A COMFORT LIFE REPORT:
Berwick by the Sea vs. Berwick On The Lake

BERWICK BY THE SEA

Winner of multiple building and design awards, Berwick By the Sea has one of the most breathtaking locations we’ve ever seen, overlooking the Strait of Georgia. It’s a special place that, to our minds, immediately leaps onto a short list of the best retirement communities in all of Canada. For seniors anywhere in the country who’ve been exposed to the beauty of BC and want to retire in “the most beautiful place on earth,” this place is worth taking a closer look at.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Berwick Retirement creates some of the most beautiful communities in BC, many at some of the most attractive waterfront locations in the province. Berwick on the Lake impresses on every level, and we’re hard-pressed to isolate factors to highlight, but the location, care, and dining here are certainly a few.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

I moved into Berwick by the Sea, “Independent Living” facilities in July 2020. This was done after considerable research and number crunching to convince myself that it was do able, considering my pension, my savings and the sale of my Condo in Sask. and the savings of the monthly cost of taxes, utilities and condo fees. After 2 ½ years, I am convinced that I made the right decision. Independent living means I am free to come and go as I wish. I am still living alone but there are always fellow residents close by to chat and socialize with. The best part, everything in provided in the monthly rent including all means, utilities, weekly cleaning and laundry service. It’s like living on a Cruise Ship without being on the water. Granted, the rental costs do increase each year but usually in line with taxes and living costs associated with owning and maintaining one’s own home.

For me moving to Berwick by the Sea was never a consideration. I had always owned my own home and that is what I planned to do when I moved to Campbell River. After I investigated the Berwick advantages, I decided I would try it and now it would be difficult for me to consider making a change. At Berwick I have my meals, my housekeeping, my laundry service and most importantly I have found a building full of new friends I can visit with while enjoying the exercise room, the coffee breaks and the many other advantage of retirement living. Berwick has changed my lifestyle – for the better!

Last year I made the decision to explore senior independent living. I took a tour of Berwick and was impressed with what I saw and could see myself living here. When we discussed the monthly rates I wasn’t sure if I could afford it. I was given a package outlining all that Berwick provided including a form where I could outline my current expenses and compare them with what I would pay at Berwick. Much to my surprise, I found that what I was currently paying was more than what I would pay at Berwick. I have since been able to save money each month. It was certainly the right decision for me.

I moved in July into 1 of the larger 2-bedroom, 2 bathroom suites. I , too, did the math, and the totals were so close! If I had chosen a smaller suite, I’d be saving even more. And there are so many activities going on that I am sure I’m saving money over those as well.

When I came here I had a feeling that fills you with calmness and love. I went back and talked to my family and said, “That’s where I want to be.” And I haven’t been sorry for one day.

Larry and Betty Pollard, residents (2024)

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Wonderful place! Great staff, residents, and atmosphere. The view from the dining room is absolutely stunning!

What first attracted us to Berwick is the lake. The whole of the residence is focused on looking out on the lake. From the entrance on the second floor, the immediate beauty of the dining room is viewed with the tall ceilings and breathtaking windows. We have been living here for nearly a year, and have experienced the changing seasons. In spring the property comes to life with the gardens blooming. The symphony concerts at the lakeside. In summer, residents and guests gather on the dock, to watch the people paddling, fishing, swimming, small boats. The joy of eating on the patios under umbrellas whether it is a fabulous barbecue or a simple ice cream snack. Autumn with the fall colours mirrored in the lake. The bird life year-round. While none of us like snow because of outdoor walking, the breathtaking vista of the frozen lake and snow-laden trees in brilliant sunshine is incomparable. Year-round the path outside is used by residents, and kept clear for walking. A favourite of many of us is the library with its solarium. The lake brings a feeling of vacation and casual living which suits us.

A lovely location to move to in retirement. It has all the latest amenities, the menu looks great and it overlooks a lake.

My mother stayed at Berwick years ago ... she loved it.

The food is really wonderful. We have two choices everyday for both lunch and dinner. There’s a pub which is a little less formal. And the bistro is a third eating area, where you can ‘help yourself.’

I wanted to come here because I had back and leg problems. Standing up to prepare meals was hard. We were eating more prepared meals and that sort of thing. I like not having to think about what we’re having, then to stand up and prepare it. It was a big enough job to cook for the two of us, without others, but now, we sit with new people every night. And we love to hear about their lives. Some people here we’ve gotten quite close to.

Myrna Green, resident (2024)

Kitty and Jeff Mcallister , residents (2024)

BERWICK BY THE SEA

A vibrant community created by caring people where the needs of the residents come first. Welcome to a new standard of retirement living in the heart of beautiful Campbell River, BC. Berwick by the Sea offers flexible, upscale and affordable senior living options. Community, caring and living to the fullest, that’s senior living at Berwick Retirement Communities.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

The definition of resort-style retirement living, Berwick on the Lake’s gorgeous, peaceful setting on Long Lake in Nanaimo is perfectly complemented by the superior quality of the amenities and services we provide. This is affordable luxury at its finest, with an abundance of fine features along with 24/7 monitoring & security. Contact us today to arrange a personal tour. We look forward to seeing you.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

