This is your guide for the perfection Bracebridge weekend getaway. Located 2 hours from Toronto, Bracebridge is the perfect base for your getaway in beautiful Muskoka! If you’re looking for recommendations of what to do in Bracebridge, look no further: this curated itinerary features my top picks for what to do and where to stay to make the best of your visit.
I can’t believe I’ve lived in Ontario close to 10 years now and had never made my way to Muskoka! I had driven through on my road trip to Northern Ontario, but I had never made a proper stop (a gas station doesn’t count!). Luckily I was able to fix that a few weeks ago when my content creator friend Caroline El Khoury invited me on a roadtrip to Bracebridge with her. And finally, I understand all the hype!
This charming small town of approximately 8,500 residents inhabitants is a paradise for waterfalls lovers with no less than 3 waterfalls! But thats not all Bracebridge it known for.
I’ve put together this itinerary to help you hit all the highlights, taste the best food, and make the most of your time here.

YOUR GUIDE FOR A PERFECT BRACEBRIDGE WEEKEND GETAWAY
What to know before visiting Bracebridge?
- Bracebridge is located within Muskoka District, approximately 180 kilometers north of Toronto.
- It’s often referred to as the “Heart of Muskoka” and serves as a popular destination for tourists seeking a getaway in nature.
- Bracebridge was founded in the early 19th century, with settlement beginning around 1860.
- In the late 19th century, Bracebridge started to attract tourists, leading to the development of resorts and summer cottages.
- Bracebridge is about 2.5 hours from Toronto, 4 hours from Ottawa: and roughly 2.5 hours from London.
Where to Stay?
There is something about cottage near a river that just get’s me every time. And I found the perfect one for your visit to Bracebridge : the Muskoka River Retreat.
Located 10 minutes from downtown Bracebridge this beautiful cottage as direct access to the Muskoka River via a beautiful boardwalk and dock. Here, you’ll enjoy complete privacy without sacrificing on modern utilities. Inside you will find 3 bedrooms (2 queen size bed in the first two and 2 single beds in the last bedroom), sleeping up to 6 people. There are also 2 full bathroom, one on the first floor and the other one on the second flood near the bedrooms. There is an open concept kitchen that leads to the dinning room and living room. On colder night, you can enjoy a fire in the wood fireplace.
The best par of this cottage however is the outside space. You will find everything you need to go for a paddle on the Muskoka River!
THE DETAILS
Price | 235$ a night (3 nights minimum)
Reservations | Book the cottage here


What to do during Bracebridge weekend getaway
Check out High Falls
High Falls in Bracebridge is a stunning natural attraction that showcases the beauty of Muskoka’s landscape. Located just a short drive from the town center, this picturesque waterfall cascades dramatically over a rugged granite escarpment, offering visitors breathtaking views and excellent photo opportunities.
The falls were formed by glacial activity thousands of years ago, creating the striking granite landscape we see today. In the 19th century, the area became an important hub for the timber industry, with logs being transported down the Muskoka River. The falls played a key role in this process, acting as a natural landmark for log drivers. Over the years, as the timber industry declined, the region shifted focus towards tourism, with High Falls becoming a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities.
The surrounding area features well-maintained trails that invite hikers to explore the lush scenery and diverse wildlife. In the warmer months, the falls become a popular spot for picnicking and relaxing by the water, while in the winter, the frozen landscape transforms into a serene wonderland.
Travel Tip // Most of the site is wheelchair accessible. We love accessible waterfalls!
THE DETAILS
Where | Find it here on Google Map.
Difficulty | The Falls are just short minute walk away from the parking and are easily accessible.

And don’t forget to stop at Wilson’s Falls…
Wilson’s Falls is another waterfall located just a few minutes outside of downtown Bracebridge. These falls were named after the Wilson family, early settlers who played a significant role in the area’s development during the 19th century. Originally part of the timber trade, the falls were vital for transporting logs down the Muskoka River, serving as a landmark for loggers.
Over the years, Wilson’s Falls has evolved into a picturesque park, featuring well-maintained trails and scenic viewpoints that attract hikers and nature enthusiasts. The surrounding area is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and photography.
THE DETAILS
Where | Find it here on Google Map.
Difficulty | There are different viewpoints for these Falls each with their own parking. All are easily accessible.

