About Muskoka

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Discover Lake Muskoka

Lake Muskoka is an iconic destination in Ontario’s cottage country and the largest of Muskoka’s “Big Three” lakes, boasting an impressive 269 km of shoreline. Nestled between Port Carling and Gravenhurst, Lake Muskoka lies primarily within the Township of Muskoka Lakes, offering a perfect blend of accessibility, natural beauty, and luxury living.


Fed by Lake Joseph, Lake Rosseau, and the Indian River via the historic Port Carling locks, Lake Muskoka also receives water from the Muskoka River through the falls at Bracebridge. It flows westward into Moon River at Bala, eventually emptying into Georgian Bay—making it a central artery in Muskoka’s interconnected lake system.

Easy Access from the GTA

Located just 90 minutes from Toronto, Lake Muskoka is one of the most accessible and desirable summer destinations in Ontario. Its size and central location make it easy to reach from all directions, whether by car or boat.

In fact, National Geographic named Muskoka the #1 summer destination in the world in 2011, and it continues to earn global recognition—recently making the Top 20 Must-Travel Destinations list.


Lifestyle & Amenities on Lake Muskoka


Lake Muskoka offers something for everyone—from family-friendly beaches to luxury resorts and cultural attractions.


Highlights Include:

•    Public beaches, boat launches, and a sailing camp for all ages
•    Taboo Resort: Golf, spa, swimming pool, fitness centre, tennis courts, fine dining, sandy beach, and accommodations
•    The Wharf in Gravenhurst: Accessible by car or boat, featuring restaurants, a public boat launch, and seasonal events
•    Steamship cruises aboard the historic Wenonah, plus the annual antique boat show

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About Lake Rosseau

The middle lake of the big three, Lake Rosseau is connected to Lake Joseph through the narrows at Port Sandfield and also through the Joseph River. At the south end of the lake it is connected to Lake Muskoka through Indian River and the locks at Port Carling. The deepest spot on this lake is 89 metres. There are approximately 1,800 properties on Lake Rosseau with the average Lake frontage being 370'. The total perimeter of shoreline of the lake is 151 km's with 80 km's of island shoreline.

Famous Lake Rosseau

Former President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, holidayed on Lake Rosseau and later purchased Formosa Island. There are many other famous people who vacation here including movie stars and sports figures. Lake Rosseau is where I live for about seven months of the year before heading to my next adventure.

Lake Rosseau is home to Windermere House and the J.W. Marriott Rosseau Resort otherwise known as Red Leaves which often hosts incredible fireworks shows. Both establishments offer accommodations and dining as well as water and land activities.

Lake Rosseau falls into two districts, Muskoka and Parry Sound. There are many community based groups who help ensure the integrity of the Lakes. The largest being the MLA or Muskoka Lakes Association. It represents the interests of lakeshore residents and promotes responsible use, enjoyment and conservation of the Muskoka area. Formed in 1894, the MLA is Canada's oldest cottage association. 

More Fun on Lake Rosseau

Family resort, Clevelands House, offers golf, tennis, ski school, water park, C.J. Minett's Kitchen and Tavern and Pie, a boat house rooftop restaurant. Muskoka Woods is a well respected residential camp for children ages 7 - 17.  Communities found on Lake Rosseau include Port Carling, Port Sandfield, Minett, Windermere and the Village of Rosseau home to the Rosseau Farmer's Market. Check out Summer Water Sports aka SWS for a schedule of shows and events or to learn various water sports.

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About Lake Joseph

Lake Joseph is one of Muskoka’s most coveted destinations for luxury waterfront real estate. Located west of Lake Rosseau, it connects at the scenic narrows of Port Sandfield and the Joseph River. Known for its pristine waters and breathtaking landscapes, Lake Joseph offers an unparalleled cottage lifestyle in Ontario’s cottage country.

Location & Geography

Lake Joseph spans two townships: Muskoka Lakes and Seguin Township, part of the District of Parry Sound.

It’s the smallest of Muskoka’s “Big Three” lakes, with:

140 km of perimeter shoreline

    • 91 km of island shoreline

    • A maximum depth of 93 metres at its northern end

Approximately 1,500 lakeshore properties line the lake, with an average frontage of 467 feet, offering generous space and privacy.

