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IKEA Kitchen Cabinet Installation and Planning in Muskoka

IKEA Kitchen Installation Muskoka

Serving Muskoka, Gravenhurst, Bala, Port Carling, Mac Tier, Port Severn, and the Parry Sound District of Rosseau and Muskoka Lakes.

Let the Kitchen Guys install your new IKEA kitchen in Muskoka – Lifetime Warranty on All IKEA Kitchen Installations – See Pricing HERE

With a custom kitchen from IKEA, it couldn’t be easier to turn your dream Muskoka kitchen into reality. IKEA has everything you need to build the perfect Kitchen including, sinks, faucets, countertops, Whirlpool appliances, and lighting.

When it comes to installation, you can rest easy knowing that we’ve got you covered with everything from custom measurements, to delivery and even assembly and renovation. See the price list.

SEKTION has a huge selection of cabinets, including models designed to hold appliances. You can combine them in any way you like, so you’re sure to able to create a kitchen that works perfectly for you and all your stuff. Once you have chosen your cabinets, browse our doors and handles to find the look you like – from solid wood to high gloss. Remember that we can even deliver, assemble and install them all for you. And that they come with a 25-year warranty.

IKEA New Kitchen Planning Guide

IKEA Installation Guide

Sektion Buying Guide

Online Kitchen Planner

 

IKEA Vaughan
200 Interchange Way
Vaughan, Ontario
L4K 5C3

IKEA North York
15 Provost Drive
North York, Ontario
M2K 2X9

IKEA Burlington
1065 Plains Road East
Burlington, Ontario
L7T 4K1
(QEW & Brant St.
or Plains Rd.)

Telephone:
1-866-866-4532

Hours of operation
Store hours:
Mon-Fri: 10am – 9pm
Saturday: 9am – 9pm
Sunday: 10am – 6pm

KITCHEN INSTALLATION GUIDE

Before you begin your kitchen installation
Once you’ve received your IKEA kitchen, double-check that all the parts have arrived. A good way to do this is by checking what packages you have at home against the order list. You should only dismantle your old kitchen when you have all your new parts and appliances. Your kitchen parts and countertop should be stored indoors, with normal room temperature and humidity levels. It’s helpful if you arrange your cabinets in the order you will be installing them. Use your shopping list and IKEA home planner drawing to help you. Remove your old kitchen making sure that electric, water, and gas are off before you begin. Use a qualified, licensed professional to disconnect and connect your gas, water and electricity. The materials and tools you’ll need The tools you’ll need depend on how much of your kitchen you are doing yourself. See the assembly instructions for the tools you’ll need to use. It’s a good idea to wear safety glasses when using power tools.

Plaster, wood or concrete, there are many different types of wall. Fastening hardware is not supplied with your cabinets. Most hardware or home improvement stores stock appropriate fastening hardware and can help you choose what is right for your walls.

Preparing your room for kitchen installation
Once you have removed your old kitchen, prepare your room by making sure your walls and floor are even, and that your walls are suitable for supporting your new kitchen. Now is also the time to prime and paint your walls, put in tiles or change your flooring. Marking cabinet positions Draw a layout of your new kitchen directly on the wall. Check that everything fits with the measurements from your plan and your electricity, water, gas, and ventilation connections are where you want them. Also, mark where to attach your new kitchen’s suspension rails. With the new IKEA kitchen system, your cabinets can be hung directly onto a suspension rail making them easier to install and easier to adjust. It’s important to make sure your suspension rail is straight and level and to secure it with the right screw type for your wall. Marking the right height for your suspension rail Your base suspension rail needs to be hung 32 3/16″ above your floor’s highest point (measure to the underside of the rail). You should allow 22 5/16″ between the bottom of your wall cabinets and the bottom of your base rail when measuring for your upper rail.

Prepare your space by making sure your corners are even and your walls and floor are straight. Use your try square for the corners and a spirit level for the walls and floor. Make sure you note the highest point of the floor and where the corners are not 90 degrees. Fasten your rails, base rail first. Make sure you’ve found suitable points in the wall where the rails can be attached and that the rails are level before drilling. If your wall is uneven use shims between the rail and the wall to make sure the rail is flush. Check that your wall is strong enough to hang your suspension rail and cabinets. Depending on your wall material, it’s best to install your rail onto a stud or a support beam. An electronic stud finder can be helpful. Check each rail to ensure that it is level.

