Quiet lifestyle in the Watchung Mountains
Featuring a blend of history, nature and classic style, Martinsville has become one of the most desirable locations in the area. Located among the thickly forested Watchung Mountains, residents can escape urban congestion in favor of a more pastoral lifestyle that still features plenty of personality, culture and amenities. “You have access to all the things you could want nearby,” says Michelle Giordano, real estate agent with Weiniger Realty and longtime resident of the area. “And it has a really unique personality thanks to the history.” Home to the first official American flag, Martinsville is steeped in history and charm – all without giving up access.
Colonials, Cape Cods from $275,000
Homes in Martinsville reflect the area’s historic character. Center-hall colonials are common, along with ranch styles, Cape Cods and custom builds of traditional influence. “The market is very competitive,” says Giordano. “You have many people wanting to move here, so what inventory there is typically goes quickly – and often for over asking price.” Prices for condominiums and Cape Cods start at around $475,000, though prices for most single-family homes range from $600,000 to $850,000. Particularly large custom builds can go for over $2 million, while historic homes that predate 1923 – the year many of the area’s original homes were destroyed in a town-wide fire – can reach similar prices.
Shopping and dining along Washington Valley, Chimney Rock Road
Martinsville’s shopping and dining options are found along Washington Valley and Chimney Rock Roads. Chimney Rock Inn offers comfort food classics in a rustic atmosphere, while Gabriel’s Fountain Kitchen & Creamery features the best ice cream in the area, according to Giordano. Café Venezia Ristorante Italiano is a community staple that serves Italian classics. Hills of Herat Afghan Restaurant has authentic Afghan cuisine and outdoor seating. Residents can head to Chimney Rock Crossing shopping center to restock on groceries at Whole Foods or indulge in retail therapy at Nordstrom Rack or Saks Off 5th.
July 4th flag ceremony
The neighborhood features the Martinsville Community Center, where town gatherings and festivals are held. The center borders the local library, which hosts educational events for the whole family. Given its importance to the Revolutionary War and the fact that the first official American flag was flown here, July 4th celebrations include annual readings of the Declaration of Independence and a retiring/raising of the flag ceremony.
A-rated Bridgewater-Raritan High
Students can begin at the Angelo L. Tomaso School, which earns an A from Niche. From there, students can attend A-minus-rated Bridgewater-Raritan Middle School and finish up at A-rated Bridgewater-Raritan High School, which ranks among the top 50 schools in the state. Bridgewater-Raritan High also allows students to concentrate their studies in areas including business, engineering, visual arts and music.
Take a hike around Washing Valley Reservoir
Mountain Park allows locals to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and features a variety of plants and wildlife – the latter of which will sometimes accompany morning walkers. The Washington Valley Reservoir in Washington Valley Park is the heart of Martinsville, with it featuring a number of trails and biking paths around its perimeter. Residents can also visit nearby Buttermilk Falls, while those looking to get active can play frisbee golf at Chimney Rock Park.
Get to Newark or NYC easily
While Martinsville doesn’t feature direct access to NYC via train, residents can easily switch over at Newark. Just off I-287 and Route 78, Martinsville makes commuting via car a straightforward affair – though traffic still depends on the time of day. On the train, travelers can expect to spend about an hour getting to and from the Big Apple.
Written By
Gerald Withers
Photography Contributed By
Jesse Roehrer
