Woodstock Ranch in Santa Ynez, California, is a private equestrian community offering peaceful country living within some 2,400 acres. Old-growth oak trees dot hillsides green from the winter rains. Spring brings bright patches of wildflowers. Cattle meander lazily in the summer sun.
For some homeowners, whose parcels range from about 20 to 60 acres, fencing keeps horses in their own individual pastures. For others, fences keep the cows out.
“Cattle openly graze the ranch,” says listing agent Michelle Glaus of Village Properties. But it is the horses and their riders who benefit the most. “Miles of maintained trails along roadway right-of-ways allow long, uninterrupted rides without gates.”
Set in the foothills of the San Rafael Mountains, the community’s location next to the nearly 5,900-acre Sedgwick Reserve accounts for the variety of wildlife as well. Deer, bobcats, foxes, badgers and rabbits make the preserve their home and can sometimes be spotted within Woodstock Ranch.
Among the handful of properties currently for sale is a French country-influenced estate on 20 acres. “The home’s location, tucked into the hillside vs. a ridge line, provides incredible privacy,” Glaus says, “and protection from the afternoon winds.”
Built in 2007, the reenvisioned house at 4199 Tims Road is newer for the area, she says, where most homes were built in the 1980s. “As such, the home has modern conveniences and safety features, including fire sprinklers, throughout.”
A wraparound veranda defines the base of the two-story farmhouse, which has a wide balcony above. French doors access the spaces from both levels.
Three sets of oversized glass doors and an abundance of windows bring natural light into the open-concept living areas on the main floor. Hand-hewn beams, wide-plank cedar flooring, fine millwork, custom cabinetry and a wood-burning fireplace are among the details.
The kitchen is equipped with a large center island, high-end appliances, marble countertops and walk-in pantry.
The upstairs primary suite features a fireplace, sitting area, oversized marble shower and soaking tub. Two more bedrooms with a shared bathroom complete the top floor.
The basement contains the laundry room and a bonus area that could be used to accommodate guests or as a game room. An elevator serves all three levels.
The room above the oversized detached three-car garage is outfitted as an overflow bunkhouse with a kitchenette and living and dining areas.
A swimming pool has a spa. An outdoor dining area includes a built-in barbecue, television and wood-burning fireplace.
“The home is well-suited for a large family or someone wanting the ability to accommodate family and friends,” says Glaus, who envisions it working as a full-time residence or weekend retreat. There’s ample space near the house for a kitchen garden or barn.
Gourmet restaurants in Santa Ynez and Los Olivos are within a 15-minute drive. Wineries are also nearby.