Surreal Estate: $11.9 million for a Muskoka compound perched atop its own peninsula

Location: Bracebridge, Muskoka
Price: $11.9 million Size: 11,500 square feet sitting on 1.5 acres of land Bedrooms: 7 Bathrooms: 7+1 Real estate agents: David Bemmann and Jack Miller, Sotheby’s International Realty Canada

The place

A seven-bedroom, seven-bathroom woodland estate on a private peninsula in Lake Muskoka. The place is an ideal escape for a large family that loves nature—given its 210 metres of waterfront, two-storey boathouse and lake views from every room. It’s a short drive to downtown Bracebridge and Muskoka Airport and a two-hour haul to Toronto.

The history

In 1999, the current owner of this cottage retreat purchased the undeveloped land on which it now stands. Would-be buyers also have the option to purchase the whole peninsula, which comprises three additional parcels of land totalling 8.3 acres plus yet another two-storey boathouse.

Related: $5.4 million for a faux château in Mississauga fit for the Brothers Grimm

The tour

The cottage gets sunset views year-round thanks to its location at the tip of this west-facing peninsula.

A closer look reveals the wraparound cedar porch—re-planked in 2023—and flagstone path surrounding the home.

Here’s the façade, with its three-car garage.

The multi-tiered staircase greets residents in the foyer.

Just past the entrance is the Sicilian-style kitchen, equipped with a wine rack embedded in the island. 

Note the commercial-grade chef’s range and large copper farmhouse sink.

The living room features a wood-burning fireplace and soaring ceilings.

Here’s another view of the living room looking out toward the lake.

Off the living room is this screened-in porch with a skylight.

There’s also a formal dining room and a breakfast nook.

The second-floor gallery above the living room comes with cedar beams and shiplap ceilings.

Here’s the reverse view of the gallery—note the pair of busts. 

This is the main bedroom, which has another wood-burning fireplace and an ensuite bathroom.

Its bathroom is fitted with a soaker tub, a double vanity and a one-seat sofa. 

It also has two water closets and a glass shower.

A trip outside highlights the Flintstones-esque custom hot tub with a built-in waterfall feature.

The flagstone path leads to many hideaways, including this veranda with a bench swing.

There’s nothing like tons of ancient rock and forest to give one a sense of place.

The two-storey boathouse has three slips and plenty of dock space.

The deck is a terrific spot for a lake party with friends, especially with the built-in sound system.

And, finally, it wouldn’t be Muskoka without a few boats.

Have a home that’s about to hit the market? Send your property to realestate@torontolife.com.