Positive Impact Spotlight: Muskoka Soul

There are places that make you want to stay longer. Muskoka Soul, nestled on Cliff Bay along the shores of Lake Muskoka, is one of them. A custom-built, post-and-beam lake house offering luxurious lakeside accommodation, it is also a property that takes seriously the responsibility of caring for the extraordinary natural landscape that surrounds it. In 2026, that commitment was formally recognised when Muskoka Soul achieved Level 3 in GreenStep’s Sustainable Tourism program; a meaningful milestone that reflects genuine, day-to-day environmental practice rather than a marketing exercise.

Thoughtful Choices, Beautifully Executed

Sustainability at Muskoka Soul isn’t a policy document on a shelf, it shows up in the details. Energy-efficient LED lighting and appliances manage energy consumption throughout the property, while low-flow fixtures and timed garden irrigation keep water use in check. Perhaps most distinctively, clover has been incorporated into the landscaping as a lower-maintenance, lower-water alternative to traditional grass, a quietly intelligent choice that reduces watering requirements while supporting pollinators. These are the kinds of decisions that demonstrate what good environmental stewardship actually looks like in a luxury accommodation context: thoughtful, practical, and entirely invisible to the guest experience.

Reducing Waste and Doing It Well

Waste reduction is one of Muskoka Soul’s standout strengths. The property achieved an impressive 85% score in the solid-waste category of its GreenStep assessment – a result built on clearly labelled recycling and compost bins, straightforward guest information about waste sorting, and a deliberate move away from single-use personal care products. Upcycled furnishings add another layer to the story, reflecting a broader philosophy of making thoughtful use of existing materials rather than defaulting to the new. The result is a property where responsible choices have been made easy for guests and owners alike.

Rooted in the Community

For Muskoka Soul, sustainability doesn’t stop at the property line. The business works with local suppliers for housekeeping, maintenance, and food, keeping economic benefit circulating within the region. Artwork purchased from Canadian and local artists fills the space, turning the property into a quiet showcase for regional creativity. And before guests even arrive, they’re introduced to local activities, seasonal events, and nearby experiences. This encourages a deeper, more connected engagement with the communities and landscapes of Muskoka. This is tourism that gives back, not just tourism that visits.

The Journey Continues

Achieving GreenStep Level 3 is a real accomplishment but Muskoka Soul is clear-eyed about the fact that it’s a milestone, not a destination. The next phase of the journey focuses on strengthening the tracking of energy, water, and waste consumption, expanding guest information about responsible travel, and exploring opportunities to support local watershed health and native shoreline planting. These are the kinds of commitments that will matter most over time. Building a property that doesn’t just minimise its impact on Lake Muskoka, but actively contributes to its health.

Discover more at MuskokaSoul.com

The Positive Impact Spotlight series celebrates the businesses and organisations advancing sustainable tourism across the Great Canadian Wilderness, just north of Toronto.