Bridle Path
The neighbourhood was farmland from the 1800’s until the 1900’s, until 1929 when the Bayview bridge was built over the Don River Valley. Once the bridge was built, residential development suddenly became possible. Toronto-based land developer Hubert Daniel Page envisioned it as an exclusive enclave of homes. His vision was exceeded and is now Toronto’s most extravagant affluent neighbourhood. Early plans for the neighbourhood called for an elaborate system of equestrian bridle paths, which have since been paved over. Of course, their legacy still remains.
The homes in Bridle Path are the epitome of extravagant. The largest mansions are located between post Road and Park Lane Circle. Many of the homes are situated on 6 acre lots with stone cast iron gateways and elaborate security systems. The estates were built mostly in the 1930’s, 1950’s and 1960’s. Because of the various times they were built, there is a strong mix of eclectic architectural styles from Georgian, Colonial, Greek, Tudor Revival, Italianate, Neo-Gothic, California bungalow and futuristic modernist. The homes contain luxury features fit for any dream home. Pools, tennis courts, gazebos and cabanas, greenhouses and waterfalls grace the properties. Interior finishes are outfitted with gold fixtures, marble, dance floors, saunas, personal gyms and home theatres.
Those who reside in Bridle Path do their socializing along Bayview Avenue, which includes the exclusive and coveted Granite Club, which is a place for individuals, couples and families to socialize and take part in recreational activities. The private Crescent School for Boys and the Toronto French School are also part of Bridle Path, and are both renowned schools. Edwards Garden is home to Toronto’s Botanical Garden, which is one of Canada’s finest public gardens.