The Local Area

Our cottage is located at the southern gateway to Muskoka with many nearby towns and attractions to explore. Browse here for a few ideas on things-to-do in the vicinity of Hemlock House.

  • You really can’t beat stargazing up north and we are lucky to have the Dark Sky Preserve on our doorstep. Follow Southwood Road west and you will enter the preserve. Designated parking is available off the roadside within the preserve, look for signs. Ensure all lights are switched off when parked and enjoy the view. The Perseid meteor shower in mid-August is particularly incredible and for hardy folks, the winter skies are clear and magical.

    18 minutes from Hemlock Lake House.

  • The local drive-in is just east of Gravenhurst and operates all summer. Check out their website for nightly features.

    https://www.muskokadrivein.com/

    32 minutes from Hemlock Lake House

  • The RMS Segwun is an old steam ship that plies the waters of Lake Muskoka directly from the wharf in Gravenhurst. Throughout the spring, summer and fall, daily cruises are offered to take in some of the spectacular cottages on Muskoka’s big lakes.

    https://realmuskoka.com/muskoka-steamships/

    34 minutes from Hemlock Lake House

  • Sometimes you just want someone else to do the cooking. One of Gravenhurst’s best restaurants offers lakeside dining and a diverse menu full of comfort foods and summer favourites. A fresh burrata on a hot summer afternoon or a steaming poutine to take the chill off, The Oar is worth a visit!

    https://www.theoar.ca/

    33 minutes from Hemlock Lake House

  • If you are looking for something to do with the kids, Santa’s Village combines Muskoka fun with amusement park excitement with a variety of rides, activities and eats that will entertain the family for a full day.

    https://www.santasvillage.ca/

    34 minutes from Hemlock Lake House.

  • Another fun activity, particularly for the older kids and the kids-at-heart, is Treetops Trekking in Huntsville or Muskoka Aerial Park at Santa’s Village. These are great ropes, ladder and climbing courses in the treetops!

    https://treetoptrekking.com/parks/huntsville

    https://www.aerialpark.ca/

    Treetop Trekking is 53 minutes from Hemlock Lake House

    Aerial Park is 34 minutes from Hemlock Lake House.

  • With a small, quaint downtown, the famous Kee to Bala concert venue and the epic Cranberry Festival each Fall, Bala is a quick jaunt and a great trip for a few hours.