What is the perfect family cottage memory? Is it that first longed-for view of the lake as you alight from the drive? Is it stretching out on the sofa in the great room, watching as the sun sinks slowly through the pines? Is it watching toddlers take their first steps in the shallow water at the lake’s edge? This beautifully designed cottage, perched above 310 feet of pristine Lake Joseph … [Read more...] about Living Large At Your Lakeside Paradise
Muskoka
Muskoka Fall & Winter Getaways
Come to savour Muskoka’s fall colour and winter playgrounds, and you’ll quickly discover there’s a lot more to see and do here this time of year! By Bill & Laura Hollingshead It’s no secret that Muskoka is Ontario’s summer playground. We welcome over 3.2 million visitors annually, with over 80% visiting in the spring and summer. But with so much to see and do in the fall and winter, why … [Read more...] about Muskoka Fall & Winter Getaways
Is Muskoka Undervalued?
I’ve heard the following phrase used more and more often lately to describe Muskoka: “The Hamptons of the North.” Generally speaking, I consider the comparison as a compliment (although, for those of us who call this region home, we think the Hamptons could just as accurately be called the “Muskoka of New York”). But I started thinking about this the other day, and decided it might be … [Read more...] about Is Muskoka Undervalued?
Hosting for the Holidays at the Lakehouse
By Brooke Madden It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Maybe some summer-loving folk are dreaming of warmer days by the lake, back when the ground wasn’t so slushy and the wind didn’t hurt your face. I stand in solidarity with you to an extent. But trust me, December isn’t all bad. I’m going to teach you how to embrace the seemingly eternal greyness of the outside world and help you create … [Read more...] about Hosting for the Holidays at the Lakehouse
Making Homes Green in the Great White North
The New Sustainable By DC Rutherford I bought a house recently, a Craftsman built in 1910 in a rural community. The region is one many of you will find familiar—it’s susceptible to the unpredictable swings of a four-season climate. The polars of stifling summer heat and humidity and crippling winter storms are both what makes the area a delight and a challenge. Moving in mid-pandemic made … [Read more...] about Making Homes Green in the Great White North
Camp Ooch Builds On Greatness
Labour of Love By Leslie C. Smith It started out as a good idea. It has grown into a great one. In 1983, a small group of Muskoka-loving volunteers formed Camp Ooch, a no-charge, home-away-from-hospital camp for children with cancer. Decades later, their concept has grown to comprise not just the camp itself and nearby family accommodations, but a special recreation centre in Toronto … [Read more...] about Camp Ooch Builds On Greatness