Rightly so, equine imagery has historically permeated poetry and prose, the performing arts, cinematic films and the wide world of sports. And this is not surprising: horses are symbolic of power and passion and convey extraordinary visual beauty, physical stature and dynamic movement.
Over the years, horses have become synonymous with chivalry and other fundamentals of luxury life. Even in mythology there are powerful white horses -unicorns- that transform the mundane into the magical. From Black Beauty to Don Quixote to Zorro, horses can -and often do- serve as the iconic symbol of opulence and beauty. And these days, it's still so. As these properties show, the equestrian world is made up of thoroughbred stallions, expansive estates and lifestyles that breed nothing but excellence, turning the pastoral into nothing less than grand-style contemporary luxury living.
Portsmouth, Rhode Island
This 11-acre estate offers the ultimate equestrian lifestyle in Farmlands, a gated 64-acre estate overlooking the Sakonnet Passage in Rhode Island. This resort-style property includes a 4200-square-foot main residence with four bedrooms and a 1700-square-foot guest house with two bedrooms.
The magnificent estate is a private, expansive water-view retreat with vast pastoral lands that houses a mansion, as well as massive barn with office, full spectrum home gym and stables for six horses.
This sanctuary boasts a perfect blend of equestrian luxury living and modernity, that when combined create the perfect mode of living -with wild, wild horses that will never drag you away from this estate.
Ridgefield, Connecticut
Inspired by the great country houses of Mediterranean, this home is surrounded by the most prestigious equestrian facilities. A truly sophisticated estate that is enhanced by the expansive views of the 15-acre property.
In this home, walls of glass, high ceilings, exposed beams and natural stone are supplemented with carved wooden doors, five fireplaces, arched entryways and Brazilian walnut floors exuding a sublime flow and texture. The open concept interior includes a commanding two-story foyer, state-of-the-art kitchen with upscale appliances, sunroom with floor-to-ceiling walls of glass, a 522-bottle wine room and views of the sprawling lawns and woods that lead to the Titicus River. These are but a few of the interior highlights.
Exterior features include multiple terraces and balconies with a saltwater pool, tennis court and five-stall barn. Truly a sanctuary for the horse enthusiast who wants a respite from city life but wishes to retain those commuting conveniences that Connecticut has to offer. Who can ride some stallions in their own backyard that is comprised of the most pristine verdant orchards, and then jump on a train and after a seamless commute arrive in New York City? Only the fortunate occupants of this equestrian estate.
Burke, Vermont
Burklyn Hall is a palatial mansion in Vermont that overlooks wide-sweeping vistas of Willoughby Gap, Burke Mountain and eighty-six acres of undulating green fields and forestry.
Within the 31-room mansion are many refined ornamental details: rich mahogany paneling, hand-carved wood accents, hardwood flooring and marble mantles gracing ten fireplaces. Rooms include a sitting room, a formal dining room, a smaller private dining room, a music room, a study, a kitchen and a butler's pantry. Resembles the Pemberley estate from Jane Austen's most beloved novel, Pride and Prejudice, no? Let's not forget that grand staircase that leads to four en-suite bedrooms with fireplaces and another eight additional bedrooms. Yes, all these opulent features are included and celebrated in this residence as well.
Outside there is a carriage barn, a formal barn, equestrian facilities and luscious gardens that flawlessly contribute to the vast and spacious grounds and the stunning mountain views. What it's like to ride thoroughbred stallions here, every day? It's to experience the delight of equestrian luxury living at its very best. Pure unadulterated delight.
All photos courtesy of Christie's International Real Estate
