By Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press
The television series “Lakefront Luxury,” produced by Nikki Ray Media, has chosen the scenic Northern Bruce Peninsula for its latest seasons, marking a first for the area. Traditionally, the show has explored luxury homes in regions like Muskoka, the Kawarthas, and Haliburton, now viewers will be treated to the unique charm of the Peninsula.
Each episode follows a consistent format where a realtor introduces three upscale homes to prospective buyers, who, after evaluating their needs and preferences, select their dream home by the episode’s end.
For the filming of this segment, six luxury homes from the Peninsula were featured over two episodes. Having been contacted by the Executive Director of Nikki Ray Media during their initial location scouting, local realtor Mark McDade of Chestnut Park Real Estate Ltd, who has over a decade of experience in the region, facilitated the selection of the properties.
The properties showcased bring a diverse range of styles and features. Season 3, Episode 5, titled “Mike & Linda,” featured Tobermory’s “SweetWater Bay” resort, a contemporary concrete home, and a cozy log cabin. The selection for Season 4, Episode 12, “Jordan & Aurelio,” included a traditional home with a stunning floor-to-ceiling fireplace, a rustic retreat with a fieldstone fireplace and a hot tub-equipped gazebo, and a timber house boasting vaulted ceilings and panoramic views.
The chosen properties are located near idyllic spots like Little Cove, Eagle Harbour, Barrow Bay, Hay Bay and Stokes Bay. And-Rod Construction Ltd, a local firm, was acknowledged in the credits for constructing one of the featured homes.
Filming for each episode spanned three days, with a day dedicated to each property. A full film crew was present to capture not only the homes themselves but also the surrounding beauty and communal areas of Tobermory. As per industry standard, all participants, including McDade and the prospective buyers, signed confidentiality agreements.
McDade remarked on the economic appeal of Northern Bruce properties in comparison to more established luxury markets like Muskoka, and noted a shift in buyer demographics from local “Corridor towns” to those from the Greater Toronto Area, reflecting a growing demand for luxury accommodations.
Previously aired in Europe, where it gained considerable popularity, Seasons 1 and 2 helped fund subsequent seasons. The rights for Seasons 3 and 4 were acquired by A&E and Cottage Life, with the former currently airing on Cottage Life TV in Canada and the latter on A&E in the U.S., as well as on-demand services in Canada.
McDade has already been contacted by the producing company to film a third episode for the upcoming Season 5, and is currently seeking out new luxury properties to be featured.
Commenting on the show’s move to feature the Northern Bruce Peninsula, McDade says it “highlights not only the region’s stunning natural beauty but also its rising profile as a destination for luxury living”.
Additional seasons are expected to continue this trend, with airing dates to be announced by Cottage Life TV.
