There is no shortage of earthy escapes outside of Montréal—the grotto in Mulgrave-et-Derry, the wooded beauty of Amherst or Waterville, Lac Simon’s sandy shorelines—but Saint-Hippolyte offers an unmatched mountain charm with a European feel. Shuttered windows and colourful A-frame and chalet-style homes draw Quebecers the province over, particularly from Montréal, since the small municipality is just under 80 kilometres north of the city.
Nestled in the Laurentian Mountains just outside the small hamlet is a stunning, nautical-inspired interpretation of a modern cabin retreat. The owner’s love of boats is reflected in every architectural detail of this four bedroom, four bathroom 6,800-square-foot vacation home. Even the placid views of Lac L’Achigan and the surrounding wild grounds of the 5,962-square-metre lot and beyond reinforce the tranquility of this modern escape’s overall character.
Of course, the draw of the town is part and parcel to this easygoing locale. The diverse vegetative beauty of the area is underscored by the plentiful outdoor activities available. Nearby Mont Saint-Sauveur boasts one of the longest ski seasons in Eastern Canada; the lake beckons paddlers, stand-up paddleboarders and swimmers; and local trails are rife with inviting hikes and relaxing park scenes. Golf, whitewater rafting and more round out the activity offering while spa options and museum spaces lure residents and visitors when the elements peak. A number of specialty restaurants dot the area. Try La Crêperie à la Gourmandise Bretonne for crêpes served 300 different ways.
Retiring from a day of activities is easy at 1139 431e Avenue, however. The palatial property is a welcome collision of log cabin exterior-luxury and refined hotel interior. Modern lines and decor have a metropolitan feel, but as soon as you step out on the expansive deck with stunning water views, you’ll find yourself immediately back in the woods. The divided space has great flow, and an impressive chef’s kitchen draws a lot of attention, as do the ample windows, letting light filter in from across the lake.
Further relaxation is easy with an in-house sauna, spa-inspired rain shower, and deep soaker tub. On chilly days, gas fireplaces offer soft light and warmth while a games room keeps the crew entertained.
Design features throughout capture the eye, including recessed shelving with built-in lighting, his-and-hers sinks in the bathrooms, strategic window placement for the utmost privacy, and an asymmetrical open concept living area with marvellous potential for hosting family and friends.
The garage is also quite noteworthy, lending itself as both a showspace for an automobile collection and an impressive storage locker for a golf cart or small boat. Of course, any sailor, rookie or captain, knows that any vessel is best launched at a private dock. Just a short and careful stroll down the craggy cliffside, a well-maintained wood plinth awaits for launches and lounging.
Play, rest, repeat is truly the leading theme of this luxury property, luring in the seafaring and soul searches alike with its lapping tempo and on-water feel.
