Hotels near Bala Falls, Muskoka Lakes

Recently returned from a five night stay over the July 1st long weekend. Stayed in Maplewood King room. Room was fairly comfortable with most of what you might want, airconditioning, plus a good sized bar fridge, however I was taken aback by the nickel and dimeing going on. No mugs for coffee, yet a coffee maker, only paper cups. Plastic covered flimsy plastic cups as well. No obvious signs of trying to be environmentally aware as used soap and towels changed daily, even if hung up again. Had a balcony with two chairs, one in the midst of breaking and a lounge chair like the awful ones on the beach. Why not two lounge chairs if it is a King room? More about the beach later. No table on the balcony or in the room for drinks, etc. One uncomfortable armchair in the room along with a desk chair at the desk, so no comfortable place to sit in the room other than the bed, which was very comfortable indeed. Included bathrobes, which was nice and the towels were plentiful, though did have to ask the maid for face cloths. At the beach towels were provided at a small shack. The lounge chairs were cheap plastic ones with webbing that was sagging or torn on most of them and there were very few, not more than 18 or so. No side tables to put a drink on and no umbrellas for shade. Finding a chair to sit on anywhere outside was a challenge. There were four muskoka chairs on the main dock which could have accommodated many more. No ladder into the water on the main dock, so heaven help anyone who fell in and tried to get out again. There were four chairs on a point overlooking the small bay, though only three on the last day. There were six chairs at the front of the reception where a fire was lit at night to roast marshmallows and make s’mores (ingredients included which was a nice touch). All other dock seating was in front of private rooms, so not everyone could use them. Considering the size of the inn and the number of expected guests, seating was woefully inadequate. The staff were very pleasant and helpful. Service in Vintages, or at least the outdoor seating for it, was spotty as a glass of wine that was ordered never appeared despite a repeated request. Had to get it removed from the bill as well. Food was ok but overpriced as is everywhere in Muskoka currently. We had much better meals elsewhere. The grounds were not well kept. The beach was sadly in need of a good raking and cleanup, the pathways needed brushed or raked of tree debris. Grass was growing out of the eavestroughs in front of our balcony which hadn’t been cleaned in awhile apparently. I don't know if all of this is a result of Clublink taking over the property but it is not what one would expect for the price and how it is advertised.

Upon arrival arrival for check-in the person at the desk was very friendly and courteous. The room was very clean and spacious and felt very cosy. My group had 3 people and we all had plenty if space to move around and had we slept comfortably. There is a boat launching area for guests and the parking lit can accommodate cars with their boats in tow. The hotel is right next to the Muskoka Steamship Discovery Centre and there are a few restaurants within walking distance. The only issue is most of restaurants close around 9pm so you must eat early. Our group enjoyed our stay and I would highly recommend this hotel if you are in the area for a visit or just to go on a short trip to relax. The steamship ship cruises are a must do and is the main attraction in this area. I will definitely return to this area for another visit.