Florence Island is a rare opportunity to live within the history of the Gilded Age while enjoying modern luxury. Completely remodeled in late 2021, the estate balances the rugged beauty of the St. Lawrence River with manicured sophistication. The grounds are a highlight, featuring stone pathways, vibrant flower beds, a water feature, and a functional vineyard where owners traditionally harvest grapes for local wine and jelly. It is a destination built for observation; from the various outdoor decks, guests can watch international freighters glide past or enjoy front-row seats to the sunrises and sunsets that define the Thousand Islands.
Accommodations & Design The estate consists of two primary structures designed for multi-generational living:
The Main House: Features 5 bedrooms and 4 full bathrooms. The master suite and two additional ensuite rooms offer private outdoor decks. A sunroom with a daybed and trundle allows the house to sleep 12 comfortably. The interior features an open-plan chef’s kitchen and a living room with a cozy fireplace.
The Guesthouse: A charming loft-style retreat that sleeps 5. It includes its own kitchenette, full bath, and a small living and dining area, making it perfect for teens or a separate family unit.
Design: Modern-traditional aesthetic with air conditioning, auxiliary heat, and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort during the fluctuating river seasons.
Amenities & Inclusions Florence Island is equipped for an active and social river lifestyle:
The Boathouse: A massive protected structure with two slips (up to 32ft) and expansive outer docking for larger guest vessels.
Water & Land Sports: Includes two kayaks, fishing gear, and a variety of lawn games. The island features numerous sitting decks, a screened-in dining porch, and a dedicated fire pit area.
Wine & Vineyard: Guests can explore the island’s private vineyard, a unique feature on the river that adds a touch of European estate charm.
Service: A caretaker maintains the grounds three days a week, and a cleaning person visits weekly, ensuring the estate remains in pristine condition for extended stays.
How Private Is This Island? Privacy at Florence Island is achieved through its position and landscaping. While it is located in the vibrant hub of Alexandria Bay’s "Millionaire’s Row," the island is a self-contained sanctuary with no public access. The deep-water channel and the island's elevation protect the living spaces from the gaze of passing tour boats. With the nearest neighbor being several hundred yards of water away, the island serves as a secure, gated-style environment where families can enjoy the river's high-energy activities from the peace of their own private vineyard and shoreline.
