5 Standout California Estates, Colonials, and Equestrian Retreats

Surrounded by rolling vineyards, oak-studded hills, and sweeping pastoral views, this Western-inspired retreat sits within the 3,200-acre Varian Ranch community on California’s Central Coast wine country. The custom estate is offered with most furnishings included and pairs timeless architecture with relaxed elegance. In the main residence, approximately 4,500 square feet unfolds on a single level with three en suite bedrooms, an executive office with attached bath, and an open-concept gourmet kitchen featuring granite countertops and wood cabinets. A dedicated movie retreat family room supports both everyday living and entertaining, with a hallway half bath nearby. A detached guest house adds a large bathroom and walk-in closet, while a lower-level bonus room flexes as a game room, fitness studio, wine tasting space, or additional guest suite. Outside, over 6,000 square feet of decking frames Edna Valley views with a granite fire pit, built-in spa, Santa Maria-style barbecue, and outdoor kitchen—plus a putting green, orchard, and raised garden beds.

Originally built in 1929, this grand brick Colonial in Sacramento’s Fabulous 40’s pairs rich history with a meticulous, three-year restoration that honors its original splendor and architectural integrity. Spanning four stories with 5–6 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, the layout is equally suited to quiet privacy or large-scale entertaining. At the center, a gourmet kitchen is complemented by a walk-in pantry and a large laundry room for everyday ease. Below, a fully finished, walk-out basement expands the experience with a temperature-controlled 1,250-bottle wine room, dedicated home gym space, plus storage and a workshop. Crowning the home, a former ballroom has been reimagined as a bright, airy great room with a full bath—flexible enough for a second primary suite—opening to a balcony and rooftop deck.

Set on a broad stretch of level land in Hollister, this property brings together two adjacent lots with separate APNs for a rare, flexible footprint. Bounded by State Route 156 to the west and north and Old San Juan Hollister Road to the east and south, it offers clear access and defined edges. Infrastructure is already in place, including City water, a newer AG well with a 245,000-gallon storage tank, 3-phase electrical power, and natural gas. Currently zoned AG productive with a commercial thoroughfare node, the setting supports a range of future directions, from organic farming and a produce store to the potential to subdivide into 5-acre lots. Not in the Williamson Act and laid fallow for 15 years, it reads as a ready canvas for a thoughtful next chapter.

Size: 60.00 acres

Set on 13.2 private acres across three parcels in Nevada City, Greenstone Court unfolds as a gated estate with a Tahoe-style main residence and a 2,798 sq ft guest home, plus a separate 3.2-acre parcel reserved for future possibilities. Inside, vaulted ceilings and grand living spaces set the tone, anchored by a cherry office, a sunroom, and a formal dining room designed for 20. Leisure is thoughtfully built in, from the on-site theater to a solar-heated PebbleTec pool. Outdoors, the setting reads like a personal park: hiking trails thread through gardens, a gazebo offers a quiet pause, and recreation continues with par-3 golf and a bocce court. Practical luxuries include a heated workshop and a 7-car garage with a motorhome bay—space to live expansively, and linger longer.

Beyond private gates in Murrieta’s La Cresta, this one-of-a-kind equestrian estate pairs world-class horse facilities with resort-caliber living. Created for both professional equestrian use and elevated everyday routines, the property offers three barns totaling 36 stalls—an impressive foundation for serious riding and training. The privately gated 5-bedroom residence reads like a personal retreat, opening to a spectacular pool, a sprawling lawn, and an outdoor kitchen that sets the scene for long, unhurried afternoons. An outdoor shower adds an easy, lived-in comfort after time in the saddle or by the water. Set just 10 minutes off the freeway, the compound brings luxury living and premier equestrian amenities together in a way that feels both effortless and rare, inviting a lifestyle shaped by space, privacy, and purpose.