Calgary's Best Neighbourhoods 2011: Varsity

Everyone has heard the story about how their grandfather used to walk 10 miles uphill — in both directions — just to make it to school every day. In Varsity, that would never happen.

You see, in Varsity you can attend elementary school, junior high and even university without ever walking more than a handful of city blocks. That’s because there are three elementary schools, two junior highs, a French immersion school — and the University of Calgary sits just outside the community’s southern boundary.

“Lots of families come here to take advantage of all the schools close by,” says Jay Pritchard, president of the Varsity Community Association. “I know all three of my kids have gone to university and elementary school here — and everything in between.”

Aside from having awesome access to schools, Varsity is also close to the Bowmont Park Natural Area, a 64-hectare ribbon of land along the Bow River that forms the neighbourhood’s western and southern boundary. The park has more than 11 kilometres of walking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and is a popular destination with nature lovers interested in checking out the 172 recorded species of animals in the park.

Another perk for residents is the Silver Springs Golf & Country Club, which sits smack dab in the middle of the neighbourhood. The 18-hole course is popular with golf-addicted residents who often squeeze in a quick nine holes before or after work. “That’s quite the draw,” says Pritchard.

Calgary's Best Neighbourhoods 2011: The Top 5

1) Varsity

2) Wildwood

3) Haysboro

4) Signal Hill

5) Lakeview

Help us determine next year's best neighbourhoods by completing the 2012 Best Neighbourhoods Survey