Connect

BUSINESS PROFILE:

Boulderwood Stables, Indoor Pool & Hot Tub Grand Opening

An Interview with James Wootton, Tuesday, February 28, 2006

Along Highway 1, approximately 50 kilometres from Citadel Hill in Halifax, a gem awaiting discovery sits nestled in the Ardoise hillside.

The Expansion

James Wootton, proprietor of Boulderwood Stables, has taken a sleepy horse farm and transformed it into an adventure and relaxation retreat. The property spans over 300 acres and is currently home to 16 horses, tennis courts, riding and cross country skiing trails, with two new additions of an indoor pool an eight-person hot tub.

Transforming the existing outdoor pool into an indoor oasis was a lengthy and challenging task. Wootton sourced local suppliers and contractors, such as Swinamer’s Tim-BR Mart of Curry’s Corner and builder Jeff Chandler of Windsor. “Swinamer’s really went the extra mile,” said Wootton. “They would even bring coffee for the workers. (Jeff Chandler’s) builders were A-1 and a really nice group of people to work with.” The design was created by John Hattie of Atlantic Home Designs and an air exchange system by Nu-Air keeps the air fresh and dry to prevent moisture damage to the interior cedar walls.

Grand Opening

March 12, 2006 will be the official Grand Opening of the indoor pool and hot tub, although local residents have already had a sneak peak of the facility, using it as a venue for birthday parties and gatherings. Wootton admits that the cool weather associated with cross country skiing and winter trail riding activities can be daunting to some, but the warming and relaxing effects of a hot tub after an invigorating winter activity is just what the doctor ordered to offset the winter blues.

Partnered with the local SPCA, the Grand Opening celebrations will include colouring for children, face painting, pony rides, hotdogs, and swimming. Events start at 1:00 p.m. and continue through 4:00 p.m. Boulderwood Stables requests the presence of an adult with all children to ensure a safe and happy experience. Representatives from the SPCA will be on site with display tables to educate both children and adults about the many positive programs this organization provides. Contributions for the SPCA would be greatly appreciated.

A Community Asset

In the summer, Boulderwood Stables hosts Girl Guide camps and is now hoping to include winter camps as well. “The girl’s earn their Horsewoman’s Badge,” says Wootton who plans to incorporate cross country skiing, trail riding, and swimming into a winter Girl Guide Camp. “It’s a great experience, especially for city youth who might not have these opportunities otherwise.”

The pool facilities can be rented for parties or corporate functions and are open from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Combinations of pool and arena enclosed horse rides are an excellent alternative to traditional birthday parties, especially for those with limited space in their homes. Monthly memberships are also available providing a local indoor fitness option to Ardoise and area residents.