Explore the Most Exclusive Summer Destinations in Ontario’s Cottage Country

Let’s discover the finest places to visit across Ontario’s cottage country, where luxury meets natural beauty.

Renowned for its wineries and pristine beaches, Prince Edward County encompasses lovely parks featuring dunes, waterfront areas, and scenic trails.

Picton, Madoc, and Brighton are uniquely delightful towns in Prince Edward County. Picton captivates with its boat tours and nearby nature preserves, while Madoc offers picturesque landscapes, complete with a golf course and beautiful parks. Brighton has a small-town charm, with boutiques and local farms offering seasonal activities such as apple picking, pumpkin patches, and corn mazes.

The Georgian Bay region is renowned for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and countless islands and coves. Residents and visitors can go boating, kayaking, and hiking along the rugged coastline or in scenic provincial parks like Killarney and Bruce Peninsula. Georgian Bay is also revered for its 19th-century lighthouses and preserved shipwrecks, adding to its historical and maritime appeal.

Charming towns like Parry Sound and Collingwood provide opportunities for dining, shopping, and exploring local art and culture, making Georgian Bay an ideal retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Peterborough is a vibrant summer destination with its scenic waterways, including the Trent-Severn Waterway and the Kawartha Lakes. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing, and exploring picturesque parks such as Jackson Park and Beavermead Park. Cultural attractions and local festivals add to the city’s allure, making it an appealing spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking both relaxation and adventure during the summer months.

Kawartha Lakes stands as a quintessential summer destination, offering prime fishing spots and canoeing opportunities. Trails such as those along Eels Creek and the Kawartha Trans Canada invite exploration by foot, bike, or horseback, showcasing stunning natural vistas. When you’re ready to cool off, local bakeries, ice cream parlors, and delectable restaurants provide delightful respites and indulgent treats.

The Muskoka Region caters to an array of preferences, with guided cruises along the Muskoka River and savory tastings at local breweries. Nature lovers relish hikes through nature preserves, while others may visit the area’s boutiques.

As you explore the Muskoka region, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, and Bracebridge offer a breadth of attractions. Gravenhurst provides a serene escape with breweries and birdwatching havens, complemented by a farmers market. Huntsville boasts family-friendly attractions, while Bracebridge features cascading waterfalls and hosts recreational gems such as Kirby’s Beach.

Nature enthusiasts flock to Haliburton Highlands for its panoramic vistas, including a unique sculpture forest and backcountry camping sites. Waterfront parks cater to fishing, canoeing, and biking aficionados, while adventure seekers delight in thrilling experiences like rock climbing and glass blowing.

This region encompasses charming towns such as Haliburton, Dorset, and Minden, each with their own unique appeal. Haliburton is known for its vibrant arts community amid lakes and forests, while Dorset, situated on Lake of Bays, captivates visitors with its scenic beauty highlighted by the iconic Dorset Tower lookout. Minden, nestled along the Gull River, is a hub for canoeing and kayaking, with a lively summer festival scene adding to its appeal.