Lakeside 4.5-Star Spa Resort amid Natural Splendor

On a clear winter night along the shores of Lake Rosseau in Muskoka, Ontario, the snow glows deep blue under the moonlight. Naturalists from JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa—located right along the lake—take visitors across this dream-like landscape on snowshoe tours beneath the stars. The star-lit snowshoe trek is just one of the holiday-time activities the resort has planned this year. Other events include winter photography workshops and snow kiting. The sprawling hotel rests atop a granite bluff amid an outdoor wonderland for dogsledding and snowmobiling. The resort may have a grand Victorian façade, but inside the retreat exudes a laid-back charm through its friendly staff and full-service spa.

With this Getaway, you’ll have one day of access to Spa Rosseau, where separate men's and women's facilities, which include outdoor hot tubs, overlooks sweeping natural vistas. After unwinding with a back, neck, and shoulder massage (C$75), guests can settle into their intimate studio. While you’re here, you can take a dip in the indoor pool, take a nature hike through the forest, or win the annual snowman-building contest.

Chefs at the Rosseau's waterview restaurant, Cottages, whip up cinnamon-bun french toast (C$16) and three-egg omelets (C$14+) for breakfast. At Teca, the onsite Italian eatery, you can enjoy tender steaks, handmade gnocchi, and other upscale entrees. And for those just looking to hang out, head to Lakes, the resort’s “gathering place” and the best spot to play chess, read a book, or grab a beer.

Muskoka Lakes, Ontario: Natural Beauty in Historical Cottage Country

More than 1,600 bodies of water and a number of crashing waterfalls make the Muskoka Lakes area a natural setting for water recreation year-round. For land-based entertainment, nearby Port Carling abounds with historical mansions, beautiful churches, and charming boutiques. A scenic 25-minute drive from the resort brings travelers to the quaint village of Rosseau, where the century-old Rosseau General Store and charming shops including the irresistible Hillside Interiors are open year-round, giving visitors a taste of the history of the area.