Vancouver Island and Nanaimo Real Estate
Get to Know University District
Vibrant University District: A Blend of Character and Convenience. Named for its proximity to Vancouver Island University, this neighborhood offers a delightful mix of housing styles. From newer, modern residences to charming character homes and convenient condominiums, the area caters to a wide range of preferences. Its appeal as a hub for student living makes it an excellent location for investment opportunities, particularly in student housing.
The neighborhood maintains a peaceful ambiance, making it an ideal setting for families. Yet, it exudes a lively atmosphere near the university, especially between 4th and 5th Streets. The University Village Mall, a central feature of the area, provides residents with essential amenities including a pharmacy, grocery store, post office, and various dining options, ensuring convenience is always at hand.
The upper part of the neighborhood, known as College Heights, is a highlight for its scenic beauty. Bordering Westwood Lake and trails leading to Mt. Benson, it offers stunning views of downtown Nanaimo and Departure Bay. Residents here enjoy not only the visual appeal but also the ease of access to the parkway, allowing for quick and convenient travel to Nanaimo’s downtown core and the picturesque harbour.
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Vancouver Island and Nanaimo Real Estate
Nearby
Schools
Nanaimo Montessori School
945 Waddington Road, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 753-0649
Brechin Elementary
510 Millstone Ave., Nanaimo, BC
(250) 754-7523
Forest Park Elementary
2050 Latimer Road, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 758-6892
Nanaimo District Secondary
355 Wakesiah Ave, Nanaimo, BC,
(250) 740-2000
*school catchment areas can change without notice; click the school locator link below to verify:
School Locator
Beaches and Parks
Beach Estates Park – Most of this park is trail, leading down to a small pebbly beach and the ocean. Features: beautiful waterfalls and ample lush greenery.
Beban Park – Large park with several areas for sports and play. Features: outdoor pool, trails, disc golf course, skate bowl, seniors’ center, 2 picnic shelters with children’s playgrounds, tennis courts, beach volleyball, horseshoes, seasonal petting zoo and duck pond. Trails along the Millstone River lead to a scenic waterfall and rhododendron grove.
Beaufort Park – Park with community garden. Features: tennis courts, walking trails and a year round dog off leash area that is partially fenced.
Hawthorne Park – Named after the English Hawthorne bushes that populate the area, this park is a perfect for an evening jog or walk, alone or with your pet. The park surrounds ponds and has many trail loops to follow.
Bowen Park – Bowen Park offers both sports and tranquility. This particular park stays busy year round because of all the activities it offers. During the summer months the outdoor swimming pool opens up and becomes a great way to cool off on those hot days. During the winter months, the hills are great for tobogganing. All throughout the year the playgrounds and seniors centre are open and keep the park very busy with people from all ages.
Buttertubs Marsh – Two km loop trail around this bird and wildlife sanctuary. Features: observation decks and a tower, and walking or running trail.
Colliery Dam Park – Large park with designated dog off leash area 6am-10am and then again 4pm to dusk daily. Features: trail system, waterfall, and fresh-water swimming (no lifeguard on duty).
Living Forest Park – Campground and RV Park –open year round. Features: 50 acres for private, family sized camp sites. Trails, ocean views, bicycling, paddling, swimming, birding, basketball, bocce, beach volley ball.
Westwood Lake – Westwood Lake Park has a much used 5.51 km trail around the lake in the foothills of Mt. Benson. Features: beach area and swimming with lifeguard patrol (June-August), children’s play park, running and walking trails, with shorter trails available towards the south end of the trail. Electric motors and non- powered boating allowed, washroom and change room building on site.
Vancouver Island and Nanaimo Real Estate
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