At the core of Muskoka lies the charming town of Huntsville, the largest community in the region and best places to visit in Ontario. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, Huntsville is a hotspot for purchasing summer homes in the coveted “cottage country.”

Visitors and locals alike are drawn here by an array of attractions, a lively theater and music scene (Shania Twain honed her craft here), and accommodations at some of Ontario’s premier resorts and hotels.

Leading the pack in lodging options is the expansive Deer Hurst Resort, capable of accommodating over 1,000 guests. Boasting world-class convention facilities that hosted Canada’s 2010 G8 Summit, the resort offers a plethora of outdoor activities. For those seeking more modest options, there are also family-owned resorts available.

Regardless of your preferences and budget, Huntsville presents numerous excellent choices for extended stays and exploration of Muskoka, as well as nearby Algonquin and Arrowhead provincial parks. Plan your visit using our curated list of the best resorts in Huntsville, Ontario.

1. Deerhurst Resort

With its origins dating back to the late 19th century as a hunting and fishing lodge, Deerhurst Resort remains the highlight of Huntsville’s resort offerings. Drawing visitors from Toronto families to American golfers and European adventurers, Deerhurst promises boundless outdoor enjoyment.

Among the array of amenities at this esteemed 3-star Muskoka retreat are a private beach and indoor/outdoor pools, an extensive trail system, two golf courses, boat rentals, treetop trekking, and horseback riding at the on-site stables.

Indoor activities abound as well, including a rock-climbing wall and play area for children, with babysitting services available. Additionally, guests can partake in squash and tennis, utilize the fitness center, indulge in spa treatments, and dine on-site.

Winter activities include skiing at Hidden Valley, mere minutes away by car, as well as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice skating. Adventurous options like ATV rides, ziplining, and escape rooms are also on offer.

Deerhurst provides a diverse selection of accommodations, ranging from standard hotel rooms with picturesque lake vistas to spacious suites with separate seating areas and balconies. Ideal for larger groups are elegantly furnished one-, two-, and three-bedroom units, complete with kitchens, additional bathrooms, and separate living spaces.

2. Hidden Valley Resort, Ascend Hotel Collection

Just a short drive from Deerhurst Resort and downtown Huntsville, the Hidden Valley Resort, part of the 3-star Ascend Hotel Collection, presents an affordable option for those seeking an excellent resort experience in Muskoka.

Especially favored during winter, the resort boasts onsite ski amenities, featuring 11 runs, a terrain park catering to snowboarders, a ski club, individual and group lessons, and ski camps tailored for young enthusiasts. Additionally, guests can enjoy winter activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

In warmer seasons, visitors can take advantage of amenities like a swimming pool, private beach access, kayaks, and canoes, as well as a tennis court. The resort also offers a gym, sauna, spa services, and a restaurant.

Accommodations range from upgraded and spacious hotel-style rooms, many with king or queen beds, sizable bathrooms with tubs and showers, separate sitting areas, refrigerators, and balconies boasting splendid lake views.

3. Blue Water Acres Resort

Another beloved lakeside family resort in Huntsville, the 3-star Blue Water Acres Resort sits on the picturesque Lake of Bays, one of Muskoka’s largest lakes offering abundant opportunities for boating and water sports enjoyment. Operating year-round, summertime activities include access to a private beach and swimming pool, tennis court, fishing, and a games room.

Guests can also enjoy off-site amenities like nearby marinas offering boat rentals, various golf options (consider day memberships at the stunning Bigwin Island Golf Club), and access to numerous trails and wildlife observation spots in the nearby Algonquin Park.

During the winter season, the focus shifts to activities such as skating, tobogganing, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, with the ski slopes of Hidden Valley just a short drive away.

Accommodations at Blue Water Acres Resort are cottage-style, with standalone cabins nestled along the waterfront. These cozy cottages accommodate from two to six guests comfortably and feature full kitchens, spacious bathrooms, authentic wood-burning fireplaces, and expansive private decks.

For larger groups, there are three-bedroom cottages available, boasting two bathrooms, generous sundecks, and propane fireplaces. Opting for the two-story unit, if available, adds a charming traditional Muskoka room for extra space.

4. Trillium Resort and Spa

Situated just a brief drive south of Huntsville, Trillium Resort and Spa stands out as one of the most sought-after retreat spots north of Toronto, attracting couples in search of quality time together. Nestled on an expansive 86-acre wooded property boasting its waterfall and lake, this adults-only 3-star resort offers a plethora of year-round activities, both indoors and outdoors.

During the summer months, guests can indulge in various pursuits such as exploring nature trails, rock climbing, playing tennis, swimming from the floating dock, utilizing the fitness center, enjoying a Finnish sauna, and lounging by the outdoor pool with a hot tub. Additionally, guests have access to kayaks, canoes, and mountain bikes provided by the resort. In winter, the fun continues with activities like ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and easy access to the region’s extensive network of snowmobile trails.

Accommodation options at Trillium Resort comprise six charming chalets positioned overlooking the lake, along with an additional 10 cozy cabins nestled in the woods. These spacious one-bedroom cabins feature generous dining areas, full kitchens, bathrooms equipped with large tubs, wood-burning stoves, and sizable private terraces or decks. Some cabins also include pullout couches for added convenience. Pet-friendly accommodations are available for an additional fee.

5. Arowhon Pines in Algonquin Park

While it requires a short drive from downtown Huntsville, Arowhon Pines in Algonquin Park is undeniably a must-add to your list of top accommodations in Muskoka. Nestled within the renowned tourist attraction of Algonquin Provincial Park and recognized as one of the exclusive resorts permitted to operate within the park, the 4-star Arowhon resort enjoys immense popularity among international visitors.

