Severn Lodge, Port Severn, Ontario

Location 

One of Ontario’s leading lakeside resorts, Severn Lodge is located about 90 miles north of Toronto, on the shores of Gloucester Pool, in the southern part of the Muskoka Lake District. Muskoka’s '2,500 square-mile natural playground' has featured on National Geographic Traveler magazine’s list of Top 20 Must-See Places in the world. Less than two hours’ drive from the city, the region has long enjoyed a reputation as a pure but accessible wilderness retreat. The Lodge itself began life as a logging base in the 1850s and can also be reached via shuttle or sea plane direct from Toronto International Airport.

Accommodation 

The resort comprises a small complex of lodges and cottages surrounding the Main Lodge, and each one enjoys a view of the beautiful waterfront. Rooms contain one or two beds, private bathrooms (some with whirlpool tub), wifi, fridge, and their own lakeside deck, patio, or balcony. Two-bedroom units are also available, or you can rent one of the resort’s three-bedroom cottages, complete with their own fully-equipped kitchen and dining room, plus wood-burning stone fireplace and outdoor eating area. Choose a lodging nearest to the lakeside and fall asleep to the sound of waves lapping at the shore.

Dining 

Three meals a day are served in the Main Lodge Dining Room, with its relaxed atmosphere and views out over the adjacent lake. The cooking features fresh, healthy ingredients and embraces local and international dishes. The breakfast buffet offers hot and cold meals and fresh-from-the-oven baked goods, while on summer days the lunchtime menu often includes a poolside barbecue. In the evenings, the entrée selection changes daily and emphasises local ingredients and seasonal specialities.

Facilities 

The Severn Lodge grounds extend across 100 acres and include 700 metres of pristine waterfront and the resort’s own sandy beach. Swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, or in the heated outdoor swimming pool, or just relax in the whirlpool spa. The abundant recreational opportunities at the Lodge include tennis, badminton, mountain biking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, waterskiing, as well as shuffleboard and horseshoes. There is also an indoor games room and an in-house movie channel. When you feel like exploring further afield, there are a wealth of wooded hiking trails, and the opportunity to take a boat cruise or do some sightseeing via seaplane.