Mount Royal: Distinguished Luxury Properties in the Heart of Calgary
This historic neighbourhood has long been one of the city’s most prestigious and remains one of the most desirable areas for those looking to buy luxury real estate in Calgary. Mount Royal is perfectly situated and offers both the quiet streets and scenic views of a suburban neighbourhood with convenient access to the downtown core and urban amenities. The area is divided into Upper Mount Royal and Lower Mount Royal by an escarpment that runs along Cameron and Royal SW avenues. Real estate in Lower Mount Royal is mostly made up of condos and townhouses, whereas Upper Mount Royal features heritage estates and modern mansions. Carriage Trade luxury listings in Mount Royal are some of the most sought after properties in Calgary and typically exceed $1.8 million.
The Neighbourhood
Mount Royal is located in Calgary’s southwestern quadrant, not far from the city’s downtown. It is defined as the area between 14th St SW to the west and Earl Grey Park to the east, 17th Ave SW to the north and Premier Way to the south. The neighbourhood was once informally known as “American Hill” as it was home to many wealthy American families. The Canadian Pacific Railway, an important real estate developer, promoted the area as an exclusive community for Calgary’s most prominent citizens. It later adopted the name Mount Royal, after the Montreal neighbourhood where the president of the Canadian Pacific Railway lived at the time.
There are roughly 3,500 people in Lower Mount Royal and 2,700 in Upper Mount Royal. The residents of Mount Royal are among some of the wealthiest in all of Calgary, and the average household net worth in Upper Mount Royal has been estimated at over $7.5 million.
The area has seen some development as Calgary continues to grow rapidly, however an Area Redevelopment Plan has been put in place to ensure that future growth is in line with preserving the community.
The Shopping
The 17th Avenue retail and entertainment district runs along the northern edge of the Mount Royal neighbourhood. This commercial strip has over 400 shops, restaurants, and services, with stores ranging from one-of-a-kind boutiques to places selling everyday necessities. This pedestrian friendly street is a great place to go out for a stroll when the warmer spring and summer weather arrives.
The Clubs
The Glencoe Club is one of Calgary’s premier sports and social clubs, located between Mount Royal and Elbow Park, two of the city’s most distinguished neighbourhoods. This members only club offers a wide range of athletic and fitness programs as well as incredible facilities for meetings and events.
The Golf
Several golf courses line the banks of the Elbow River, just south of Mount Royal. The Calgary Golf and Country Club is Alberta’s oldest private course with a history that goes back over a hundred years. While the course has been modified over the years, including a restoration project in 2007, it remains true to its initial design.
The Earl Grey Golf Course offers 27 holes of golf nestled against the shores of the Glenmore Reservoir. Golfers can either play a full round on the Main Course with its impeccably groomed fairways and gorgeous scenery, or play the Lakeview nine when there’s only time for a quick round.
The Glencoe Golf and Country Club, situated just outside the city, has 45 holes challenging players with its varied terrain. The 18-hole Forest course has a traditional Scottish design and has been ranked as among the best courses in the province. The Meadows is made up of 27 holes with more elevated terrain to challenge golfers of all skill levels.
The Parks
There is plenty of green space in and around Mount Royal which makes it easy for residents to get out and enjoy the fresh air. Several parks dot the neighbourhood including Earl Grey, South Mount Royal, Champlain, and Talon. Outdoor enthusiasts can also head to the abundant parkland surrounding the Glenmore Reservoir, a 15-minute drive from Mount Royal. Spend a day on the water leisurely paddling a canoe or kayak, or explore the hiking and cycling trails that weave around the reservoir.
Carriage Trade Homes
For expert advice about luxury real estate in Mount Royal or buying and selling a Carriage Trade luxury property in Calgary, contact a Royal LePage office in the area.
