It's known as the Valley Effect. As soon as you steer your vehicle across the Great Divide and breeze into B.C.'s sun-swathed Windermere Valley, you begin the experience. The tightness in your shoulders starts to ease while your blood pressure settles back to normal.

Frazzled nerve ends, shattered through the work week, start to heal as you shed those big-city blues. Finally you notice yourself smiling broadly.

Only three hours drive west of Calgary, the Valley starts to work its magic the moment you arrive on the welcoming western slopes of the Rocky Mountains. During the last 20 years, residents of Calgary and Edmonton in the thousands have been seduced by the Valley Effect, energetically snapping up recreational property to make this gorgeous and hospitable vacation paradise their home away from home.

But don't kid yourself that it's too late to purchase an affordable recreational home in the Valley. It's not, thanks to Luxe Developments of Calgary.

Enjoy the pool and a stunning view of the lake from new homes at Heron Point.

This visionary team has assumed ownership of a long-delayed project known as Heron Point, overlooking the lake in the heart of downtown Invermere. Previous owners completed the initial phase of Heron Point several years ago but were unable to follow through on their original plans for additional phases.

Now Luxe Developments is carrying the ball. And two new buildings of 24 condo units apiece are destined to rise on the property, completing the original proposal. Prospective buyers were able to get acquainted on a recent warm weekend in May, when Luxe opened a new show suite at Heron Point. Visitors came away impressed, for some very good reasons.

This is one heck of an attractive package, from both an investment and a lifestyles point of view.

At Heron Point, buyers enjoy the option of choosing from four distinctive floor plans, ranging in size from 699 sq. ft. (one-bedroom) through a pair of two-bedroom layouts (813 and 866 sq. ft.) to the largest plan, which includes twin bedrooms, two baths and a den, at 1,228 sq. ft.

Luxe Developments wanted to make an impression by featuring high quality interiors and refusing to cut corners. Each unit is graced by granite throughout (kitchens and bathrooms), as well as engineered hardwood, berber carpet and porcelain tile floor coverings and knockdown ceilings. A complete package of brand-name stainless steel appliances, plus laundry stacking unit, is included in every unit, along with top-quality maple cabinetry. No upgrades necessary.

But let's not overlook the clincher: Location, location, location. Heron Point is situated at 701 - 14A Crescent, near the end of Main Street in Invermere. It's just a two-minute walk to Invermere's beautiful Kinsmen Beach.

"You simply can't beat our location," enthuses Cara Ferguson, marketing manager for Luxe Developments. "You can pull into your private underground parking spot and leave your car right there for the rest of your stay. We're within easy walking distance of the beach, restaurants, stores and shops.

Most of Heron Point's new units will offer occupants a stunning view of the lake and valley. By the way, residents of every unit in Phase II and III are guaranteed access to the pool and fitness centre, which were put in place during construction of the initial phase of Heron Point.

And if you've ever visited the region, you're well aware of the innumerable recreational options that await you, on an all-seasons basis.

During periods of the year when you occupy your immaculately appointed unit at Heron Point, you'll have all the attractions of the majestic Windermere Valley at your feet. During the lazy days of summer, take your choice of swimming, boating, hiking, or golf at one of nine spectacular courses, each less than 20 minutes from your front door. During the chilly season, most locals spend their time skiing, snowboarding, ice-fishing and skating. So will you.

As property values continue to climb in the Valley, Heron Point represents an incomparable opportunity to purchase a lakeview recreational home in one of Canada's most desirable vacation spots.

To be completed in time for summer, 2009, these marvellous units are priced to sell, ranging in price from $299,000 for a one-bedroom condo to $555,000 for the full-meal deal.

So come and sample the pleasures of unconditional ownership of your own home in glorious Invermere. You'll never have a better chance than this.

Drive three hours west of Calgary and allow the Valley Effect to work the full extent of its magic on you.

For registry and further information, please access the Heron Point website (www.heronpointinvermere.ca). Please call 250.342.2111 or 403.554.8200.