The Muskoka Lakes district is an area of unparalleled beauty. For generations, it has been the preferred summer cottage and vacation destination for the large urban populations of southern Ontario and the northern states. Muskoka is famous for its marvellous scenery, its many beautiful meandering lakes with countless islands, and breath-taking granite outcropping. Muskoka is, however, every bit as famous for its staggeringly expensive real estate, magnificent private cottages and massive high-end resort complexes. This is why it may be surprising to learn that, in an area with a reputation for high end extravagance, that some small and very traditional Muskoka resorts are recognized as the best within the region.

Each year, the readers of The Muskokan, Muskoka's most widely read publication, vote on their favourite resort. Some of Muskoka Ontario's best accommodations are found in this region because they are accessible only by water and are in the heart of Algonquin Park. Algonquin Park is a world renowned wilderness paradise for many, and a trip to Ontario is not complete without a visit to The Park. There are very few resorts in Algonquin Park and when a resort operates inside its boundaries, it is even more profound.

Some of the best resorts within the Muskoka Lakes district have also undergone renovations. Those that have successfully been restored required a great deal of careful planning so that the property has the ideal combination of preserving the past and meeting the needs of today's vacationers. In order to bring a resort into the twenty-first century, the most necessary modern conveniences are added. Yet, it is essential to preserve the past and protect the future. As a result, the best Muskoka resorts have also introduced many state-of- the-art energy saving and eco-friendly upgrades and practises. However, upgrades such as this are not the only things that make a resort stand apart from others in the area; a resort within this region must also have a spectacular dining room that features an exceptional 5-course menu, as this draws not only resort guests, but people from the local area who choose to dine simply for the great food.

People within Algonquin Park appreciate seeing a piece of history brought back to life. For this reason, those resorts that have been restored to the way they looked when they were originally opened are extremely popular. This is most likely due to the breathtaking natural wilderness that surrounds this region and the respect that people have for the environment. When a resort takes major steps to ensure that the environment is protected and will remain a jewel in the wilderness for years to come, tourists and locals alike, respond by making sure these resort properties are gaining a reputation for being some of the best in the region.

Vacationers to the Algonquin Park area can expect to enjoy a traditional and relaxing time because a Muskoka resort holiday includes the ideal balance of a high standard of quality and service located in a pristine wilderness environment--an experience that reflects Muskoka vacations of the past.