The Chuckanut Mountains are small compared with the Cascades or Olympics, but they hold their own when it comes to beauty.

This mountain range was formed about 55 million years ago and fossil remains are still found in rock cuts along Chuckanut Drive. I saw one of a giant palm frond there myself many years ago.

You can access a series of trails from the North Chuckanut Mountain trailhead, just south of Bellingham on Chuckanut Dr. You can get to lakes, view spots of the Bay and San Juan Islands, or enjoy the solitude of the forest.

Recently, I stopped by an open house on Chuckanut Drive. It was a gorgeous Sunday afternoon with clear blue skies and a cool 65 degrees.  My plan had been to drive down Chuckanut to Larrabee State Park to get some pictures of the San Juan Islands across the bay. I noticed the open house and decided to drop in.

The place looked very cool from the outside, obviously a custom design intended for its hillside perch overlooking  the dark blue waters of Chuckanut Bay.  At the very least, I figured, I could get some great pics of the bay from the deck, which looked to be a good 60 feet higher than the road, offering unobstructed views of the water and the islands beyond.

Once inside, I was so impressed with the creative custom design and the impressive flood of natural light, and of course the view, that I thought I’d better write about it.  The design does an impeccable job of maximizing the West-facing view by integrating several large windows with a large, entertainment-sized deck. The layout is open, with the kitchen and main living area flowing together nicely with the deck space wrapping around the North and Western sides of the house.

Click the thumbnails below for full-sized pictures. Click here to see the full collection.

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This home sits just off of Chuckanut Drive about 5 minutes south of Bellingham’s Fairhaven neighborhood and features 2 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, with a total of 2200 square feet. The 2006 design is eco-friendly, featuring abundant natural light and radiant heat under the polished concrete and bamboo flooring. Just behind the home is the Bellingham inter-urban bike and walking trail that extends connects Fairhaven to Larrabee State Park. The current list price is $779,000.

For more information on this home, or other Chuckanut or Fairaven real estate, please give me, Rob LeRoy,  a call at 206.883.6668, or e-mail me at rob.leroy@exprealty.com.

Also, please take a look at my website, www.TheRealEstateNovelist.com, or find me on Facebook!

Chuckanut Drive is, hands down, my favorite place to drive in the World. Admittedly, I haven’t had the chance to take the James Bond chase-scene route into Monte Carlo, but I’m pretty sure it would only be a close second.

Chuckanut Drive

Chuckanut Drive’s winding roadway hugs the hills between Bellingham’s Fairhaven neighborhood South to the wide valley North of Mt. Vernon.  Regardless of the weather, the 30+ minute drive shows off the absolute best of Northwest Washington’s geographical character, including  incomparable views of Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands, and a peak at Mt. Baker at the Southern end.

Of course, words fail to capture the wondrous majesty of this truly unique highway. So, I took some pictures.  This past week, in spite of the fact that the Winter Olympics have been happening right up the road, has been unbelievably beautiful. With clear blue skies and temperatures in the mid 60’s, conditions were set to get some truly fabulous pictures.

Click on the thumbnails below to see full-size pictures. You can also click here to see the complete collection of pictures I took.

The pictures are in order from South to North, between Mt. Vernon and Bellingham.

Thanks for reading!

For more information on Chuckanut Drive or Chuckanut Drive real estate, please e-mail Rob LeRoy at rob.leroy@exprealty.com, or call me directly at 206.883.6668.

South of Bellingham, down the hill from the beautiful Chuckanut Drive, lies a small, cozy community of about two to three dozen homes perched on the cliffs above Bellingham Bay, overlooking the San Juans and the tiny Dot Island.  The setting is reminiscent of the cliffs of Malibu, California, mixed with the forest greens and cobalt blues of the Pacific Northwest.

Resting quietly at the center of this little community is a wonderfully updated 1960’s-era Cape Cod-style home with a commanding 180-degree SW facing view of the islands and the bay, with 103 feet of saltwater-frontage, complete with private dock.

The home itself contrasts perfectly with the breathtaking views by offering a refreshingly warm, intimate atmosphere, especially given it’s nearly 3200 square feet.  The main floor is comprised of a study, two living areas (one at each end) and dining area, surrounding a central kitchen.  A patio extends along the length of the house looking over the water. The layout is such that just about every room has a view of the islands.  There are a total of four bedrooms and three bathrooms.  Having received a face-lift in 2000, the home features Scandinavian-inspired character, with bright, vibrant colors, excellent natural light, and the best in modern appliances.  The decor is tasteful and inviting, carefully arranged by a loving owner with a true eye for design. Given the evident symmetry of home and decor, the owner’s are willing to include much of it with a sale.

