In the lead up to the undoubtedly busy holiday season, you may be dreaming of a relaxing fall getaway before all of the inevitable festivtes begin. Ontario has everything you need for a relaxing getaway—all of them just a short road trip away!
Venture into nature's show of the year with these top five getaway destinations that promise an unforgettable seasonal escape. Discover these prime spots to catch Ontario's most breathtaking fall views, from colourful forests to tranquil lakesides. Get excited about a wide range of activities that cater to everyone in your brood, whether it's paddling, hiking, or simply kicking back in the quiet ambience. And when hunger strikes, savour local fare at charming eateries.
Lastly, ensure your stay is nothing short of cozy with our guide to the top-rated rental accommodations, perfect for comforting fall vibes and maximum Instagram likes.
1. Muskoka Region
Any time spent in Muskoka is a treat, but experiencing the Muskoka Region when stunning fall scenery is at its peak is nature’s best show! Things to do: Paddle the South Muskoka River while taking in a kaleidoscope of tree colours with Liv Outside's canoe rentals. Indulge in local fare at Tall Trees Muskoka— the area’s top-rated restaurant. Hike to Huckleberry Rock Lookout for breathtaking autumn views and check out some local artist talent at Chapel Gallery. Muskoka's fall extravaganza promises unforgettable memories at every turn, but perhaps best of all is finding a gem of a rental to hang your hat at night. Here are some of our top finds that combine charm and comfort.
Option 1: Eco-cabin escape off the grid in Muskoka
- Sleeps 4 guests
- 1 Bedroom, 3 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $314 per night
Option 2: Cozy 3 Bedroom Muskoka cabin on a pristine quiet lake
- Sleeps 5 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 5 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $429 per night
Option 3: Classic Cottage Muskoka
- Sleeps 6 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 4 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $450 per night
2. Prince Edward County
There’s no place like Prince Edward County in late summer and early fall here in Ontario! Things to do: Sip award-winning wines at Norman Hardie Winery, then savour farm-to-table goodness at Flame + Smith (reservations highly recommended). Explore Sandbanks Provincial Park's golden dunes for stunning lakeside views and some inspiring exhibits at Oeno Gallery. If you’re into more of a child-like adventure, get lost in a corn maze at Campbell's Orchards. You can stay at several boutique motels, such as The June Motel, Lakeside Motel or Drake Devonshire. Still, we’re also including our top picks for rentals surrounded by beautiful fall nature.
Option 1: Lyttleton in Prince Edward County
- Sleeps 2 guests
- 1 Bedroom, 2 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $225 per night
Option 2: Fitzroy Lakehouse with Waterfront, Hot Tub, and Fireplace
- Sleeps 6 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 3 beds
- 2 Bathrooms
- From $329 per night
Option 3: The Stonehouse on Hay Bay
- Sleeps 2 guests
- 1 Bedroom, 1 bed
- 1 Bathroom
- From $312 per night
Option 4: Lakeside escape in a classic 1920s cottage
- Sleeps 4 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 3 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $450 per night
3. Kawartha Lakes
Escape to Kawartha Lakes for a fall adventure you won’t forget! Things to do: Kayak the serene waters of the many Kawartha lakes and rivers (Try Buckeye Rentals). Indulge in delectable dishes at Ziraldo’s Italian restaurant or Murphey’s Lockside Pub & Patio. Hike through Fleetwood Creek Natural Area for vibrant foliage and visit the historic Boyd Heritage Museum for local history. With outdoor thrills, culinary delights, and captivating sights, Kawartha Lakes paints an unforgettable autumn escape! Here are our top picks for charming cabins and cottages to rent this fall:
Option 1: All Seasons Cozy Waterfront Cottage
- Sleeps 6 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 3 beds
- 1.5 Bathrooms
- From $269 per night
Option 2: The Cabin on the Hill
- Sleeps 4 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 2 beds
- 2 Bathrooms
- From $269 per night
Option 3: Lakefront cottage with hot tub and amazing porch
- Sleeps 6 guests
- 2 Bedrooms, 4 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $398 per night
4. Algonquin Highlands
If you’ve never been to the Algonquin Highlands for a weekend retreat, the fall of 2023 is your time to go! Things to do: Climb the Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower for unparalleled fall panoramas. Paddle one of the many rivers and lakes Algonquin offers (rent a canoe here). Savour gourmet delights at Rhubarb Restaurant, and don’t miss the Butter Tart Tour at Abbey Gardens. Get your adventurer hat on and get ready to indulge, explore, and capture nature's masterpiece at Algonquin Highlands. Here are our top three rental picks to make your fall retreat a viral social media post.
Option 1: Long Beach on Big Boshkung
- Sleeps 6 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 4 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $216 per night
Option 2: Waterfront Calming Nest Cottage-Halls Lake Resort
- Sleeps 5 guests
- 2 Bedrooms, 4 beds
- 1 Bathroom
- From $299 per night
Option 3: Stylish Lakeside Retreat
- Sleeps 8 guests
- 3 Bedrooms, 5 beds
- 1.5 Bathrooms
- From $649 per night
5. Thousand Islands
Take a road trip just a three-hour drive east of Toronto for a captivating fall escape to the Thousand Islands region! Things to do: Cruise through the stunning foliage aboard Rockport Boat Line's Fall Foliage Cruise. Satisfy cravings at the charming Ivy Lea Club Restaurant. Explore Thousand Islands National Park for hiking through the picturesque fall backdrops. And whatever you do, do not miss Boldt Castle's breathtaking views. You can even stay at Singer Castle if you’re in the mood to double down on the castle experience. If not, check out our top-selects for cozy fall rentals in the area:
Option 1: Soul Horse and Nature Retreat
- Sleeps 2 guests
- 1 Bedroom, 1 bed
- 1 Bathroom
- From $160 per night
Option 2: Victorian Boutique Apartment-Steps from Lakeshore
- Sleeps 4 guests
- 1 Bedroom, 2 beds
- 1.5 Bathrooms
- From $350 per night
Option 3: Waterfront Lodge Retreat with Hot Tub
- Sleeps 5 guests
- 2 Bedrooms, 2 beds
- 1.5 Bathrooms
- From $392 per night
*Cost ranges are approximate and can vary based on booking dates and time of year. Always check with the rental providers for the most accurate pricing, and be sure to read reviews, too.
