Lifestyle

John and I moved into our Caspian villa in July 2021 after many happy years in a spacious four-bedroom home in Geelong, complete with a large garden full of vegetables, herbs and fruit trees. In our mid-sixties, downsizing and retirement village living were not part of our plans. That changed after a period of significant illness in 2020-21. Maintaining our home and garden became increasingly difficult, and we realised it was time to simplify. Our challenge was finding a smaller home that still offered the open spaces, natural light and flexibility we valued. The moment we walked into the Caspian display villa at The Breeze, we knew we had found it. What we love most is the flexibility of the floor plan. The open kitchen, dining and living area allows us to arrange the space in a way that suits our lifestyle, while the abundance of windows creates light, openness and a strong connection to the garden. We downsized thoughtfully, keeping only what we truly needed. Although our villa has a smaller footprint than our previous home, it has never felt like a reduction in living space. Instead of a guest bedroom, we chose to create a study and music room. Family and friends still visit regularly, with plenty of nearby accommodation available when they stay. We continue to host family gatherings, including Christmas celebrations and milestone birthdays, either in our villa or in the Private Dining Room at the Waterside Pavilion. The clever storage throughout the Caspian comfortably accommodates all our essentials, while the garden provides space for herbs, our dog and outdoor enjoyment. We are convinced the Caspian has the best floor plan at The Breeze, although many residents feel exactly the same about their own villas and floorplan. That says a lot about the quality and versatility of the homes here.

Living at The Breeze has given us the opportunity to continue with activities we enjoy. For example, music, exercise classes, bike riding, travelling etcetera. The staff are always approachable and helpful. And the social aspect is very important to us as well.

There are many things at The Breeze village that have made living here over the last five years special. A lovely villa in a beautiful environment, many activities to keep life interesting. Friends who have supported us and staff who smooth the way and often help if things are difficult. This is home.

Living at The Breeze has been the best decision I have made. Lovely villas, waterways that surround us, a wonderful mix of people, all very friendly and helpful. This, together with the facilities make for a great life, which I would recommend to anyone looking for a fabulous place to live.

A big drawcard for me was the location. The Breeze is right on the waterways and is a beautiful area to go for walks, bike rides and kayaking. Retirement living isn't about being a particular age, it's about the lifestyle you're looking for.

There's an enormous amount of parkland within an easy walk and there's playgrounds and treed areas. The village is going to stay this size, which is nice, and the community is not too big.

I really enjoy the active lifestyle at The Breeze. The Cycling Group has been a great way for me to improve my fitness as well as form new friendships. There is a great sense of fun and community within the group and I love catching up with other residents and meeting new ones too.