One of Oak Bay’s most storied waterfront properties has officially hit the market.
Riffington, a landmark Tudor Revival estate located at 3175 Beach Drive in the Uplands, is listed for just under $28 million, making it the most expensive residential property currently for sale on Vancouver Island.
The home is owned by David Black, founder of Black Press, and has deep roots in Oak Bay’s early history.
Built in 1913, the estate was originally constructed as a show home for the Uplands development and designed by architect Philip A. Jullien in the Tudor Revival style.
Set on more than three acres of waterfront land overlooking the ocean, the property includes over 16,500 square feet of finished living space, 12 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and 10 fireplaces.
The main residence spans four levels and is accompanied by several additional structures, including a two-level carriage house, a seaside cottage, and a waterfront pavilion.
According to the listing, the estate also features a private dock, large-boat mooring, landscaped grounds shaped by the original Olmsted vision for the Uplands, and carefully framed sightlines toward the ocean and Mount Baker.
A vegetable garden, greenhouse, and multiple ocean-facing patios and balconies are also part of the property.
Over the decades, Riffington has hosted its share of notable moments. The home has been featured in Western Living magazine and has been visited by members of the British Royal Family on multiple occasions.
It also served as the residence of the US Consul between 1928 and 1942, further cementing its place in local and national history.
The property is listed at $27,999,000 and carries annual property taxes of $111,220.83. The listing was posted this week and is being sold by Jason Binab of The Agency.
Located along the Uplands waterfront in Oak Bay, Riffington sits just minutes from the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and remains one of the most recognizable private estates in the region.
At $28 million, Riffington is clearly not for everyone, but the listing gives the public a rare look inside one of Oak Bay’s most significant historic homes, largely unchanged for more than a century and ready for its next chapter.
