The Hit Crave & HBO Max Show that Put Muskoka in the Spotlight
Muskoka made The New York Times! Travel journalist Sarah Bahr visited and explored the region, capturing what makes Muskoka such a special place to visit.
From our lakes and communities to local shops, restaurants and classic cottage-country traditions, the feature offers a beautiful look at a destination that has been welcoming visitors for generations.
Or maybe you just saw Muskoka featured in the hit show, Sterling Point, created and directed by Megan Park. Explore our guide to the region if how to have your own Sterling Point Vacation.
If you’ve watched the smash-hit TV series Heated Rivalry, you already know the vibe: Come. To. The. Cottage.
But what you might not know? This Crave Canada mega-hit, Heated Rivalry, was filmed at a stunning cottage right here in Muskoka.
Where Is Muskoka, Anyway?
Muskoka is located in Ontario, about two hours north of Toronto. It’s one of Canada’s most iconic cottage regions (or Lake House if you’re American), known for sparkling lakes, rocky shorelines, pine forests, and small towns that feel like summer camp for grown-ups.
And while Muskoka has been a summer hotspot for over 150 years, it’s a true four-season destination home to over 1,600 lakes. This region has been a hotspot for celebrities and folks looking for a summer escape before we even had roads to the region.
Barlochan Cottage in Muskoka Lakes -Available to Rent
Trevor McIvor Architect Inc. and Adrian Ozimek
THE Cottage, featured in the hit series Heated Rivalry, is available to book on Airbnb.
Hosted by Jayne’s Cottages, the property captures everything people love about Muskoka: classic lakefront charm, timeless cottage style, and that unmistakable feeling of being right where you’re meant to be.
The show’s most memorable cottage moments were filmed at Barlochan Cottage in Muskoka Lakes. With its sweeping lake views, floor-to-ceiling glass walls, and peaceful surroundings, the cottage becomes more than just a backdrop it represents freedom, escape, and a chance to finally breathe.
Cottage Rental Agencies
Muskoka specializes in cottage rentals with listings on Airbnb and VRBO and we seven dedicated agencies that are all curating the best experiences and you can think of them like expert travel agents to help you book the lake, location and amenities of your choosing.
Jayne’s Cottages: Luxury Rentals & Concierge From luxury rentals to personalized concierge services, Jayne’s Cottages ensures every Muskoka stay is seamless, stylish and stress-free. She’s worked with a number celebrities and film crews to help them find their Muskoka spot.
CottageRental.com Connecting cottage owners with vacationers since 1988, CottageRental.com makes finding your perfect Muskoka getaway easy and reliable.
Ontario Cottage Rentals (OCR) Offering waterfront cottages, condos, and cabins year-round, Ontario Cottage Rentals has something for every type of Muskoka escape.
Cottage Vacations With over 250 private cottages available, Cottage Vacations has been helping families create Muskoka memories since 1999.
TEND Concierge Services Specializing in luxury property rentals and concierge experiences, TEND delivers elevated Muskoka stays with personalized service.
Lake Lake is an online marketplace that connects homeowners with travellers looking for unique, memorable vacation rentals.
Muskoka Luxury Retreats Providing premium vacation rental experiences, Muskoka Luxury Retreats curates exceptional stays in some of the region’s most stunning locations.
Cottage Rentals & Unique Stays
• Huntsville – Selena Lakehouse A stunning modern cottage on Buck Lake, just 25 minutes from Huntsville, offering sleek design, peaceful lake views, and the perfect setting for a relaxing Muskoka escape.
• Muskoka Lakes – Timber Rock Cottage A beautiful newly built lakeside cottage offering modern comfort, scenic views, and a peaceful Muskoka atmosphere.
• Gravenhurst – Pine Lake Paradise A four-season cottage with heating and A/C, perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy Muskoka year-round.
• Gravenhurst – Side Tracked in Muskoka Stay in a one-of-a-kind railway caboose featuring a fully equipped private bathroom and a truly memorable Muskoka experience.
• Huntsville – Muskoka Vacation House A top-rated cottage rental located in downtown Huntsville, close to shops, dining, and lakeside adventures.
• Muskoka Lakes – Shea on the Bay Relax lakeside with family and friends at this beautifully refurbished cottage with stunning bay views.
• Lake of Bays – Kawagama ShorelineA gorgeous 4-season log home set in a quiet bay, located on the pristine shoreline of Kawagama Lake, just outside of Dorset.
Cottaging in Muskoka is a year-round experience. Spring brings fresh air and quiet lake views, summer is all about dock days and boating, fall delivers crisp mornings and colourful forests, and winter turns cottages into cozy retreats with fire pits, snowy trails, and frozen lakes. Every season has its own kind of magic.