Click on the pictures below for full-sized versions. Click here for a Virtual Tour.

Externally, this home and neighborhood have a lot to offer. In addition to the home’s 103 feet of private waterfront, there is a community boat launch nearby, as well as a  private beach available to owners.  The home itself has a private dock. The water is not deep for large vessels, though there is plenty of room for deep-water moorage out in the bay, with access by dinghy.  There is also a two-car garage, with guest parking available across the street.

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Priced at $1,595,000, this home is a real treasure.  It is quiet, private, and unquestionably special, perfect for anyone looking to live in understated luxury while enjoying the peaceful serenity offered by one of the most incredible natural settings in the World.

Owner financing is available at competitive rates to qualified buyers.

For more information on this luxury Bellingham home, please e-mail Rob LeRoy at rob.leroy@exprealty.com, or call me directly at 206.883.6668.

Please visit my website, www.TheRealEsateNovelist.com

I’m a big fan of hiking. I don’t do it nearly as often as I would like to, but such is life.  My personal favorite hiking area is Blanchard Hill. It’s got it all: Views, lakes, forested sections and open areas. More variety than any other hike I’ve found.  Located on Chuckanut Mountain, (south of Bellingham between I-5 and Chuckanut Drive) Blanchard Hill is one of the area’s most beautiful natural landscapes and offers some of the best hikes and views around.  With several trails, Blanchard Hill offers hikes ranging from relaxing and quiet to slightly grueling.

There are multiple trails and access points, depending on the level of distance and difficulty you are looking for. It is possible to hike from the bottom, via Chuckanut Drive, or drive to a lookout about halfway up, then continue to the peak from there. There are a couple of small lakes (Lily and Lizard) along the way, depending on which trails you take.

From the parking area, the trail (part of the famous Pacific Northwest Trail) winds up toward a series of bat caves, and then up to the top, known as Oyster Dome. The views from Oyster Dome are unparalleled. Be warned, it’s a tough hike, but worth every sweaty step. The reviews I’d read before my first attempt sounded daunting, but it wasn’t too bad. My 11 year-old daughter made it up just fine… She also had no problem sitting right up near the edge at the top. I, however, clung to a nearby tree and occasionally peaked over the side. What can I say, I’m afraid of heights and I love to hike. I’m also afraid of water but love being on boats. To each their own, as they say…

For more information on Chackanut mountain and Blanchard hill, click here to see a map of the area.  To get to the Samish overlook parking area ,take I-5 to the Alger Exit #240,  head west on Lake Samish Road. Take the first Left onto Barrel Springs Road and follow it for 3/4 of a mile until you see a large gravel road  and a sign that says “Blanchard Hill trail system” Follow that road up the hill. It takes about 20 minutes, or so. You’ll pass some parking lots that access trails. Keep heading up. For your first time, your best bet is to go with someone who’s been there before. It’s pretty confusing- one of those places I know how to get to, but have difficulty describing. It’s definitely worth it, though!

Be sure to check out Bellingham’s Backcountry Essentials for hiking gear and micro-brews!

This post simultaneously published by Rob LeRoy at theRealEstateNovelist.com

” Raindrops on roses and whiskers on Kittens, bright copper kettles and…..” Eeeeeeerrrrr (sound of record scratching)!!!!!

Wait, hold on, those aren’t my favorite things! I don’t even like kittens…in fact, I’m totally allergic to them. Sometimes I just get lost in song…

For your enlightenment and entertainment, I have assembled a list of places, foods and drinks unique to Bellingham that make me happy.  These may, or may not, be in a particular order. I haven’t really decided yet. Here we go:

• Driving down Chuckanut Drive on a sunny day. It’s the most fun you can have in a car without going from a PG13 to an NC-17 rating….

• Potato burritos at Casa Que Pasa.  A Bellingham staple…like nothing you’ve ever found anywhere else.  Deep-fried, cheesy, spicy heaven.  They also have one of the  best tequila collections on the entire planet. I recommend starting with the burrito, though….Tequila needs company.

