Young named the estate for his wife, Clara, who
was the daughter of canning magnate Wellington Boulter. A suitable
home for the prominent couple, ‘Claramount’ subsequently
was transformed into a tourist home, an apartment building, and
home of the Prince Edward Cruising Club. In 2001, it was purchased
by the present owners, and has been painstakingly restored to
its former glory.
Luckily, the original architect's drawings were
preserved in the Archives at Queen's University. They revealed
that about one third of the plan was never executed—the
part which would have afforded views of the bay and grounds stretching
down to the water. That wing of the mansion has now been added
and houses two of the suites, the dining room, kitchen, and spa
treatment rooms.
‘Claramount’ now offers accommodation,
dining, full spa facilities and dockage on Picton Bay. Ten luxurious
suites (three of which are in the adjacent coach house) have comfortable
separate sitting areas and balconies or views overlooking the
gardens or harbour. Antiques and original Canadian art figure
importantly in the décor. The charming dining room offers
summertime seating on a veranda overlooking the harbour. A discerning
wine list complements gourmet health conscious cuisine that highlights
excellent regional products. A pleasant second floor sitting/reading/games
area is provided for guest enjoyment.
Developing the grounds for this fine old home will
take some time (as is true of any worthwhile garden of this calibre).
The original garden layout has been preserved and plans are in
place to include what is touted to be Prince Edward County's first
swimming pool in the garden plan. As time goes on, walking trails,
hidden garden rooms and secluded vistas will be incorporated in
the changing landscape.
A place of hospitality, charm, tranquility
and high standards for service and product, ‘Claramount’
has a new life that will truly offer an inspiring setting for
your journey to wellness.
