Sweet & Ice Cream on Whitestone

Sweet Treats Near Whitestone Lake: Ice Cream, Chocolate & Specialty Shops

Nothing says “cottage day” quite like ending it with a cold, creamy ice cream cone or a bag of handcrafted chocolates. The good news? You don’t have to drive far from Whitestone Lake to find delicious local options. From classic Kawartha Dairy scoops right in Dunchurch to specialty chocolate shops in Parry Sound and beyond, here are the best sweet spots within a short drive.

Ice Cream Shops (Super Close & Local)

Duck Rock Resort Ice Cream – Closest & Most Convenient Drive time from most Whitestone cottages: 5–10 minutes Address: 2093 Highway 124, Dunchurch, ON Highlights: 24+ flavours of Kawartha Dairy ice cream served from a dedicated take-out window right beside the general store. New flavours appear every summer (Key Lime Pie is a recent favourite!). Great selection of cones, sundaes, milkshakes, and slushies. Perfect stop after a day on the lake or before heading back to the cottage. Hours: Ice cream typically weekends 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. (store open daily) Phone: 705-389-3322 Website: www.duck-rock.com

Whitestone Lake Marina Drive time: 10 minutes Address: 11 Marina Drive, Dunchurch, ON Highlights: Cold drinks, slushies, and Kawartha Dairy ice cream available at the marina store. A quick treat while fuelling the boat or grabbing supplies. Phone: 705-389-9900 Website: whitestonemarina.ca

Kawartha Dairy Company (Parry Sound) Drive time: ~45–55 minutes Address: 117 Bowes Street, Parry Sound, ON Highlights: Generous portions of fresh Kawartha ice cream sold directly from the local distributor. Cash only at times — call ahead. A favourite among locals for quality and value.

Salty Dog Ice Cream (Parry Sound waterfront) Drive time: ~45–55 minutes Address: Downtown Parry Sound (waterfront deck) Highlights: Local ice cream with the best seats in town — relax in Muskoka chairs overlooking the bay. Generous scoops and great views.

Other quick mentions: Dairy Queen in Parry Sound for classic Blizzards and soft-serve.

Chocolate & Specialty Sweet Shops

The Nutty Chocolatier Drive time: ~50–60 minutes (Huntsville or Parry Sound area locations) Highlights: Handcrafted Belgian chocolates, fresh truffles, imported candies, and a wide variety of sweet treats. They also carry ice cream in some locations. A true specialty shop that feels like stepping into a European chocolatier. Website: nuttychocolatiermuskoka.ca or thenuttychocolatier.com

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (various locations in Muskoka) Highlights: Handmade chocolates, caramel apples, fudge, and gourmet confections. Great for unique gifts or a sweet souvenir to take back to the cottage.

Local Bakeries & Dessert Spots

• The Bakery and Dent Bay Baking Company in Parry Sound – Fresh-baked pies, cookies, and desserts (great alternative when you want something warm and homemade).

Tips for Sweet Stops from Your Cottage

• Best time: Evenings after boating or hiking — many places stay open until 7 or 8 p.m. in summer.
• Family favourite: Duck Rock in Dunchurch is the clear winner for convenience — you can grab ice cream on the way home without a long drive.
• Combine activities: Pair a treat run with a visit to the Dunchurch playground, a quick museum stop in Parry Sound, or shopping at the general stores.
• Pro tip: Call ahead in shoulder seasons (spring/fall) as hours can change.

A stop for ice cream or chocolate has become a beloved tradition for many of our guests — it’s the perfect way to cap off a fun day on Whitestone Lake!

Planning your cottage getaway? Many of our Whitestone Lake rentals are just minutes from Duck Rock and Dunchurch, making evening treat runs super easy. Let us know your dates and group size (including how many sweet tooths you have!) and we’ll help find the perfect cottage.

What’s your must-have cottage treat — classic chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream, Belgian truffles, or something else? Share your favourites in the comments below!