Discover kawartha lakes

Nestled in the heart of south-central Ontario, Kawartha Lakes is a region defined by its natural beauty, welcoming communities, and relaxed pace of life. With over 250 lakes and rivers, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, cottagers, and families seeking a lifestyle that blends small-town charm with year-round adventure.

From the historic streets of Lindsay to the tranquil shores of Balsam, Sturgeon, and Cameron Lakes, each community offers its own unique character and connection to the land. Farmers’ markets, scenic trails, and vibrant arts scenes bring people together, while the region’s rich agricultural roots and waterfront heritage continue to shape its identity.

A Region of Interconnected Lakes, and Heritage Towns

Kawartha Lakes offers a lifestyle shaped by water, nature, and community. With a multitude of lakes and rivers, scenic trails, and charming towns like Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, and Lindsay, the region attracts families, retirees, and seasonal visitors seeking tranquility and connection. Whether you're boating along the Trent-Severn Waterway, browsing local shops and farmers’ markets, or enjoying dockside sunsets, Kawartha Lakes blends small-town warmth with the timeless appeal of Ontario’s cottage country.

Real estate here reflects the region’s natural beauty and relaxed pace. From lakefront cottages and rural acreages to historic homes and in-town bungalows, Kawartha Lakes offers diverse options for full-time living, weekend escapes, and investment potential. With access to healthcare, schools, and a growing network of tourism and hospitality businesses, it’s a place where lifestyle and landscape come together—inviting you to slow down, settle in, and savour the view.

Bobcaygeon

A beloved hub for boaters and shoppers, known for its lock station, boutiques, and strong sense of community. Bobcaygeon sits between Pigeon Lake and Sturgeon Lake, making it a prime destination for waterfront living. The Trent-Severn Waterway flows right through town, offering direct boating access to a vast network of lakes. Residents enjoy a walkable downtown filled with artisan shops, restaurants, and live music venues, while seasonal visitors flock to the area for its cottage charm and marina access. Waterfront properties here range from cozy cabins to luxury homes with private docks—ideal for those seeking both lifestyle and investment potential.

Fenelon Falls

Often called the “Jewel of the Kawarthas,” this scenic village offers waterfalls, trails, and a lively downtown. Fenelon Falls is perched between Cameron Lake and Sturgeon Lake, with the falls themselves connecting the two via the Trent-Severn Waterway. The town blends natural beauty with cultural vibrancy—think farmers’ markets, art galleries, and waterfront patios. Boaters love the easy access to open water, while families appreciate the walkable streets and community events. Waterfront homes here are highly sought-after, especially those with sunset views over Cameron Lake or direct access to the lock station.

Sturgeon Point

A quiet, historic enclave with elegant cottages and direct access to Sturgeon Lake. Sturgeon Point is known for its heritage architecture, tree-lined roads, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a seasonal community with deep roots, where many cottages have been passed down through generations. The waterfront here is pristine, with sandy shorelines and calm waters ideal for swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding. Buyers looking for privacy and timeless charm will find Sturgeon Point to be one of Kawartha Lakes’ most exclusive waterfront pockets.

With over 250 lakes and rivers, Kawartha Lakes offers a diverse range of waterfront experiences—from quiet fishing coves to bustling boating hubs. Here are a few of the most sought-after lakes for buyers, sellers, and seasonal visitors:

Sturgeon Lake

One of the largest and most active lakes in Kawartha Lakes, Sturgeon Lake is a central hub for recreation and community life—a favourite among boaters, anglers, cottage owners, and year-round residents. It connects to the Trent-Severn Waterway, linking Fenelon Falls, Bobcaygeon, and Lindsay by boat, making it one of the most navigable and social lakes in the region.

The lake stretches over 25 km and features deep water ideal for sailing, wakeboarding, and long-distance cruising. Its irregular shape creates a variety of bays, points, and channels, offering both open water and sheltered coves. Fishing is a major draw, with healthy populations of walleye, muskie, and bass, and several public boat launches make access easy for locals and visitors alike.

The shoreline is home to a mix of historic cottages and modern lakefront homes, many with private docks and panoramic views. Communities like Sturgeon Point, Fenelon Falls, and Bobcaygeon offer distinct personalities—from quiet heritage enclaves to bustling village centres with marinas, restaurants, and seasonal events. Lindsay, located at the southern tip of the lake, adds urban convenience with trails, shops, and cultural venues just minutes from the water.

Whether you're enjoying a sunset sail, casting a line from your dock, or cruising between towns for ice cream and live music, life on Sturgeon Lake is defined by connection—to nature, to neighbours, and to the rhythm of cottage country living.

Cameron Lake

Cameron Lake is a scenic, spring-fed lake located just west of Fenelon Falls, stretching roughly 4 miles long and 2 miles wide. It’s part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, sitting between Locks 33 and 34, which makes it a strategic and highly navigable spot for boaters. The lake reaches depths of up to 50 feet and is known for its clear water and excellent fishing—home to species like pickerel, muskie, lake trout, bass, perch, and sunfish.