Install your IKEA kitchen cabinets
In most kitchens it’s best to install your wall cabinets first. This will allow you to move around without base cabinets in the way. One exception is if you are installing a single line kitchen with a high cabinet at one end. In this case install the high cabinet first. Before you begin, mark down all plumbing and other utilities. Some cabinets have ready-made openings for plumbing and utilities, but you can use a jigsaw to create your own openings, if needed. Do this before fitting the cabinet in place. Be aware that these openings can affect how you can arrange drawers in a cabinet.

Assemble all wall cabinet frames according to the assembly instructions. Wait until later before fitting drawers, doors and internal fittings. Hang your base cabinets starting in the corner. Hang all remaining cabinets in the same way. If you’re installing a corner carousel now is the time to place it in the cabinet. Make sure the correct base cabinet is aligned with your plumbing. Hang the corner cabinet first and secure by tightening the screws. Hang the remaining cabinets and connect them with the included screws. Wait to tighten the screws until the base cabinets are in place and you can ensure alignment. Check that each cabinet is aligned with the previous cabinet by adjusting the legs. Assemble all base cabinets according to the assembly instructions. Make sure to have the legs attached in the order the cabinets will be installed. Cabinet legs connecting two cabinets can be used to support both cabinets while you’re installing. Remember to use the distance ring included with the legs. If you are using a high cabinet, attach the cover panel first.

IKEA kitchen filler pieces
Filler pieces are used between your cabinets and walls for a streamlined appearance and to ensure there is enough room to fully open doors and drawers. They are especially useful if your walls are not perfectly straight. Check the wall with your level to see if it is straight. If the wall is even, measure between the wall and the cabinet and mark this distance at the top and bottom of the filler piece.

If the wall is not level and flat, the filler piece must be cut to fit the wall’s shape. To do this, you’ll need a filler piece, measuring tape, a small block of wood about 1-1 1/3″ thick, and a pencil. Cut the filler piece so it’s the same height as the cabinet. Place the edge of the filler piece against the wall. Hold the block of wood flat against the wall with a pencil against it. Keep them pressed against the wall as you slide them down the length of the filler piece. Now you have traced the shape of the wall onto the filler piece. Cut along your trace line. Place the newly cut edge of the filler piece against the wall, it should fit perfectly. Mark the edge of the cabinet on the top and bottom of the filler piece. Draw a straight line from these points and cut.

To ensure the filler piece stays in place, first attach a support strip to the wall. Drill holes in the cabinet for the screws you’ll use to attach the cabinet and filler piece together. Put the filler piece into place. Put screws through the holes you have drilled. When all your filler pieces are in, caulk around each one with silicone for an airtight seal.

Install your countertop, sink, lighting, appliances and kitchen island
With your cabinet frames in, it’s time to install your countertop, sink, lighting, and appliances. Check that your countertop is the correct size before fitting it in place. Now is also the time if you need to customize your countertop for a sink or cooktop (see your assembly instructions for help). Once your countertop is in, you’re ready to get your water, gas, lighting, and appliances connected. All water, gas, and electricity connections must be done by qualified, licensed professionals according to valid local safety regulations.

If you’re installing a kitchen island, it must be secured to the floor using UTBY legs or by building a frame. Fasten the frame to both the floor and the cabinets. When attaching the frame to the floor be aware of amenities like floor heating or plumbing already installed.

Customize your countertop for your cooktop in the same fashion as for your sink. See your cooktop’s assembly instructions for help. Install the extractor hood. The extractor hoods at IKEA can be installed in two ways: either ducted to the outside, called extraction, or used in recirculation mode fitted with a charcoal filter. Each installation option is described in the assembly instructions that come with the product. Saw the hole either in the back panel or at the top of the cabinet. See the assembly instructions. For safety and functionality reasons, follow precise measurements in the instructions for installation that come with the extractor hood/fan.

