Want to live in a castle? This quirky one in B.C. is for sale for $1.5M

A quirky retreat on a sprawling property in B.C. has hit the market for less than the average home in Vancouver.

A castle in a “forest paradise” in B.C. has hit the market – and it costs far less than the average detached home in Vancouver.

The benchmark price of a detached home in the Vancouver area was $2,034,400 in March, according to Greater Vancouver Realtors. In contrast, the sprawling, remote property at 1450 Stewart Creek Rd. in the West Kootenay region was listed for $1,498,000 last week by Sotheby’s International Realty.

“Situated on a private and secluded forest paradise just south of Christina Lake it is the perfect oasis. Eden-like fenced gardens, greenhouses, fruit trees, chicken runs all set up for self-sufficiency and sustainable living,” the listing reads, adding that a creek on the property supplies power and water.

The main home has three bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms – all located in the castle’s tower and accessed by a spiral staircase.

“The interior of the castle is abundant with charm and character, containing unique colored concrete floors and wood features, impressive arched doors and windows, and amazing stained-glass windows,” the listing says.

The unconventional exterior is made of concrete and steel mesh, which the listing says is a traditional European building technique that makes the exterior rot and fire resistant while also keeping the residence cool in summer and warm in winter.

The lot spans 21.94 acres and the purchase price includes two other buildings – a three-bedroom guesthouse and a large workshop.

“Whether it is your own private retreat or for a fabulous Airbnb you will not find another property like this one,” the listing concludes.

Grand Forks is not one of the communities in B.C. where legislation restricts short-term rentals, meaning prospective buyers would be allowed to rent it out year-round without living in it.