The Homes of Niagara
From country estates to historic houses, the Niagara Region has some of the most elegant and desirable homes in Canada.
Whether you are looking for a country retreat, a vacation home, or a retirement villa, Niagara has plenty to offer.
The Region
Pristine parkland, flower gardens, lakeside vistas and winding vineyards dot the coastline while the best of Niagara's restaurants provide culinary delicacies fitting to the ambience of their delightful surroundings.
Just two hours from Toronto, Niagara Region offers the perfect blend of sophisticated urban living and the beauty and tranquillity of the countryside.
The Wineries
Nestled in the rolling countryside between Grimsby and Niagara on the Lake and protected by the ridges on the Niagara Escarpment are the wineries of the Niagara Peninsula. Home to over 50 wineries, winemaker's and their staff welcome you to discover the traditions that bring international acclaim to their outstanding wines.
The Theatre
Renowned internationally for single-handedly revitalizing and re-energizing the works of George Bernard Shaw, the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake is the only theatre in the world dedicated exclusively to plays by Shaw and his contemporaries.
The Dining
With some of the best restaurants in Canada, the region has become known as the home of “Niagara Cuisine.” The chefs of Niagara focus on fresh regional produce to match the offerings from the local vineyards. Niagara cuisine is truly fusion food with unique twists and wine country influences.
The Golf
With more than forty golf courses of all types, sizes, shapes and descriptions, Niagara is one of Canada's premier golf destinations.
The History
One of the first areas to be settled in Canada, the Niagara Region is rich in history. Niagara on the Lake, for a short time the capital of Upper Canada, is now a designated historic site with the best-preserved collection of early 19th century residential, commercial, ecclesiastical and institutional buildings in Canada.
The Sights
The Niagara Region is one of the world’s greatest tourist destinations, attracting more than 12 million visitors a year.
Attractions include the Niagara Parkway (Winston Churchill called it "the most beautiful Sunday drive in the world”); hiking along the Bruce Trail; Fort Erie Race Track and Casino Niagara and Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort for those who like to play the odds; Marineland for the kids; and, of course, Niagara Falls, one of the great natural wonders of the world.
The Necessities and the Niceties
With more than 400,000 people living in the region and millions of tourists arriving annually, the Niagara Region has a unique mix of shops suited to every taste and budget.
Boutiques, art galleries and antique shops abound with unique and delightful treasures at every turn. Food lovers browse local farmers markets and roadside stalls for the freshest seasonal produce.
Guests and travellers have their choice of some of the best accommodation in the country, with luxurious five-star hotels, country inns, and historic bed and breakfasts. And for those that enjoy a little pampering, the region has dozens of spas for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Getting In and Out
The region has a number of small municipal and private airports. The Niagara District Airport is located in the heart of the region, ideally positioned for both business and tourists. Buffalo Niagara International Airport, just 45 minutes away, serves most major U.S. cities. Pearson International, two hours away by car, is the gateway to Canadian and international destinations.
Carriage Trade Homes
The Niagara Region has a large selection of carriage trade homes ranging from country estates to historic riverside homes.
As of January 2008, there were 55 properties on offer at more than a million dollars.
- Niagara River: a 4-bedroom, 4-bath timber frame post & beam built from first growth white pine circa 1830, situated in Whitby, Ontario was purchased, dismantled, numbered and stored in 1987 and re-erected in 1990 on a 1.3 acre lot to maximize the view of the Niagara River. On offer at $2.2 million.
- Niagara on the Lake: Built in 1835 by master builder James Blain, the 'post house inn' served as the town’s post office. A very successful inn located in the centre of town, close to shops, theatres, lake & golf course, it has five licensed guest rooms plus luxurious private owners quarters and extra suites for family and friends. On offer at $2.35 million.
- Niagara on the Lake: A riverfront Tudor cottage, this most charming of homes was built circa 1910 as a grand summer home overlooking the river. The home was updated in the 1980's and 1990's and includes a greenhouse conservatory. The walk-up attic is ideal as a studio. This home is designated under the heritage act. On offer at $2.45 million.
- Niagara on the Lake: An elegant colonial 2 storey house, built in 1900 on 2 acres of land with a view of Lake Ontario. Almost 10,000 square feet of luxurious accommodation with a professionally landscaped English garden. On offer at $5.75 million.
For expert advice about buying or selling a Carriage Trade luxury property, contact your local Royal LePage real estate agent.