The sizzling sports romance series Heated Rivalry has captivated a global audience since its launch on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV earlier this month. The show's passionate fanbase is now being offered a unique opportunity to step into the world of its protagonists by visiting the real Canadian locations featured throughout the six-part drama.
From Screen to Scene: Walking in Shane and Ilya's Footsteps
At the heart of the series is the clandestine romance between Canadian hockey star Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and his Russian rival Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie). Their journey from enemies to lovers unfolds against a backdrop of stunning Ontario landscapes, from serene lakes to bustling city arenas. For viewers eager to recreate their favourite moments, here is the definitive guide to exploring the province through the lens of the show.
Lake Muskoka: The Idyllic Summer Retreat
Much of the fictional series is set across Canada, with pivotal scenes taking place in the picturesque region of Muskoka. This area, famed as a celebrity getaway, provides the setting for Shane and Ilya's summer romance. While the specific cottage seen on screen is a private residence, fans can find a similarly luxurious escape at nearby Jayne's Cottages.
Whether opting for a modern design or a classic rustic lodge, visitors can bask in the sun-drenched beauty of Lake Muskoka for a secluded getaway. The wider region offers stunning lakes, forests, and charming towns, with year-round activities from boating and hiking to skiing and shopping, allowing everyone to live out their own off-screen version of the story.
Hamilton: Industrial Backdrop with Heart
Located just an hour from Toronto, Hamilton – often called 'The Hammer' – serves as the primary backdrop for Season One. Its vibrant mix of arts, culture, and dining is integral to the show's atmosphere. Devotees can start their tour at Relay Coffee Roasters, the real-life café used as the fictional Straw+Berry smoothie shop frequented by hockey star Scott Hunter.
For a more emotional pilgrimage, Shamrock Park is the site of the heart-wrenching pink tunnel scene where Ilya calls Shane. Furthermore, Dundurn Castle stands in for Moscow in the series, shown as the location where Ilya jogs during his off-season training. This National Historic Site also offers guided tours into 19th-century life, blending pop culture with rich Canadian history.
Toronto: The Heart of Hockey and High Life
As Ontario's capital and the epicentre of authentic Canadian hockey culture, Toronto features prominently. On a warm day, fans can head to Lavelle, the stylish rooftop lounge bar 16 stories up where Ilya and Shane share a drink before the All-Star game, enjoying its pools, cabanas, and panoramic city views.
No tour would be complete without acknowledging the sport at the series' core. A visit to the Scotiabank Arena, home of the Toronto Maple Leafs, offers behind-the-scenes VIP tours to feel the pre-game tension of the characters. Nearby, Real Sports bar, with its 199 screens and 100 beer taps, is the perfect spot to enjoy a game as the characters might. To truly recreate the on-ice rivalry, the Sleeman Centre in Guelph, an hour's drive away, is the actual rink used for the hockey arena scenes throughout the series.
The global success of Heated Rivalry has done more than tell a compelling story; it has created a new, immersive travel itinerary for its fans. By visiting these Ontario locations, supporters can connect with the show in a uniquely tangible way, walking the same paths and soaking in the same vistas as their favourite characters.
