Simply put, Niagara Region reigns supreme among luxury seekers because it’s a microcosm of the best this world has to offer, and it all comes from the land. Nestled between two of the five Great Lakes, the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth, Niagara Region benefits from a unique climate, fertile lands, and rich biodiversity.
From this soil has sprung world-renowned wineries, acclaimed restaurants featuring farm-to-table dining, and a vibrant cultural scene. This is to say nothing of the breathtaking natural beauty of the region. The majestic cliffs at the UNESCO Escarpment Biosphere Reserve, the Niagara River, and, of course, the Falls themselves, the region is spoiled with some of the world’s most beautiful vistas.
So it’s no mystery why people seeking a luxurious lifestyle have flocked to Niagara Region. And because they have, so have luxury amenities. Whether it’s sipping award-winning wines, fine dining, reconnecting with nature, or pampering yourself at a spa or boutique, the Niagara Region offers a refined experience that caters to those who seek the best in life.
Niagara Region’s Famous Food & Wine Scene
The Niagara Region is renowned for its world-class wineries and picturesque vineyards, making it a paradise for wine enthusiasts. You can visit famous vineyards, savour exquisite wines, and learn about the winemaking process while enjoying the stunning landscapes.
Wine Tasting Experiences
Niagara’s wineries offer a wide range of wine-tasting experiences, allowing you to sample a variety of award-winning wines. Some notable wineries include:
- Peller Estates. Known for its elegant ice wines and stunning estate, Peller Estates offers guided tours and tastings that provide an in-depth look at their winemaking process.
- Inniskillin. As one of the pioneers of ice wine production in Canada, Inniskillin offers unique tastings that highlight their exceptional ice wines and other varietals.
- Jackson-Triggs. This modern winery offers a variety of tasting experiences, including food and wine pairings and exclusive cellar tastings.
Vineyard Tours
Many of Niagara’s wineries offer vineyard tours that give you a behind-the-scenes look at how grapes are grown and harvested. These tours often include walks through the vineyards, explanations of viticulture practices, and insights into the winemaking process. Some recommended vineyard tours include:
- Trius Winery. Known for its beautiful vineyards and interactive tours, Trius offers a comprehensive experience that includes wine tastings and insights into sustainable farming practices.
- Château des Charmes. This family-owned winery offers guided tours that explore their vineyards, production facilities, and barrel cellars, providing a thorough understanding of their winemaking process.
Culinary Delights
The Niagara Region’s culinary scene is as vibrant and diverse as its landscapes, offering a rich array of dining experiences that highlight local flavours and farm-fresh ingredients. It’s home to many restaurants that embrace the farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing their ingredients from local farms and producers. These dining establishments not only provide delicious meals but also support the region’s agricultural community. Some notable farm-to-table restaurants include:
- Treadwell Cuisine. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Treadwell Cuisine is renowned for its commitment to local ingredients and its innovative dishes. The restaurant’s ever-changing menu reflects the seasons and showcases the best of Niagara’s produce.
- Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery Restaurant. This restaurant offers a unique dining experience that pairs exquisite dishes with their estate wines. The menu features seasonal ingredients, many of which are grown on-site.
- The Restaurant at Pearl Morissette. Known for its minimalist approach and focus on local, organic ingredients, this restaurant provides a refined dining experience with a menu that changes daily based on what is freshly available.
You can also access these farm-fresh ingredients yourself at one of the many farmer’s markets located throughout the region. They offer a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade products that are the true definition of ‘organic food.’
Leisure Activities in Niagara Region
Two activities commonly associated with a life of luxury are golfing and spa days. The Niagara Region has an abundance of both.
Niagara’s Famous Golf Scene
The Niagara Region is well known for its top-notch golf courses, which provide players of all skill levels with a variety of experiences. There are many public, semi-private, and private golf courses in the area, offering anything from tranquil lakeside settings to stunning views of the Niagara Escarpment.
Among the most notable are the nine holes of the historic Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club, which is situated along the shores of Lake Ontario and offers magnificent vistas.
Widely regarded as one of Canada’s best public golf courses, the Whirlpool Golf Course is situated against the background of the Niagara River.
Relaxation and Wellness
Niagara is home to several top-notch spas and wellness centers that provide a wide range of treatments designed to relax and revitalize. Some notable spas include:
- 100 Fountain Spa at Pillar and Post. Located in Niagara-on-the-Lake, this luxurious spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and body therapies. The spa’s tranquil setting and attentive staff make it a perfect place to unwind.
- Secret Garden Spa at Prince of Wales Hotel. This elegant spa provides an array of holistic treatments, such as aromatherapy and hydrotherapy, designed to soothe both body and mind.
- Christienne Fallsview Spa. Located in Niagara Falls, this spa offers spectacular views of the falls along with a range of indulgent treatments, including couples’ massages and advanced skincare services.
Niagara also offers various retreats and programs focused on yoga and meditation, many taking place in parks and on beaches.
Niagara Region’s Upscale Communities
Of course, a luxurious lifestyle also includes a beautiful, custom home nestled amongst all that natural beauty. While there are many, two communities where we’ve chosen to build our quality homes in the Niagara Region: Virgil and Ridgeway.
Virgil in Niagara-on-the-Lake
This picturesque community was initially known as “The Crossroads” when settled by United Empire Loyalists – Americans who immigrated to Canada around the time of the American Revolution because of their loyalty to the British Crown. This was not a symbolic name; it was situated between two major roadways.
Ridgeway
Ridgeway, Ontario, is a picturesque small town nestled on the shores of Lake Erie, offering a serene escape with its quaint charm and rich history. Known for its beautiful walking trails, custom homes with lakeside ambiance, and proximity to some of the most stunning beaches in the area, Ridgeway is a hidden gem that captures the essence of relaxed luxury living.
The town’s main street is lined with historic buildings that house unique boutiques, artisanal shops, and cozy cafes, creating a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere that appeals to both residents and visitors. Throughout the year, Ridgeway hosts various events that bring people together, such as the Ridgeway Summer Festival and the Farmers’ Market, which showcases local produce and crafts. These community activities not only enrich the social life of the residents but also add to the small-town charm that makes Ridgeway a desirable location for those looking to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with a sense of connection.
Don’t let the terms’ luxury’ or ‘custom’ fool you, however. Many of our luxury, custom homes are affordable. Oftentimes, it’s only a matter of creating a realistic budget.