Top Towns for an Ontario Vacation Cottage: Kawartha Lakes and More

Stunning Ontario is renowned for its picturesque views and Canadian hospitality. Those wanting to get away from it all have so many environments to choose from, whether that is the gentle rises of the Opeonga Hills or the breathtaking majesty of Niagara Falls.
 
Choosing a place for a vacation cottage can seem absolutely impossible: there are just so many amazing places to choose from, all well within driving distance of bustling metropolises and fantastic parks. Those wanting to build their own dream home would be well advised to give these five municipalities a second look before getting in touch with a great contractor and designing the vacation place of their dreams.
 
Kawartha Lakes
Kawartha means “bright waters and happy places” in the Anishinaabe language, and it’s clear that the First Nations people who had a hand in the town’s naming were completely honest in their description. The town has a population density of about 26 people per square kilometer, which means there’s plenty of room to spread out yet still enjoy a sense of community. One of the best things about Kawartha Lakes is that it is made up of a variety of smaller communities, each with its own flavor, making endless opportunities for exploration and connection.
 
Those working with a custom home builder to create the perfect property will definitely want to think about a lakefront property. That’s no problem because there are a staggering 250 lakes and rivers in this area!
 
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Situated on the mouth of its namesake, the Niagara River, Niagara-on-the-Lake clings to the shore of Lake Ontario, giving it a splendid view of both a Great Lake and the mighty river that splashes into Niagara Falls.
 
While close to one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, Niagara-on-theLake is actually quite a tiny town of about 19,000 people, filled with twee shops and sweet bed and breakfasts for vacationers. Thanks to its stunning views, it’s a very popular destination for honeymooners and those who don’t want to traipse through the more commercial Niagara Falls, Canada, instead hunting down unique finds in the boutiques. You’ll be in great company here and will never run out of wonderful things to do!
 
Blue Mountain
Imposing Blue Mountain is best known as a ski town, though there is also plenty to do in the summer. It’s known for the mountain of the same name and is situated where the Beaver River flows into Nottawasaga Bay, meaning there are recreational activities galore all throughout the year. You can enjoy snowshoeing, skiing, biking, hiking, boating, and even rock climbing at Metcalfe Rock. Most significantly, the Bruce Trail, which is Canada’s oldest and longest marked hiking trail, passes through the town, making this a perfect vacation cottage spot for those who live a more adventurous lifestyle.
 
Thanks to the mountain, the town tends to be extremely windy and cold during the winter. This makes triple-pane windows a must for any structure; these windows, while a bit pricier, will reduce your heating bills and prevent any drafts. It’s especially important to choose sturdy winters for a part-time habitation, as it will ensure that you won’t come back to find serious water damage from leaking windows.
 
Grand Bend
Beachgoers, pay heed! Grand Bend is well-known as Lake Ontario’s best beach town, where those who love sand and sun frolic all summer long on the creamy sand. There are plenty of small shops, ice cream stores, and mini-putt options to keep the whole family entertained before you head back to your cozy beach cottage to enjoy the rest of your evening.
 
Grand Bend is also quite close to Pinery Provincial Park, which is one of Canada’s most popular parks thanks to its amazing biodiversity and picture-perfect views. You’ll truly get to enjoy the best of all worlds here: a fun little town beside a majestic lake, all from the comfort of a custom cabin.
 
Huntsville
If you love the dramatic scenery of the Canadian Shield, with its exposed granite and wild hills, then Huntsville is the place for you. The area is most well-known for its thick white pines and crystal-clear lakes, just begging for a serene kayak paddle on a bright sunny day.
 
Huntsville is also at the entrance to the Algonquin Provincial Park, where Northern Ontario and Southern Ontario meet, making an interesting mix of coniferous and deciduous forest. You will never run out of interesting things to do here, whether that is hiking, biking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a splendid Canadian sunset falling over one of the many lakes here.
 
Ontario is a top vacation spot for Canadians everywhere, so it’s no wonder that you may find yourself aching to have a permanent haven here. Though there are many amazing tourist towns to choose from, these five are some of your best options. Whether you’re into beachfront relaxation or hard hiking through rugged wilderness, you’ll find a city that exactly matches your style.