If you’re dreaming of an adventure-packed escape this summer, the Algonquin Highlands might just be Ontario’s best-kept secret. While its neighbour, Algonquin Park, sees hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world each year, the Township of Algonquin Highlands quietly welcomes tens of thousands of seasonal guests annually. With its small-town charm, the area delivers both that classic getaway vibe and a tempting taste of long-term cottage country living.
Endless Outdoor Adventure
What makes the Algonquin Highlands so bucket list-worthy? For starters, the outdoor activities here are second to none.
Paddle your way through a network of waterways like the Haliburton Water Trails, or drift down the Oxtongue River, which is perfect for canoeing or kayaking. Hike to sweeping views on the Dorset Lookout Tower Trail, or take a gentler walk through the Beetle Lake Trail.
Love cycling or trail running? The region’s mix of gravel roads and forest loops has something for every pace. Prefer to pitch a tent under the stars? You’ll find remote backcountry campsites and dark-sky spots ideal for stargazing. The area is incredibly dog-friendly too, with leash-free hiking areas and plenty of shallow shoreline for four-legged swimmers.
Visiting the Algonquin Highlands is a perfect way to “test-drive” life in cottage country.
Communities & Local Charm
Between your outdoor adventures, you’ll want to explore the area’s charming communities—each with its own personality and small-town feel.
Dorset
Dorset is well-known for its true cottage-country vibe. The Dorset General Store has been around forever, and the village also has art galleries and shops where you can find handmade crafts. The Dorset Scenic Lookout Tower gives you incredible views of Lake of Bays—some say they’re the best in Ontario—especially when the fall leaves are changing.
Dwight Oxtongue Lake
Over in the Dwight and Oxtongue Lake area, you’ll find farmers’ markets brimming with fresh produce, cozy cafés, and friendly roadside grills serving up burgers and ice cream under string lights. Don’t miss out on the homemade baked goods from Henrietta’s Pine Bakery.
The whole region is big on local culture, too. You can check out artisan shops, catch live music festivals that pop up at different times, and visit small museums like the Dorset Heritage Museum. These places draw those in looking to unplug from urban life.
A Hidden Gem for Cottage Ownership
Beyond its travel appeal, the Algonquin Highlands is quietly becoming a hot spot for cottage buyers, especially for those looking for more space and affordability than in Muskoka or the Kawarthas.
You can find cottages available for as low as $450,0000, but the township also has several more luxurious waterfront properties available too. Compared to in-demand Kawartha Lakes — which generally has higher real estate prices than much of Haliburton County — cottages in Algonquin Highlands tend to be more budget-friendly.
But it’s not just about price. Space and privacy are also major draws here. Properties in the Algonquin Highlands often feature larger lots, greater natural buffers, and that off-grid feel that’s hard to find in more developed areas. In contrast, Muskoka’s most popular lakes can feel crowded, with tighter lot lines and dense development.
For those exploring the area as a potential short-term rental investment, the opportunity exists but comes with boundaries. As of October 1, 2024, the Township of Algonquin Highlands implemented new Short-Term Rental By-Laws. These require property registration, licensing, proof of insurance, and compliance with septic, safety, and zoning standards, plus adherence to a municipal Code of Conduct. Enforcement has ramped up in 2025, and buyers should be prepared to budget for potential upgrades, especially on older properties, to meet current standards.
From a location standpoint, the Algonquin Highlands remains accessible to GTA buyers, with a roughly three-hour drive from Toronto. It’s just beyond the more congested Muskoka region but still close enough for weekend retreats or seasonal living.
When to Visit and What to Know
Planning your visit? Late June through early September is the peak summer season, with hot days perfect for swimming, paddling, and forest hikes. Fall, especially early October, is equally magical, with vibrant foliage painting the hillsides.
You’ll find everything from campgrounds to cabin rentals and boutique inns. Be sure to book early, especially for long weekends. A few things to note: some areas have limited cell service and Wi-Fi. Head to one of the four free Wi-Fi locations if you lose signal: Stanhope Library, Dorset Recreation Centre, Stanhope Municipal Airport, and Oxtongue Lake Fire Hall. If you plan to hike or camp, check for required local conservation permits before heading out.
Your Next Great Escape Awaits
The Algonquin Highlands checks all the boxes: natural beauty, endless adventure, peaceful community life, and a growing reputation as a smart place to own a secondary home. So if cottage country is calling, why not answer with a place that still feels like a hidden gem?
Zoocasa has listings that make it easy to picture yourself in the Algonquin Highlands. Start your search today.