Where Is Kawartha Lakes, Ontario?

Where are the Kawartha Lakes, and why are they such a big deal, especially now that summer is approaching? It’s tough to describe one of our favourite places by pointing to a map, because it’s not a single destination.

The Kawarthas are more like a sprawling paradise that spans approximately 3,000 square kilometres and is home to more than 83,000 people, more if you count all of the summer residents. The eastern border of Kawartha Lakes lies approximately 44 km from Peterborough, which is why the city is known as the “Gateway to the Kawarthas.”

Haliburton County lies to the north, while Durham Region and Northumberland County lie to the south. Lastly, Simcoe County and the Muskokas are located to the west. What can we say other than this region is as beautiful as it is massive?

Now that you have an idea of where to find Kawartha Lakes, let’s move on to a more exciting subject: everything there is to know and love about visiting, or even better, living in the gorgeous Kawarthas!

Already sold on relocating to Kawartha Lakes? Start by downloading our comprehensive Relocation Guide.

Lakes, Lakes, and More Lakes!

If you’re the type of person who would love to spend all of their time by the water, there is no better place to be than in Kawartha Lakes. Unsurprisingly, the region gets its name from the high concentration of bodies of water in the area, more than 250 when you include rivers like the Scugog River, Trent River, Otonabee River, and Burnt River, to name a few. Of these 250-plus lakes, 14 make up an interconnected chain linking the Trent Canal to Georgian Bay and Lake Ontario.

The science lesson aside, it’s easy to see why the Kawarthas have become such a sought-after destination for water enthusiasts everywhere. You could rent a canoe and then spend days exploring a vast network of lakes that include Scugog, Sturgeon, Cameron, Balsam, Pigeon, Bald, Sandy, Buckhorn, Chemong, Deer, Lovesick, Stony, Clear, and Katchewanooka.

There’s no need to come to land, except for food, of course. In which case, you’ll find tantalizing restaurants all through the City of Kawartha Lakes. (In this case, the “city” isn’t one giant municipality, but rather a collection of historic and picturesque smaller towns and townships. Of these, Lindsay is the largest population centre, followed by Bobcaygeon. That’s a helpful clarification for newcomers who might be searching for a “downtown Kawarthas” that isn’t there!)

Are you intrigued by the thought of living full-time in a beautiful vacation destination? Explore the idea even further by reading these posts next:

What to Do in Kawartha Lakes

The number of fun adventures and fun things to do in Kawartha Lakes is endless. When you’re not heading out for ice cream in one of the bustling towns or hitting the massive network of hiking and cycling trails throughout Peterborough and the Kawarthas, you could be golfing at Lindsay Golf and Country Club, Sturgeon Point Golf Club, Wolf Run Golf Club, or one of many incredible golf courses located right in the region.

Mostly, though, visitors and residents of the Kawarthas are all about the water, and for good reasons. This is where you’ll find some of Ontario’s most beautiful beaches, such as those in Balsam Lake Provincial Park and Bobcaygeon Beach Park.

Unsurprisingly, the Kawarthas are a top destination for fishing enthusiasts. Rice Lake is just one of many options, a popular one due to its reputation for having more fish per acre than any other lake in Ontario. Largemouth bass and panfish love the shallow, weedy waters. From the shores of Bewdley, you can cast your line while keeping your feet safely on land.

Searching for your next home in Peterborough or Kawartha Lakes? Our latest listings might have exactly what you need!

Every Boating Experience Imaginable

If you want to be surrounded by water while staying warm and dry, there’s always boating. Buckeye Rentals offers a variety of pontoon boats that are perfect for cruising, fishing, or both. Full enclosures let you float in comfort and style in all kinds of weather, with seating for up to 10 people. For the thrillseeker, they also offer jet skis capable of towing a tube or a waterskier.

At Balsam Lake Provincial Park, you can explore at a more relaxed pace, using a human-powered canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Rentals are available right on the beach!

Dreaming of exploring the beauty of nature out on the lake for days on end? Consider a luxury rental from Egan House Boats, where packages can include a fire table, a water slide, or even a hot tub! If you’re looking for the ultimate way to explore 36 locks and more than 100 islands and anchorages, this is the chance of a lifetime!

Are you ready to buy your next home in the Kawarthas? The posts below can help:

The Kawartha Lakes Region: Should You Visit or Move?

We’ve barely begun to describe the incredible experiences that await you when you visit the beautiful Kawarthas! However, there is a risk involved; if you come, you might never want to leave.

Fortunately, Kawartha Lakes is also a fantastic place to live all year long, and there’s something to be said for the off-season. When you’re not surrounded by tourists, all is tranquil, all is calm.

And yet, the excitement really never ends. In the spring and fall, you can hike for hours and never tire of the spectacular scenery. In the winter, you can trade your waterskis for snow skis, and the fun begins all over again.

Whether you’re looking to invest in a stunning vacation property or a new forever home, Kawartha Lakes is high on the list of premium locations! To learn more, reach out to our Peterborough real estate agents at team@jeffandkatie.ca or call 705-243-9797.