The shoreline is a mix of seasonal cottages and year-round homes, many with private docks and western exposure for stunning sunsets. Much of the lake is residential, making it a popular place to live for those who want both tranquility and access to town amenities. Fenelon Falls sits right between Cameron and Sturgeon Lakes, offering restaurants, shops, and one of the busiest locks on the Trent-Severn system.

Cameron Lake is also bordered by the Victoria Rail Trail, a 55 km multi-use corridor that runs from Lindsay to Kinmount. This trail follows the old CN rail line and offers year-round recreation—hiking, cycling, snowmobiling, and more—right along the lake’s edge.

Whether you're paddling at sunrise, casting a line from your dock, or strolling the trail with a coffee in hand, Cameron Lake offers a lifestyle that blends nature, community, and cottage country comfort.

Pigeon Lake

A boater’s paradise, Pigeon Lake is part of the Trent-Severn Waterway, connecting seamlessly to Buckhorn and Chemong Lakes and flowing through the heart of Bobcaygeon via Lock 32. This strategic location offers direct access to a vast network of navigable waterways, making it ideal for cottage owners and boating enthusiasts alike. Whether you're cruising to nearby lakes, docking for lunch in Bobcaygeon, or exploring quiet inlets, Pigeon Lake offers endless opportunities for water-based adventure.

The lake is popular for fishing, with healthy populations of bass, muskie, and panfish, and its calm bays and open stretches cater to everything from kayaking to pontoon cruising. Its irregular shoreline creates a variety of waterfront experiences—from wide-open views to sheltered coves perfect for swimming and paddling. The water quality is generally good, and the lake’s depth and size make it suitable for both recreational and sport boating.

The shoreline is dotted with seasonal cottages and year-round homes, especially near Bobcaygeon, where residents enjoy walkable amenities, marina access, and a vibrant local scene. The town itself is a lively hub with restaurants, artisan shops, and community events that bring people together throughout the year. Pigeon Lake’s central location also makes it a natural gathering point for cottagers from across the region, with easy access to other lakes, trails, and scenic drives.

Residents and cottagers are drawn to Pigeon Lake’s strong community feel, its blend of activity and tranquility, and the lifestyle that comes with living on one of Kawartha Lakes’ most connected and scenic waterfronts.

Balsam Lake

Often considered the crown jewel of Kawartha Lakes, Balsam Lake offers deep, clean water and a serene atmosphere. As the highest point on the Trent-Severn Waterway, it provides exceptional boating access and panoramic views. The lake stretches over 16 km and reaches depths of up to 50 feet, making it ideal for sailing, water skiing, and long-distance paddling. Its spring-fed clarity and protected bays also make it a favourite for swimming and quiet anchoring.

The shoreline is dotted with a mix of luxury cottages, traditional retreats, and year-round residences, many with expansive lots and private docks. Balsam Lake Provincial Park sits on the northeast shore, offering public beaches, hiking trails, and nature programs that draw families and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the season.

Cottagers and residents enjoy a peaceful rhythm here—sunrise paddles, dockside dinners, and stargazing over still water. With its blend of natural beauty, recreational access, and quiet prestige, Balsam Lake continues to be one of the most cherished destinations in Ontario’s cottage country.

Scugog River & Lake Scugog Access

While technically part of the broader Kawartha region, the Scugog River flows through the heart of Lindsay before connecting to Lake Scugog. Scugog River offers a unique blend of urban convenience and riverside charm. It connects to Lake Scugog via the Trent-Severn Waterway, allowing for recreational boating, scenic paddling, and access to a broader network of Ontario’s waterways. The river itself is calm and meandering, ideal for leisurely cruises, fishing, and enjoying nature from the dock.

Riverfront living in Lindsay combines the best of both worlds—walkable access to shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, with the peaceful rhythm of water just steps away. Residents enjoy trails like the Scugog River Trail, which winds along the shoreline and links to parks, picnic areas, and community spaces. Waterfront homes along the river enjoy scenic views amidst urban life. It’s a great option for buyers who want the benefits of town living with the bonus of boating and nature.

Lake Scugog, located just south of Lindsay, is a shallow, marshy lake known for its excellent fishing and birdwatching. While not technically within Kawartha Lakes’ municipal boundaries, its connection via the river makes it a relevant part of the local waterfront lifestyle. Cottagers and residents enjoy boating access, scenic drives, and the relaxed pace that defines this part of cottage country.

Whether you're casting a line, launching a kayak, or enjoying a riverside walk, the Scugog River corridor offers a lifestyle that’s both connected and serene—perfect for those who want nature and community in equal measure.

For buyers and sellers alike, Kawartha Lakes presents a compelling mix of opportunity and lifestyle. The Janssen Group is proud to help clients navigate this dynamic market—whether you're searching for a waterfront retreat, a family home, or an investment in one of Ontario’s most beloved cottage country destinations.

With deep roots in the region and a passion for connecting people to places that feel like home, our team offers more than just market insight—we offer guidance grounded in care, accuracy, and local knowledge. From off-market cottages to year-round residences, we understand the nuances of each lake, each community, and each season.

Whether you're relocating, downsizing, or exploring your next chapter in Kawartha Lakes, we’re here to support your journey with professionalism, warmth, and a commitment to your goals. Let’s find the place that fits your lifestyle—and make the process feel as seamless as the shoreline itself.