by Meg Pierce
Beautiful scenery, proximity to the ocean, ample acreage, country club living and privacy sum up the main appeal of living in Rancho Santa Fe and explain why it is home to the most expensive properties for sale in California. This unique Southern California community is a sanctuary from the high-stress, round-the-clock work environments of entrepreneurship and the world of finance. Many residents spend a good deal of time traveling around the country and world, staying in hotels and sleeping on airplanes. For these community members, once they get home, their number one priority is quality family or friend time. Which is why owning a Rancho Santa Fe estate is so appealing.
Resort-style living with pools, tennis courts, gyms, and equestrian facilities allow friends and family to unwind, blow off steam, stay active and have fun together. A full estate means less time spent on the road and in traffic, not having to deal with crowds or reservations, and more time engaging in activities that bring one joy. Guest houses in particular, high in demand in Rancho Santa Fe, allow family, friends, visitors, and staff to stay nearby, whether to help out while the heads of household are away or to take part in the fun when everyone is home.
In the elite community of Rancho Santa Fe, no two estates are alike, with some ideal for relaxing in the California sun, while others are designed for adventure! Here’s a look at three of the most exquisite properties available in Rancho Santa Fe.
1. Enchanting Estate – $7,200,000-$7,500,000
A truly tranquil estate, this 10,247 SF residence is set on 4.06 acres with two guest houses, a detached gym, lighted tennis court, pool, spa, grassy play areas, and covered porches for a full resort experience. The updated chic transitional décor accentuates all the modern luxury of this Hamptons-style home, while the well-designed floor plan provides grand formal rooms and private family spaces. Although primarily single-story living, the lower level offers an entertainer’s haven complete with a 10+ seat theater and a temperature-controlled wine cellar. Recently remodeled, the gourmet kitchen is exquisite with new Sea Pearl quartzite countertops, a center island cook station, breakfast bar, china cabinet, butler’s pantry, and large casual dining area strategically situated to enjoy scenic views out to the lush grounds. Located in Rancho del Lago, a guard-gated community and part of the prestigious RSF School District, this enchanting estate is perfect for the immediate and extended family. Learn more at TrueRSFestate.com
2. Ranch Meets Resort – $13,950,000
Custom designed for an iconic San Diego family, this timeless classic has been freshly modernized while still highlighting the extraordinary architecture and seamless indoor/outdoor living. The spacious floor plan separates family, guest, and staff bedrooms into private wings and the master retreat offers an exercise room, second office, family room and perfect proximity to the kids’ rooms. A central courtyard with waterfall, fire pit, and barbecue highlights the gorgeous award-winning landscaping. While the lower level game and media room with bar and wine cellar open to the tropical, resort-style pool area featuring a fireplace, waterfall, and cabana with kitchen, sauna, and bath, perfect for quiet spa days or entertaining. The stunning barn includes six indoor/outdoor stalls and an authentic Old West-style saloon. Set on 12+ acres complete with tennis court, beach volleyball court, and playground, the Scripps’ estate is ideal for fun-loving families and horse lovers.
3. Willow Creek Estancia – $90,000,000-$130,000,000
Adventure and passion are at the heart of this 77-acre estate, the most expensive home in California. Equestrians for whom horses are more than just a hobby will fall in love with this working ranch, ideal for breeding or training horses in any discipline. A fully equipped 27-stall barn with offices, an owner’s apartment, six-horse walker, farrier and grooming spaces overlooks grass fields, a sand arena, pastures and private trails that lead to the 15-acre bass-filled lake. When not conquering obstacles on a jumper or hacking waterside, residents and their guests can get their adrenaline pumping in the lap pool, on the tennis court, or at the bowling alley and arcade, all on the premises. Alternately, they can enjoy the zen of the outdoors in the meditation loggia, rose garden or walking the meticulously landscaped paths with delightful life-size sculptures. Balancing luxurious amenities with the beauty of rural living, this amazing estate makes anything seem possible. Learn more at WillowCreekEstancia.com.
To learn more about these Rancho Santa Fe Estates or other luxury homes for sale in California, contact Cathy Gilchrist-Colmar or Patricia Kramer.