Six Reasons to Book a Staycation in Ontario’s Cottage Country this Summer
As global travel becomes more complex and costly, more Canadians are choosing to vacation close to home. Enter the Ontario staycation — a growing trend that’s as enriching as it is convenient. But what exactly is a staycation?
What is a Staycation?
Simply put, a staycation means a vacation spent either at home or nearby, enjoying all the beauty and charm your region has to offer. In Ontario, we’re lucky to have one of the most scenic and serene destinations right in our own backyard: cottage country.
Why Choose a Staycation in Ontario?
Ontario is home to thousands of sparkling lakes, charming small towns, and vast forests, making it the perfect destination for a staycation that feels like a faraway escape. From Muskoka to Haliburton, Parry Sound to Kawartha Lakes, Ontario’s cottage country offers a timeless blend of nature, comfort, and adventure that rivals international resorts — with the added benefit of less travel time and more meaningful connection to the land.
Choosing a Canadian staycation in Ontario means trading long airport lines for scenic drives and tight schedules for flexible, easygoing days on the dock. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the lake, hiking through pine-scented trails, or paddling through quiet waters at sunrise, Ontario’s cottage country delivers the kind of world-class experience you won’t soon forget.
The Benefits of Staying Local
There are plenty of reasons why staycations in Ontario are soaring in popularity:
1. Affordability and the Staycation Credit
Thanks to the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit, travelling within the province is more affordable than ever. The staycation credit allows residents to claim a portion of their eligible travel expenses when they book accommodations within Ontario, making your dream cottage getaway even more budget-friendly.
See our Affordable Cottage Rentals
2. Boosting Local Economies
Choosing a Canadian staycation supports small businesses, local artisans, and family-run cottage rentals. Every dollar spent in Ontario’s cottage country helps sustain the communities that make these destinations so special.
3. Unparalleled Natural Beauty
Ontario’s cottage country offers postcard-worthy landscapes — rugged granite cliffs, sparkling freshwater lakes, and thick boreal forests. It’s a place where you can unplug, slow down, and reconnect with nature — no passport required.
4. Flexibility and Ease
Say goodbye to packing stress, missed flights, and language barriers. A staycation in Ontario gives you the freedom to travel on your own schedule and enjoy a personalized escape that fits your lifestyle.
Read our Ultimate Cottage Packing List
5. What Makes Ontario’s Cottage Country World-Class?
Ontario’s cottage country isn’t just a local treasure — it’s a globally admired destination. International visitors often marvel at the pristine lakes, iconic boathouses, and luxurious-yet-rustic charm that defines the region. Muskoka, in particular, has been featured in global publications as one of the best places in the world to vacation.
And for Canadians, it’s all right here. Whether you’re renting a waterfront cottage, staying in a lakeside lodge, or exploring the wilderness with your family, Ontario offers an exceptional blend of tranquility, recreation, and comfort — all within a few hours’ drive.
Find world class properties on our luxury cottage rentals page
6. A Staycation with Endless Possibilities
Looking to unwind? Imagine lazy afternoons reading by the water, campfires under starlit skies, or morning yoga on a private dock. Want adventure? Try wakeboarding, canoeing, fishing, or hiking through provincial parks. Craving connection? Gather family and friends for a board game marathon, a beach BBQ, or a celebratory weekend away.
No matter your style of relaxation, a staycation in Ontario’s cottage country can be tailored to meet your needs — and exceed your expectations.
Explore Cottage Country:
Guide to Boat Rentals in Muskoka
Things to Do in Muskoka
A Guide to Beautiful Hikes in Ontario’s Cottage Country
Plan Your Canadian Staycation Today
There’s never been a better time to rediscover Ontario’s beauty and create unforgettable memories close to home. Whether you’re taking advantage of the staycation credit, seeking a change of scenery, or simply craving a break from the day-to-day, Ontario’s cottage country is ready to welcome you with open arms.
So, what are you waiting for? This year, take the Ontario staycation you deserve — and experience why staying in Ontario is a world-class choice.
Ready To Find Your Stay?
Alex Laframboise
Alex is a champion of Ontario’s cottage lifestyle, leveraging her love for nature and years of management expertise to create unforgettable rental experiences. Cottaging near Lake Nipissing, Alex developed a deep connection to cottage country, which inspires her storytelling and marketing work at Cottage Vacations.
