Around the horn: Bearspaw, Heritage Pointe, Strathmore and Priddis

They might be smaller centres, but these towns near Calgary stand tall when it comes to the benefits they offer to homebuyers.

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Bearspaw
A short drive northwest of Calgary lies the welcoming community of Bearspaw. It's an area full of natural ponds and wildlife, where many acreages offer spectacular mountain views.

"You get the comfort of living outside the city, but you're only two minutes from Calgary's amenities," said John Oliverio, a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Real Estate Central. "Buyers with toys like motorcycles and exotic cars appreciate the space, while families like the lifestyle and the excellent bus service for both elementary and high schools. You're close to malls, fitness centres and the new YMCA, and the great plowing system means you can reach them even in the dead of winter."

Courtesy Marianna Kindrachuk, Sotheby's International Realty

Heritage Pointe
Heritage Pointe is a hamlet that sits just south of Calgary, to the north of Dunbow Road between Highway 2 and Highway 2A. "It's a gem of a location," according to Marianna Kindrachuk, a Realtor with Sotheby's International Realty and Heritage Pointe resident.
"Deerfoot and Macleod Trail are literally a minute away, yet there's a real country feeling in homes that back either onto a lake or ravine," she said.

Throw in ponds, pathways and an abundance of nature, along with amenities like tennis courts and a rentable beach house, and it's no wonder Heritage Pointe draws a mix of young families and empty nesters.

Courtesy Town of Strathmore

Strathmore
Located 40 kilometres east of Calgary, Strathmore is home to more than 13,000 people, with convenient access to the picturesque Bow River.

"I've lived there for 35 years, and I appreciate the strong sense of community," said Debbie Mitzner, a Realtor with RE/MAX Landan Real Estate in Calgary. "It offers a ton of green space and 50 kilometres of pathways to explore."

Thanks to wide streets, minimal traffic and a brand new school, Strathmore has been attracting a lot of younger families. At the same time, an abundance of seniors' housing and six nearby golf courses are big draws for empty nesters and retirees.

Courtesy Wayne Chaulk, Royal LePage Solutions

Priddis
"About 10 kilometres west of Calgary's city limits, the Priddis area is one of the prettiest in the foothills, with its rolling hills, numerous views of the Rocky Mountains, and clear air," said Wayne Chaulk, a Realtor with Royal LePage Solutions. "Because of the general peace and quiet, it's a less stressful living environment that is out of the way without being remote. I also appreciate the friendly, caring attitude of residents that makes for strong community spirit."

Priddis consists primarily of smaller acreages and larger land holdings, so it appeals to those seeking a spacious setting. Skiers and hikers benefit from quick access to Bragg Creek, Kananaskis and Banff without venturing onto busy city roads.