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Thornbury, Ontario, is one of the best-kept secrets in the entire Southern Georgian Bay region. Think of a small yet exciting, peaceful and picturesque community close to incredible attractions (like the Georgian Bay waterfront). This little town might just spring to mind.

It isn’t all peace and tranquility in Thornbury, however. Here, residents and visitors find a hub of unique shopping experiences, as well as a thriving real estate market, particularly when it comes to luxury properties. With that in mind, here is your complete guide to living, vacationing, or working in Thornbury.

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A Vibrant Economy

Thornbury may be small, but it is an economic force to be reckoned with! A bustling Business Improvement Area is already home to several shops, independent restaurants, professional service providers, and more.

Thanks to efforts from the Town of The Blue Mountains and The Blue Mountains Chamber of Commerce, Thornbury is highly attractive to entrepreneurial-minded folks and existing business owners.

Tourism and agriculture are Thornbury’s primary sectors and employers. A wide mix of retail shops and hospitality companies serve visitors and residents alike. Even some small-scale manufacturing companies are starting to take notice of the strategic location close to Toronto.

Thornbury’s numerous events throughout the year make it easy for new and established businesses to get their name out there. It’s the ideal community for anyone with plans to start their own company or who is seeking a rewarding career.

Can’t get enough fun facts about Thornbury? You’ll find even more in the posts below:

A Paradise for Outdoor Recreation

If you love the great outdoors and stunning scenery, you won’t find a better place than Thornbury. No one who has lived or visited will ever stop talking about how beautiful it is here. It’s a haven of nature everywhere you look, from the perfectly landscaped residential gardens to serene hiking trails and the majestic waterfront.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just want to relax in nature, this little town has got you covered. During warmer months, there’s sailing, paddling, cycling, zip lining, rock climbing, and caving. For a view that goes for miles, take a quick trip over to Collingwood’s suspension footbridge. This famous landmark is not for the faint of heart or anyone with a fear of heights – but it is a great way to take in the spectacular scenery.

There are very few places where you can just casually hop on an amusement ride in the dead of winter. That’s an experience reserved just for visitors and residents of Southern Georgian Bay. Naturally, we are talking about the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster in The Blue Mountains.

For more peaceful recreation, you can take a leisurely stroll along Thornbury Harbour or explore the Georgian Trail. If you prefer to relax on the waterfront while basking in a slower pace of life, you could always rent a paddleboat or spend an afternoon fishing. Imagine, a whole hour or two with no demands on your time. If you listen, you can almost hear yourself think!

A Family-Friendly Community

Thornbury’s tranquil environment, combined with its abundance of fun activities, makes it a highly sought-after area for families. There is always a new experience to enjoy and a memory to be made. Parents of young children especially appreciate the quiet streets and peaceful atmosphere, with plenty of parks nearby where the little ones can play safely.

As a relatively affluent town, the crime rate is low, and the sense of community is high. Everyone feels like a neighbour here, and everyone is always willing to lend a hand when needed.

In addition to all of the outdoor activities available, Thornbury offers structure and a chance for residents of all ages to socialize and get to know each other. The Beaver Valley Outreach provides quality care for children up to six years old as well as a host of after-school programs for older kids.

The Beaver Valley Community Centre and Arena offers a variety of activities to keep residents of all ages busy, including pickleball, senior’s card games, tai chi, and ice skating. A short drive away, you can swim or take lessons at the Centennial Aquatic Centre in Collingwood.

In terms of education, Thornbury falls under the Bluewater District School Board. Students from Kindergarten to Grade 8 typically attend Beaver Valley Community School, whereas secondary school students travel to Collingwood or Meaford. Collingwood also offers access to some private schools, including Pretty River Academy serving students from Kindergarten right through to Grade 12.

Are you ready to start searching for your forever home in Thornbury? You’ll find some valuable tips in the posts below:

A Highly-Desirable Housing Market

Thornbury real estate offers a diverse mix of options, whether you’re searching for a vacation condo or a detached home for full time living. Modern, luxurious buildings offer a high quality of life in a convenient location – with no maintenance to worry about. Some are right on the waterfront; others are steps from the downtown core.

Thornbury is well-known for its high-end real estate options, both inland and right along the waterfront. Most homes are in contemporary styles, complete with open-concept designs, high ceilings, and large windows that fill each room with light.

Older architecture is less common in Thornbury. That said, you might spot the occasional Victorian-influenced design and traditional-style farmhouse.

Are you planning to buy or sell a home? Our Thornbury real estate agents can guide you through the process. Reach out to 705.888.2888 or email Mike@TheKearnsGroup.ca to learn more about our services.