Use a circular saw and G clamps to hold a straight-edge to your pre-cut countertop when you cut to customize the size. It’s helpful to use a pair of sawhorses. To prevent moisture from penetrating the countertop apply polyurethane silicone across the sawn edges. Install your lighting and appliances. Install sink into the countertop according to the assembly instructions. Proof measure your countertop. If you have a pre-cut countertop now is the time to cut it to the right length. Mark a spot for the sink by laying the countertop in place. Trace the inside of the base cabinet onto the underside of the countertop. This helps you align your sink. Turn your countertop over and trace the outline of your sink onto masking tape. Secure your countertop in place according to the assembly instructions. Use a jigsaw to cut out space for your sink. It’s helpful to drill a hole on the inside corners of your outline before cutting, so you can make a cleaner cut.

Supporting brackets are used to fasten kitchen islands to the floor. Legs/toe-kicks must then be attached around the outside of the island. The Kitchen island assembly kit is used to connect cabinets back to back or for attaching a cover panel to the back of the cabinets.

It’s important to attach a moisture barrier under the countertop where you have a dishwasher. All IKEA dishwashers come with a protection strip. For other appliances, use FIXA diffusion barriers for extra protection.

Install your shelves, drawers, doors, knobs, and handles.
Now that the cabinet frames, countertops, and appliances are in, attach the drawer slides into the cabinets. Remember that the slides for inner and standard drawers are attached differently (see the assembly instructions for help). Once the slides are in, attach the drawers before the doors and shelves. Finish by adding knobs and handles as well as any other internal solutions (like wire baskets).

Attach the drawer slides, starting with the outer drawers. Outer drawer slides should be attached to the outer row of holes in the cabinet. Attach the hinges for the doors. Once the outer drawer slides are in, attach the inner drawer slides. The inner drawer slides are attached to the inner row of holes in the cabinet. Assemble the drawers with the help of the assembly instructions. Attach the drawers and doors to the cabinets. Align the doors to the correct height and width by adjusting the screws on the hinge plate. Now its time to attach a toe-kick. Follow the assembly instructions for help. If using a ventilation grill, place it between two pieces of toe-kick.

Now that the cabinet frames, countertops, and appliances are in, attach the drawer slides into the cabinets. Remember that the slides for inner and standard drawers are attached differently (see the assembly instructions for help). Caring for your cabinets Clean the doors, cabinet interiors, and wood surfaces with a soft, damp cloth. Only use cleaning products intended for these materials. Do not use products that contain ammonia, alcohol, bleach, or abrasives. Rinse with clean water, then dry with a clean, dry cloth. Make sure to clean up spills quickly. Keep your sink sparkling After each use, wipe the sink clean with a cloth or sponge damped in water or a non-abrasive detergent, if necessary. Rinse the bowl with water and wipe the sink with a dry cloth. Avoid scouring powder, steel wool, or hard objects which can Once the slides are in, attach the drawers before the doors and shelves. Finish by adding knobs and handles as well as any other internal solutions (like wire baskets). scratch the stainless steel surface. The damp surface can be discolored if substances containing iron are allowed to remain on it. Long-lasting countertops Keep your countertop in top condition by cleaning spills quickly with water and a mild detergent. Be sure to keep them as dry as possible after use. For wood and solid wood, countertops use BEHANDLA wood treatment oil. The oil protects the wood from marks, stains, and cracks, and prevents water from penetrating the surface.

Buying & Planning An IKEA Kitchen FAQ’s

How do I buy an IKEA kitchen and how long will the project take, from purchase to installation?
At IKEA, you can pick and choose individual parts to create a kitchen that is just right for you. To turn your dream kitchen into a reality, we advise you to start planning well in advance. Start by checking out our in-store room settings showcasing various kitchen styles. You can also get ideas and information from our helpful brochures such as Kitchen Handbook and Buying Guides (available in-store and downloadable form the link below). Using our planning software, IKEA kitchen planner, see your choice of layout or door style as a 3D image on the screen, before making up your mind. The IKEA kitchen planner is available for use in-store, and can also be downloaded to your PC.
At an early stage of planning, in-home measuring service (available at additional charge) by a qualified professional installer is recommended, to make sure your new kitchen will fit in the space. If you are thinking of using the installation service, please contact our staff at the Kitchen Department early on as well.

