West Vancouver: Luxury Real Estate in Canada’s Wealthiest Community
When it comes to luxury real estate in Canada, West Vancouver is in a league of its own. In this prestigious community, curved streets weave through the area between the impressive North Shore Mountains and the Pacific Ocean leading to some of Canada’s finest properties for sale. The area has the atmosphere of a remote coastal resort community, but is only a short drive away from the excitement of downtown Vancouver. Carriage Trade listings in West Vancouver range from $3 million luxury homes to gorgeous, world class waterfront estates listed as high as $25 million.
The Region
The district of West Vancouver is located on the north shore of English Bay across from the city of Vancouver, and separated from North Vancouver by the Capilano River to the east. From downtown Vancouver, all it takes is a 20-minute drive across the picturesque Lions Gate Bridge (officially known as the First Narrows Bridge) to reach the area. West Vancouver is also connected to Whistler by the Sea to Sky Highway, a scenic drive about 80 minutes north.
The area enjoys mild weather year round with well over 300 days above 0 C, and average temperatures ranging between 17 C (63 F) in July and 3 C (37 F) in January. Its coastal climate means that rains keep its vegetation looking lush all year, however the North Shore does benefit from over 2000 hours of sunlight every year.
West Vancouver is home to about 44,000 people, many of whom are among the richest Canadians. The district is often cited as Canada’s wealthiest municipality with average household net worth in the area surpassing $4 million. In fact, household wealth in West Vancouver is well over double that of every other community in the Greater Vancouver Area.
The Skiing
During the winter, skiers can take advantage of some of the best alpine runs in Canada. Cypress Mountain has more than 53 downhill skiing runs and 19 kilometres of cross country trails, and hosted the freestyle skiing and snowboarding events during the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver. More than half of the ski area’s runs are black diamond, however there are 7 easy runs and lessons available for beginners. Those who are not interested in skiing might spend their day at the huge snow-tubing park or take part in one of the popular snowshoeing tours.
Ski enthusiasts can also hit the slopes at one of the ski areas in neighbouring North Vancouver. Grouse Mountain is a 1250-metre peak with amazing views of the Pacific and Vancouver from its 33 ski and snowboard runs, many of which offer night skiing. To extend the season and ensure that runs are well maintained, Grouse Mountain has the North Shore’s most extensive snowmaking system. Nearby Mount Seymour offers an additional 39 runs, 12 of which are lit for night skiing.
Skiers who just can’t get enough can always head north to Whistler and enjoy one of North America’s largest ski resorts.
The Outdoors
When ski season ends and the snow melts Cypress, Grouse, and Seymour have tons of trails to explore all summer long. For those who want a challenge, the 2.9 kilometre Grouse Grind is one of the area’s most challenging mountainside hikes.
Thrill seekers will definitely want to teeter across the 137-metre long Capilano Suspension bridge. Built in 1889, the wobbly bridge hangs 70 metres above the ground and has become an iconic Vancouver area landmark. If you’re looking for even more adventure, consider ziplining, paragliding, and heli-jet tours to make it an exciting summer.
For a more relaxed stroll, the scenic Seaview walk is ideal for those who find the mountain trails too difficult. Ambleside Park is another popular place to spend a peaceful afternoon and take in phenomenal views of Stanley Park and downtown Vancouver.
The Golf
Golfers in West Vancouver have two courses to choose from: Ambleside and Gleneagles. Ambleside is a par 3 course with incredible waterfront views, and Gleneagles has been rated as one of Canada’s best 9-hole courses by Canadian Golf Course magazine.
Getting In and Out
Vancouver International Airport, which has daily departures to the US, Asia, Australia, and Europe, is less than an hour by car from West Vancouver. Residents and visitors can also cross the border to the United States and fly from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, about a 4-hour drive.
The Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal provides connections to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island as well as the Sunshine Coast.
Carriage Trade Homes
For expert advice about buying or selling a Carriage Trade luxury property in West Vancouver, contact Royal LePage Sussex.