• Boulevard Park on ANY day, rain or shine. Though I prefer sunny days, there’s always something to be appreciated about a waterfront park, especially with the Woods Coffee and their Wi-Fi.  Office? We don’t need no stinkin’ office!

• Tony’s Coffee!  I missed this more than anything while I was living in Seattle…until I realized I could buy it at QFC, which made me giggle with school-girl giddiness.  Also, the adjoining Harris Avenue Cafe has excellent food, including the best club sandwich I’ve ever had. Seriously, the only way it could be better would be if it paid your mortgage.

• Movies at the Pickford Cinema, Bellingham’s independent theater. They show the kinds of movies that make you remember that there is more to film than computer graphics, explosions and vapid Hollywood starlets (apologies to Jerry Bruckheimer)…not that there’s anything necessarily wrong with those things. It’s just nice to see something that actually engages your brain sometimes…

• Running/walking/sitting around Lake Padden.  It’s 2.6 mile loop is great for running or casual walking, and there are all kinds of trails extending into the woods if you need more room. Horses are welcome, though I really would prefer they wear diapers.  Sometimes I’m just not in the mood for an obstacle course, you know?  It gets great sun and there are all kinds of quiet, private spots along the water to relax and read.  There’s also a dog park, which is great…for people with dogs.

• Lazy Boy Irish Amber at Uisce (pronounced “Ish-kuh”), Bellingham’s best (OK, only) Irish Pub.  The place is awesome, and this beer is probably my favorite local brew, at least in it’s class.  It’s not that local- it’s from Everett…but it’s closer than Ireland! Don’t get me wrong, Guinness and Smithwick’s deserve their proper respect, but Lazy Boy brings it.

• Outdoor music at Boundary Bay Brewery.  During the Summer, there is no better place to listen to live music than Boundary’s beer garden. The bands are always lively, and the beer flows like wine.  No shirt, no shoes, no problem.

• Boundary Bay Imperial Oatmeal Stout. This one gets it’s own post because it is, quite possibly, the single-greatest thing ever to be created by Man in the entire history of civilization. The only problem with the oatmeal stout is that I can’t seem to have more than 3 of them without getting arrested.  That’s a joke, of course… BPD, stop following me everywhere, jeez!

• Reading/ shopping/ daydreaming at Village Books in downtown Fairhaven.  For as long as I can remember, Village Books has been my favorite place to hide out and relax, especially on those cold or rainy days when outdoor alternatives aren’t practical. The views are great from the top floor cafe, and they never seem to mind it if you sit in a corner and read a book you haven’t paid for. Out of respect, however, I try to buy at least one of every few books I read in this way…

Well there you go….10 of my favorite things in Bellingham.  Make sure to click on the respective links to find out more. If you’d like to be added to my next list of favorite things, please seek therapy. Why would you think that I would put you on this list, anyway? I mean, I don’t even know you! It wouldn’t even make sense…

If you’d like to know more about me or read more of my posts, click here.

This post simultaneously published by Rob LeRoy at theRealEstateNovelist.com

Vacant land info, should you have a client interested:

A brand new listing off of Cove Road, off of Chuckanut Drive offers your vacant land clients a chance to build their dream home in one of the most desirable areas for  Bellingham Real Estate!

I’ve attached a link to photos of the lot as well as a 360 degree tour of the lot.   All the hard work has been done for you, with a level lot, 3 bedroom septic system installed, and a framed view of the bay listed at $350,000.  It’s the last available lot in this short plat, and my client is  ready to move on to the next project!

Listing #29084420

• Over an acre

• City water, electric, at the lot

• Bellingham schools

• 4 private beach accesses, including boat launch down Cove Road

Thumbnails of the lot:   http://www.tours.buyertours.com/Bellingham_Chuckanut_BeaconRoad_311/index.html
Link to the 360 tour
Let me know if you have any questions, and thanks for taking a look!

See you out in the field!

Chuckanut Drive is one of my favorite places to go for a drive or to get away for the day. On in given day the beauty of the ocean and the northwest rainforest prevails. There are several places to visit, park & enjoy the view along the way.

If you want a little more adventure you can take a hike on a number of trails around Chuckanut. I recall a hike to Fragrance Lake. My family has many different versions of that particular hike, in fact I recall it ending with my Dad placing crawdads in the foot of my bed. He is always the prankster. You can only imagine a teenage girls reaction. I don’t recommend this part for your family but the hike is wonderful.