Finally check out Bracebridge Falls
If I’m completely honest, these were not my favorite waterfalls in Bracebridge. However, since they are located right in the heart of downtown, they are still worth checking out if only to say that you saw the 3 waterfalls in town.
Because of their location, Bracebridge Falls have served as a centerpiece for the local community for a long time. Historically, they played a vital role in the region’s development, particularly during the 19th century when the area was a hub for the timber industry. Logs were transported down the Muskoka River, and the falls marked a key point in this process. Over the years, Bracebridge Falls has become a beloved spot for both residents and visitors, offering walking trails, scenic viewpoints, and recreational opportunities. The falls are particularly enchanting in the spring when the snow melts, creating a powerful rush of water, and in the autumn when the surrounding foliage bursts with vibrant colors.
THE DETAILS
Where | Find it here on Google Map.
Difficulty | These falls are easily accessible from a few paths downtown.

Take a cruise on the Muskoka River
Taking a cruise on the Muskoka River with Muskoka Cruises is another great way to discover Bracebridge. The cruise takes place on the two-story Lady Muskoka II. Although the top deck is the most popular, I found it a bit too crowded with I visited. I much preferred the lower indoor deck with large windows.
THE DETAILS
Where | Find it here on Google Map. (Behind the Quality Inn Hotel)
Price | $45 per person, 35$ for teens, 20$ for children and toddlers under 3 year old ride for free.
When | The cruises run until the end of October.
Ticket | You can get your tickets here.



Paddle on the Muskoka River
My favorite way to enjoy nature in Bracebridge was definitely to paddle on the Muskoka River. Especially at this time of year when the Fall colours are at their best!
The Muskoka River is a vital waterway that winds through the heart of Muskoka connecting several lakes and communities, including the picturesque town of Bracebridge. Historically significant, the river played a crucial role in the region’s development, serving as a major transportation route for Indigenous peoples and later for European settlers. In the 19th century, it became a key artery for the timber industry, facilitating the transport of logs to mills and markets. Today, the Muskoka River is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, attracting outdoor enthusiasts year-round for activities like boating, fishing, kayaking, and hiking along its scenic shores.
The river is also an integral part of the local ecosystem, supporting diverse wildlife and vibrant plant life.
Travel Tip // There are a few places in Bracebridge where you can rent kayaks and paddle board : Algonquin outfitters & Liv Outside are some good options.


Where to eat?
Barista Coffee | Perfect for a cozy coffee break!
Muskoka Brewery | Grab a local brew with a few snacks
Basilico | Have lunch or dinner at this Italian restaurant with gorgeous views on the river.


Travel Photo Tip!
5 tips to enhance your autumn reflections
- Slightly increase exposure and contrast to brighten the scene and add depth.
- Boost vibrance and carefully increase saturation to make the fall colors pop naturally.
- Adjust yellow and orange hues in the HSL panel to intensify the autumn tones.
- Add clarity and sharpening for a crisp look without introducing noise.
- Use a graduated filter on the water to enhance the reflection’s contrast and vibrance.
Check out my Instagram page for more photography tips and don’t forget tag me if you try these tips on your own photos!
READ THESE BEFORE VISITING MORE OF ONTARIO
ONTARIO GUIDES | The Ultimate Weekend in Beaver Valley ; The Best In and Around Niagara Falls : A Complete Guide
ONTARIO TOP 10 | Top 11 Best Lookouts in Ontario
WHERE TO STAY IN ONTARIO | Tiny Stays: A Unique Stay in Prince Edward County; Spend the night with Alpacas at Haute Goat Farm
PIN THIS FOR LATER



