Where to Retire?

I've got another suggestion (see post on Prince Edward County) - Perth, Ontario. We drive through Perth on our way to the cottage and I have to say it must be one of the prettiest towns in Ontario. The architecture is amazing and even more so is the fact that the town and the people who live in Perth have managed to preserve and restore so many of those gorgeous old stone buildings. If the Scottish stone masons who built them were alive today, they would be so pleased to see their work so lovingly appreciated.

The visual beauty of these old stone buildings, along with the swiftly flowing Tay River running through the centre of town, and beautiful Stewart Park just a few steps away from the main street, makes Perth a very visually satisfying place. Add to that a regional hospital, all kinds of real estate options, from a cottage on any one of the nearby lakes, to a home in town to a condo on the river to a retirement residence and lots of great festivals. The Stewart Park Folk Festival, which we've attended many times, is delightful. There's a Garlic Festival, and a great country fair in the fall.

Perth is just a short hour's drive to Ottawa so for those who want the benefits of country life, but be close to the services of the city, Perth's a great spot to be. All in all, Perth would be a fine spot to retire to if quality of life is a priority.