Water Quality & Recreation

Lake Joseph is renowned for its crystal-clear, spring-fed waters, boasting a clarity level of 6.7 metres—the highest among Muskoka’s major lakes. This makes it ideal for:

  • Swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving

  • Fishing for Northern Pike, Lake Trout, Bass, Walleye, Muskellunge, and Lake Whitefish

Lifestyle & Amenities

Lake Joseph isn’t just a place—it’s a lifestyle. Whether you're searching for a Muskoka cottage for sale or planning a summer escape, the lake offers:

  • CNIB Lake Joseph Centre: A specialized summer camp experience

  • Lake Joseph Yacht Club: Sailing lessons and community events

  • ClubLink Golf Courses: Access Rocky Crest and Lake Joe Club by boat, both offering waterfront dining

  • Sherwood Inn: Boutique accommodations, fine dining, and classic cottage games like shuffleboard

  • Port Sandfield: Dock your boat and enjoy ice cream, shopping, and essentials at Silver Streams

Scenic Beauty & Cottage Culture

Though slightly farther than Lake Muskoka, Lake Joseph rewards visitors with iconic Muskoka scenery—twisted pines, rugged rock faces, and vistas reminiscent of Group of Seven paintings. It’s the epitome of cottaging in Muskoka, where nature, luxury, and community converge.

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Islands of Muskoka

Lake Muskoka is the largest of the big three lakes with 269 km's of shoreline. This lake is fed by Lake Joseph, Lake Rosseau and the Indian River through the locks in Port Carling, and the Muskoka River through the falls at Bracebridge. It then flows into Moon River at Bala, emptying into Georgian Bay. Located between Port Carling and Gravenhurst it lies primarily within the Township of Muskoka Lakes.

Many islands can be found on the lake with a total island shoreline of 209 km's. Lake Muskoka has a maximum depth of 75 metres and is home to Millionaires Row which can be seen in Beaumaris located just outside of Milford Bay. This area grew rapidly when the railroad reached Gravenhurst in 1875. Still today, there are many famous people who call Muskoka home for the summer.

Why Muskoka Island Properties Offer Unmatched Opportunity—and Why Experience Matters


Island properties in Muskoka are a unique segment of the real estate market, offering exceptional value, privacy, and natural beauty. But buying or selling on an island comes with its own set of considerations—and that’s where working with experienced island realtors makes all the difference.

With decades of hands-on experience navigating Muskoka’s lakes and island communities, The Janssen Group understands the nuances of island ownership—from seasonal access and logistics to shoreline regulations and lifestyle planning.
 

Value & Cost Advantages


•    Lower purchase prices: Island properties often cost less than comparable mainland lots.
•    Reduced property taxes: No road access typically means lower assessments.
•    More shoreline for your investment: With less competition, buyers can secure generous frontage and privacy.


Privacy & Seclusion


•    Island lots offer significantly more shoreline, creating natural buffers between neighbours.
•    Access by boat means visitors must plan ahead—making surprise drop-ins virtually unheard of.
 

Construction & Renovation Insights


Winter is often the ideal time for building or renovating on an island. Frozen lake access simplifies transportation of materials and equipment. Our team has guided countless clients through successful off-season builds and knows how to plan for every detail.


Island Living: A Lifestyle That Rewards Preparation


Island living is deeply rewarding—but it requires thoughtful planning. As realtors who have spent years vacationing and working on Muskoka’s islands, we know what it takes to make the experience seamless and enjoyable.
 

Seasonal Essentials


Each spring, island owners stock up on:

•    Safety gear: First aid kits, flashlights, batteries
•    Food & beverages: Bottled water, condiments, canned and frozen goods
•    Entertainment: Books, matches, and family games for rainy days

A well-prepared checklist ensures you won’t need to boat back to the marina for forgotten items once you’ve settled in.
 

Consider Your Muskoka Waterfront Property Carefully


Islanders rely on boats for everything—visiting friends, attending dinner parties, refueling after a day of wakeboarding or tubing, and even handling emergencies. Confidence in both daytime and nighttime boating, along with knowledge of the lake’s geography, is essential.


Additionally, island properties lack on-site waste management. Owners must transport garbage and recycling off the island, typically to municipal facilities at marinas or access points.


When choosing a property, the lake and location matter even more than the structure itself. Our team helps clients evaluate not just the cottage, but the full lifestyle and logistical fit.

Work With Us

Looking to buy or sell a cottage property? Let us elevate your real estate expectations. Whether it’s determining current value, crafting a competitive offer, or negotiating an offer.