After your plan is finalized and the detailed quotation is prepared, you place your order at the store. If the goods are in stock, you can make payment and take them home the same day. A kitchen delivery service is also available.

Custom-ordered worktops and appliances will take about 3 weeks to arrive at the store. We will let you know when your order is in stock. Please make your payment after hearing from us. If you are having your order delivered, you will receive it within 4-13 days after we confirm your payment. We also offer date- and time-specific delivery service.

If you are using our kitchen installation service, the installation will commence on a prearranged date.

Please note that the timeline may vary according to your choice of products or the extent of installation work. For full details, contact our staff at the Kitchen Department.

I live far from the store. Can I still buy an IKEA kitchen and is an installation service available?
All order placements and requests of changes to quotations/specifications are to be in-store. Delivery to distant locations takes longer, as it needs to be individually quoted. Installation service is available, however, travel fees may be charged on top of the price for installation work. Please contact us for details.
How do I plan my new kitchen?
At IKEA, you can pick and choose individual parts to plan a kitchen that is just right for you. We provide various tools that make it easy for you to do the planning. Start by checking out our in-store room settings showcasing various kitchen styles. You can also get ideas and information from our helpful brochures such as Kitchen Handbook and Buying Guides (available in-store and downloadable form the link below). The Kitchen Handbook offers useful layout hints as well as points to consider when designing your new kitchen. Using a planning software, IKEA kitchen planner, see your choice of layout or door style as a 3D image on the screen, before making up your mind. (The IKEA kitchen planner is available for use in-store, and can also be downloaded to your PC) Alternatively, you may like to start with a rough drawing on a piece of paper. Make a drawing of cabinets on Self-Planning Sheet, with the help of the Buying Guide. From the link below you can see the example on how to use the Self-Planning Sheet. Use the check-list on the right side of the sheet to make sure all the necessary items are included.At an early stage of planning, in-home measuring service (available at additional charge) by a qualified professional installer is recommended, to make sure your new kitchen will fit in the space. If you are not comfortable with doing all the planning yourself, kitchen planning service can be arranged by appointment, at an additional charge. Please make an appointment in-store or over the phone (at Contact Centre).
What information do I need for planning my new kitchen?
The bottom line information must include the width and ceiling height of the installation area, dimensions of windows/doors, type of gas supply, locations of water supply/drain lines and electrical outlets, and the direction of exhaust duct on the existing range hood. Before installation, the constitution of the walls needs to be checked as well. If you have drawings of your house, please have them ready.
Will I get a quote immediately?
You can easily calculate the estimate yourself, using the Self-Planning Sheet or Kitchen Shopping List, along with the Buying Guide showing current prices.
If you use the IKEA kitchen planner to design your kitchen, you can print out the Item List page that shows an approximate quotation.
To get a formal quotation, please bring your completed Self-Planning Sheet/Kitchen Shopping List or print-out of the layout plan from the kitchen planner to the store, and request our staff at the Kitchen Department. We will send it you by post usually in about 10 days.
What if I do not opt for a chargeable kitchen planning service?
The chargeable kitchen planning service is simply designed for customers who are short of time or not comfortable with doing the planning on their own. At a set time (for about an hour each, and charged for the first appointment only), our specially trained staff offers one-on-one assistance with the plan and design of your new kitchen. Even if you are doing the planning yourself, please feel free to ask our kitchen experts for advice on your plan or on how to use the kitchen planner, or to request a quote.
Will IKEA supply installation drawings?
When you place your order, we will provide you with sink drawings showing locations of water supply/drain lines, as well as installation manuals of your chosen appliances containing figures showing locations of electrical outlets etc. If you need these documents before you place your order due to installation schedule constraints, you can request them to our staff at the Kitchen Department. For any further information, please visit the store with your installer.
Can I discuss or modify my plan via email or fax?
Sorry, we are unable to handle these requests via email or fax. This is because we need to go through layout plans and drawings and check the actual products together, in order to discuss/modify your plan or place an order for you.
If my order contains made to order goods, do I have to revisit the store to pay for it? Can’t I pay in advance when I place my order?
At the time of your order, our kitchen sales staff will tell you how long it will take for back ordered items to arrive. When the items arrive at the store, we will let you know. Please make payment after you hear from us, either by visiting the store or arranging a bank transfer.
I’d like to keep my existing kitchen. Can I just plan and buy a buffet or work table?
Of course. Just as in planning a whole kitchen, you can pick and choose from cabinet frames of various sizes, doors, and interior fittings like shelves and drawers, create a buffet or work table. The combination of drawers and shelves with a shallow cabinet frame (37cm deep) is particularly well-suited for storage units.
Can I incorporate an appliance of another manufacture into an IKEA kitchen?
Compatibility varies by model. Please bring the installation manual of the appliance in question and consult our staff at the Kitchen Department. Please always ask your installer to check and confirm the dimensions or feasibility of installation, as IKEA cannot be in a position to make a final judgment.
I’ve placed an order and am waiting for the back ordered items to arrive. I haven’t made a payment yet. Can I make changes to my plan at this stage?
Changes to made to order worktops (in cultured marble/stainless steel) cannot be accepted, but other requests such as a change of door colors or addition of extra cabinets may be accepted if items are available in stock. Please note that it may accompany a change of delivery date. These requests are only handled over the counter, so please bring your order documents to the Kitchen Department at your IKEA store.

