When one imagines the ideal getaway property, the words picturesque and magical might come to mind. The breathtaking homes, below, have those traits in spades.
ENCHANTED ESTATE
Tucked away in a secluded Irish valley, this castle-like hunting lodge is known as Luggala and boasts a rich, bohemian history. Owned by the Guinness family of stout brewing fame, the home has hosted an array of authors, actors and musicians, including Mick Jagger and Marianne Faithfull, in its heyday. But an intriguing history is only one of the many factors that makes a property alluring. Location and amenities also come into play at the Gothic estate, which even comes with its own welcoming party on the front lawn. sothebysrealty.com
PHOTO: WALTER PFEIFFER, COURTESY SOTHEBY’S
PERIOD-PERFECT ITALIANATE MANOR
Imagine taking a lavish estate from Newport, Rhode Island, and setting it down in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, and you’ve captured the essence of this 1920s-era Italian Renaissance Revival house. Set on a resort-like property, the 9,000-square-foot residence comes with gardens, a pool, a pool house, a 10-car motor court and a three-car garage.
Why we love it: While the grounds are impressive, it’s the details inside, such as the intricately painted ceiling seen here, that will make a historic home lover’s heart race.
$16.995 million, 426 N. Barrington Ave.; pacificunionla.com
PHOTO: TODD GOODMAN, COURTESY PACIFIC UNION
STUNNING WINE COUNTRY COMPOUND
Cabernet vines and olive trees line the winding drive to this grand residence in the heart of Napa. Surrounded by thousands of acres of preserved land, this property offers total privacy and amazing views for the ultimate getaway. Some of the luxury amenities include a four-island cook’s kitchen, bathrooms that open to private gardens, a pool with an amazing view and, of course, an impressive wine cellar.
Why we love it: Featuring steel windows, stone floors and antique reclaimed timbers, the 10,000-square-foot main house is an exercise in French-inspired elegance.
$17 million, 777 Lommel Road; gingermartin.com
PHOTO COURTESY GINGER MARTIN
PASTORAL DOMAIN ON LONG ISLAND
Attention farmers, equestrians and aspiring vintners: This bucolic 10-building complex is spread across approximately 3 acres in the town of Sagaponack, adjacent to the famed Wolffer Estate, in the Hamptons. Living spaces include a new main house, a 1920s farmhouse, five restored barns and a two-car garage with an apartment, all designed, built and renovated by local architect Val Florio and McGrath Builders.
Why we love it: One of the barns has been converted to a cozy tavern with a fireplace so you can have the experience of going to a bar without leaving home.
$12.5 million, 134 Narrow Lane; sothebys.com
PHOTO: JAKE RAJS, COURTESY SOTHEBY’S
FANTASY ISLAND
Built in 1890 and designed by architects Sidney Stratton and Stanford White, this historic manse in Westchester, New York, is called ‘All View.’ Named for the jaw-dropping scenery that surrounds it, the property features panoramic views of Echo Bay and the Long Island Sound. The landscaping was originally created by Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park, and the grounds include a private beach, boat dock, a mosaic-glass swimming pool and more. Inside, 13 bedrooms, 13 bathrooms, 4 kitchens and 9 fireplaces blend period details with modern living. While, technically, the house actually sits on a peninsula, it feels like its own private island. Most remarkable of all, this picture of tranquility is located less than an hour outside of New York City.
$18.95 million, 116 Premium Point; halstead.com
