So what’s the 411 on this picturesque city that stretches all the way down to the gorgeous shores of Lake Ontario? Pull up a chair, because the list that’s enticing people to lay down roots east is a lengthy one.

Topping the list is the irresistible lure of Pickering’s magnificent 7 km waterfront. Factor in almost 3 kms of sandy beaches, a safe, sheltered natural harbour that’s a sailor’s paradise, walking and hiking trails that meander for miles and miles, countless parks, conservation land and more, and it’s easy to see why those in search of a better balance between living, working and playing are relocating here.

Find inspiration in the quiet of an early morning walk or jog around the water’s edge, and then head inland for the bustle of the modern, emerging downtown area. Or, head anywhere else for that matter: Pickering is well connected to Toronto and beyond via highways 401, 407, 7 and 2, GO and Durham Region Transit and VIA Rail. In fact, downtown Toronto is just 25 minutes away, making commuting to work uber easy.

But with so much going on in Pickering itself, you may not have great reason to venture far anyway.

The city’s busy arts and culture scene includes well-regarded concert series in Esplanade Park and along the waterfront; the Durham West Studio Tour focuses on arts of the more visual kind. More of a foodie? The restaurant scene is destined to send your tastebuds into a tantalizing frenzy, with restaurants of every ethnic variety, ranging from causal fare to 5 star dining.

The quest to find a better work/life/play balance seems to be an ongoing one for most. Yet perhaps we just aren’t looking in the right place. After all, it seems picturesque Pickering has this one all figured out.