Almena is a quiet, rural community just outside of Paw Paw
Almena is a rural township north of Paw Paw, mostly made up of farmland without a town center. Though locals benefit from shopping and infrastructure in neighboring towns, the community itself attracts those looking for seclusion, natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Residents are surrounded by sprawling landscapes and hiking trails that showcase local wildlife and foliage. “There are lots of inland lakes with public access for fishing, plus roadside farm stands,” says Suzy Glomski, a local Realtor at Gale Realty with over 10 years of experience.
A wide range of home sizes and styles, often with large lots
Housing development in Almena is very decentralized, with most homes on large lots along narrow country roads. Midcentury ranch-style homes and farmhouses make up much of the inventory, along with New Traditional builds from the late-20th and early-21st centuries. Suburban-style subdivisions have been built in the community’s southeast corner, and new construction is ongoing. Prices typically depend on home and lot size, generally ranging from $75,000 to $490,000. Some larger properties, often with over 3,500 square feet or sprawling 20-acre lots, can range from $490,000 to $910,000.
Fishing, hiking trails and lush nature preserves
In addition to nearby lakes and creeks, many of which have public access points for fishing and boating, the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery has hiking trails that showcase the local wildlife with show ponds and other educational exhibits. South of Almena, Portman Nature Preserve also offers dirt trails through forested land along the shores of Mud and Lime lakes. The preserve’s rich biodiversity attracts lots of birdwatchers and visitors looking to enjoy the fall foliage. In the winter, thick snowfall creates great conditions for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Heritage Glen Golf Club has an 18-hole course that’s open to the public.
Farm stands, with shops and restaurants in Paw Paw
The Almena Farmers Market opens every Saturday from May through October in the township pavilion, where vendors sell produce, baked goods and other products. Aside from this summer market and other seasonal farm stands, many come to Southwest Michigan for the local vineyards, including nearby options like Cody Kresta Vineyard & Winery. McCarty’s North 40 Bar and Grille is one of the closest restaurants, accessible on its namesake highway and serving classic American fare. Locals can also drive into Paw Paw for more dining options like La Cantina, a longstanding Italian eatery, as well as grocery stores like Save A Lot and Walmart.
Annual wine festival held in September
Though Almena is a tranquil community, locals still benefit from proximity to nearby towns. “You have access to lots of festivals, concert venues and shopping in the Paw Paw area,” Glomski says. The annual Wine and Harvest Festival is the largest gathering in the area, hosted over three days in September. Besides wine tastings, the celebration includes a vendor market, car show and fireworks over Maple Lake.
Three school districts serve the community
Almena is split between several school districts. Most of the community’s south side is zoned for the Paw Paw Public School District, which earns a B-minus from Niche. Notably, some newer subdivisions in the southeast corner are zoned for the well-regarded Mattawan Consolidated School District, which earns an A-minus. For some, this can be the deciding factor when choosing where to buy a home in Almena. Students north of Highway 43 attend the B-minus-rated Gobles Public School District.
Highways 40 and 43 connect to nearby towns
Paw Paw is about 5 miles away, accessible on Highway 40, and Kalamazoo is less than 15 miles east on Highway 43. Bronson LakeView Hospital is the nearest medical center, located in Paw Paw. Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport is less than 20 miles away.
