GUEST BLOG - Neighbourhood Sketch: Roncesvalles

AUTHOR: THEREDPIN

Roncesvalles is a charming west end community of 15,674 people, bordering Parkdale and east of High Park. The area is known as the hub for the Polish community in Toronto, with countless bakeries and butcher shops that showcase Polska pride. Its vibrant family oriented atmosphere is complimented by several independent businesses in the area, ranging from clothing boutiques to organic specialty stores.

The community preserves a rich eastern European presence in the city, and we’ve listed 10 reasons why Roncesvalles is a great place to call home!

1) The tight-knit community comes together to support development initiatives through several different organizations including the Roncesvalles-Macdonell Residents Association, the High Park Residents Association, and the Sunnyside Community Association. Engaging community members is an important facet in the neighbourhood.

2) There is an abundance of amenities in the neighbourhood, making Roncesvalles the 14th most walkable neighbourhood in Toronto, with a walkscore 91/100.

3) North America’s largest Polish festival is the annual Roncesvalles Polish Festival. Toronto comes alive with Polish pride each September, bringing thousands of visitors to the neighbourhood.

4) There is a strong arts and music scene in the neighbourhood, as there’s tons of live music to check out in Roncesvalles each night of the week. Popular spots include the iconic Hugh’s Room and Gate 403.

5) The transit score in the area is one of the best in Toronto with a walkscore of 95/100. Residents have convenient TTC access to routes like the Dundas, Queen and King Streetcar lines.

6) Roncesvalles maintains a unique cultural vibe, despite being minutes away from neighbourhoods like the eclectic Parkdale and Toronto’s downtown core.  The neighbourhood is a cultural enclave in the middle of the bustle of the city

7) For family fun, every summer, the neighbourhood comes alive with the Roncy Rocks festival with live musical performances, craft sales, food and art showcases.

8) Although the neighbourhood has a strong Polish influence, the area continues to expand as a diverse and welcoming enclave in the city. Residents of all walks of life, including Tibetan, Spanish, and Ukrainian decent proudly call the Roncy hood home.

9) The community is comprised of young families, entrepreneurs, artists, new and established Canadians. This has brought a great mix of businesses and services that cater to the community, like trendy boutiques, bookstores and European delicatessens.

10) Several parks, recreational centres and schools in the area, again these are great incentive for families, including 4 legged family members.

For real estate listings in Roncesvalles, check out TheRedPin’s resale listings page and our new and preconstruction condos page

Disclaimer: The views & opinions expressed in any guest blog featured on our site are those of the guest author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions & views of the Options Group of Companies community as a whole.