While I’ve lived in Ontario my entire life, I have to admit that my time spent up North has been lacking. As a company full of eager travellers, COVID-19 has put a serious halt on our usually busy travel season, and reduced our company travel from abundant, to near zero.

In an effort to spark our creativity, support local, and put our event planning minds to work, we developed our ‘Let’s Go Local’ campaign, featuring outstanding destinations right in our own Canadian backyard.

Typically, the Muskoka area is swarming with tourists throughout the Fall season. Known for its picturesque Fall foliage, the changing of the leaves has been a long-standing reason to head north on Hwy 400. After spending two nights at the JW Marriott, I can definitely see why.

Located on 26 acres of lakefront property is the majestic- JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka. While this property is clearly designed to be an oasis all year round, there’s something extra special about being there when the weather starts to get a little crisp and the leaves start to change.

What to do:

Leisure:

• Explore Lake Rosseau in comfort, on a pontoon boat tour. Leaving directly from the docks at the waterfront, this leisure ride takes you on an hour-long journey around the lake. While the lake itself is absolutely beautiful, the sneak peak at the million-dollar cottages spotting the shoreline are the real gem of this tour.
• Lounge by the pool. The property boasts multiple pools and hot tubs, including a heated indoor/outdoor pool suited for those chillier days and a separate spa-only pool for those looking to unwind before or after a treatment. (NOTE: the hot tubs were not yet reopened when I was on property).
• Soak in the beauty of the spa. This purpose-built spa has over 11 treatment rooms and a variety of luxury treatments available.

Lorandus Lens: While touring the property, I couldn’t help but notice the amount of wide open, outdoor space available. The options are endless when it comes to outdoor activities that would suit a wide variety of interests, and the ability to do them onsite reduces time and transfer costs for groups.

Active:

• Explore the lake on your own terms. Kayaks, paddleboards and canoes are all available to borrow right down at the dock. Book your boat, grab a lifejacket and head out on the water. The onsite team also provides guided tours if you’re a little apprehensive about heading out alone.
• Head for a hike. Muskoka has thousands of kilometers of trails just waiting to be explored.
• Borrow some bikes. Cruise the property or venture a little further on bikes provided by the hotel!

Off-site:

• Muskoka Lakes farm & winery – ever heard of cranberry wine? Neither had I! This very colourful and super unique wine tasting experience is just one part of the offerings at the Muskoka Lakes farm & winery; also a great stop for cranberry inspired snacks, gifts, and treats!

Lorandus Lens: Support local by including some treats from companies such as Muskoka Lakes in room drops or client gifts! The wine spritzer was our personal favourite.

• Aspen Valley Animal Sanctuary – if you’re an animal lover this is the place to be. This 465-acre sanctuary is a rehabilitation centre and safe space for injured mammals ranging from squirrels to black bears (they have already taken in and cared for over 860 animals this year alone). They offer guided tours of the property and provide a lot of insight on how and why they operate. This is as authentic as things get when it comes to animal sanctuaries and the passionate staff and volunteers are happy to share each animal’s story with you!

Lorandus Lens: This would make an excellent Corporate Social Responsibility initiative as the sanctuary runs entirely off donations!

COVID Safety:

I’ll admit I was a little apprehensive about staying in a hotel for the first time in months. As someone who typically spends upwards of 60 nights a year in hotel rooms, I’ve never been one to think twice about travel. COVID-19 has put a new level of awareness at the forefront for many of us, and I wanted to ensure any trip I did was with a brand that took safety and wellness as seriously as I do.

Marriott International put a Commitment to Clean protocol in place in response to COVID-19 , here are some of the ways you may notice it throughout your stay:

• Social distancing floor decals
• Only 1 family per elevator at a time
• Plexi barriers at reception desk
• Contactless check-in & check-out available
• All sports equipment is sanitized between uses
• Staff wear masks
• Hand sanitizing stations throughout the property

While I may be the person who still forgets you can’t drink coffee and wear a mask at the same time, I have to say the overall experience was amazing. From enjoying room service breakfast on our private balcony, to exploring the property’s (and nearby) attractions, escaping to Muskoka was exactly what I needed to recharge my travel spirit.