Taking on the Canadian wilderness can be a daunting task. But Killarney Lodge in Ontario’s Algonquin Park has elevated the experience to a gentle art. On a peninsula jutting into Lake of Two Rivers, the lodge is a serene refuge of 27 private lakeside log cabins, each with its own canoe. Early-morning risers can paddle onto the misty waters to catch the sights and sounds of nature waking up—or just lounge in robes on their private deck enjoying room service for breakfast. And on crisp clear nights, they can enjoy magical star-filled skies from the comforts of home base.

This historic property, tucked into the woods and craggy rocks of the Canadian Shield, started life in 1935 as a fishing lodge with a few cabins. Since then, both the provincial park and the lodge have become wildly popular destinations for Canadian and international visitors who crave a wilderness getaway, a place to reconnect with nature or a personal spiritual retreat. The lodge has preserved the original rustic vibe while offering state-of-the-art amenities and hospitality—a combination that lures guests back year after year.

A stay at Killarney Lodge includes three meals a day and nighttime snacks 24/7. For those heading off to explore Algonquin Park, staff can pack a hearty picnic lunch filled with enough snacks and drinks to keep energy levels up along the trail. The lodge’s kitchen prepares fine country-style meals flavoured with fresh herbs grown in the on-site garden and rounded out with home-baked desserts. Guests can bring their own wine, beer, etc. The airy dining room boasts the original fieldstone fireplace, gleaming hardwood and comfortable seating.

The lodge is the perfect base camp for exploring the surrounding lakes, trails and primeval forests. Access is easy to the area’s authentic experiences—including hiking trails that criss-cross the parkland, the visitor centre, bike rentals and nature centre programs on everything from the park’s human history to the magical sound of the howling wolf. Indulge in a little wildlife watching—moose, deer, beaver, loons and, if luck is on your side, perhaps a bear or the elusive wolf. For guests who prefer tamer pursuits, the sandy beach on the peninsula at Beaver House Bay is equipped with chairs and other paddling options such as lightweight kayaks and paddleboards.

The Arts Centre, which exhibits woodworking, painting and sculpture by Ontario artists, has a gift shop and occasional art lessons. And for a step back in time, visitors can follow the short trail of the Algonquin Logging Museum to view historical displays. These include a recreated camboose camp and a steam-powered amphibious tug called an “alligator.”

Killarney Lodge is a three-season resort, open from May until October (www.killarneylodge.com).