by If you’re searching for a scenic vacation property, Ontario offers some of the best cottage lakes in North America. Known for its pristine lakes, lush forests, and vibrant local culture, Ontario provides the perfect setting for a summer cottage or even a year-round getaway. With plenty of recreational opportunities, from water sports to cross-country skiing and charming quaint towns nearby, Ontario’s cottage country attracts visitors from across the globe.
Best Cottage Lakes In Ontario
The New York Connection to Ontario Cottage Country
For residents of Upstate New York, investing in cottage property on Ontario’s lakes offers several advantages. With many of these lakes, like Lake Simcoe and Kawartha Lakes, located just a few hours’ drive from the U.S.-Canada border, they provide a convenient getaway that feels far removed from daily life without being too distant. Ontario’s cottage regions, such as Muskoka and Haliburton Highlands, are known for their pristine landscapes, making them perfect for those seeking tranquility, adventure, or both.
Waterway Guide. Additionally, these properties often offer year-round recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing in the summer, and ice fishing and skiing in the winter, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy seasonal activities.
Map: The Best Cottage Lakes in Ontario
This article highlights ten of the best cottage lakes in Ontario, focusing on what makes each unique. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or just looking for the perfect place to relax, there’s a lake here for you. Explore these stunning destinations and discover the great opportunities for owning a waterfront property in Canada’s most picturesque regions.
1. Georgian Bay – Where Adventure Meets Scenic Beauty
Known as the “Sixth Great Lake,” Georgian Bay boasts crystal clear waters and over 30,000 islands, offering some of the most scenic landscapes in Ontario. This lake features dramatic rock formations along the Bruce Peninsula National Park and sandy shores like Sauble Beach, which are perfect for families and outdoor activities.
Georgian Bay is a favorite among boaters, with its rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas providing endless opportunities for exploration. Its proximity to quaint towns like Tobermory and Parry Sound makes it ideal for cottage buyers looking for a mix of modern amenities and natural beauty. With abundant waterfront property options, this is a great location for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
2. Lake Muskoka – The Crown Jewel of Ontario’s Cottage Country
Lake Muskoka is one of the crown jewels of Ontario’s cottage country. Known for its luxury lakeside cottages and buzzing summer culture, this lake offers the perfect opportunity for those looking to enjoy outdoor activities and community events. Boating, fishing, and paddling are popular pastimes, and the lake hosts various regattas during the summer months.
Real estate here ranges from cozy rental cottages to high-end waterfront cottages with modern amenities. Its proximity to the charming towns of Gravenhurst and Bracebridge ensures easy access to fine dining, shopping, and other essentials, making it a great getaway.
3. Lake Rosseau – Luxury Living with a Natural Twist
Situated in the heart of the Muskoka Lakes, Lake Rosseau offers a unique blend of breathtaking lake views and luxury real estate. This lake is known for attracting celebrities and high-profile visitors, making it one of Ontario’s most prestigious cottage destinations.
Lake Rosseau is ideal for boating, swimming, and fishing with its crystal clear waters and secluded bays. The area also caters to outdoor enthusiasts with nearby golf courses, hiking trails, and cross-country skiing options for the winter months.
4. Lake Joseph – Tranquility and Thrills All in One
Lake Joseph shares many of the qualities of Lake Rosseau but offers a quieter, more exclusive atmosphere. Nestled near Parry Sound, this lake is surrounded by lush forests and is known for its pristine beauty.
It’s an excellent choice for cottage enthusiasts who want to enjoy activities year-round. In the summer, it’s perfect for boating, waterskiing, and swimming. During winter, cross-country skiing trails nearby provide opportunities for snow-filled adventures. Lake Joseph offers stunning waterfront property options and remains a great location for a peaceful retreat.
5. Kawartha Lakes – A Relaxing Escape with Sandy Beaches
The Kawarthas region consists of a collection of smaller lakes, each with its own charm and character. Known for its sandy beaches and good fishing opportunities, the Kawartha Lakes attract families and nature lovers alike. This area offers an abundance of affordable cottage properties, making it a great place to buy.
The region is dotted with quaint shops, farmer’s markets, and small towns, providing a cozy community atmosphere. Its easy accessibility from southern Ontario makes it an attractive destination for those looking for a weekend getaway or a second home.
6. Lake of Bays – A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Ontario
Located in the Haliburton Highlands, Lake of Bays is known for its unspoiled natural landscapes and tranquil waters. The area features a mix of rugged terrain and scenic beauty, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, kayaking, and swimming.
