Virginia
History:
There were a large enough number of French Canadian catholic settlers in Virginia by the 1850s that they were instrumental in forming Saint Anthony’s Church off Highway 48. The land for the church was donated by Antoine Charpentier, a prosperous settler, who emigrated here from Quebec in the 1830s The original Saint Anthony’s wood frame church was replaced in 1903 by the current church which is particularly noteworthy for its magnificent stained glass windows depicting the saints.
Overview:
Virginia is a lakeside community situated along the south shore of Lake Simcoe. It is known for its natural beauty and sunsets. There is a mix of both year-round and seasonal cottage residents. The residential pocket is concentrated along Virginia Boulevard and Black River Road. Neighbourhood landmarks include the ferry docks to Georgina Island and the Island View Business Centre. Virginia has a collection of homeowner and beach associations Including: Royal. Sunset Beach, Woodfield and Virginia Beach.
Lifestyle:
The Island View Business Centre located on 7751 Black River Road is a waterfront hub that includes: Tobacco Trails, Virginia Beach Marina, Boondocks Restaurant, Lotto Centre and First Nation Lands Management Office.
Homes:
Most of the houses are situated along Virgina Boulevard a long linear street that starts at Highway 48 and runs north to Black River Road. The houses stock consists mostly of frame or brick sided ranch-style bungalows. There are also a growing number of infill custom homes being built in this community which features spacious well treed lots. There are no City services and water is drawn from wells.
Recreation:
The Lake Simcoe trail is approximately 50 km in length, extending from its eastern terminals in Virginia, through the Town of Georgina to its western border at Cook’s Bay in Keswick
Community run beaches and waterfront parks are the focal point of the community. The abundance of cottages make this a prime tourist destination. Boating as well as fishing are popular activities. In the winter ice fishing is popular.
Arts:
Georgina Arts Centre & Gallery located at 149 High Street in nearby Sutton is a well respected gallery showcasing a variety of art exhibits and events. This arts hub also offers art classes and a summer camp.
Virginia Stats
Walkability:
Medium
Bikeability:
High
Public Transit:
Low
Affordability:
Medium
Greenspace:
High
Recreation:
High
Legend: Low, Medium, High
Commute Times
* All commuting times provided are approximate times only. Commute times may increase or decrease depending on where you live within the neighbourhood and the time of day i.e rush hour versus off hour commutes. Time estimates to public transit are based on walking distance or bus line connection whichever is quicker. All other commute times on the chart above are based on drive times.