Follow me on Instagram!
Did you know Matera has been continuously inhabited for over 9,000 years? 🤯 That means people have been watching sunsets from these ancient cliffs since before Rome even existed!
📌 SAVE & SHARE this reel for your next Italian adventure! 🇮🇹✨
What makes Matera so special?
🏛️ One of the oldest cities in the world – It’s the 3rd oldest continuously inhabited settlement after Aleppo and Jericho. If you move into the Sassi di Matera, you’d be living in the same cave homes as people from the Middle Ages!
🪨 Matera is literally carved into stone! – The word Sassi means “rock” in Latin, and most of Matera’s dwellings are dug directly into limestone cliffs. That’s why the cave hotels here are some of the most unique stays in Italy!
⛪️ 155 hidden cave churches! – Matera is home to an underground world of frescoed churches and monasteries, carved into the rock centuries ago.
😳 Once abandoned, now a UNESCO site! – In the 1950s, Matera was called the “shame of Italy” due to extreme poverty. Families were forced to relocate, leaving the city in ruins.
✨ But by the 1990s, everything changed! Matera was revived and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Today, it’s one of the most breathtaking and unique places in Italy!
Visiting Matera = stepping back in time!
Between its ancient history, unreal landscapes, and magical golden-hour views, this place is unforgettable.
Would you visit Matera? Or have you already been? Drop a 🏛️ in the comments if this is on your bucket list! 👇
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#Matera #ItalyTravel #VisitItaly #SassiDiMatera #HiddenItaly #CaveHotels #UNESCOWorldHeritage #AncientCities #TravelEurope #historicplaces

Would you stay in a cabin so remote, you have to hike to get there… Trust me it’s 100% worth it.
Looking for a secluded winter getaway near Toronto? Meet Lavender Landing, a hidden off-grid cabin in Creemore, Ontario, just 1.5 hours from the city. No cars, no crowds—just snow-covered trees, a crackling fireplace, and total privacy.
🚶♀️ Getting there is part of the adventure – You’ll hike 1km through the forest to reach this cozy retreat, but don’t worry, the owners provide snowshoes and a sled for your trek.
🔥 Cozy perks:
✔ Heated by a wood-burning fireplace (because nothing beats the sound of crackling fire in winter)
✔ Gorgeous views over the snowy forest—no neighbors, just nature
✔ Off-grid, but still has WiFi & power outlets
✔ Mini fridge, camping burner & BBQ for simple meals
✔ Heated outhouse just steps from the cabin
🌲 Endless trails & a hidden waterfall!
This isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a winter adventure. You’ll have access to scenic trails, including one leading to the largest privately owned waterfall in Ontario.
📌 SAVE this post for your next Ontario cabin getaway! Would you hike 1km in the snow for a morning like this? Let me know in the comments! 👇
📍 Lavender Landing | The Hollow Mill | Creemore, Ontario
*invited stay*
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#OntarioCabins #WinterGetaway #CozyCabin #SnowyEscape #HikingOntario #OffGridCabin #WinterHiking #CreemoreOntario #HiddenGems #CabinInTheWoods #cabinvibes

If you don’t love winter, you’re just not going to the right places. ❄️😉
Not everyone gets winter—the cold, the snow, the shorter days. But these places? They’ll make you wish winter lasted longer. Whether it’s frozen waterfalls, cozy cabins, scenic hikes, or outdoor skating rinks, these are the best winter destinations in Ontario for a perfect snowy escape.
🌊 Indian Falls – A breathtaking frozen waterfall near Owen Sound, where ice formations change with the season.
🏡 The Hollow Mill – A secluded off-grid cabin in Creemore, where you snowshoe 1km through the forest to get there. But trust me, it’s worth it.
❄️ Jones Falls – A waterfall in Owen Sound: snow-covered bridges and frozen cascades that make winter hiking magical.
🍷 Three Dog Winery – Think snowshoeing hike in a vineyard! Because winter wine tasting > summer wine tasting.
🏖️ Sandbanks Provincial Park – A frozen beach? Yes, please.
🧊 The Grotto (Bruce Peninsula) – Turquoise ice, frozen caves, and rugged Georgian Bay beauty—without the summer crowds.
⛸️ Kingston – Skating in front of historic City Hall feels straight out of a holiday movie.
🌲 Frontenac Provincial Park – One of the best places for winter hiking & snowshoeing near Kingston, with frozen lakes and peaceful trails.
🪨 Bon Echo Provincial Park – Mazinaw Rock dusted in snow? Unreal. Winter transforms this Ontario park into a quiet, icy wonderland.
🌿 Silent Lake Provincial Park – No motorized boats, no noise—just snow-covered forests, cross-country ski trails, and pure tranquility.
🍁 Mono Cliffs Provincial Park – A classic winter hike near Toronto, with snow-covered cliffs, frozen lookouts, and towering trees.
Winter in Ontario isn’t just bearable—it’s breathtaking. You just need to know where to go.
📌 SAVE this post for your next Ontario winter getaway! Have you been to any of these? Or do you have a go-to winter spot? Drop it in the comments! 👇
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#WinterInOntario #OntarioHiking #FrozenWaterfalls #OntarioCabins #WinterAdventures #SnowyEscape #HikingOntario #HiddenGems #DiscoverOntario #WinterMagic #ExploreCanada