Cottage buyers in this region can enjoy the best of both worlds, with privacy and space but also easy access to nearby towns and modern amenities. Whether you’re searching for a peaceful retreat or a lakeside cottage for family gatherings, Lake of Bays is an excellent choice.
7. Lake Simcoe – A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Ontario
Located within an hour’s drive of Toronto, Lake Simcoe is a great getaway for city dwellers. This freshwater lake offers a variety of water sports, including boating, paddleboarding, and fishing. In the winter, it transforms into a hub for ice fishing and snowmobiling.
Lake Simcoe is a popular destination for outdoor activities and cottage living in Ontario. With a vast surface area of 287 square miles and 118 miles of shoreline, it offers ample space for recreation throughout the year. The lake is renowned for both summer and winter activities, with boating, swimming, and fishing being popular during the warmer months, while the colder months transform it into Canada’s “ice fishing capital” with competitive events and community gatherings on the frozen lake
The area surrounding Lake Simcoe is rich with towns and communities, including Barrie, Orillia, and Georgina, offering a blend of residential amenities, marinas, and parks. The lake features several islands, such as Thorah and Fox Islands, adding to its scenic charm. Popular provincial parks like Sibbald Point offer hiking trails, sandy beaches, and camping facilities, making it a year-round attraction for nature lovers and families.
The shores of Lake Simcoe are dotted with waterfront cottages that offer both luxury and comfort, making it a great option for those looking for a convenient weekend escape.
8. Haliburton Highlands – Redstone Lake
The Haliburton area is an outdoor paradise, perfect for those who enjoy both summer and winter activities. With access to provincial parks, hiking trails, and rental cottages, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
During the summer months, the region offers excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. In winter, the area becomes a playground for skiers and snowshoers, with cross-country skiing being a popular activity.
Redstone Lake is nestled in the Haliburton Highlands region of Ontario, known for its pristine landscapes and tranquil environment. It is a part of the Gull River system and is considered a deep, cold-water lake characteristic of the Canadian Shield, with depths reaching up to 270 feet. The lake spans about 25.6 miles along its perimeter, offering a variety of outdoor activities for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
The surrounding area offers both peaceful retreats and recreational opportunities. In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, and fishing, with lake trout, smallmouth bass, and whitefish being popular catches. In the colder months, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing become favorite activities in nearby trails and parks.
Cottages along Redstone Lake often offer modern amenities while maintaining a rustic charm, with many properties having docks, fire pits, and access to kayaks or canoes. Privacy and scenic beauty are highlights of the area, but amenities such as nearby Haliburton Forest and Wildlife Reserve add opportunities for eco-tours and activities like canopy walks. Access to the lake is convenient, with a public boat launch available, making it a great destination for cottage enthusiasts and vacationers alike.
9. Rice Lake – A Haven for Fishing and Family Fun
Rice Lake is a smaller but charming destination known for its good fishing and serene environment. Located in eastern Ontario, this lake offers affordable cottage properties, making it a great place for families to invest in. Rice Lake, near Peterborough, is a shallow yet scenic lake with rich ecological and cultural significance. The lake, part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, spans approximately 20 miles in length and is dotted with islands and marshes. Historically, it was named after the abundant wild rice that grew along its shores, which attracted Indigenous peoples and remains a habitat for a variety of wildlife today.
Cottage owners here enjoy calm waters perfect for kayaking and paddling. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect opportunity for those seeking a quiet retreat away from the crowds.
10. Prince Edward County – Wine, Water, and Waterfront Cottages
For those seeking a combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Prince Edward County is the ideal choice. Known for its wineries and quaint towns, this popular destination offers more than just scenic lake views. Wine tasting tours and charming shops attract visitors throughout the year.
With plenty of waterfront cottages available, Prince Edward County offers the perfect setting for anyone looking to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
Final Thoughts About Waterfront Property in Ontario
Ontario’s cottage country offers a diverse range of options, from the bustling shores of Lake Muskoka to the tranquil retreats of Rice Lake. Whether you prefer larger lakes with vibrant communities or smaller lakes offering seclusion and privacy, Ontario has the perfect place to suit every buyer’s needs.
With breathtaking scenery, access to outdoor activities, and the chance to experience the great outdoors year-round, these lakes provide excellent investment opportunities. Explore Ontario’s great spots for a summer cottage or year-round residence, and find your peaceful retreat in this picturesque region.
