Over the last few years, we have seen an increasing trend of families and professionals making the move to acreages in the Calgary area, seeking more space, privacy and a deeper connection to nature. And it’s no wonder why! Acreage living in the Calgary area offers a unique lifestyle blending privacy, nature and custom design flexibility – all within reach of urban conveniences.
If you too have been dreaming of wide-open spaces, stunning views, and the freedom to create a truly personalized home tailored to your preferences and lifestyle, building an acreage home near Calgary may be the perfect fit for you! Whether you are looking to escape the pace of city life or simply want more room to grow, in this article we will guide you through some of the best areas around Calgary to build an acreage home, so you can find the location that is right for you and your new home.
What Makes a Location Great?
Selecting the right location is an important first step to being able to bring your new acreage home to life, but what makes one location better than another will be different for each person. Before you start your search, we recommend making a list of your priorities and considering the following questions:
- How close to Calgary would you prefer to be? Consider your ideal proximity to Calgary for work, school and/or amenities.
- What type of infrastructure would you like to have in place for your property? Consider the type of roads and utilities required.
- What is your preferred property size? Would you prefer to live in a master-planned estate community or have greater flexibility with the parameters of your new home and property?
- What is your preferred scenery? Do you prefer mountain views, a heavily wooded property, or an open prairie?
- How much would you prefer to invest in your new home? Consider your preferred budget for both the purchase of your property and the construction of your new home.
Answering these questions will help you establish your priorities and preferences for your new property right from the start and offer guidance as you weigh the pros and cons of each area. With these priorities in mind, let’s dive on into the top areas around Calgary to build an acreage home.
For more tips on how to find the right property, check out our How To Find the Perfect Property for Your New Acreage Home blog article.
Top Areas to Build an Acreage Home Near Calgary
1. Springbank: Luxury Acreage Living with Unparalleled Views
Nestled in the rolling hills just west of Calgary in Rocky View County, Springbank is renowned for its expansive acreages, breathtaking mountain vistas and a tranquil rural lifestyle that doesn’t compromise on urban accessibility. Residents of this community enjoy a short commute to downtown Calgary via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), making it an ideal location for professionals and families alike seeking a peaceful retreat without sacrificing access to the amenities of city living. This prestigious community is characterized by large estate lots, offering ample space for personalized home designs, outdoor amenities and privacy. Springbank is a desirable destination for those looking to build a custom home that blends serenity and convenience.
Notable Communities:
Within Springbank, several subdivisions and communities offer unique living experiences:
- The Acres: A master-planned community that combines scenic beauty with civilized conveniences, located just minutes from the banks of the Bow River and a short drive to local schools and the Bingham Crossing shopping area (Source ·
- Harmony: Situated on the shores of Glenbow Lake, Harmony offers a blend of lakefront living, world-class golf, and pristine Rocky Mountain views, all within minutes of Calgary.
2. Bearspaw: Scenic Acreage Living Just Minutes from Calgary
Located northwest of Calgary in Rocky View County, Bearspaw is a prestigious rural community known for its rolling hills, expansive views, and luxury estate homes. Just a short drive from the city via Highway 1A, Bearspaw offers a peaceful, country lifestyle with quick access to urban amenities. Homeowners enjoy generous lot sizes, breathtaking views, and a strong sense of community, making Bearspaw the ideal location for those looking to build a custom acreage home with privacy, space and sophistication.
Notable Communities:
Bearspaw includes several notable communities and subdivisions, each with its own unique appeal for acreage living. Here are some of the most recognized communities within the Bearspaw area:
- Watermark at Bearspaw: An upscale, master-planned luxury estate community comprising ¼ to 1 acre lots, beautifully crafted custom homes and carefully planned community amenities, including schools, shops, restaurants, and recreational venues.
- Church Ranches: A community of large, secluded estate lots (often 2+ acres) featuring private lakes, walking paths, serene water features, and an abundance of natural beauty, perfect for those seeking a quiet, nature-inspired lifestyle.
