There’s no denying it: Winter’s simply a magnificent season in which to visit Muskoka (it’s even better if you happen to live here!). Winter’s also an excellent time to take a well earned rest from the hustle and bustle of our everyday lives, and to recapture, if only for a day or two, the magic of simply kicking back and relaxing.

  One of the best places to take a well-earned Muskoka winter break is Patterson-Kaye Lodge located just 10 minutes away from Bracebridge. Owners Christine and Norman Miller have worked hard to make the family-run lodge a warm and friendly place, and pride themselves on the fact their guests seem to waste no time in making themselves feel right at home.

  Patterson-Kay’s main lodge is nestled amongst towering white pines on the edge of Lake Muskoka, and visitors are greeted when they first enter the building by a scene right out of the best of those Muskokan coffee table books. The first thing you’ll notice is a huge granite fireplace, surrounded by exquisitely polished hardwood floors and a collection of antique furnishings. Topping it all, a high cathedral ceiling adds to the feeling that guests are in for a well-deserved traditional-style Muskoka getaway.

  Once inside your room, that cozy feeling continues. Each room has comes equipped with a fireplace and, when you’re not out enjoying yourself outside, you can relax in front of your own colour TV and VCR. Or soak in your own Jacuzzi tub or air-massage tub. You can prepare a meal in the kitchenette, but if, after a hard-day’s skiing you’re not all that keen on having to cook… instead, you might want to check out the variety of dining available in nearby Bracebridge.

  Winter activities abound, with excellent cross-country skiing on Patterson-Kaye’s own groomed trails, -- the use of their on-site trails is complimentary. Other cross-country ski trails are located nearby, at the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre, Kerr Park and the K.O.A. near Gravenhurst, where you can rent skis if you don’t have your own. Snowshoeing is another great way to see the snow-covered scenery (complimentary snowshoes are supplied), and an on-site skating rink is available. When you’re done being active, there’s an outdoor hot tub in which to relax.

  Snowmobilers, too, find that Patterson-Kaye has much to offer. The property has access to a number of OFSC trails, and for those without a machine of their own, rentals can be arranged, including delivery to the lodge.

  During the warmer weather, too, there are all kinds of sports and leisure activities on offer, such as water sports, fishing (bass, pike and walleye are common catches), tennis, golf and a variety of planned activities for young and old alike. For those who prefer things really quiet, the lodge’s waterside is festooned with colourful Muskoka chairs... heaven!

  For further details, phone (705) 645-4169 or toll free 1-800-561-6998, or e-mail pklodge@muskoka.com. Alternatively, visit the website www.pklodge.com.