This tiny lakeside village in Ontario is a fall dream with stunning colours and cozy harvest charm

It looks like a scene from a storybook.

Lead Writer, Travel

Fall is the perfect time to visit a cozy little village, and this quaint Ontario gem is brimming with autumn charm.

Located a road trip away from Toronto, the tiny lakeside village has pumpkin-filled porches, vibrant foliage views, and quaint shops that look like they were plucked from a storybook.

Bala is an enchanting hidden gem located in the scenic region of Muskoka. Like the rest of Muskoka, the town offers stunning views come autumn, with fiery trees, crisp air and cozy vibes.

Perched at the convergence of Lake Muskoka and the Moon River, the little town is a "must-visit," according to Discover Muskoka, and is even more enchanting during the fall months.

You can spend some time exploring the cute boutiques, where you'll find cozy scarves, knit sweaters and more.

You can also grab a seasonal drink at Jack & Stella or Olivers Coffee to get you in the autumn spirit.

Bala is known as the "Cranberry Capital of Ontario," and hosts an annual cranberry festival every fall. This year, the festival is set to take place from October 17 to 19.

The festival celebrates the harvest season and is complete with cranberry cuisine, cranberry-themed arts and crafts, and more.If you want to try a truly unique fall adventure, you can head to Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery, where you can wade through a sea of berries during the Cranberry Plunge.

The farm also offers scenic trails, treats, and more.

With vibrant foliage, harvest charm, and unique experiences, Bala is an enchanting spot for an autumn escape.

Discover Muskoka website

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.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

A burst of snow will bring up to 20 cm to Ontario this week before the cold snap ends

Temperatures will warm up but still be cold enough for "lingering" snow.

CSIS is hiring for these jobs and you can get paid up to $120,000 a year to be nosy

You'll help investigate threats to national security. 🔍

U of T is the only Canadian school in the top 10 of this new best universities ranking

It beat every Canadian university in all of these subject areas! 📚

Canada's 'most romantic town' is near Toronto and it's filled with European charm

It's the perfect place to visit with your favourite person.