Winter hiking can be magical… unless you make these mistakes. ❄️
I’ve made my fair share of winter hiking mistakes, and trust me—some made my hike way harder than it needed to be. Avoid these 5 common mistakes (and don’t miss the 3 extra ones at the end!👇).
1️⃣ Overdressing & Overheating
I was afraid of being cold, so I layered up too much. Big mistake. Once you start moving, your body warms up fast—and sweating in the cold makes you freeze later. Wear breathable layers you can easily remove.
2️⃣ Skipping the Snowshoes
The trail looked packed, so I thought I didn’t need them. Two minutes later, I was sinking knee-deep in snow. If there’s fresh or soft snow, bring snowshoes.
3️⃣ Not Checking Trail Conditions
Deep snow, ice, or even surprise closures can ruin your hike. Check trail reports before heading out and bring microspikes or snowshoes if needed.
4️⃣ Starting Too Late in the Day
Winter days are short, and the sun sets fast. Start early so you’re not racing against daylight.
5️⃣ Forgetting a Second Pair of Gloves
Wet gloves = cold, miserable hands. Whether from snow or sweat, a dry backup pair is a lifesaver.
🚨 And here are 3 mistakes most people don’t think about… but definitely should! 👇
6️⃣ Not Protecting Your Phone from the Cold
Cold weather drains your phone battery FAST. Keep it in an inside pocket close to your body and bring a portable charger.
7️⃣ Ignoring Wind Chill
-5°C might sound fine, but with wind chill, it can feel like -15°C or worse. Dress for the “feels like” temp, not just the forecast.
8️⃣ Not Telling Anyone Your Plan
Winter hiking conditions can be unpredictable. Always tell someone your route and expected return time.
📌 Save this post so you don’t make these mistakes! Have you ever had a winter hiking fail? Tell me in the comments! 👇
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
#WinterHiking #HikingTips #OutdoorAdventure #WinterHikes #HikingOntario #WinterExploration #StaySafeOutdoors #DiscoverOntario #HikingFails #coldweatherhiking

Spend the weekend with me at Pearadise on West Lake 🏡✨
You know that perfect kind of weekend? The one where you actually slow down, breathe a little deeper, and let yourself just be? That’s exactly what I found at @pearadiseonwestlake, a cozy winter Airbnb in Prince Edward County.
Some days, I stayed wrapped up in a blanket by the fireplace, book in one hand, coffee in the other—fully leaning into my cozy retreat mode. Other times, I ventured out to explore PEC’s charming cafés, wineries, and scenic winter views, knowing I had the most peaceful space to return to.
It’s the kind of stay that makes you feel at home the second you walk in the door.
✔️ Cozy winter retreat? Check. (Fireplace, reading nook, and big windows to watch the snow fall? Yes, please.)
✔️ Romantic winter escape? Definitely. (Slow mornings, candlelit dinners, and a dreamy atmosphere.)
✔️ Family-friendly Airbnb? Absolutely. (Spacious common areas, a playroom, and a cozy space to make memories.)
Located right by West Lake in Wellington, Prince Edward County, this winter getaway spot is perfect for those who want to explore PEC at a slower pace—or stay in, light a fire, and enjoy a quiet, peaceful weekend.
📍 Looking for a cozy winter escape in Ontario? Tag someone you’d love to bring here! 💫
🇫🇷 La version française de ce texte se trouve dans les commentaires
*invited stay*
#PrinceEdwardCounty #VisitPEC #CozyWinterGetaway #OntarioAirbnb #OntarioStaycations #WinterInOntario #RomanticWinterEscape #WestLake #PECWineries #WeekendGetaway #BestAirbnbOntario #WinterRetreat #FireplaceVibes #pecadventures
