You Don’t Have To Rough It To Enjoy It
You don’t have to go far from Toronto to find fresh air, outdoor adventure and pristine wilderness. It’s just a short drive to the popular Explorers’ Edge region, stretching from the rocky shores of Georgian Bay near Parry Sound, through Muskoka and cottage country, to the untamed wilds of Algonquin Provincial Park.
Algonquin Provincial Park, in particular, is perfect for a relaxing retreat surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in Ontario. Due to its close proximity to Toronto, it’s one of the most popular provincial parks in the country and home to over 7,653 square kilometres of rivers, lakes and old-growth forests.
But one of the biggest misconceptions about the park is that you need to rough it to enjoy its endless natural bounties. If camping just isn’t your thing, worry not—you’ll find a wealth of luxurious lodges that’ll enable you to enjoy everything the park has to offer in unparalleled comfort. Take a look at some of the top places to stay:
Bartlett Lodge
Perfect for family holidays, romantic getaways and group getaways, the landmark Bartlett Lodge is one of the most historic spots to stay in the park. You’ll find it in the heart of Algonquin Park's Cache Lake, about halfway between the East and West Gates on Highway 60. From there, it’s just a short boat ride to the island, where you’ll enjoy waterfront lodgings in a log cabin cottage, award-winning gourmet cooking and easy access to the park’s many natural wonders.
Killarney Lodge
The family-owned Killarney Lodge has been welcoming spirited adventurers to Algonquin Park since 1935. Situated on a peninsula surrounded by the scenic Lake of Two Rivers, this charming lodge places you in the centre of over 7,600 kilometres of pristine wilderness. Explore at your own pace with a personal canoe, supplied to each cabin. Enjoy sumptuous cuisine or relax by the fireplace in the lodge. Then retire to your private cabin to the sound of loons drifting over the lake.
Arrowhon Pines
Looking to get away from the hustle-and-bustle of everyday life for a while? Reconnect with nature at Arrowhon Pines, approximately 15 kilometres inside the west entrance of Algonquin Park. You’ll enjoy warm, attentive service, amazing farm-to-table food and a host of outdoor adventure at your doorstep. Whether you’re exploring the idyllic waterways by canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard, or hiking and biking the lush forest trails, it’s sure to be an experience that will stay with you for years to come.
Algonquin Eco-Lodge
Algonquin Eco-Lodge is a wilderness enthusiasts dream and one of the most secluded lodges in the park. In fact, the experience begins with a leisurely 2.3 km walk or cycle to the lodge (your luggage can be transferred for you). Once you arrive, you’ll discover what looks like a European mountain lodge amidst remote Algonquin Park forests, where even hydro lines and telephone poles can’t reach. The lodge is completely off- grid, running instead on alternative energy harnessed by the lodge’s waterfall.