The Blue Mountains: Luxury Real Estate in Southern Georgian Bay
Living in the town of the Blue Mountains means having access to a range of outdoor activities all year long and enjoying a high quality of life. Luxury real estate in the Blue Mountains includes both permanent homes and vacation properties, ideal for those seeking a recreational lifestyle. The area has seen increased activity in the high end housing market and a growing number of luxury homes for sale. Carriage Trade listings in the Blue Mountains include both waterfront cottages and country estates listed at over $1.2 million.
The Region
The Blue Mountains is located in southwestern Ontario, about 170 kilometres northwest of Toronto. The town takes its name from a 300-metre high piece of the Niagara Escarpment known as the Blue Mountain. Located on the shores of Georgian Bay, the township extends to the Beaver Valley, Kolapore Forest, and the Pretty River Conservation Area.
The township is home to over 6,000 people, approximately one-third of whom who live in the scenic harbour town of Thornbury.
The Skiing
Blue Mountain is Ontario’s largest mountain village resort with 364 acres of skiable terrain, and it is the third most popular ski destination in Canada after Whistler-Blackcomb and Mont-Tremblant. There are more than 40 ski trails that are groomed daily, 30 of which are lit up for night skiing. New skiers can take advantage of private lessons to find their footing on the slopes, while those with more experience can test their skills in the terrain park’s rails and half pipe or on one of the eight double black diamond trails. At the base of the mountain is Blue Mountain Village, a pedestrian village with ski-in accommodations for food and beverage, shopping, and lodging.
The Osler Bluff Ski Club has 20 runs spread over 130 acres of skiable terrain. In fact, this private club boasts more skiable acreage per member than any other club in Ontario. Their impressive snowmaking technology allows for a pumping capacity of 3,000 US gallons per minute ensuring that trails are well groomed at all times.
The Georgian Peaks Club offers 24 trails on some of the Niagara Escarpment’s most diverse terrain, meaning that the runs range from easy to expert. While the difficulty level varies between runs, they all offer spectacular views of Georgian Bay.
Beaver Valley Ski Club, located a short drive to the south-west from the town of the Blue Mountains, is another great destination for skiing and winter fun. The club’s 6 chairlifts have a capacity of 8500 people per hour allowing skiers to quickly get back up the hill and enjoy one of the club’s more than 20 runs. The club’s most famous run is Avalanche, Ontario’s steepest groomed run, perfect for those seeking big thrills!
The Golf
When ski season ends, outdoor enthusiasts move from the slopes to the links at one of the area’s many golf courses. Blue Mountain Resort has its very own golf course, Monterra, characterized by rolling fairways and stunning water features. Take in scenic views of Blue Mountain as you play this challenging 18-hole course.
The Trails
The Blue Mountains area is criss-crossed with a variety of trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore throughout the year. In winter, you’ll find trails designated for snowmobilers, cross country skiers, and snowshoers, while in summer, most of the trails are shared by hikers and mountain bikers. While the difficulty of each trail varies, you are certain to be rewarded with beautiful natural landscapes.
The Spas
Pamper yourself at one of the area’s many spas and let your stress melt away. Le Scandinave Spa offers a relaxing Scandinavian bath experience amidst forests of birch, maple, and pine, as well as a range of registered massage treatments. The spa includes a eucalyptus steam room, thermal and Nordic waterfalls, hot baths, saunas, and an onsite bistro.
Blue Mountain Village’s IWA spa takes its name from the Japanese word for rock, but also relates to the spa’s motto: Inspire Wellness Always. This luxurious spa provides a unique service offering including yoga in a warm volcanic rock studio and a one-of-a-kind custom built pedicure bench. IWA has received many accolades for its high end services including Canada’s Top New Spa in 2015 and Luxury Travel Guide’s Luxury Spa of the Year – Ontario award.
Getting In and Out
The South Georgian Bay area is served by the Collingwood Regional Airport located in nearby Clearview Township. For commercial or international flights, the nearest major airport is Toronto’s Pearson International, a two-hour drive away.
Carriage Trade Homes
For expert advice about luxury homes for sale in the Blue Mountains or Carriage Trade listings in the area, contact Royal LePage Trinity Realty.
