Happy Trails: Four Exceptional Equestrian Estates You Can Harness for $7.4 Million and Up
Nils Timm
Many folks hankering to get away from it all during the post-pandemic era have selected magnificent oceanfront or mountaintop properties, but the well-heeled horsey set might instead prefer to hang their hats at one of these world-class equestrian estates, which offer all the accoutrement necessary for the serious competitor or devoted amateur alike.
“I think equestrian properties are popular, especially now when so many people are leaving the metro areas and are seeking larger parcels,” says Carolyn Roberts of Coldwell Banker. “And if they are horse-lovers, what better than to have them on the property on which you live … and at estates that offer peace, tranquility and privacy, along with outdoor entertainment areas, swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, beautiful views and an amazing facility for their beloved animals as well.”
So, what exactly constitutes a deluxe horse property? First and foremost, a proper stable kitted out with top-notch facilities and equipment, indoor and outdoor arenas, plenty of acreage for the horses to roam, and of course, places to ride. An architecturally pleasing manor house dressed to the nines, as well as accompanying creature comforts like a pool and tennis court, like Roberts says, doesn’t hurt, either.
With those requirements in mind, check out this quartet of well-bred residences that offer plenty of unbridled potential for horses, as well as their owners — from a secluded property in the hills of Topanga listed for $7.4 million to an over-the-top, 740-acre spread in the Hudson Valley north of New York City on the market for an eye-popping $100 million. Saddle up!
2662 Santa Maria Road, Topanga, Calif., $7.4 million
Originally built in 1998 for award-winning writer/producer Beth Sullivan (“Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman” and “Ponderosa”), this ultra-private retreat has since been updated and expanded by its current owners, who purchased the estate and 5 additional acres in August 2002 for nearly $3.7 million.
Photo : Michael MacNamara
The result of their efforts? An impressive gated horse ranch nestled on 16 acres in a secluded canyon in the hills of Topanga, just minutes from Malibu and Santa Monica, complete with a stable, corral, tack room and much more.
Photo : Michael MacNamara
Photo : Michael MacNamara
Think a sprawling main house sporting 10,000-plus square feet of living space, along with gracious grounds offering multiple patios, an organic vegetable garden, a fruit orchard, rose garden, mature Manzanita grove, and pool and spa for relaxing after a long trail ride.
Photo : Michael MacNamara
“This home could be perfect for any horse enthusiast,” says listing agent Greg Holcomb of Compass. “But, beyond that, the extraordinary level of solitude makes the property ideally suited for any high-profile person seeking the utmost in privacy and security.
“It’s an extraordinary property that seamlessly bridges high-end living with a rustic and casual sensibility,” he adds. “The land is definitive California through and through, and the home provides a gracious and peaceful oasis.”
Photo : Michael MacNamara
The well-heeled equine-lover should fit right in at the estate’s custom six-bedroom, six-bathroom abode, which encompasses a grand living room, formal library, billiards room, movie theater and gym.
An open kitchen is equipped with a butler’s pantry and several workstations, while the elegant primary suite is bedecked with a seating area, fireplace, French doors that open to a terrace, dual walk-in closets, and a spa-inspired bath with soaking tub and shower.
Photo : Michael MacNamara
Rounding it all out? A gardener’s cottage, one-bedroom guest house and eight garages. Plenty of off-grid capabilities also exist, including a solar panel and Tesla Powerwall, city utility and well water with an oversized storage tank, and a generator system. “A fun fact,” says Holcomb: “The electric bill for 2020 was approximately $250 for the whole year!”
Holcomb’s co-listing agents include Cassandra Petersen of Compass, and Drew Snyder, Jay Kilgore and Nancy Nelms of Snyder Sutton Real Estate.
via Dirt.