Things to do near the resort.

On the water

We tell everyone to start on the water, because it is right there. The canoe, the two kayaks, and the two stand-up paddleboards are at the dock and free to take out. Shadow Lake is one of more than 250 lakes and rivers in the region, and it holds bass, pike and muskie. Bring a rod, or ask us where to rent one.

Balsam Lake Provincial Park is the beach that is not ours, a 15-minute drive. We suggest the afternoon, so you are back for the fire pit.

Camping

The region has campgrounds with washrooms, showers and fire pits, if a weekend under canvas is your idea of one. Most of our guests admire the idea from the hot tub.

Hiking and cycling

On land, trails wind through forest and along the water, for hiking and for both road and mountain biking. Go early and you will see the wildlife before it sees you.

Winter

In winter the paddle swaps for snowshoes, and the trails start at the cabins. The region grooms cross-country ski routes, and there is snowmobiling if you want noise with your cold. The hot tub on your deck runs through all of it.

Indoors

If it rains, we point you to Lindsay, about 35 minutes away. The Kawartha Lakes Museum & Archives fills an afternoon. Ask us which galleries and farmers' markets are open that week; they change with the season.

Closer to home, Coboconk's main street is a short walk from the cabins for coffee, provisions and a browse.

Year-round

All of it is two hours from Toronto. None of it is required.