Spring presents an ideal time to explore on foot and on the water.

Take a canoe or paddleboard out onto the lake and paddle into coves and marshes to see how water plants and birds make their entrances after winter ends. Hike through the woods of the island and climb to the top of the lookout point – from there, the landscape is revealed in all its pure green glory, finally shrugging off the browns and whites of winter and blooming with colour.

In summer, Muskoka comes into its own, warming the soul, body, and mind.

There’s nothing more primally satisfying than a swim first thing in the morning in the lake, slowly becoming one with the warm water, gazing back at the forested slopes of the island. Picnics can be arranged for every meal, outside on the terrace or by the dock, or even in a motorboat taken out for a change of scene. Fishing the bays and coves of the lake may bring in a bounty of fish for dinner, or simply satisfy a meditative yearning.

The peace of autumn resounds through the natural world of Lake of Bays.

The cooler temperatures usher in a chance to be more active on land and on the water. Boat rides over the water to take photos of resplendent trees in their reds and yellows and oranges. Coffee on the dock, wrapped in a cozy, warm sweater, looking out at the mirror-like water. Walks and hikes through the changing forest and breathing in that unique autumn scent of leaves and earth. And always, evening chats around the fire with the stars above.

With the lake frozen and the land covered in snow, life becomes simpler.

Taking the place of boats, snowmobiles are used for transportation and for the thrill of sledding across the frozen ice. Anglers may wish to try the challenge of ice fishing, which requires patience, warm clothing, and a good Thermos of hot coffee Snowshoeing, hiking, cross-country skiing and fat-tire snow biking through the snowy woods is always invigorating, with an epilogue of comfort food indoors watching the snow silently fall outside. Downhill skiing is available just a 20-minute drive away, and spa services at the mainland residence club can always be indulged in on a winter day.