A brand new getaway spot is opening in Ontario and it will allow you to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in a totally unique way.
Arcana Muskoka is an upcoming retreat boasting 23 "architecturally striking" cabins set along more than 3,000 feet of waterfront. Located 2.5 hours from Toronto in the rustic landscapes of Muskoka, the year-round escape is focused on reconnecting with nature and is opening in 2024.
This will be the second arcana site to open in the province, with the first having launched at a secret location in 2021.
arcana cabins.Courtesy of arcana
The experience
Arcana's mission is to "bridge the gap between urban life and the restorative superpowers of nature." The retreat is set on over 160 acres of forested land and you can totally immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural environment.
Art installation.Courtesy of arcana
Guests will be able to participate in year-round wellness experiences that allow them to engage with their surroundings.
"Arcana Muskoka is unlike any other experience in the region," Felicia Snyder, co-founder of Arcana said in a press release.
"We emphasize self-discovery through immersion in nature and the five senses. We encourage exploration not only in summer but throughout all four of Muskoka’s captivating seasons.
"Through thoughtful design, we've created a destination that offers guests moments of solitude yet ample opportunities for connectedness. With much anticipation, we look forward to bringing arcana to the heart of Muskoka."
Sauna by the water.Courtesy of arcana
One of the highlights is the signature hydrotherapy circuit which allows you to relax in a cedar sauna and brave the cold plunge. The circuit will be located by the water so you can enjoy the views during your wellness experience.
While the activities will change depending on the season, you can expect to participate in things like canoeing, swimming and hiking along the 10 kilometres of trails that lead through mature forests.
During the winter months, you can snowshoe through frosty trees and cozy up by the year-round fire pits at the cabins.
The Pavilion. Courtesy of arcana
The retreat also features a "lively, maximalist space" called the Pavilion where you can hang out with the other guests and enjoy "shared experiences" around the large fireplace.
If you're needing to unwind, you can head to the second-floor listening room and get into some "solo reflection."
The Pavilion. Courtesy of arcana
The Pavilion is home to The Honour Bar where you can grab a boozy drink or take part in arcana's DIY tea ritual.
The cabins
The cabins might just be the most unique feature of the space. The buildings are designed in the same style as the original arcana site and feature a mirrored, stainless steel exterior which allows them to blend into nature and gives them the illusion of being invisible.
The cabins seem to "disappear into the landscape" and are coated with a "wildlife-friendly texture" to protect the fauna in the area.
The cabins.Courtesy of arcana
While the mirrored exterior is similar to the original cabins, the arcana Muskoka abodes have an "enhanced" design and offer slightly more space along with some upgrades.
A bed inside the cabin.Courtesy of arcana
These include bigger windows which allow for a better view and airflow, an all-oak interior, heated floors and air-conditioning and bigger bathrooms. You'll also find in-cabin amenities such as organic skin and hair care products as well as pour-over coffee supplies.
Hot tub by the water.Courtesy of arcana
Each cabin has its own outdoor area complete with a fire pit and seating so you can spend your days immersed in nature. A few cabins even come with private wood-fired hot tubs perched right along the shore.
The food
When it comes to meals, you can expect to indulge in some gourmet dishes with seasonal inspirations. Arcana Muskoka has collaborated with Restaurant Pearl Morissette to create a "two-day food journey" and guests will find locally-grown food and ingredients awaiting them in their cabins.
The food can be prepared either in the cabins or over the fire with the outdoor cooking program.
The Cheese Boutique will provide "the freshest of Ontario's produce, meats and more" for some extra indulgences. The menu will rotate seasonally and more details will be revealed closer to the opening date, so keep an eye out.
arcana cabin at night.Courtesy of arcana
Bookings
If you're eager to book a getaway for next summer, then you're in luck, because a limited amount of stays are being released over the next four weeks for summer 2024. During the first week, arcana is releasing stays of five nights or more at an introductory rate of $395 per night for up to two guests.
Winter, spring, and fall stays will be released in the future. You can head to the arcana website to book your vacation.
With waterfront hot tubs and cabins that blend into the trees, this new getaway spot is a super unique place to unwind in Ontario.
arcana Muskoka
Bed in a cabin.
Price: $395 per night introductory rate
Location: Muskoka, ON
Why You Need To Go: This new wellness retreat is located just outside of Toronto and features tons of activities that allow you to reconnect with nature.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.