This Ontario gem with waterfront towns and beaches is one of Canada's 'best' spots to live
It has "large" homes "priced much lower" than major Canadian cities.
A city in Ontario. Right: A park in Ontario.
Pack your bags! This Ontario region, with cozy waterfront towns and dreamy beaches, was named among Canada's best spots to live, and it's easy to see why with its mix of charm, scenery, and lifestyle.
Located around 2 hours from Toronto, the area offers unique attractions, beautiful landscapes, and more, making it an idyllic spot to settle down.
According to readers on Narcity Canada's Facebook page, this spot is one of the best places to live in the country — and it might just be worth a look if you're house hunting.
Bay of Quinte is a beautiful region on the northern shore of Lake Ontario composed of five quaint waterfront communities — Brighton, Quinte West, Belleville, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, and Greater Napanee.
Each destination offers small town charm, boutiques, eateries and more, from cozy cafés and artisan shops to scenic waterfront strolls.
The region is also home to the Trent River in Quinte West, which serves as the gateway to the 386-kilometre Trent-Severn Waterway — a historic route of more than 40 locks that links Lake Ontario to Lake Huron.
Throughout the region, you'll find several stunning natural areas, including Presqu'ile Provincial Park, which features gorgeous trails, a marsh boardwalk, a historic lighthouse and more.
It also boasts a 2.5-kilometre sandy beach, and, according to the Bay of Quinte website, "when the sun hits it just right, the turquoise reflection off the water makes it look like a slice of the Caribbean in south east Ontario."
You can also head to the nearby Sandbanks Provincial Park, which offers powdery white shores and three gorgeous beaches.
The area boasts some incredible wineries, so you can enjoy rolling vineyards and tastings with friends.
According to the Bay of Quinte Economic Development website, "The Bay of Quinte Region offers an enviable, affordable quality of life. There is a welcoming balance of urban and rural settings with all amenities you need at your doorstep and more. Enjoy an evening out on the town or quiet walks through one of our many waterfront or conservation area trails."
So, how do the area's housing prices stack up? According to the website, Bay of Quinte offers "large, modern family-style homes priced much lower than Canada's metropolises." The average cost of a 3-bedroom, 2-bath family home is currently $578,185.
If waterfront living sounds like your cup of tea, you might want to house hunt in this scenic area.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.