A popular tourist destination, Hornby is a very attractive place for those seeking West Coast real estate because of its mild climate, beautiful natural environment, and strong community roots.
The Beaufort Mountain Range on Vancouver Island shelters Hornby, giving it one of the best climates in all of Canada, where gardens flourish in warm, dry, sunny summers and mild winters. The winter rains set the stage for an incredible variety of year-round plant life and compensates for the dry summer season.
The warm summer months grace the area with perfect temperatures for outdoor fun in the sun and contribute greatly to the reputation that Hornby has earned as possibly the best place in Canada to garden. Whatever the season, Hornby Island's mild weather makes it the perfect place to buy land, whether for family living, farming or as a getaway retreat.
Many people discover Hornby Island while on vacation. They are amazed by its beauty and find it a hard place to forget due to its lush rain forest ecosystem and gorgeous white sandy beaches. Many of those vacationers have a hard time returning to their city lives and opt instead, to purchase Hornby Island real estate and call it home. Indeed, the natural beauty of Hornby Island is unsurpassed.
If you need convincing, just visit the incredible bluffs at Helliwell Provincial Park. The view of Vancouver Island and the mainland snow-capped mountains is spectacular. While you stroll alongside the ancient and rare Garry oak trees, you just might catch a view of Orca whales, sea lions, or majestic bald eagles, all common to the area.
If you prefer beaches to bluffs, the short drive to Tribune Bay Provincial Park will deliver you to one of the finest white sand beaches in the country. Swimming at Tribune Bay in the summer is the closest you can get to a tropical Canadian experience.
The waters around Hornby are known worldwide by the diving community. The rare and placid six-gilled shark takes up residence here, as do many other unique and beautiful species of fish and whales. The fishing in the area is incredibly rewarding, particularly in the late summer and fall when the salmon are biting.
For hiking, cycling, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking, sailing, power boating and fishing nothing beats Hornby. The beauty of the natural environment of Hornby Island makes it an incredible real estate value.
The number of people who live on Hornby Island fluctuates greatly throughout the year. The winter population of approximately 1000 residents increases to nearly 5000 in the summer months, with the arrival of tourists, boaters using Fords Cove Marina and summer cottagers. The demographic is comprised of well-known artists and artisans, drawn by the free spirit and beauty of the island, as well as professionals, trades people, families, students, retired couples and more. Together, the residents form a strong community with roots in neighborly values, environmentalism and the "co-operative mentality". Hornby Island is a small place, where people know their neighbors. Whether you are seeking a community to take part in or are looking for a place of private solace, Hornby Island's relaxed pace makes it the perfect place to buy real estate.
Despite the rural nature of Hornby, it should also be noted that there is no sacrifice when it comes to amenities and services. Just about anything you need is available on-island, and almost anything else can be imported by the ferry or the local courier service. There is a Credit Union branch that is open 3 days a week. The island's RE/MAX office is open daily at the Hornby Island Resort to serve your real estate needs. Other amenities include a beautifully designed Community Hall, a regional library, and a Co-op grocery/hardware store and gas station, all located in the bustling heart of Hornby Island. Jan's Cafe and an artist's marketplace are also in the "downtown" area and contribute a festive feel to the shopping experience. The Hornby Island School goes up to grade 7, after which older students are bussed to and from Courtenay to attend high school. The island also has doctor and dentist's offices and a Volunteer Fire Department that is always on call. All building trades are available for hire and Hornby Island architects are renowned for their brilliant designs that incorporate sound construction methods and natural landscapes, creating unique West Coast-style homes. There is an oceanfront pub and restaurant located at the ferry landing that offers a varied menu accompanied by excellent beers and live music. The long-standing Friday night live jazz performances have become something of a tradition on Hornby and are not to be missed.
With all this and more, the Agents at RE/MAX The Islands are sure that you'll find Hornby Island a magical place ideally suited to satisfy your quest for prime, affordable West Coast real estate. If you have any questions about Hornby Island real estate, do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to introducing you to the beautiful and pristine "Jewel of the Gulf": Hornby Island!