Berwick offers a resort-style lifestyle in unparalleled locations throughout British Columbia. it's inspired senior living designed to empower independent seniors to thrive, stay active and engaged. Our resort-style amenities and services enable residents to age on their own terms. With multiple dining venues from restaurant-style dining rooms, a grab n' go Bistro and traditional English pubs offering seasonal menus and local wines, fitness centres with state-of-the-art equipment, many thoughtfully designed multipurpose spaces for more opportunities to engage with others or pursue interests on your own time, expansive suites with kitchenettes, and a robust wellness program all designed to help you maintain your independence.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Berwick offers a resort-style lifestyle in unparalleled locations throughout British Columbia. it's inspired senior living designed to empower independent seniors to thrive, stay active and engaged. Our resort-style amenities and services enable residents to age on their own terms. With multiple dining venues from restaurant-style dining rooms, a grab n' go Bistro and traditional English pubs offering seasonal menus and local wines, fitness centres with state-of-the-art equipment, many thoughtfully designed multipurpose spaces for more opportunities to engage with others or pursue interests on your own time, expansive suites with kitchenettes, and a robust wellness program all designed to help you maintain your independence.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

As advocates for seniors, we believe that by learning about their lives and interests, and helping them articulate their needs and wants, we can truly facilitate the transition from a situation that is not quite working anymore, whether to our community or elsewhere. In the event that one of these amazing people decides to call Berwick their home, we are then able to welcome them in a way that says, “This is home.”

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

As advocates for seniors, we believe that by learning about their lives and interests, and helping them articulate their needs and wants, we can truly facilitate the transition from a situation that is not quite working anymore, whether to our community or elsewhere. In the event that one of these amazing people decides to call Berwick their home, we are then able to welcome them in a way that says, “This is home.”

BERWICK BY THE SEA

At Berwick by the Sea, our focus is on helping you continue living independently, with the flexibility to introduce assistance when needed. We take a personalized approach, getting to know how you like to live, so any added services feel seamless rather than disruptive. It’s also a comfortable option for couples with different needs, where one may require some assistance while the other remains fully independent. You can both live here and enjoy a life together in a setting that feels like your own.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

As residents’ needs evolve, they live comfortably through the availability of both independent living and assisted living within the same community. Services and supports can be arranged to provide additional assistance while residents remain in familiar surroundings. The focus is on maintaining independence while ensuring help is available when it is needed. If a resident eventually requires 24-hour nursing care, the resident’s family member should work with Island Health or a local private pay long term care community for assessment and placement in long-term care.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

Berwick by the Sea is not be the right fit for someone who needs clinical care. Our community is designed for independent seniors who want to maintain control over their day-to-day life, with support available but not central. Our residents love the coastal lifestyle. They value privacy and choice and enjoy our vibrant residence full of wonderful personalities.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Someone seeking a very basic lifestyle with limited amenities or minimal community interaction may find another setting more aligned with their preferences. Berwick on the Lake appeals to seniors who value a full-service retirement lifestyle with amenities, dining, wellness programs, and opportunities for social engagement.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

We are proud to be locally-owned and operated by father and son, Gordon and Chris Denford. From the opening of our very first retirement community, the Denford’s realized the importance of creating a warm and welcoming community that put the needs of our residents first. Gordon and Chris are actively involved in the development and operation of each unique location and their philosophy of accessible, approachable and effective listening allows Berwick to adapt quickly to the residents’ changing needs. Their openness and commitment to our residents can be felt in every aspect of life at all our Berwick’s.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

We are proud to be locally-owned and operated by father and son, Gordon and Chris Denford. From the opening of our very first retirement community, the Denford’s realized the importance of creating a warm and welcoming community that put the needs of our residents first. Gordon and Chris are actively involved in the development and operation of each unique location and their philosophy of accessible, approachable and effective listening allows
Berwick to adapt quickly to the residents’ changing needs. Their openness and commitment to our residents can be felt in every aspect of life at all our Berwick’s.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

Berwick by the Sea will continue to refine its coastal lifestyle offering. That means elevating dining, wellness, and shared spaces in ways that reflect how residents want to live today. We’ll keep enhancing opportunities for connection and personal pursuits, in our calm, oceanfront setting.

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Berwick on the Lake will continue building on the qualities residents value most—strong hospitality, engaging programs, and attentive service. The focus will remain on enhancing wellness opportunities and community life while maintaining the welcoming environment and beautiful waterfront setting that define the residence.

BERWICK BY THE SEA

- The atrium is a Japanese oasis where you can find koi fish & Japanese maples
- There is a picture of Berwick's Interior Designer, Tracy, on the 6th floor hallway with Cathy Painter & her dad Joe Painter fishing in the tyee pool. She was once a fishing guide in this area.
- Berwick overlooks Discovery passage where you can see numerous species of whales, sea life, eagles, cruise ships.
- When Ripple Rock blew at 9:31:02 am April 5, 1958, the sight was stupendous. Seven hundred thousand tons (635,028 tonnes) of rock and water erupted in a blast that reached a height of 1,000 feet (305 m).
- We opened our doors in 2016
- Approximately 80%+ of the residents at BCR are longtime residents of the Campbell River community

BERWICK ON THE LAKE

Berwick on the Lake is nestled at one end of beautiful Long Lake. The lake is stocked with trout, bass and is home to a variety of wildlife including Canada Geese, Mallard Ducks, Mergansers, Trumpeter Swans and frogs.

Berwick on the Lake boasts its own floating gazebo and dock where residents can relax and enjoy the activities on the lake which include fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding and canoeing.

Berwick on the Lake's private dining room displays exquisite and unique stained glass windows that were custom ordered from Germany.

Berwick on the Lake's patio water feature contains a large carefree whimsical frog that instills a sense of fun and lightness to residents and staff alike.