You can also enjoy the day at Larrabee State Park. From walks on the beach, having the train pass by and climbing a rock wall there is something for everyone. Young and old love traversing tidepools or just enjoying the waves lapping on the shore.  This is a wonderful place to look for special treasures from the ocean, just be sure to put back all living creatures from the sea back where you found them .

There  are a few notable places to dine along Chuckanut Drive as well. Should you care for a romantic sunset and wonderful meal or just an appetizer with a view. Oyster Creek Inn, which has closed recently and is currently looking for another revival. I had a wonderful mother/daughter moment with chocolate chip cheesecake and will always have fond memories of that day. The Oyster Bar, which poses wonderful views and food to match. A wonderful dinner with friends was enjoyed at this restaurant. I especially remember the mussels. Chuckanut Manor which holds a spot near and dear. This was a place that was a favorite of my late grandfather. It is always a pleasure to reminisce with the owner and the stories he tells. It has an opportunity the others do not, in that you can stay in one of the bed and breakfast suites. What a way to wake up in the morning and look out upon that gorgeous view. Last on the journey would be the Rhododendron Cafe where you will find the great history of Chuckanut Restaurants.

If you would like to take home some of the seas bounty then stop by Taylor Shellfish farm for fresh Dungenous crab, oysters, and Mussels.

This is the freshest we could find for our neighborhood crab feed. There is no better way to get to know your neighbors than by cracking crab together and finding out who eats theirs as they go or who piles it up for a one course meal.  The mussels are just wonderful. It’s funny, I never ate mussels until I was probably 32 and wow was I missing something. Of course the oysters are over the top and myfavorite is on the barbecue with a little butter, Tabasco and a gentle squeeze of citrus. My grandfather always had them raw on the half shell.There’s a Swede for you. There is a story about Lutefisk for another day.

The drive out Chuckanut is enjoyed by many motorists whether it be by motorcycle, sportscar with the top down or a mini van full of children so please drive carefully. The curvy road and amazing views lends itself to an enjoyable ride. There are many auto and motorcycle clubs that like to take this drive as a group. I remember watching  a gaggle of Porsches cruise by as a teen thinking what a life…

During the winter, Chuckanut Drive may have closures due to rock slides, so please be aware of the road.

You will need to see if the road has been closed due to slides. 

So next time you decide to visit Bellingham or live here and need to get away for the day take a drive out on Chuckanut and enjoy all the beauty it has to offer.

It is a great way to spend the day whether with family, friends or just a loved one for a romantic drive.

-Katharine Carey- Real life, Real estate in Whatcom County

*special thanks to my daughter for taking the drive herself (another story for another day) and taking these wonderful photos. Please do not copy them as they are her work.

Much appreciated and Thank you for taking time out of your day . Comments welcome

Outstanding Bay View from 5 rooms of this awesome Edgemoor home.

3 Bedrooms, 2.5 Bath Rooms, 2305 Sq. Ft., .41 Acres

Address: 238 Bayside Drive, Bellingham, WA 98225
MLS #: 29040366

Enjoy your breakfast in the beautiful sun room that opens to the kitchen and looks out at the big park like fenced yard. The living room features large picture windows  looking out at Bellingham Bay, Fairhaven, South Hill, and the Canadian Mountains, it has vaulted ceilings and a beautiful stone faced fireplace.

The large master bedroom has lots of built in storage and access to your private hot tub. The large multi-purpose family room has it’s own fireplace and could be a rec room, a big office or even a 4th bedroom. There is a closet  attached to the family room with it’s own  window, that is big enough to be a hobby room, or maybe a wine cellar. The home was recently painted inside, their is loads of storage. It features beautiful mature landscaping. There is a large double car garage as well as a covered carport big enough for two cars.  The home is in the desirable Edgemoor neighborhood, close to Fairhaven. It has been pre-Inspected and all problems have been corrected.

If you would like any more information about or to schedule a time to see this awesome home give me a call at 360-739-6981.

There are not many flat areas along Chuckanut Drive so most of the homes located here are built along the waterfront of Samish Bay or on the hillsides of Chuckanut and Blanchard Mountains. Many of the hillside homes enjoy views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands. All view homes enjoy beautiful sunsets over the Bay.

There are two gated communities located along Chuckanut Drive and some of the most expensive properties in Whatcom County are located here.