Cape Breton Estates: Land of the Golden Arms

The problem with realtors' descriptions of properties is frequently that the language used to describe an offering is full of platitudes about 'beautiful', 'breathtaking', 'darling' and other exorbitantly effusive adjectives. More often than not the reality is significantly less than the portrayal. And that is what makes dealing with this most unusual property so difficult. A barely adequate description sounds like a used car salesman's carnie pitch.

Our pictures are therefore likely the best reference we can provide for anyone interested in this one-of-a-kind luxury retreat. Five thousand square feet of marble and specialty woods, wrapped in a faux French Provincial building using 'dryvet' to simulate the original stone model, is a bare-bones accurate image. As the photographs depict, the house reeks of tasteful charm and luxurious lay-outs, from the multiple fireplaces to the well designed open kitchen, and the spacious en suite master bath. The open two floor atrium, complete with fireplace and baronial-style dining table, complemented by columns and an unusual chandelier brings to mind a living style that mainly went out with the nineteenth century.

But since this is the twenty first century, the sub-flooring hot water heating system, the double pained glass, and the well-designed ambience, while certainly luxurious, doesn't require a troop of staff. The owner lives very comfortably largely by himself, and is quite self-sufficient.

The free-form pool and pool house, the tastefully landscaped surroundings, including the period terracing, the salmon pool, waterfall and lamp-lit drive complement what is a modern pinnacle of beautifully designed comfort and seclusion. Overlooking the harbour, the owner's blue water yacht may be easily moored in a number of places, while a nearby shipyard is equipped for almost all necessary repairs and up-keep. This is a unique and one-of-a-kind offering. The price is designed for a quick sale, and provides a great deal of value.

We are privileged to represent an owner who has created a magnificent estate high above a deep water, ice-free harbour. One might expect this property to be found only in select areas of Europe or the Gold coast of the U.S.

This estate has many specialty features beginning with the architectural design. The ground floor has a large foyer / atrium area or great room with cathedral ceiling. There is an octagonally shaped extension of the East wing living room on the stone terrace on the harbour side of the house. The compound shape of the roof with dormers and second floor terraces add charm and interest. The Brazilian wood staircase leads to a suspended walkway between the two second floor wings and has the appearance of an elegant interior balcony when viewed from the great room foyer area below.

Approximately 10 acres surrounding the house and in front of the stables and studio have been beautifully landscaped and includes 2 natural ponds, waterfalls, a bridge to an island, an in-ground swimming pool, pool house, formal gardens and lawn. The balance of the acreage is wooded and has a grazing meadow which was for horses but now is beginning to grow in. Riding trails through these woods extend off the property for miles and through Crown Land. (NOTE: 12.5 acres is included in the offering price; an additional 23.42 acres is available.)

Combining luxury with location, this property has been priced to sell at a level far under its construction cost only 10 years ago.