Residence Inn by Marriott Gravenhurst Muskoka Wharf is a suite hotel at Muskoka Wharf, the waterfront district of Gravenhurst on the edge of Lake Muskoka. Residence Inn is Marriott's extended-stay brand, which usually means suites with more space and kitchen facilities than a standard hotel room, and that makes it a handy choice for families, groups of friends and anyone staying several nights. Gravenhurst is the southern gateway to Muskoka, so the hotel is the first real stop for many visitors driving up from Toronto, and the wharf puts the lake, the historic steamships and a cluster of restaurants and shops close to hand. Room types and inclusions, from breakfast to parking, change by season, so check when you book.
Location and getting around
Gravenhurst sits at the southern edge of Muskoka, roughly a two-hour drive from Toronto in good traffic, and Muskoka Wharf is its lakeside district. The wharf is where the heritage steamships sail from, and a stroll along the water, a boat tour and a meal by the lake are all within a short walk of the hotel.
Beyond the wharf you will want a car, because the other towns of the region, Bracebridge, Port Carling, Bala and Huntsville, are spread across the district, and the best of the lakes, trails and lookouts are a drive away. Check the parking arrangements and any fees when you book.
The rooms and the feel
Expect a modern chain hotel built around suites rather than a rustic lodge. Layouts, kitchen equipment, sofa beds, breakfast, pool access, pet rules and fees differ between room types and change through the year, so read the details of the rate you choose.
The benefit of an extended-stay format is space and the ability to keep groceries, cook a simple meal and spread out after a day on the water. Lake-view rooms, where offered, cost more, particularly in July and August and on long weekends, when cottage country is at its busiest.
Who it suits and what to know: families, multi-couple weekends and long-stay guests will get the most from it, as will travellers who like the predictability of a major hotel brand. It is less suited to anyone who wants a private beach, a full spa resort or a quiet lakeside cabin, and the other hotels on this page cover those needs.
Summer and the autumn colour season fill early, so book ahead. In winter, the hotel works as a base for snowshoeing, skating and a day at nearby ski areas, though you should check road conditions before you drive. Whatever the season, compare cancellation terms before paying.
Why stay here
- ✓Suite hotel at Muskoka Wharf
- ✓Lakeside Gravenhurst setting
- ✓Near the historic steamships
- ✓Suites with extra space (check room details)
- ✓Restaurants and shops at the wharf
- ✓Southern gateway to Muskoka
- ✓Parking arrangements (check when you book)
- ✓Rates vary by season
Good questions
Where is Residence Inn Gravenhurst?+
It is at Muskoka Wharf, the waterfront district of Gravenhurst on Lake Muskoka, about two hours by road from Toronto in good traffic.
Are there kitchens in the rooms?+
Residence Inn suites usually offer kitchen facilities, but layouts differ, so check the room details when you book.
Can I see the other Muskoka towns from here?+
Yes, with a car. Bracebridge, Port Carling, Bala and Huntsville are all a drive away.
