O, Canada! Muskoka Offers Luxe, Lakeside Living

The east coast has the Hamptons; the west, Malibu and Laguna. But who knew Canada had its own elite summer destination?

Two hours north of Toronto, there’s Muskoka — which just might be the country’s best-kept secret in luxury real estate.

According to Architectural Digest, this exclusive area has an A-list following. “The Carnegies and the Mellons vacationed here at the turn of the 20th century, and today, Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Cindy Crawford and Rande Gerber are just a few of the boldface names who either own or rent homes in the area.”

Residents are drawn to a luxe lifestyle that revolves around three lakes: Muskoka, Rosseau, and Joseph.

Privacy, outdoor activities, and an understated vibe add to the appeal — not to mention, that many of the properties overlook the water.

“These homes are called cottages, but that’s a misnomer,” says Wanda Cowie, a sales representative in Canada with Royal LePage, Johnston & Daniel Division. “They’re huge properties with every luxury you can imagine.”

There’s even more to love about Muskoka. The average temperature in August is 74 degrees

And now that Canada has officially reopened its borders to American travelers, it just may be time to check out the real estate. Here, four waterfront cottages that are currently on the market.

Chapi Chapo Cottage

This 18,000-square-foot, 12-bedroom “mega cottage” sits on a prime location often referred to as Billionaires Row. It’s the handiwork of luxury interior designers Chapi Chapo Design, whose notable hotel projects include Amanyara Turks & Caicos, The St. Regis Toronto, and the upcoming Ritz-Carlton Mexico City.

A grand entryway sets the tone for what’s to come: towering ceilings; a dramatic, circular stairway; and spacious, light-filled main living area. We’re also intrigued with the secret game room complete with bar, pool table, pinball machines, stage, and wait for it, stripper pole. Or for those who prefer their action outdoors, there’s also a boathouse, dock, and private beach.

Asking price: $19.7 million

1083 Trillium Road, Unit #5

Buyers in search of privacy will find it in this 5,500-square-foot property situated on 725 feet of unspoiled shoreline. Highlights include expansive, floor-to-ceiling windows, water views, multiple outdoor areas, and lush landscaping. The six bedroom, six bath home also features a separate guesthouse.

Asking price: $13.9 million.

113 Armstrong Point Road

This supremely stylish, contemporary 8,000-square-foot home is located on picturesque Lake Rosseau. Floor-to-ceiling windows provide an abundance of natural light and look out onto 400 feet of pristine shoreline.

Other standout features include four fireplaces, landscaped gardens, multiple patios, a golf simulator room, and a boathouse with an art studio and outdoor granite kitchen. By the numbers, there are five bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a three-slip boathouse, and three bay garage—all situated on a 4.29-acre lot sporting sunset views.

Asking price: $22.995 million

1250 W. Waldmere Road

Enjoy spectacular sunsets from the stone patios of, this 10,000-square-foot contemporary-meets-country property majestically set on one of the spectacular points of Lake Muskoka. Highlights include a spacious main gathering area with walls of windows and vaulted ceilings, a library, and home gym. An added plus: towering trees and waterfront views that stretch far beyond what the eye can see.

Asking price: $13.899 million