The community of Dorset is a year-round global tourist destination. It’s located along the eastern shore of Lake of Bays and is known for its pristine lakes, rivers, and beautiful views. Dorset is a popular place for cottagers and retirees because of its access to endless outdoor recreation activities, entertainment, and relaxed lifestyle. Close to 500 residents call Dorset home year-round and that population triples in size during the summer months with cottagers.
Dorset is known for its famous lookout tower off highway 35 which was originally used as a fire lookout in its early days of being built. Visitors can climb to the observation deck that showcases a panoramic view of the community. This is especially popular to do during the Fall season because it provides a beautiful view full of fall foliage.
There are no schools local to Dorset so public-school elementary school students are bussed to the nearby community of Dwight to attend Irwin Memorial Public School, while high school students are bussed to the Town of Huntsville to attend Huntsville High School. Students in the Catholic school system will attend elementary school in Huntsville at Saint Mary Catholic School and high school in Bracebridge at St. Domenic Catholic Secondary School.
As mentioned above, green space is not limited to Dorset with plenty of parks, green spaces, and trails to enjoy. Dorset Lions Centennial Park is a popular park for many as there is something for everyone here. There’s plenty of green space for kids to run around and enjoy, a horseshoe pit for adults, and a woodland trail that is accessible to everyone. During the winter the community will build an outdoor skating rink here for public use.
For those who enjoy walking and the outdoors, the Dorset Heritage Walking Tour is an easy walk for those who want to take in the whole community. As you walk along you will find many informational posts detailing how the community of Dorset came to be. It starts at the Dorset Parkette and takes you around the community finishing on Main Street in the downtown core. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, the Ronville Hiking Trail is a historic cliffside walk. The hike is just over a kilometer long, but its steep terrain makes it challenging.
For boaters, the only boat launch and dock is the Dorset Parkette. This is also a popular spot for swimming during the summer and there’s a picnic area here so you can make a day at the beach.
Since the community is small access to certain amenities is limited so residents will have to travel to the nearby town of Huntsville for more urban amenities. For groceries, Robinson’s General Store will have all your daily items needs. If you need a quick gas fill-up, there’s a gas station that covers each corner of the community.
Downtown Dorset is bustling with entrepreneurs. You’ll find some amazing local shops selling anything from retail, to art, services, and accessories as well as some great bakeries, cafés, and restaurants. The Trading Bay Dining Co is a casual dining restaurant on the water that serves delicious and healthy seasonal food items. Its friendly atmosphere and the tranquil setting surrounding you make it the perfect place for a night out.
The community of Dorset is vibrant and is perfect for those who are looking at retiring in a more rural setting or those looking for a great place to buy a cottage property.
-The BDAR Team