With everything that is happening in the world, we are longing for verdant fields, wide-open spaces, clean air, and distance from city life. After all, that is what escaping to the country is about. On the East Coast, there is no shortage of showstopping equestrian estates boasting apple orchards, rolling hills, woodlands, idyllic homes, and stables. Take a look at some of these beautiful country estates that are convincing us to pack our bags.
Stonewall Farm, NY
This magnificent equestrian estate is a true Thoroughbred: Four decades in the making, the property is set amid winding roads, apple orchards, rolling hills, ancient stone walls, woodlands, and ponds, with sweeping vistas of the Westchester countryside—all just an hour from New York City.
Situated on 18 deeded parcels of 740 acres, the estate is a rarity—the largest privately owned property in Westchester County. Dedicated to raising championship Thoroughbred racehorses, the land has been scrupulously preserved and enhanced by its current owners over the last 40 years. Their passion for racing shows in the estate’s superbly maintained grounds and world-class equestrian facilities, which include a turf racetrack, riding trails, a 40-stall yearling barn, and two 24-stall broodmare barns, round pens, and 4-board-fenced paddocks and pastures with run-in sheds. The result is an equestrian estate of the highest caliber. Listing Price: $100,000,000
Saratoga Country Estate, NY
The allure of Black Hole Hollow Farm goes far beyond its pastoral beauty. For a time, it was the summer retreat and place of inspiration for Ian Fleming, the legendary British novelist, and creator of Agent 007 — James Bond. Set within a quiet valley on the New York–Vermont state line, the historic 948-acre Black Hole Hollow Farm is an idyllic landscape threaded by the White Creek, with tiered ponds, open pastures, and miles of wide private trails, bordering a 5,000-acre forest preserve. At its center is an 18th-century farmhouse surrounded by picturesque English gardens. Equestrians will appreciate the estate’s four barns, riding arena, fenced paddocks, and its prized location: 30 miles from Saratoga Racecourse, home to America’s oldest thoroughbred race, the Travers Stakes. Listing Price: $2,950,000
Riverfront Equestrian Estate, NJ
The Greenwich architectural firm of Shope, Reno, and Wharton created a stone and shingle style masterpiece along the Ramapo River, which was built by James Nigro with no expense spared. The views are breathtaking and extraordinary. The nine- stall barn opens to a limestone jumping area, expansive paddocks, and trails along the river. Above the stalls is a massive artists’ loft with separate living quarters encompassing three bedrooms and two and a half baths. Infinity pool, hot tub, stone BBQ, generator, and so much more making this truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. Listing Price: $3,995,000
River Oak Farm, NJ
Over 43 breathtaking acres along the panoramic Ramapo River surrounds this English Country estate offering an incomparable lifestyle within proximity to Manhattan. For the equestrian, there is a 20-stall barn with state-of-the-art amenities, an indoor riding arena, paddocks, and trails. For the sports enthusiast, there is both an outdoor infinity pool, spa, soccer/football field, as well as a basketball court, and private outdoor spa for the master suite. There are sport lounges throughout the estate, as well as an indoor pool, wine cellar, home theatre, English Pub/banquet, massage room, gym, and padded recreation area. Listing Price: $18,900,000
Gracy Manor, NC
Gracy Manor, a quintessential equestrian estate situated on 19.6 acres, defines elegant modern farmhouse style. The gated entry and meandering driveway casually invite guests to soak in the scenic pastures in anticipation of their arrival. The traditional u-shaped ranch floor plan creates the perfect courtyard enclave ideal for outdoor entertaining. Exquisite attention to detail is apparent in the bespoke finishes that create a harmonious fusion of interior and exterior amenities important to the lifestyle that is Gracy Manor. Listing Price: $4,400,000
