When equestrian enthusiasts go searching for a home, often the quality of stables and riding rings outweigh bedrooms and kitchens. Human comforts get reined in, in favor of the noble companions. But here are four equestrian estates where compromise is not required.
The hills are alive with the sounds of trotting. (Forbes Global Properties Swiss & Alps)
Classic Swiss chalets above the Saanen Valley
Equine enthusiasts say, “No heaven can heaven be if my horse isn’t there to greet me.” They need look no further than this equestrian estate overlooking the Saanen Valley in central Switzerland. High on a hillside, the 6-hectare property stands in the company of mighty mountains, giving vistas a grand sense of scale. The view from the saddle is even more heavenly.
This mountain estate provides two chalet residences that celebrate traditional Alpine architecture, with more timber inside and out than you could shake a gnarly stick at. Flowers sprout from boxes beneath casement windows. When winter arrives, deep overhanging eaves protect from the elements. The result is a property imbued with a storybook spirit distinct to the Swiss countryside. This fairytale includes 550 square meters of living space, a marble hammam and access to world-renowned ski resorts – including über-prestigious Gstaad with its private schools, Palace hotel and classical concert festival.
At this 74-acre King City estate, equines receives the royal treatment, and so do their riders. (Barry Cohen Homes)
Ontario estate with all the bells and whistles
Some horses have all the luck, and those horses live at 14900 7th Concession Road. Designed to accommodate Olympic-level equestrians, the 76-acre estate at the edge of Happy Valley Forest in the Toronto suburb of King City houses 30 well-appointed stables, a wash stall, a run-in shed, multiple paddocks and an exercise ring. At the heart of it all is a state-of-the-art arena. The horses, however, aren’t the only ones being pampered.
Down a long gated driveway, the property’s 8-bedroom mansion has amenities to match its elite equestrian facilities. Hidden among various wings are just about every type of room imaginable – dining, living, mud, sitting, powder, sun, billiard, exercise. Not to mention a wine cellar, library and indoor swimming pool. Outside, the indulgence continues. Looking for leisure, utility or adornment? The grounds have it all – gardens, a forty-foot deep pond with a fountain, swimming pool, cabana, service garage, plus tennis, bocce and volleyball courts.
Riding facilities at this hinterland hideaway leave equestrians with little left to desire. (Private Property Global)
34-acre domain outside Byron Bay where privacy reigns supreme
In the hinterlands of Australia’s renowned Byron Bay, the small town of Brooklet serves as a reminder that the allure of New South Wales isn’t just down to its shimmering beaches. Relatively sparse, the countryside spreads out in a pattern of low hills that stretch to the horizon. The subtle rise and fall of the terrain, paired with lush forestry, makes for properties of exceptional privacy.
One such estate, at 44 Rishworths Lane, takes full advantage of its secluded setting. With amenities including a heated mineral pool, orchards and a standalone studio, the 34-acre property leaves little reason to venture beyond its grounds. A stable block takes six horses, with covered day yards, a tack room and hot/cold wash bay. The riding arena is Olympic-sized.
