Big Fat Deal: $7 million for a Squamish ‘sanctuary’

Each week, BCBusiness takes you inside one of the most outrageously upmarket real estate offerings in the province

Price: $7,000,000
Address: 40813 Government Road, Squamish
MLS: V1088143
Listing agent: Shawn Wentworth and Tom Malpass of Macdonald Realty

Called “The Sanctuary,” there’s little doubt this property has a head start in the serenity stakes. It’s built amid 13 acres of Squamish countryside, surrounded by the majestic Tantalus mountain range and has the Squamish River running through it. As listing agent Shawn Wentworth enthuses, it’s “a unique piece of paradise, a secluded riverfront estate right in the heart of the Sea-to-Sky Corridor.”
 
Not to be outdone by its environs, the home itself offers a peaceful retreat with outstanding views from every room, perfect for spying those nesting eagles in the winter (or bears and elk in the summer). Built in 2006 with a floor plan that spans more than 6,000 square feet, the property features thoughtfully laid-out spacious rooms with vaulted ceilings and banks of windows. The timber-frame construction—with its wood and stone exterior finish—borrows the hues of the surrounding countryside, while the expansive covered outdoor patio (complete with slate flooring, a gas fireplace, and a built-in stainless-steel barbecue and bar) seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living.
 
The gated home is protected via security cameras, while custom pavers lead visitors to the grand entrance and the courtyard in front of the home. Inside, it’s detail heavy: fir- and copper-trimmed door and window frames, slate floors, wood-beamed ceilings. Plus, a chef’s kitchen with granite countertops, high-end appliances and two islands. Five bedrooms and six bathrooms provide plenty of room for both family and guests. The master bedroom suite is a mini sanctuary in itself with views of the river, a large walk-in closet—the size of most bedrooms—and a spa-like ensuite, which includes a walk-in shower with multiple heads.
 
With an eye to different types of leisure pursuits, an exercise room supports a more energetic approach, while wine and recreation rooms offer opportunities to relax with friends. Outside, a six-person hot tub and a geo-thermally heated saltwater pool sit at the side of the house, while the landscaped gardens feature meandering waterways, stone steps and a bridge leading down to the river, an orchard, a dog run and two fire pits—to while away the summer evenings. Or, perhaps, for a spot of Sanctuary-style hot yoga.
 
Ommmm, anyone?


Nicola Way runs the property listing sites BestHomesBC.com and AssignmentsCanada.ca.