Experience the Cottage Dream at Meridian Beach

Nora and Norval Horner know first-hand the special moments that happen at a family cottage — Nora’s parents had a cottage at Gull Lake, a quick two-hour drive from Calgary, where they spent their weekends and summers growing up. So, when a quarter section on Gull Lake went up for sale, the couple bought it with a vision to develop a quiet cottage community where others could experience those same moments. To that end, the duo founded Inshore Developments, and after more than 20 years in the making, Meridian Beach has approximately 140 acres of developed land and 120 acres of natural habitat. 

Building a cottage for your lifestyle

Meridian Beach’s unique charm, aside from its lake access and relaxing nature, is its cottage country atmosphere. Buyers can purchase their preferred lot and build a home designed to fit their needs and wishes, as long as it abides by the community guidelines. 

Buyers can DIY-build their cottage or hire their choice of builders, but must follow architectural guidelines put in place to fulfill the Horners’ vision of a cohesive cottage community. For example, the guidelines prohibit vinyl siding and encourage natural materials like wood, brick or stone. “We wanted a classic cottage country look. We’re fine with timber frame construction and log construction, and we’re looking for things like craftsman styles and arts and crafts styles,” says Norval. 

So far, Meridian Beach has 180 cottages built, creating a picturesque community that compliments the natural surroundings. Since the community is located on such expansive land, its lots are larger than most lakeshore communities, allowing for more privacy and enjoyment of the environment. There’s also a full piped water and sewer system with offsite sewage treatment.

“Generally, you won’t have anyone behind you. You’re either on the water or you back onto the forest, so there’s quite a good sense of privacy,” says Norval. “Most lots are very well connected with nature, and we’re surrounded by Crown forests as well as the lake. There’s lots of lovely forest paths and open areas for children to play.”

Beach amenities

One of the biggest features of Meridian Beach is, of course, the access to Gull Lake. The community spans over two kilometres of shoreline with two beaches and another in development. There’s also a marina and a canal where buyers can purchase a boat slip and leave their boat without worry.

Residents can boat, swim and fish in the lake, play tennis or pickleball, or retreat to one of the many walking paths. It also has a community hall for social events. Because of its minimal commercial amenities — there’s only one restaurant store — Meridian Beach is quiet, and it’s easy to get to know your neighbours.

“The freedom for the children is one of the biggest things. They can just bike and run everywhere,” says Nora. “There’ll be groups of kids playing tag or capture the flag all over the place, and they’ll just pick up other kids along the way.”

A cottage at Meridian Beach ensures you and your family have a place to gather and create special memories. 

To learn more about Meridian Beach lots for sale, visit meridianbeach.ca.

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