- Bearspaw County Estates: Known for its larger lots and close proximity to Calgary, this community offers 2 to 4 acre parcels perfect for families desiring an estate-style home while maintaining a true sense of community and connection.
3. Bragg Creek: Serene Acreage Living Close to Nature
Situated about 30 minutes southwest of Calgary, Bragg Creek is a charming forested community known for its rustic beauty, winding roads, and close proximity to Kananaskis Country. This community is a favorite among nature-lovers, retirees and those seeking a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by trees and wildlife. Acreage lots in Bragg Creek offer privacy, character and a true escape from the city, making it the perfect location for custom homes that blend into the natural landscape. Whether you are dreaming of a log-style retreat or a modern home with mountain views, Bragg Creek offers a uniquely serene setting to bring that vision to life.
Notable Communities:
- Lower Elkana: One of the oldest and most sought-after neighborhoods in Bragg Creek, this peaceful and serene community is heavily forested with mature trees, offering homeowners a tranquil setting for their homes, an abundance of privacy and a strong connection to history and nature.
- Redwood Meadows: Surrounded by a golf course and the Elbow River, this unique residential community is known for its well-planned layout and amenities, including recreational facilities, sports fields, and a community centre. This community combines the charm of rural living with the conveniences of a developed neighborhood, making it an attractive option for families and individuals looking to build their new home in a vibrant community.
4. Foothills County: Picturesque Acreage Living South of Calgary
Located to the south of Calgary, Foothills County features wide-open spaces and a picturesque blend of rolling prairies and forested areas, making it an ideal setting for personalized living spaces and custom acreage homes. Its unique combination of small town friendliness, convenient and ever-expanding range of amenities, and spacious properties offer residents tranquil acreage living set against the backdrop of southern Alberta’s natural beauty.
Notable Communities:
- Heritage Pointe: This prestigious community is known for its luxurious homes, close proximity to the Heritage Pointe Gold Club, convenient access to Calgary’s amenities, and scenic surroundings, offering residents a perfect blend of rural tranquility and urban convenience.
- Priddis: Nestled in the rolling foothills just 14 km west of Calgary, Priddis is characterized by its spacious acreages, mature forests, and panoramic mountain views. Priddis is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat without sacrificing accessibility to city amenities.
5. Cochrane Lake: Tranquil Acreage Living with Panoramic Views
Situated just north of Cochrane, Cochrane Lake is a tranquil community, whose expansive lots make it an ideal location for custom acreage homes. Residents can enjoy the serenity of rural living while benefiting from its proximity to both Cochrane and Calgary. The area has been thoughtfully developed with a focus on preserving its natural beauty and enhancing community features. With its blend of open spaces, panoramic views, and a close-knit atmosphere, Cochrane Lake provides a perfect setting for those looking to build a personalized home in a peaceful environment.
Notable Communities:
- Monterra on Cochrane Lake: Monterra is a premier estate community nestled along the shores of Cochrane Lake. Known for its expansive lots and luxurious custom homes, Monterra provides residents with stunning lake views and a tranquil rural atmosphere only 45 minutes from downtown Calgary. The community also features amenities such as parks, walking trails, and a community pavilion, fostering a close-knit neighborhood feel.
Conclusion
Building an acreage home near Calgary truly offers the perfect balance between rural living and the convenience of urban amenities. Whether you are drawn to the wooded seclusion of Bragg Creek, the panoramic views of Springbank or the the open prairies of Foothills County, each area provides its own unique opportunities for custom home building.
At Braemyn Homes we specialize in helping homeowners turn their vision for their new home into a reality – no matter where in or around Calgary they choose to bring their new home to life. If you are ready to explore building your dream acreage home, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us at (403) 606-2923 or fill out our contact form to learn how we can help bring your new acreage home to life.
Looking for more info on how to plan for your new acreage home? Check out our Planning for Your Acreage Home: A Super Practical Guide for more helpful tips.