Exploring the enchantment of Muskoka Lakes
Muskoka is renowned for its collection of freshwater lakes, the most prominent being Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph. One of the best ways to explore all three lakes is to set out on your very own boating journey. Many marinas offer boat rentals or a Personal Watercraft for rent, so let that not deter you! Here’s a delightful day-long route that begins in the most southern part of Lake Muskoka, (Gravenhurst) and circles through Lake Rosseau and Lake Joseph.
Morning: Begin your day with a tea or coffee and a delectable treat from the Blue Willow Tea Shop located in Muskoka Wharf, Gravenhurst. This area features a fine selection of shops, dining, a weekly seasonal farmers market, and of course, is home to two Muskoka Steamships which are North America’s oldest operating mail steamships! The Discovery Centre showcases an exceptional display highlighting Indigenous culture, which delves extensively into the history of Muskoka, tracing its evolution through different eras, and introduces the newly upgraded fully electric steamship! Additionally, you’ll find numerous iconic vintage wooden boats, each a classic beauty synonymous with Muskoka.
One of the best places to view by boat is the Gravenhurst Narrows Light House. It is located on the east end of Lighthouse Island, near the southern end of Lake Muskoka. Gravenhurst Narrows Lighthouse remains active today, showing a fixed red light to guide vessels through “The Narrows,” but it is now formally known on the Coast Guard’s List of Lights as Lighthouse Island Lighthouse.
If you are feeling like a quick dip, hit the open water with a cruise over to the family-friendly Kirby’s Beach! There is access to a fantastic kid’s playground with picnic tables and washroom facilities. Kids and parents love the shallow clean waters and relish sitting and soaking up the sun!
Mid-Morning-Early Afternoon: Time for a leisurely cruise past the coveted Millionaires Row along Squirrels Island. Stunning architecture, expansive grounds, and luxurious amenities reflect the affluence and discerning tastes of their owners. Overtime, Millionaire’s Row has evolved, with some estates being preserved in their original condition, while others have undergone renovations and modernization – blending classic elegance with contemporary comforts.
As you near the northern part of Lake Muskoka, you will enter one of the most iconic villages of Muskoka Lakes. Port Carling and is known as the ‘Hub of the Muskoka’.
Lake Rosseau is the home to the historical resort of Windermere House and nothing emulates grandeur and elegance like the captivating ‘Lady of the Lake’. This Victorian landmark offers two dining options such as The Rosseau, and Windermere Pub and Patio. Sharing a meal with friends and family in either venue is simply a must-do!
An interesting point of reference as you travel further northeast is a lovely island called Monyca Island which was the original Steamship post office! The architecture of this boathouse alone is spectacular and is kept in pristine condition. Easily identified by the yellow and white exterior with coordinating Muskoka Chairs!
As you head further north, you will pass the lovely Lower Rosseau Falls and end up in the quaint village of Rosseau. This town features an LCBO, original general store, the famous Crossroads restaurant and a note-worthy antique store. If you time it for Friday’s mornings, you will experience the quaint Rosseau Farmer’s Market!
Late Afternoon: Cruise your way through the Lake Joseph River, which is a scenic winding canal with speed restriction zones. Here you will pass the Pride of Rosseau Marina, and you can stop and refresh with an ice cream cone and check out their Cabana Store and selection of boats! Cruise past Chief’s Island, which is Lake Joseph’s largest island, home to only 10 cottages with a primary focus on conservancy.
Cruise up further north to Burnegie Bay where you can inch close to an impressive vertical rock face! Quite possibly, there might be some brave souls attempting to jump from the 60 ft granite cliff!
If you were intrigued by Millionaire’s Row, make sure to explore Billionaire Row to see more extravagant cottages owned by the wealthy. It’s the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of the lavish lifestyle.
If anyone in your group has a craving for sweets, head down to Foot’s Bay at the Cove Marina. There’s a delightful treat store named Shaw’s, which is stocked with an abundance of candies to satisfy your sweet tooth.
This route will give you a great overview of the Big Three, and you won’t discover everything on your initial visit. This region invites repeated exploration, beckoning you to return and uncover its wonders over time!
