NIAGARA CHARM Niagara-on-the-Lake 428 Queen St. (Queen and Nassau streets) Asking price: $5.577 million Taxes: $22,737 (2016) Bedrooms: 6 Bathrooms: 5 MLS# X3844137
When you’re used to living in style, from high- end houses to one of the largest penthouses in Toronto’s Yorkville, it stands to reason that a spectacular residence and location would be a must for retirement too.
The owner of this estate chose it for its Niagara- on- the- Lake location and its Southern Colonial Plantation- style home, which was built in 1895.
Travelling down the driveway on to the approximately one- acre property is like being transported to southern Georgia, says listing agent Elizabeth Cowan of Royal LePage Real Estate Services.
The current owner, only the fifth to enjoy the home, gutted, restored and renovated it “to present demanding standards,” she says. However the relaxed southern ambience remains.
A plantation- style veranda is the perfect spot for sipping mint juleps. Large principal rooms are great for entertaining or relaxing and a gentleman’s library offers a spot for private conversation. Sunsets can be enjoyed from the back garden and deck.
The kitchen has granite counter tops, a centre island, custom solid maple cabinetry and a butler’s pantry. A dramatic master suite, four additional bedrooms and six bathrooms mean there’s plenty of space for overnight guests.
The main house, including the lower level, plus a coach house offer more than 7,500 square feet of living space.
The fourth tee on one of North America’s oldest golf courses (which was created by t his home’s f i rst owners) is across the street, Cowan says.
“A property like this doesn’t come on the market often, and when it does, it’s often purchased and passed on through generations.”
It’s ideal for those who want to retire in style, have a liking for the arts and theatre, and those who like to keep busy with fun and social events. Fine dining, wine tasting and tours, and the Shaw Festival Theatre are nearby, she says.
“If you want to retire and be active, Niagara- on- the- Lake is the ideal place to be.”
For those who want to come and go without taking the highways, the Niagara District Airport offers service to business travellers and tourists.