If your dream has been to find a rustic log cabin or a mountain timber-frame home, here are some B.C. gems to which you could make a rural escape.
By Right Sizing Staff
Sicamous
Situated halfway between Calgary and Vancouver, Sicamous derives its name from a Secwepemic First Nations word meaning “in the middle.” Visitors and locals enjoy canoeing, camping, hiking, snowmobiling and houseboating. Recent listing: A unique opportunity to own a self-sufficient 28-acre waterfront property on Shuswap Lake offers tree houses, rainforest trails and hand-built cabins, with off-the-grid power, waterfall energy and a greenhouse for sustenance. MLS®10187851. (Recently purchased). $1,999,000.
Sun Peaks
A four-and-half hour drive from Vancouver, or easily accessible via Kelowna or Kamloops airports, Sun Peaks Resort is ideal for summer and winter activities (it’s Canada’s second-largest ski area). Recent listing: This massive six-bedroom, five-bathroom custom timber-frame chalet, situated on one of the community’s largest residential lots, features extensive natural rock, lofty ceilings, radiant-heat flooring and wrap-around outdoor decks with incredible views. MLS®154654. $2,930,000.
Peachland
Located midway between Kelowna and Penticton on 11 kilometres of Okanagan Lake lakefront, Peachland puts its residence in reach of more than 200 estate wineries and microbreweries, plus hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling trails. Recent listing: The recently rejuvenated Headwaters Family Resort is a business opportunity in waiting: 10 rustic guest cabins and 14 RV campsites (most with views of the lake), a lodge/store and 1,200 sq ft of waterfront, plus all the equipment to run it. MLS®10210032. $1.095.000.
Princeton
Situated in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains in the Similkameen Region, this town is known for forestry, mining, agriculture, ranching and the Kettle Valley Rail Trail. It’s a family-friendly community with family-friendly home prices. Recent listing: This custom-built six-bedroom, three-bathroom 3,520-sq-ft log home is situated on a private lot within 17 kilometres of Manning Park and Lightning Lake, close to hiking trails. It has a separate-access two-bedroom suite, which has rental income potential. (Property no longer available). $429,900.
Osoyoos
This town with a population of 5,085 is the hub of Canada’s only semi-arid desert region. Hike the tranquil Okanagan River and climb Mount Kabou, e-bike cruise along Black Sage Road and indulge at local wineries. Recent listing: A custom-built West Coast timber-frame, with five-bedrooms and five-bathrooms, is perched above Lake Osoyoos with panoramic views of the lake, town and mountains. It includes a guest suite, wine cellar, theatre room and a separate suite above a triple garage. MLS®182141. $1,299,900.
Golden
A rugged Kootenay town tucked between the peaks of the Columbia and Rocky Mountains, Golden lays claim to some of the best hiking, kayaking and mountain biking in the province. Recent listing: This stunning four-bedroom, four-bathroom timber-frame mountain property features an open concept main level with timber staircase, a gourmet kitchen, two master suites with views of the ski hill and boot room with dryers and racks to handle all your gear. (Property no longer available). $1,399,000.
Fernie
Tucked away in a sub-range of the Rocky Mountains called the Elk Range, Fernie is known for its lovingly restored storefronts, high-paying mining jobs and the wild bowls of Fernie Alpine Resort. Recent listing: This spectacular custom-built three-bedroom, four-bathroom situated in Black Rock Estates features 26-foot Douglas Fir-lined ceilings, curved trusses, hickory hardwood flooring and a floor-to-ceiling fireplace, plus a heated three-car garage. MLS®2439640. $1, 295,000.
Whistler
Whistler is not only a popular snow-season recreation destination but also attracts more visitors Victoria Day through Labour Day than it does during the winter, making it an ideal year-round investment or residence. Recent listing: This luxurious custom-built four-bedroom, four-bathroom log cabin is situated on the Valley Trail, minutes from Creekside Village, and features a two-story stone fireplace, open floor plan, vaulted ceilings and a master with a walk-in closet plus walk-in shower with steam room. MLS®R2474951. $2,899,000.
Courtenay
On the east coast of central Vancouver Island and considered the urban hub of the Comox Valley, Courtenay offers culturally rich diversity, year-round recreation, beaches and natural beauty. Recent listing: This West Coast chalet, perched high above Beaufort Heights on Mount Washington, features six bedrooms and six bathrooms that have been divided into four separate suites, all with en suite baths, plus a sauna, eating bar and two entertainment rooms, perfect for hosting family and friends. MLS®833885. $899,000.
Gabriola Island
This beautiful island is located 5 kilometres from downtown Nanaimo, accessible via BC Ferries. It has the highest percentage of working artists per capita in Canada and is known as the “Isle of the Arts.” Recent listing: A timeless West Coast Pan-Abode log home located on the waterfront, with incredible ocean views, has four bedrooms and three bathrooms, open-concept living space, a newer kitchen with stainless appliances and a large recreation room downstairs, ideal for hobbyists. MLS®840126. $774,000.
Sooke
Located on the southwestern tip of Vancouver Island, a one-hour drive from Victoria, Sooke is in a temperate rainforest, creating one of the mildest climates in Canada. It’s ideal for fishing, hiking, sailing and whale watching. Recent listing: Escape to this four-bedroom, three-bedroom, double A-frame home on 4.4 acres on land 40 minutes from Victoria. It has stunning wood craftsmanship, a 21-foot ceiling, custom wrought-iron railings and a separate, tenanted suite above large workshop. MLS®845612. $998,000.