‘Heated Rivalry’ helps Muskoka launch tourism campaign

A Discover Muskoka tourism billboard Come to the Cottage is shown in Muskoka, Ont.

For “Heated Rivalry” fans, some of the most memorable scenes were “at the cottage.”

And if you’re a fan of the show, that cottage is closer than you might think – how about in the heart of Muskoka?

While that iconic Muskoka cottage that was used in the filming of the smash hit Canadian television series ‘Heated Rivalry’ isn’t available to stay in yet, Discover Muskoka is offering up thousands of other hotspots in the region to visit.

The tourism marketing agency is using this opportunity as a jumping off point to boost its tourism and run a promotional campaign, “Come To The Cottage,” where it is advertising its cottages and rental options.

The cottage just so happened to be Barlochan Cottage in Muskoka Lakes. The space, with wide open lake views and floor-to-ceiling glass walls, was more than just a setting for the show, but rather a symbol of escape, refuge and vibe change. The cottage scenes marked a turning point in the series where hockey rivals and lovers Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov decide they are heading to the cottage to take their relationship to the next level.

Two hours north of Toronto, Muskoka is one of Canada’s most popular cottage locations known for its rocky shorelines and sparkling lakes.

The smash-hit Canadian series, airing on Bell Media’s streaming platform Crave, reached audiences around the globe and created a cultural movement sparking conversations about breaking cultural norms surrounding toxic masculinity in sports.

“Heated Rivalry” is an LGBTQ romance that centres around two professional hockey rivals who find themselves secretly carrying out a relationship, which they feel the need to keep hidden due to the toxic masculine culture that is so often at the centre of professional hockey.

The show, recognized as a global sensation, is Crave’s most watched original series.

For more details on staying in Muskoka, go to the Discover Muskoka website.