Cool off with a cool million in Madrona

Is it here? Is summer finally here?

After a weekend of hot hot hot, I’m hoping that we’ve launched at last into the undeniably gorgeous Washington sun-days. One of my favorite Seattle summer hotspots: Madrona Park and Beach, located on the shores of our own temperate Lake Washington. It’s got that swimmin’ hole feel, only a little more urban (lifeguards and a view of the Eastside = citified summer stop). From the hilltop Madrona neighborhood, the park is an easy downhill walk through one of the city’s stair-and-trail systems — start at the stairs on 35th & Marion, then follow the signs. Alternatively, grab $1.50 ($1.75 during peak hours) and hop on a westbound Metro route #2, which takes you straight there.

Madrona boasts its share of spendy properties; a million (or two) will snag you stellar views of the Lake, the Mountain, the Cascade range. But there are mid-priced plots to be had: here’s a 3 bd/1 bath, 1,260-sq.-ft. home that sold for $600K at the end of May; and another 3 bd/1.5 bath, 1,490-square place that closed for $590K one month prior.

If you’re looking for views, loads of space, and some delicious architecture (both old and new), here are a few brand new Madrona listings to wet your whistle, all less than a mile from Mad Park and Beach:

1615 35th Ave.
Price: $1,750,000
Specs: 4 bd/3 bath
Size: 4,200 square feet

1508 40th Ave.
Price: $1,260,000
Specs: 4 bd/2.5 bath
Size: Unlisted

1525 37th Ave.
Price: $1,995,000
Specs: 4 bd/4 bath
Size: 3,040