North Saanich BC Real Estate & Attractions
About North Saanich, British Columbia
As far back as 1905 North Saanich included the town of Sidney but by 1911 the township was dissolved
due to an inadequate tax base and not enough of a population to support it. The situation changed drastically in 1940 when the area that is now Victoria International Airport became a military forces base. The arrival of 10,000 military personnel had a huge impact on the area in terms of population, area services, and of course, financial stability.
In 1956 North Saanich residents began the process of requesting the formation of the ‘North Saanich Fire Prevention District’ which was to include the power to tax, borrow and own property. It was to be a lengthy procedure with these ‘letters patent’ being withdrawn and finally in 1965 North Saanich Municipal District was established.
Real Estate in North Saanich, BC
With both the Victoria International Airport and BC Ferries Swartz Bay Terminal located in the District of North Saanich, the area has become a favoured destination to set down roots. Real estate in North Saanich offers an extensive range of opportunities. From first-time home buyers with limited budgets to luxury ocean front properties, the town has a well balanced and diverse mix of residential neighbourhoods. North Saanich has also been able to maintain both its green space as well as its agricultural landscape which it is well known for.
The commercial real estate market in North Saanich has been able to draw in businesses relocating or the setting up of local enterprise by offering attractive lease and industrial-rent options. In terms of residential real estate in North Saanich, in 2015 the area saw a sale of 206 single family homes along with 26 lots and acreage properties being sold.
The many opportunities for all types of real estate in North Saanich have made owning a home or running a business a sound financial investment.
North Saanich Attractions and Resources
North Saanich is served by School District 63 which boasts several elementary schools, middle and secondary schools representing close to 8,000 students. The District also runs an international student program, a children’s development centre and individual learning centres.
North Saanich has its own dedicated fire department which is made up of both permanent career positions as well as approximately 40 volunteers. Policing in North Saanich is through the RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) and is operated out of the Town of Sidney with 11 members dedicated to North Saanich. Emergency Services are provided by the British Columbia Ambulance Service (BCAS) and is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
North Saanich offers a wide array of recreational year-round activities appropriate for all age groups. Some of the many activities one can enjoy include:
• Boating
• Swimming
• Cycling
• Hiking
• Horseback riding
There are also a number of beautiful pristine beaches, golfing and a recreation centre. Visitors and residents alike can also take advantage of the many seasonal fruit, vegetable and flower stands that dot the area. Whether you enjoy leisurely afternoons at the beach, indoor activities at the recreation centre, or more adventurous outdoor activities, North Saanich offers something for families and individuals of all ages.
For more detailed information about attractions, resources and things to do in North Saanich BC, click on the PLUS sign beside “North Saanich Attractions” below.
Local Resources and Information
North Saanich Attractions
BC Ferries
BC ferries is one of the many ways that people living, traveling or doing business on Vancouver Island can use to get back and forth to the mainland and surrounding islands. Hourly sailings, multiple routes and every amenity imaginable make taking the ferry an ideal choice. With the ease of travel, stunning views and a lesser price tag than flying, you can see why more than 20 million people choose BC ferries each year.
Learn MoreGlen Meadows Golf Club
Glen Meadows Golf and Country Club is a semi-private club located on southern Vancouver Island. Besides their 18-hole championship course, they also offer tennis and curling. Their banquet facilities are second to none with dedicated staff who will work with you every step of the way to ensure your function is to your complete satisfaction. Enjoy breakfast or just a light lunch in one of their two clubhouse lounges that overlook the tennis courts, curling rink, and the golf course. Glen Meadows welcomes the public to join them daily for a game of golf (for all levels of play) or a round of tennis.
Learn MoreJohn Dean Provincial Park
This pristine 174 hectare park is located in North Saanich, close to Sydney on southern Vancouver Island. There are several hiking trails that range in difficulty from easy to more challenging taking you through forests of old-growth Douglas fir and Garry oak trees. The spring brings with it a lush rainbow of colourful wildflowers and from the top of Mount Newton one can watch as red-tailed hawks, ravens, turkey vultures and eagles put on an amazing show of their soaring abilities. The viewing platform at Pickles Bluff is an excellent spot to look out over the Saanich Peninsula. A parking lot, picnic tables and a pit toilet make it easy to spend the entire day and this pristine park.
Learn MorePat Bay Air Float Plane Tours
See Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast like you’ve never seen it before, arrange a charter flight for a group, or perhaps a romantic get-away for two. Ocean Air in North Saanich has thousand of hours of flight experience and an extensive first-hand knowledge of the area to help you plan the perfect charter or tour. Whether you arrange a fly-in fishing adventure, a wine tasting tour with friends or anything in between, you can be sure that your trip will include awe-inspiring views. If you have always dreamed of getting your float plane license or upgrading your existing one as per Transport Canada guidelines, Ocean Air can help you there as well.
Learn MoreVictoria Lavender Farm
Victoria Lavender Farm along with their nursery and shop are located just off the Pat Bay Highway on southern Vancouver Island. You can take a self guided tour through their lush gardens, 10,000 lavender bushes and even the rescue sanctuary that houses a number of ducks, chickens, heritage roosters, and peacocks. A host of different varieties of lavender plants in full bloom can be seen throughout the summer months. The Farm Shop also sells an amazing selection of plants, beauty, and culinary products that have all been produced right on the farm. Wedding photos and guided tours are also available with prior notice.
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