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With the stresses, changes, and complications that have come into play over the last couple of years, people are choosing to look beyond the city in hopes of finding some much-needed peace. As we take our first few steps into 2022, many people looking for change may be wondering, “Should I move up north?”
Moving north can be as exciting an experience as it is liberating, with many finding their calm here, whether it be for a weekend, seasonal, or year-round residency. But with thousands of square Kilometers of space and 1600 lakes, it can be challenging to decide which Muskoka houses for sale are for you, especially when it comes to location.
To help make your decision a little easier, here are just some of the great places to choose from when you decide to live in the Muskoka region.
Gravenhurst is considered the gateway to Muskoka, being the region’s southernmost town. And what a better entrance to cottage country than a town full of hospitality, heritage and known for its natural beauty and cultural assets.
Gravenhurst is home to both full-time and seasonal residents. It is a perfect place to call home whether you’re planning to move up north to enjoy retirement, raise a family, or simply looking for a seasonal getaway in paradise.
With a population of approximately 13,000, Gravenhurst is conveniently located equally between the GTA and Algonquin Park, about 1.5 hours from each.
When looking at houses for sale in Gravenhurst, you have a wide selection of waterfront views to choose from. Lake Muskoka, the largest water body in the region, Gull Lake, Doe Lake, and Kahshe Lake are just a few of the other popular local lakes.
Like most of the Muskoka region, Gravenhurst sees an influx of population during the summer months, nearly doubling its population with seasonal residents and visitors who come to enjoy the water and beaches. But that doesn’t mean the area fades away during the offseason; many events and attractions host themselves year-round in the area such as hiking trails, an educational museum, and the Muskoka Wharf, which is a lakeside shopping area that often includes markets, music, and festivals.
Where Gravenhurst is called the gateway to Muskoka, Bracebridge is affectionately known as the region’s “heart” located centrally within the region.
The area is thriving with community, heritage, sports, shopping, art, food, and more while retaining that classic Muskoka scenery we hold so dear.
Downtown Bracebridge is home to many unique businesses, restaurants, and quaint shops, many of which are located within historical and architecturally stunning buildings. Walking the downtown of Bracebridge, this is immediately evident.
When looking at Bracebridge houses for sale, you have a choice between seeking waterfront or residential properties. Those looking for waterfront views can enjoy a variety of lakes, whether it be Lake Muskoka, Leech Lake, Wood Lake, Healy Lake, Pine Lake, or others.
For those looking for a more of a residential setting, Bracebridge is home to many neighbourhoods within school districts that range from elementary, secondary, to even post-secondary learning at the Georgian College Muskoka Campus.
Part of the thriving nature of Bracebridge comes from its high demand for commercial space and expansions, such as the Canyon Court Business Park, making this area not only great for families and cottage seekers but also those looking to start a new business in an area with high traffic points, especially during the summer.
Whatever your goals for moving, Bracebridge has a little something for everyone, making it one of the best places to move up north.
If you’re considering moving up north from the city but are a little afraid of the drastic lifestyle change, Huntsville may be the place for you.
Huntsville prides itself on community, combining the charm of a small town with many of the convenient amenities that the big city provides, making the decision to move up north a little easier.
Downtown Huntsville is home to The Summit Centre, a state-of-the-art arena, which often hosts seasonal events such as swim meets, hockey tournaments, trade shows, track meets, as well as many programs for all ages and abilities.
The Main Street of downtown Huntsville has recently undergone some extensive changes with hopes of creating better accessibility, added green spaces plus attract new businesses and customers. The historical downtown hosts a wide range of local merchants, from crafts and gifts to a plethora of dining and takeout options such as pizza and ice cream.
The downtown area is also home to River Mill Park, The Town Docks, and playgrounds, allowing for many scenic areas to enjoy within the community. Not to mention the photographic (but seasonally accessible) trail known as Lions Lookout, which allows for you to oversee the beauty of the town and surrounding lakes such as Fairy Lake, Lake Vernon, and Fox Lake.
Parks such as Algonquin Park (located east) and Arrowhead Park (Located north) allow for endless adventure, as does the renowned Deerhurst Resort and Hidden Valley Ski Resort, which both offer a variety of recreational activities all year round.
Huntsville also benefits from many important services for you and your family, and many Huntsville houses for sale are within close distance of these services, such as The Huntsville District Memorial Hospital, and several choices of elementary, private, Montessori schools, and Huntsville High School.
Whether you’re planning on moving north for a permanent home, seasonal cottage, or even just looking for an empty lot to decide later, Port Carling may be the town for you. This area offers the comforts of small-town country living during the off seasons but thrives as a popular tourist destination during the summer.
This charming town is home to only a few hundred permanent residents, allowing for quiet and peaceful living during the cooler months. Due to its smaller population, the community is very close-knit and made to feel welcome.
Meanwhile, the flourishing summer season sees the opening of many seasonal shops, golfing experiences, boating, and restaurants, allowing the town to experience an annual reinvigoration to the area. Boating especially is prominent to the village, as this area is known for being the “hub of the lakes,” sitting between Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, where some of the largest full-service marinas exist, as well as smaller lakes such as Mirror Lake and Silver Lake.
The Port Carling community centre allows for year-round activities such as skating and Hockey and events like meetings and celebrations.
If you’re considering moving up north to Muskoka, whether it’s to one of the above neighbourhoods or any other, we can help!
At Muskoka Real Estate, we pride ourselves on finding the perfect neighbourhood and home that fit each of our client’s needs. Contact us today to begin your 2022 journey to living in cottage country.