146 National Dr., Town of the Blue Mountains, Ont.
Asking Price: $2,385,000
Taxes: $8,439.00 (2024)
Lot Size: 80.1 by 114.8 feet
Agent: Paul Peterson, Chestnut Park Real Estate Ltd.
The Journey Begins
In 2011, Catherine and David Staples were searching for a winter chalet when fate stepped in. A friend introduced them to a two-storey house at the foot of Ontario’s Blue Mountains. What was supposed to be a viewing turned into an opportunity—the owner decided to put the property on the market right then.
The Staples had just sold their island cottage in Muskoka. They envisioned a new chapter for their family, centered around skiing in winter and cycling in summer, perfect for their three kids. When Catherine saw the house, she had to act quickly. She contacted David, and they swooped in with an offer before anyone else could.
The result? They bought the cozy chalet, complete with the furniture.
The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountains, part of the Niagara Escarpment, offer a treasure trove of outdoor activities. The surrounding area, near Collingwood, is perfect for skiing, hiking, and even exploring caves. It’s vibrant with life, making it an attractive spot for active families.
Current Life in the Chalet
Today, their home sits in a community known as the Orchard at Craigleith. The family enjoys shared amenities and pays a monthly fee of $198 for maintenance. When they moved in, their kids were 14 to 11 years old, bustling with energy and schedules filled with training days and races.
Catherine, also a designer, was keen to add her touch. She painted the once-dark walls bright white, creating a fresh, inviting space. After long days on the slopes, the family loves to relax in front of the fireplace in the great room, enjoying the warmth and tall ceilings.
The house includes an open-plan kitchen and dining area. There’s also a cozy den with its own fireplace. The upper level features a spacious primary bedroom with a balcony overlooking the ski runs and an ensuite bath complete with a soaker tub.
As the children grew older and began their own journeys, the Staples made a bold move. In 2020, they sold their Barrie home and transitioned to living full-time in the chalet. They updated the kitchen, swapping the gas range for an induction cooktop, and revamped the lower level with a recreation room and ski tuning space.
Dr. Staples, a dentist, enjoys cycling on the scenic backroads in warmer months and often goes Nordic skiing in the winter. He highlights how many others visit the area for golf, wildlife photography, and sailing. Meanwhile, Catherine feels inspired by the thriving local arts scene and collaborates with local artists regularly.
Unique Features
What truly sets this property apart is its focus on relaxation and wellness. The Staples have added a cold plunge for a refreshing dip after ski days, along with a bathroom featuring a steam shower. Their outdoor sauna, nestled in a private area surrounded by trees, boasts a beautiful glass wall, offering a stunning view of falling snow. Catherine describes this view as breathtaking—it’s a unique experience to unwind while watching nature.
This home isn’t just a property; it’s a hub for family bonding, active living, and artistic inspiration. Whether you’re relaxing after a day on the slopes or creating art, the chalet serves as a perfect backdrop for life’s most cherished moments.
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