These guests are easily recognizable during mealtimes, as their designated tables proudly display flags representing their respective home countries. The cuisine is a major highlight, featuring fresh, home-cooked meals served in the resort’s grand and historic octagonal dining room, which serves as the focal point of the property.

Accommodations at this all-inclusive wilderness lodge exude rustic charm and comfort, comprising a variety of shared and private log cabins, all recently renovated. Each cabin is equipped with wood-burning fireplaces, private decks, and cottage-themed bedding and furnishings.

On-site amenities include complimentary access to canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, while fishing is another popular activity available here.

6. Walker Lake Resort

Situated on the serene shores of Walkers Lake, among the myriad smaller lakes dotting Muskoka, the 3-star Walker Lake Resort provides couples and families with a peaceful retreat in the heart of cottage country.

With only a handful of charming cottage accommodations, this resort offers ample space for relaxation and unwinding. Guests can indulge in various on-site amenities, including a shallow, sandy beach area featuring a diving platform and water trampoline, as well as an array of non-motorized watercraft like canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, and paddleboards. Fishing boats are also available, and nearby are walking and hiking trails, along with the proximity to Algonquin Provincial Park.

Regarding the cottages, a favored choice is the contemporary two-bedroom unit, boasting a separate living area, cathedral ceiling, authentic woodstove, full kitchen, and expansive deck with a barbecue and stunning vistas. Alternatively, guests may opt for the more spacious three-bedroom unit accommodating up to eight individuals comfortably.

7. Lumina Resort

Since its establishment in 1921, Lumina Resort has provided top-notch family vacations for those desiring an authentic Muskoka cottage experience. Situated in Dwight on the shores of the picturesque Lake of Bays, this delightful cottage resort continues to be overseen by descendants of the original founding family, preserving its legacy of over 90 years.

Spanning 250 acres with 350 feet of shoreline boasting a spacious, sandy beach area, which is shallow and ideal for swimmers of all ages, it serves as an excellent location for those eager to explore Muskoka’s largest lake via canoe or kayak. Additionally, there is docking available for guests with their boats, and the on-site marina offers a selection of boat rental options. Various engaging kids’ programs are also on offer.

When it’s time to retire for the night, Lumina comprises 36 distinct cottages along with 14 rooms within the Main Lodge. Complete maid service is included in the all-inclusive package, as are freshly prepared daily meals served in the resort’s cozy dining room.

8. Colonial Bay Cottage Resort

Colonial Bay Cottage Resort, one of Muskoka’s highly regarded family-owned and operated resorts, is nestled on the scenic Peninsula Lake, just a short drive from downtown Huntsville.

Its prime location also caters to outdoor enthusiasts keen on experiencing the wilderness activities offered in Algonquin Provincial Park, including kayaking, canoeing, wildlife tours, nature expeditions, and a plethora of hiking trails in summer, as well as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.

The resort itself ensures ample family enjoyment, featuring a splendid sandy beach with a water trampoline, various watercraft such as kayaks and canoes, fishing opportunities, and a designated kids’ play area.

In terms of accommodations, the resort provides an exceptional cottage experience. The standalone units include single-bedroom cottages accommodating up to four guests (equipped with a sofa bed), a combined living and dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and an outdoor barbecue. Additionally, they are equipped with air conditioning and satellite TV.

For larger groups, a three-bedroom cottage is available, accommodating up to six guests comfortably, while standard studio suites cater perfectly to couples.

9. Cedar Grove Lodge

Situated on the shores of Peninsula Lake, Cedar Grove Lodge is an all-season retreat renowned for its cozy, rustic log cabins and vibrant family-friendly ambiance. Nestled between Algonquin Provincial Park and Huntsville, the lodge offers a plethora of exciting activities, from exploring the stunning natural surroundings to indulging in the town’s shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

The lodge also provides numerous incentives for guests to enjoy their stay on-site, including a child-friendly beach with shallow waters and a water trampoline, opportunities for water skiing and tubing, beachside barbecues, and complimentary access to canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, paddleboards, windsurfers, rowboats, and pontoon boat rides. Additionally, motorized boats are available for rental purposes.

Further amenities include dining facilities, with daily meals included in the accommodation package, along with a 24-hour tea and coffee station. Special winter packages are also offered.

Accommodations comprise 19 detached cottages spread across the expansive shoreline of the property, each featuring its own stone fireplace and picturesque lake vistas. Guests can select from well-appointed one-bedroom cottages to spacious three-bedroom deluxe options, some of which boast heated slate flooring in the bathrooms.

FAQs

Q: What makes Huntsville, Ontario, a popular destination for resorts?

A: Huntsville’s stunning natural landscapes, abundance of outdoor activities, and welcoming community make it an ideal destination for resorts catering to various interests and preferences.

Q: Are there any family-friendly resorts in Huntsville?

A: Yes, several resorts in Huntsville offer family-friendly amenities and activities, including kid’s clubs, water sports, and nature programs, ensuring a memorable vacation for all ages.

Q: What outdoor activities can I enjoy near these resorts?

A: Depending on the season, visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities near Huntsville resorts, including hiking, biking, swimming, boating, skiing, snowboarding, and more.

Q: Can I book a wedding or event at these resorts?

A: Yes, many resorts in Huntsville offer event planning services and stunning venues for weddings, conferences, and special occasions, ensuring a memorable and picturesque setting for any event.

Q: Are these resorts pet-friendly?

A: Some resorts in Huntsville offer pet-friendly accommodations, allowing guests to bring their furry friends along for the adventure. Be sure to check with the individual resort for their pet policy and any additional fees.