Delivery Service

Can I get my kitchen delivered?
Yes, we offer kitchen delivery service within the delivery area of each store. Delivery to locations outside the zone will be individually quoted. If you require date- and time-specific delivery service, extra charge applies. Please be reminded that the date- and time-specific delivery is not available in areas outside the zone.*The kitchen delivery service is offered at special rates on the purchase of your kitchen. Other non-kitchen products cannot be delivered together.

Who will take care of receiving the goods?
You will be the one in charge. After you receive your goods from the delivery service provider, please take responsible care of them until installation. Before signing the delivery confirmation receipt, always check and make sure no damages are incurred during delivery, and nothing is missing. If you find any problem with the goods at the time of receipt, please promptly request for replacement to the delivery service provider. Please indicate the date by which you need the replacement part, so that your installation schedule will not be disturbed.
If a part is found to be missing after the installation work has started, due to insufficient checking at the time of receipt, please take care of the repurchase and delivery of the missing part by yourself. Please note that in case this causes a delay in the installation schedule, the kitchen installer may charge you an additional fee.

Installation & Measuring Services

Can I have my kitchen assembled and installed?
If you need a kitchen installation service, we will put you in touch with our certified installer such as Kitchen Guys depending on where you live. Please see our staff at the Kitchen Department for details and booking. You will be in direct contact with the installers to arrange your installation schedule, discuss details, and pay for installation works. In order to prevent installation troubles due to unchecked conditions of the site, or avoid severe overruns in cost and time, in-home measuring service is recommended prior to installation. For the measuring service, the Homeline staff will visit your home and take precise measurements of your kitchen space, judge the fit of your new kitchen, and check the constitution of the walls and access conditions to the property. If you are building or remodeling your house and have a contractor working on areas other than the kitchen, please consult your contractor to coordinate the work with Kitchen Guys.

