Walking along the pathways between West Country Village's 13 buildings, the peace and quiet is most striking. Robust, mature trees are all around the 12-acre site, with a park across the street. On the other side of that is nothing for miles and miles. You'd never guess that you could get to Assiniboine Park, the Downs, or Polo Park in fifteen minutes or less.

"It's like you're in the country," says RE/MAX realtor Lynda Sawkins, of the north St. James development. "It's such a quiet area, at the edge of the city, yet there are so many conveniences close by."

The neighbours here are a mix of singles and couples, some retirees, as well as people moving into their first home. "It's a great alternative to renting," says Lynda. "With interest rates as low as they are, purchasing a condominium is attractive for young people starting out who want to build equity. Condos also suit many people who want to simplify their life." Simple, yes, but it's no monastery.

At the centre of the Village is the West Country Club, a 5,000 square foot building housing the fun stuff. A lot of people use the racquetball court and exercise room," says Lynda, and for relaxing after, there's a sauna and spa, billiards room and a big-screen TV lounge. "There's also a social room," says Lynda, "People have booked it for many family dinners, showers, birthday parties - you name it."

Outside the club house are two full-sized tennis courts, a private barbecue area that can be reserved, and a huge, heated 35'x55' pool just put in last summer. "It's very pretty out there," says Lynda. "The condo buildings and dozens of trees protect it from wind, patio furniture and umbrellas are all around - you feel like you're at a resort. I sell condominiums throughout Winnipeg, but there's no other that has the amenities West Country Village has."

There are two guest suites for visitors. One sleeps two. The other can hold six comfortably, and they can be booked for more than reasonable prices - $25 and $35 a night. Try finding a hotel with the same amenities for visiting friends and family for that price.

When the buildings were converted to condominiums in 1996, the majority of the units were given a great once-over in the process. "Many of them have European kitchen cabinets, newer flooring like ceramic and parquet, open kitchens, new appliances - some of them are out of this world," says Lynda. And all the units have patio or balcony space, with privacy fencing surrounding the main floor patios. If you're into peace and quiet, but can do without seclusion, West Country Village is a great place to be.

The suites range from 686 to 765 square feet for one-bedroom units, and 880 to 1006 square feet for two-bedrooms.