Perched on a granite bluff overlooking Lake Rosseau in Ontario’s Muskoka region, JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa is a masterclass in refined wilderness hospitality.
The story begins in 1894, when John Frederick Pain and his wife Charlotte Tuck opened Paignton House, a modest summer resort catering to fishermen and farmers on the shores of Lake Rosseau. Over time, it evolved into a seasonal haven for vacationers drawn to Muskoka’s rugged beauty and restorative calm.
Today, the resort stands as a luxurious homage to its origins: the foundation of the original Paignton House remains visible from the rooftop terrace, and one wing still bears its name. This blend of heritage and modernity infuses the property with a quiet reverence for its past, anchoring its contemporary elegance in over a century of lakeside hospitality.
Inside, the décor channels Muskoka’s natural palette, white oak benches shaped like canoes, hand-painted furnishings, and stone fireplaces in every room. The lobby is newly renovated, with textures that evoke forest, lake, and sky. It’s rustic elegance with a polished finish.
The resort offers 221 rooms, including studios and one-bedroom suites. Studios feature galley kitchens, while suites offer full kitchens. Expect pastel tones, Muskoka stone fireplaces, marble bathrooms with separate tubs and showers, plush robes, and lake-view balconies in select categories. In-room amenities include high-speed Wi-Fi, safes, cable TV, and kitchenettes or full kitchens depending on room type.
Guests arriving by boat can moor directly at the resort’s dock, with docking rates available seasonally. From the lake, the property rises like a grand lodge – its tiered terraces and glass-fronted suites reflecting the water and sky. It’s a cinematic arrival, especially at sunset.
Dining is a highlight.
- Muskoka Chophouse serves Certified Angus Beef and award-winning wines in a lodge-style setting.
- Teca offers Italian fare with an open kitchen and standout dishes like lobster ravioli.
- Lakes Bar & Lounge provides cocktails and live music with lake views.
- Crystal Head Vodka ICEBAR, created in partnership with Dan Aykroyd, is a -15°C tasting cave made of 15,000 lbs of ice, featuring a chandelier of 36 vodka bottles.
Spa Rosseau offers hydrotherapy, massages, and seasonal treatments. Guests booking any spa service gain access to the indoor-outdoor heated pool and relaxation lounges.
The resort hosts monthly concerts blending world-class music with Muskoka’s natural acoustics. For business and celebrations, there are 11 meeting rooms and over 12,000 sq ft of event space, plus stunning outdoor venues for up to 400 guests.
Valet parking is available at $30/day. Boat docking rates vary seasonally and by vessel size – guests are advised to contact the resort directly for current pricing and availability.
JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka isn’t just a resort—it’s a lakeside sanctuary where luxury is layered with legacy. Whether arriving by car or boat, guests are welcomed into a world where nature and refinement coalesce.