Can I get a quote for the installation service?
IKEA can provide you with the price list of installation works offered by Kitchen Guys, our certified kitchen installer, once your kitchen plan is finalized. Please have your layout plan ready and ask our staff at the Kitchen Department.
Please note that the formal quotation will be issued directly by Kitchen Guys. The price we calculate according to your layout plan is only an approximation. Depending on the conditions of the site, additional costs may incur. Measuring service (at additional charge) is recommended prior to installation, to ensure the smooth progress of your project. For the measuring service, the Kitchen Guys staff will visit your home and take precise measurements of your kitchen space, judge the fit of your new kitchen, and check the constitution of the walls and access conditions to the property. The formal quotation will be issued after checking the conditions of the floor, walls, and existing appliances of the installation site.
Is it possible to assemble the kitchen myself?
Yes, the Kitchen Guys will discount your installation accordingly.  Please note that not all IKEA installers offer a discount. If you are a do-it-yourselfer and enjoy the creative process of making something with your hands, self-assembly is for you. However, please remember that for installing your kitchen, special tools will be necessary, and a license is required for electrical/plumbing works.
Can any carpenter assemble an IKEA kitchen?
Unlike the ready-made kitchen sets, IKEA kitchens require on-site assembly of individual parts before installation. The parts include cabinet frames and shelves, all separately chosen according to your needs and taste. This is why we recommend that even those people familiar with carpentry check out the actual products in-store to fully understand the products’ features and how they fit together. You can always watch the videos on this page to get a good understanding of how to assemble and install an Ikea kitchen.
Can I also request renovations of areas around and other than my kitchen?
This depends on the installation service provider in your area. Some providers offer a wide range of services and some do not. At the Kitchen Guys, we do offer other services although some may be subcontracted out.

Kitchen Planning Service

I am a little uncomfortable with doing all the planning myself
At IKEA, kitchen planning service is available at an additional charge for customers who are short of time or not comfortable with doing the planning on their own. At a set time (for about an hour each, and charged for the first appointment only), our specially trained staff offers one-on-one assistance with the plan and design of your new kitchen. Please book in advance either at the store or over the phone (at Contact Center).

IKEA warranties

General conditions for all warranties
What is warrantied?
The extent of the warranty given for each product is described alongside each product.
Duration of warranty
Each warranty lasts for the number of years stated against each product, starting from the date of purchase.
What will IKEA do to correct the problem?
IKEA will examine the product and decide if it’s covered under this warranty. IKEA will then, at its choice, either repair the defective product or replace it with the same or a comparable product. In these cases, IKEA will be responsible for the costs of repairs, spare parts, labour and travel for repair staff that IKEA incurs, provided that the product is accessible for repair without IKEA incurring additional expenditure to gain access. This will not apply in cases where repair work has not been authorized by IKEA. Any defective parts removed in the course of repair works will become the property of IKEA. If the item is no longer sold by IKEA, IKEA will provide an appropriate replacement. IKEA will decide, at its discretion, what will constitute an appropriate replacement.
Conditions for the warranties
The warranties are valid from the date of purchase at IKEA and apply to products for domestic use only. The original purchase receipt is required as proof of purchase.
Exclusions
The warranties do not apply to products that have been stored or assembled incorrectly, used inappropriately, abused, misused, altered, or cleaned with wrong cleaning methods or wrong cleaning products. The warranties do not cover normal wear and tear, cuts or scratches, or damage caused by impacts or accidents. The warranties do not apply if products have been placed outdoors or in a humid environment, or if the products have been used for non-domestic purposes (unless otherwise stated). The warranties do not cover consequential or incidental damages. For details see the warranty conditions and description for every product. The warranties do not apply if the merchandise is found to be dirty, stained, or abused.
Care instructions To be able to rely on this warranty you need to follow the specific care instructions for every product. You will find all care instructions in the IKEA stores and on the IKEA web site: www.IKEA.ca
General legal rights:
This warranty gives you specific legal rights. This warranty does not, in any way, affect the rights given to you by law. You may also have other rights under applicable provincial law. IKEA is not responsible for incidental or consequential damages. Some provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on the warranties, so these exclusions or limitations may not apply to you.
How to reach us if you need service:
Contact your local IKEA store, Pick-up and order point, or IKEA Home Shopping at 1-866-866-IKEA (4532). You will find the address and phone number in the IKEA catalogue or at www.IKEA.ca. In the case of “for IKEA by Whirlpool” products, contact the service team at Whirlpool Customer Care Center directly at 1-866-664-2449. Save your sales receipt as proof of purchase. Proof of purchase is required for the warranties to be valid. To find out more, pick up the warranty folders in your local store or download the PDF version below.

