guest guide
Whether you're looking to relax by the water, explore charming Muskoka towns, or enjoy the area's beautiful hiking trails, here are some of our favourite local spots to enjoy during your stay.
☕ Fresh Baking & Coffee Nearby
Abbey’s Bakehouse(Minett - Opening June 24, 2026)
A local favourite located just up the road. Housed in a charming historic church, Abbey's is known for their delicious butter tarts, cookies, muffins and scones.
🌠 Stargazing
Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve
One of Ontario's best places for stargazing and astrophotography. On clear nights, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the stars, planets, and even the Milky Way. Bring a flashlight and dress warmly.
Drive time: Approximately 35 minutes
🥾 Hiking Trails
Huckleberry Rock Lookout Trail
A relatively short hike with one of the best panoramic views in Muskoka. Perfect for families and anyone looking for a rewarding viewpoint without committing to a long trek.
Drive time: Approximately 20 minutes
Hardy Lake Provincial Park Trail
A beautiful Muskoka classic featuring:
Forested trails
Rocky Canadian Shield landscapes
Scenic lake views
Excellent wildlife viewing opportunities
The full loop is approximately 8 km, but shorter out-and-back hikes are also possible.
Drive time: Approximately 30 minutes
🏞️ Explore Port Carling
Known as the "Hub of the Lakes," Port Carling offers:
Boutique shopping
Waterfront walking
Ice cream and cafés
Historic locks connecting Lakes Muskoka and Rosseau
Summer events and markets
Drive time: Approximately 15 minutes
🛒 Groceries & Essentials
Silver Streams Farms Store (Port Sandfield)
A convenient nearby stop for:
Emergency provisions
Local products
Basic grocery items
Perfect if you've forgotten an ingredient or need something quickly.
The nearest full-service grocery store, located about 10 km away. Foodland also typically carries:
Groceries
Household essentials
Additional firewood
Located in the heart of the charming village of Rosseau, this Muskoka staple offers groceries, fresh food, baked goods, cottage essentials, and specialty items. A great stop for supplies, snacks, or a quick lunch while exploring the area.
Held from the last Friday in June to the second Friday in September in the village of Rosseau, this popular market features local farmers, bakers, artisans, and food vendors. It's a wonderful way to experience the local community and pick up fresh seasonal produce and Muskoka-made products.
🚤 Getting Out on the Water
One of the best ways to experience Muskoka is from the water. From our dock, you'll have access to beautiful Lake Rosseau and the surrounding waterways, making it easy to spend a day exploring scenic shorelines, waterfront restaurants, and hidden bays.
For boat rentals, marina services, and watersports equipment, we recommend:
SWS Muskoka – Offering boat rentals, watersports equipment, and boating services.
Gordon Bay Marine – A full-service marina offering boat rentals, fuel, marine supplies, and boating support.
If you require additional watercraft or equipment beyond what the cottage already provides, Algonquin Outfitters offers rentals and equipment for:
Kayaks
Canoes
Paddleboards
Other paddling gear and outdoor equipment
♻️ Garbage & Recycling
Port Carling Transfer Station
1174 Eveleigh Road, Port Carling
Located just off Highway 118 West, a few hundred metres from the junction connecting Highway 169 and Peninsula Road.
If your group generates more garbage than will fit in the provided bins, please bring excess garbage to the transfer station before departure.
Please ensure the garbage is placed in a clear bag to avoid charge.
Summer Hours (May–October):
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Circular Materials)
For current landfill and recycling information: District of Muskoka Waste & Recycling Information
we hope you enjoy your stay
Let’s chat and figure out what makes your stay even more perfect.