 Beds
  • 1 Baths
8 SERENITY PLACE CRESCENT Huntsville (Chaffey) Ontario $829,900 ID#: X12159872

RE/MAX Professionals North

Step into this enchanting home nestled in the heart of Huntsville - a rare freehold end-unit townhome that artfully blends modern sophistication with the tranquility of Muskoka living. The airy...

  • 2 Beds
  • 3 Baths
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