Free 25 year warranty

SEKTION kitchen system
What is covered under this warranty?
This warranty applies to domestic kitchen use only. This warranty covers all of the following parts of the SEKTION kitchen system.What products are covered under this warranty?
This warranty covers all of the following parts of the SEKTION kitchen system:
• Cabinet frames
• Door and drawer fronts
• UTRUSTA hinges
• MAXIMERA fully-extending drawers
• UTRUSTA shelves of tempered glass and melamine
• Plinths
• Legs
• Cover panels
• Deco strips/mouldings
• Countertops except LILLTRÄSK
• Sinks except FYNDIG
• UTRUSTA dish drainers for wall cabinet
• VÅGLIG connecting rail
• UTRUSTA supporting frame for waste
• UTRUSTA connect fronts

SEKTION warranty (PDF)

What is not covered under this warranty?
Knobs, handles, LILLTRÄSK worktop. FÖRVARA drawers, UTRUSTA wire baskets, TUTEMO, and HÖRDA open cabinet have a 10-year warranty. See also general conditions on this page.

About Muskoka
The District Municipality of Muskoka, more generally referred to as the District of Muskoka or Muskoka, is a Regional Municipality located in Central Ontario, Canada. Muskoka extends from Georgian Bay in the west to the northern tip of Lake Couchiching in the south, to the western border of Algonquin Provincial Park in the east. Located approximately a two-hour car drive north of Toronto, Muskoka spans 6,475 km2 (2,500 sq mi). Muskoka has some 1,600 lakes, making it a popular cottaging destination.

This region, which, along with Haliburton, Kawartha Lakes, and Peterborough County is referred to as “cottage country”, sees over 2.1 million visitors annually. Muskoka is a scenic area sprinkled with picturesque villages and towns, farming communities, and lakeside vacation hotels and resorts near to golf courses, country clubs, and marinas. The regional government seat is Bracebridge and the largest population centre is Huntsville.

The name of the municipality derives from a First Nations chief of the 1850s. Lake Muskoka was then the hunting grounds of a band led by Chief Yellowhead or Mesqua Ukie. He was revered by the government, who built a home for him in Orillia where he lived until his death at the age of 95.

Peninsula Lake, near Huntsville in Muskoka

Muskoka has 60,000 permanent residents, but an additional 100,000 seasonal property owners spend their summers in the region every year, making this a major summer colony. Many of the seasonal properties are large mansion-like summer estates, some of which have been passed down through families from generation to generation. Most of these expensive properties can be found along the shores of Muskoka’s three major lakes: Lake Muskoka, Lake Rosseau, and Lake Joseph. In recent years, various Hollywood and sports stars have built retreats in Muskoka, including Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, Mike Weir, Martin Short, Harry Hamlin, Cindy Crawford, Goldie Hawn, and Kurt Russell.

The Muskoka region was ranked #1 for best trips of 2011 by National Geographic. It also was among the best trips of 2012 by National Geographic.

The soap opera Paradise Falls, about a fictitious cottage community, was shot partly on location here, to take advantage of the scenic background. Many summer camps are located in the region, to take advantage of the lakes, which offer opportunities for canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing, and other water activities. The area provides a refuge from hot cities during the summer months.

There are six municipalities in Muskoka: the towns of Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, and Huntsville; and the townships of Georgian Bay, Lake of Bays, and Muskoka Lakes. The Wahta Mohawk Territory and Moose Point 79 are also in the district.

The animated TV show Total Drama Island was said to take place in an unspecified area in Muskoka, which aired on Teletoon.

Muskoka has an abundance of things to see and do. The list is long with something for every taste and interest. Visit a museum, hike a pristine trail, stargaze, relax in front of a bonfire, swim in sparkling waters, shop for that perfect piece of art, sip some local wine or beer on a dock, get up close and personal with wildlife, pamper yourself at a spa, give your taste buds a treat, photograph stunning vistas, or enjoy one of the many events and festivals which reflect Muskoka’s charm and uniqueness. Whether you feel like being outdoors or indoors, whether you are a beginner or an expert, whatever the season, whatever the budget, Muskoka has something for everyone.