I must admit I’m a little bias when it comes to favourite places in Muskoka, as my family has had a cottage up there since the ‘50s and I like to think of it as my home away from home. But being a semi-local allows me the privilege to share with you fantastic finds that you may not know of otherwise. If you’re venturing up to the Muskoka area, I highly suggest you visit the village of Rosseau for some sweets, good eats and vintage treasures.
Hilltop Interiors
1. Hilltop Interiors
The ultimate destination for cottage country chic, this home interior shop, which ironically was converted from a home into a store, has two floors of furniture, linens, accessories, art and other rustic decorating pieces. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind quilt, custom signs or luxe bath products, you’ll definitely find something cute to take home (or back to the cottage).
Hilltopinteriors.com
1150 Hwy 141, PO Box 190
705-732-4040
2. Teeny Weeny Bikini Co.
Tucked away just off Hwy 141, is the ultimate girly-girl shop brimming with quirky accessories, vintage glassware, pretty jewellery and the best find of all — owner and designer Ashley Eady’s swimwear. Despite the name, the suits are anything but small. You’ll find ultra-flattering one-piece and bikinis, with a retro feel in both silhouette and pattern. Now you have a great excuse to forget your bathing suit.
Twbco.com
5 Rice St.
705-732-2327
Fantastic finds inside Teeny Weeny Bikini
3. Crossroads Pub & Grill
When it comes to good eats in the town of Rosseau, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the carefully prepared dishes served at this casual resto. Recently taken new ownership, Executive Chef Richard Lalond, focuses his menu on quality, seasonal and local ingredients. While you’ll definitely find a burger and fries on the menu, but Georgian Bay Pickerel, Quebec Duck Margret and Nova Scotia Scallops are just a taste of the gourmet dinner offerings.
Crossroadspubandgrill.ca
2 Cardwell Rd.
705-732-4343
Rosseau General Store
4. Rosseau General Store
The main hub of activity in town surrounds the general store in summer, as this is the place to find all of your cottage kitchen basics — from the fresh fruit and veggies that sit at the entrance, to the butcher in the back. The biggest line however, is always at the ice cream stand, found right beside the store near the lawn. From soft serve to frozen yogurt and your traditional hard ice cream, it’s an essential stop on a hot summer day.
At Hwy 11 & Rice St.
705-732-4479
5. Rosseau Market
Every Friday between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. in July and August is the ever-popular farmer’s market. Set up near at the docks on the edge of Lake Rosseau, it’s a super busy attraction for cottagers around the area and beyond. There are fantastic local vendors selling everything from maple syrup, to farm fresh goods, home baking, crafts and jewellery. One of my favourites is the Muskoka Candle Co. for deliciously scented candles. Expect long lines for the food vendors — particularly the sausage on a bun, kettle corn and the fresh lemonade.
Rosseaumarket.com
Located on Short St. at the Beach
