After what seemed like an endless barrage of snow, winter is behind us! It’s time for us to come out of hibernation, escape the every day, and add some romance back in our lives. Sunny days and blue skies provide the perfect setting for a weekend away to fall deeper in love with your partner. A romantic retreat is waiting, just a short drive north of the Greater Toronto Area. We are proud to be that perfect relaxing spot for couples’ to rest, relax and reconnect.
Our guests on a romantic getaway often comment that a day trip to Muskoka adds another layer of interest to their vacation. We are ideally situated as a launching pad to Muskoka and everything it has to offer. The stunning wilderness and small-town charm allow for a distraction-free time, a time to focus on intimacy and celebrating all the reasons you fell in love! Here are some festivals, activities and outdoor experiences in Muskoka to add to your couples retreat itinerary.
A scenic drive is a signature Muskoka Experience, and we certainly don’t think that it should be relegated to the fall (though the colours are spectacular). The Lake of Bays Scenic Drive is a perfect way to experience the beauty of Muskoka’s wild nature; it’s a winding route that offers spectacular views of lakes, deep rock cuts, and the charm of Muskoka life.
The 80-kilometre loop around the Lake of Bays has stops in the charming villages of Baysville, Dwight and Dorset. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience grab some treats at decadent bakeries, dine at fabulous restaurants, or even climb a former fire tower for 360-degree aerial views.
Brewery Tours
Take a behind the scenes tour of Muskoka’s Craft Breweries! Muskoka is filled with some of Canada’s top breweries. So, this is your chance to get a VIP experience at all three: Lake of Bays Brewing Co., Muskoka Brewery and Sawdust City Brewing Co. You can book a tour on your own, or if you prefer a guided experience, Brew Tours can take you on a chartered bus tour of all three breweries. They provide a highly trained tour guide who teaches you the ins and outs of craft beer with exclusive tastings and specialized tours.
Sawdust City Music Festival
Photo By: Sawdust City Music Festival
Sawdust City Music Festival is a 3 day, multi-venue Music Festival in Gravenhurst. This year you can hear some of the best Canadian musicians from August 3-5th. You might just discover your new favourite artist. The second annual festival features award-winning acts such as the Good Lovelies, Rose Cousins, and Royal Wood. One of the highlights of the weekend is the Music on the Barge shows; it’s excellent music right on the water – a true Muskoka experience!
Your couples’ retreat is the perfect time to get dirty…with an ATV or side-by-side adventure! Muskoka has become a favourite adventure destination for off-road enthusiasts. With a trail network dedicated to ATVs and side-by-sides, you can experience Muskoka in a new way. Take a half day or full day guided tour and travel through some of the most stunning scenic landscapes! There are thousands of kilometres of undisturbed natural forest trails for you to experience. These rental companies will provide all equipment necessary for you to experience some serious horsepower.
Take your romance to new heights, literally, with an aerial tour of Muskoka. It’s the best vantage point possible to take in the sparkling lakes and thick Canadian forest that makeup Muskoka’s beauty. Heli Muskoka offers sightseeing helicopter tours taking flight from Gravenhurst. If you are in the Parry Sound area, Georgian Bay Airways is ready to show you the rugged landscape of Georgian Bay, including an aerial look at the world’s largest freshwater archipelago: the 30,000 Islands. If you are staying on one of Muskoka’s lakes, you can charter Georgian Bay Airways for a sightseeing tour, and they will pick you up right at the dock!
Photo By: Muskoka Steamships
This is a signature Canadian experience. Travel the same way (and route) that cottagers travelled over 100 years ago. A classic Muskoka cruise is called Millionaire’s Row. Marvel at the cottages that wealthy Americans built a century ago. Muskoka Steamships offers 1, 2, 2.5, 3.5 and 4-hour trips, with many of the cruises providing dining in elegant surroundings.
Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery
The Group of Seven’s love affair with Muskoka continues with this unique outdoor trail. It features over 90 incredible mural replicas showcasing the works of the Group of Seven painters and the man who inspired them, Tom Thomson. Guided or self-guided options are available. Guided tours of The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery are available by request for groups of 10 to 15 people and are personally led by Artistic Director Gerry Lantaigne. Not only is it a great way to learn about the Group of Seven artists and Tom Thomson, but it is the perfect way to see the region.
There you have it, seven experience that will allow you to experience Muskoka in seven memorable ways. They’re also seven opportunities to spend quality time together. The best part is that at the end of your day trip to Muskoka, we’ll be waiting with an intimate waterfront location, beautiful bar, and The Spa at Rawley.
Come and celebrate all the reasons you fell in love and rest, relax, and reconnect in luxury with us.