Taboo

This resort offers a memorable escape, primarily distinguished by its stunning lake views of Lake Muskoka, which guests consistently praise as breathtaking. It provides a serene and picturesque setting, making it an ideal destination for families seeking engaging activities, couples desiring a tranquil retreat, and golf enthusiasts looking for a beautiful course. The property is frequently lauded for its overall cleanliness, the wide array of activities available, and the generally friendly and accommodating staff. Guests often highlight the peaceful atmosphere, especially during weekdays, which contributes to a relaxing stay. To maximize the experience, visitors are advised to request a room with a lake view to fully appreciate the scenery and to plan for dining, as on-site options can be limited, sometimes necessitating a short drive to nearby towns for more variety.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort offers a wide array of facilities and amenities designed to cater to various interests. Guests frequently enjoy the multiple heated outdoor pools, the expansive sandy beach on Lake Muskoka, and the availability of canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards for water activities. For land-based recreation, there are well-maintained tennis courts, pickleball courts, and basketball courts, alongside mountain bikes and scenic walking trails. A fitness center is also available, though some find it basic. While many appreciate the extensive outdoor offerings, a common point of feedback is the absence of an indoor pool or hot tub, which is particularly noted during colder months. Some guests have also experienced issues with elevators being out of service, causing inconvenience, and a few mention that certain bicycles are in disrepair.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is generally positive, with many praising the clean rooms and modern bathrooms. Rooms are often described as spacious, featuring high ceilings and, in some cases, a cozy fireplace and balconies offering beautiful views. Guests appreciate the provision of plenty of towels and toiletries. However, there are recurring concerns regarding room comfort. Many guests report that the beds are hard and the pillows are lumpy, significantly impacting sleep quality. Some rooms are noted for being dark due to insufficient lighting. Isolated issues include chipping paint, drawers not closing properly, and dripping showers. A few guests have reported finding unclean floors upon arrival or bird droppings on balconies. Additionally, some rooms lack coffee makers and water bottles, and there are occasional complaints about noise from pipes.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort's dining and food quality receive mixed but generally positive reviews. The Boathouse restaurant is frequently highlighted for its amazing views of the lake and pleasant ambiance, especially at sunset. Many guests praise the delicious meals, bistro-style cuisine, and excellent service received there, with some noting healthy options and good breakfast variety. Bar19 is also mentioned positively for its good food, great service, and live music. However, a significant point of feedback is the limited dining options on-site, often leaving guests with only one restaurant choice, which can become repetitive for longer stays. Some guests find the food expensive, particularly for dinner, and a few report inconsistent breakfast quality, including long wait times and issues like hard bagels. There are also comments about the absence of real maple syrup and a perceived lack of ambiance by some.

Location & Accessibility
The resort's location and accessibility are widely praised, being beautifully situated directly on Lake Muskoka. Guests consistently highlight the amazing views and the overall peaceful and quiet environment, making it an ideal retreat. It offers convenient access to the nearby town of Gravenhurst, typically a 10 to 15-minute drive, providing additional dining and shopping options. This proximity allows guests to explore local attractions easily. While the location itself is a major draw, some guests have noted challenges with finding the resort due to a perceived lack of signage upon entering Gravenhurst. Additionally, the roads leading to the property can be dark at night, and there have been occasional mentions of issues with the parking gate at the entrance after dark, requiring intercom use.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the resort generally receive high praise, with many guests commending the friendly staff for their helpful and attentive demeanor. Guests frequently highlight the accommodating nature of the team, from a quick check-in process to their willingness to assist with various requests. The housekeeping staff is noted for daily cleaning and respecting guest belongings. The availability of valet/shuttle service, including golf carts for on-property transport and assistance during inclement weather, is also appreciated. However, some guests have reported less positive interactions, including instances where front desk staff were perceived as overly focused on security or were unprofessional. There are also mentions of slow service at times, and a few guests found certain management responses to issues, such as elevator malfunctions, to be unapologetic or dismissive, impacting their overall experience.

Additional Information
Several additional details contribute to the overall guest experience. The resort has a pet-friendly policy, though some guests note challenges in finding suitable outdoor areas for pets. A destination fee is applied, which some guests feel is not always clearly explained. While the golf course is often described as beautiful and well-maintained, some experienced slow play and found conditions unplayable at times, particularly after maintenance. There are recurring comments about the perceived cost-cutting measures throughout the resort, such as a tightly guarded towel policy and the quality of bathroom tissue. Many guests express disappointment over the lack of water bottles in rooms and the absence of room service. Some also wish for a dedicated bar or lounge area in the main lodge for casual gatherings.