Do you want to spend some time in a place devoid of the noise and distractions of the urban world? Then Muskoka is the best place to be!
With its rolling, verdant countryside, rivers, 1,600 lakes, and beaches and shoreline that stretch for 14,000 kilometers, Muskoka is the epitome of rural life. It is where you can soak up the morning sun and gaze at the starry sky at night.
If you feel like you need a quick but perfect escape from the metropolis, here are some helpful tips on how to spend three perfect days in Muskoka, Canada:
1st Day: Embark on an Artistic Discovery
One glance at the beauty of Muskoka and you will see why it has always been a favorite inspiration of the most popular Canadian artists, known as the “Group of Seven.”
The fruits of this inspiration can all be seen and admired during a self-guided or guided tour of the Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery, making it a great way to kickstart your Muskoka adventure.
The trail features 98 stunning mural replicas of renowned paintings by the icons of Canada in different spots around Muskoka that they visited themselves.
The natural setting has also inspired many other artists, even to this day. If you are a certified art lover yourself, Muskoka should be your first stop. You can meet artists and visit their studios to learn more about their artwork, or you can take home a piece or more if you like.
You can also visit the galleries in the area, such as the Chapel Gallery and the Muskoka Fine Arts Gallery, which showcase countless creatives for the public to admire. You can also get your fill of pottery, painting, and more during the Dockside Festival of the Arts and Muskoka Arts & Crafts Summer Show held during the summer.
2nd Day: Explore the Waters
Even if Muskoka serves as the home to more than 1,600 lakes, the place is most commonly associated with Lake Rosseau, Lake Joseph, and Lake Muskoka.
Home to numerous rental cottages, including those that are only accessible by boat, you will easily understand why many tourists include Muskoka in their itinerary.
From majestic mansions on private islands to special retreats on the dockside, Muskoka has an appealing vibe for visitors and locals.
After settling into your lakeside retreat, you can now go out and make the most of the water around you. Muskoka is the best place to be for those who want to go for a swim or try their hands at fishing. Other activities you can try include wakeboarding, waterskiing, and tubing.
Nothing can beat the amazing experience of sailing along at the back of a boat with the refreshing mist and wind on your hair and face while adrenaline courses through your veins as you try not to fall into the water.
A row boat or canoe often comes with the rental cottages, although you can also rent a boat or look for someone who can take you out on the vast waters. You can also explore the Georgian Bay Biosphere Reserve and go on an afternoon cruise to see the 30,000 Islands.
Georgian Bay Islands National Park is also located in the biosphere reserve. It is a unique park exclusively accessible by boat that is well-loved among camping enthusiasts.
3rd Day: Breakfast, Beach, and Booze
After spending your second day in the water, it is time to fuel up your body. You can kickstart your third day with a hearty brunch at the Soul Sistas Café, famous for its nutritious homemade foods. Try the quiche of the day or, better yet, prepare your very own Power Breakfast Bowl to restore the energy you lost the day before.
Ladybug Café, located right on Georgian Bay, is also a great choice for your palate. Although the café is renowned for its butter tarts, a certified Canadian snack, a sumptuous breakfast also awaits you here.
After your tummy has gotten its fill, spend the day out in the sand under the sun at Wasaga Beach. In case you don’t know, Wasaga is the world’s longest freshwater beach, stretching for 14 kilometers, so you wouldn’t have a hard time finding the perfect spot to lie down.
The sandy stretch is not only great for watching the sunset and lounging because it also serves as the home to a theater, museum, and visitor center if you need to escape the heat and discover more about the area.
Once your skin has soaked up the Canadian sun, you can now cap off your day by grabbing a glass of cold beer, which Muskoka is known for. You can get a sample of different beer varieties at Muskoka Brewery. Lake of Bays Brewery, and Sawdust City Brewery. You can even participate in a brewery tour if you want to see and experience what happens behind the scenes while preparing your favorite drink.
Speaking of refreshing alcoholic beverages, another must-visit place in the region is none other than the Muskoka Lakes Winery. The winery is connected to Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh, which is a local institution that dates as far back as the 1950s.
You can even register for the “Bog to Bottle Discovery Tour,” where you can learn how Canadian fruits are grown and turned into delicious wine, with a sample available after the tour.
Other Popular Muskoka Activities
Here are other popular activities to try in Muskoka that you can try to squeeze in during your three-day stay:
- Golf
Some of North America’s best courses are found in Muskoka. Taboo Golf Course uses the Canadian Shield terrain for a visually stunning and unforgettable golf experience. Deerhurst Highlands is also one of the most amazing 18-hole courses in Canada.
- Hiking
While Muskoka is renowned for its water, hiking is another favorite activity in the area. Many trails will lead you to the highlands with scenic views or deep into the forest. The 2.5-kilometer hike known as the Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail features rocks that date back more than a billion years, with a stunning payoff at the end.
- Performance arts
Known for its small-town charm, Muskoka also has a rich performing arts scene. Live performances and concerts are available throughout the year at Peter’s Players and the Gravenhurst Opera House. If you visit in the summer, you can even witness their famous Huntsville Festival of the Arts.
Are you ready to spend three wonderful days in Muskoka?
