Ben PhilipNorthwoods of Colchester Retirement Community, located in Colchester, Connecticut, is an award-winning 55+ active adult neighborhood designed for comfort, convenience, and community engagement. Nestled within 78 acres of serene woodlands, it offers a blend of private living and a vibrant social atmosphere. Residents enjoy maintenance-free homes, thoughtfully designed amenities, and easy access to cultural attractions, healthcare facilities, and nature, making it an ideal setting for an active retirement lifestyle.
Northwoods of Colchester Retirement Community
Introduction & Setting
Located at 351 Lebanon Avenue in Colchester, Connecticut, North Woods of Colchester is an award-winning 55+ active adult community that offers a blend of privacy, comfort, and active living. Situated on a 78-acre woodland site—37 acres of which remain dedicated open space—the community offers serene surroundings paired with modern conveniences.
Homes & Architecture
Detached single-family homes, approximately 134–140 units, are built on individual lots with easy access via gently winding roads and cul-de-sacs, ensuring both privacy and neighborhood feel. Homes range from about 1,100 to over 3,000 square feet, with prices starting around USD 299,000.
Featuring 10 customizable models, including Ash, Birch, Maple, Elm, Fir, and more, several have won prestigious HOBI awards for design and construction.
Standard Home Features include:
- Attached garages (1–2 cars), full basements, first-floor master suites with walk-in closets and en-suite baths
- Energy Star-rated for efficiency
- High-end finishes: 9-foot ceilings, Andersen windows, solid-core doors, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, designer kitchens with granite countertops
- Exterior: cultured stone accents, shingle or clapboard siding
- Optional upgrades: finished walk-out basements, sunrooms, second stories
Maintenance & Community Living
Maintenance-free living covers landscaping, snow removal, gutter cleaning, and exterior upkeep—letting residents enjoy their time, not chores.
The clubhouse serves as the social center, hosting game nights, parties, clubs such as biking, hiking, golf, and book reading, along with other resident-driven events.
Outdoor amenities include walking trails, open green spaces, and scenic surroundings that invite a nature-rich lifestyle.
Accolades & Awards
The community’s excellence is recognized by numerous HOBI Awards from the Home Builders Association of Connecticut, including:
- 2011: Best Affordable 55+ Community; Best Detached 55+ Home under 2000 square feet (Birch)
- 2012: Best New London County 55+ Community; Best Detached 55+ Home under 2000 square feet (White Birch)
- 2013–2016: Multiple honors such as Best Detached Community, Best Marketed Community, Outstanding Marketing, and Best 55+ Community in several categories
Location & Accessibility
Nestled between Hartford, about 25 miles northwest, and the Connecticut shoreline, about 25 miles south, North Woods offers access to both urban and coastal experiences.
Nearby attractions include Broadway shows at Goodspeed Opera House, The Bushnell, and Hartford Stage, along with cultural gems like Mystic Seaport and the Fountain Aquarium.
Transportation options include proximity to Route 2 via Exit 18, 40 minutes to Bradley International Airport, and about 20 miles to Amtrak service in Old Saybrook.
The community is surrounded by state forests, parks, wildlife preserves, and recreational lands offering trails, scenic drives, and peaceful environments.
Lifestyle & Community Vibe
Residents highlight the friendly, neighborly culture, described as the perfect combination of privacy, individuality, and community.
The community is characterized by a feeling that every day is Saturday, underscoring a relaxed, enjoyable pace of life.
A wide array of resident-run activities and amenities, such as movie nights, lounges, fitness programs, libraries, arts rooms, spas, and more, make it lively and socially engaging.
Summary: Why Choose North Woods of Colchester?
1. Top-tier, award-winning design combining quality craftsmanship and customization.
2. Low-maintenance lifestyle ideal for active adults who prefer managing experiences over home upkeep.
3. Strong social fabric with plentiful resident-driven clubs, events, and a welcoming clubhouse.
4. Stunning natural setting offering serenity and beautiful outdoor experiences.
5. Convenient access to transportation, culture, healthcare, shopping, and regional highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Northwoods of Colchester Retirement Community?
A. Northwoods of Colchester is a 55+ active adult community featuring single-family homes, a clubhouse, and a variety of recreational and social opportunities. It combines peaceful surroundings with modern conveniences to create a fulfilling lifestyle for retirees.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community consists of approximately 134 to 140 single-family homes, each situated on its own lot, designed to offer both privacy and a welcoming neighborhood feel.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Northwoods offers ten customizable single-family home models ranging from about 1,100 to over 3,000 square feet. These homes feature open floor plans, first-floor master suites, attached garages, energy-efficient designs, and optional upgrades such as sunrooms or finished basements.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Amenities include a community clubhouse for social events, walking trails, landscaped open spaces, and organized clubs. Services such as landscaping, snow removal, and exterior maintenance are included, allowing residents to enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. While the community itself is not focused on formal education, residents have easy access to local libraries, adult learning programs, and cultural centers in Colchester and nearby towns, including art, history, and lifelong learning classes.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. Nearby healthcare services include Middlesex Health facilities, Hartford Hospital branches, and various primary care and specialty clinics within a short drive. Urgent care centers and pharmacies are also readily accessible.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. Colchester offers a variety of shops, grocery stores, and restaurants ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. Larger retail centers and diverse dining options can be found in nearby cities like Hartford, Glastonbury, and Norwich.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. Residents can enjoy local parks, golf courses, state forests, and cultural attractions such as Goodspeed Opera House and Mystic Seaport. Walking, biking, fishing, and boating opportunities are abundant in the surrounding area.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. The community encourages resident involvement through committees and clubs such as gardening, book clubs, social event planning, walking groups, and volunteer initiatives. These groups foster a close-knit community spirit and active social life.
Conclusion
Northwoods of Colchester Retirement Community offers a winning combination of scenic surroundings, well-crafted homes, and a vibrant social atmosphere. With its convenient location, award-winning design, and low-maintenance living, it provides an ideal setting for retirees seeking comfort, connection, and a fulfilling lifestyle. Whether residents are looking to explore nature, enjoy cultural activities, or simply relax in a welcoming environment, Northwoods delivers a balanced and rewarding retirement experience.