Located two miles west of Middleburg, Virginia, Brigadoon Farm is more than just a farm – it’s a “complete escape from the realities of urban living,” says John Ballenger, current owner of Brigadoon. Named after Ballenger’s favorite musical, this farm offers more than meets the eye: a rich line of historical ownership, a plethora of potential uses, and an incomparably serene setting.

Brigadoon Farm was originally owned by philanthropist Paul Mellon, who passed it down to John Warner – Secretary of the Navy at the time – after his marriage to Mellon’s daughter, Catherine. When the marriage ended, Warner kept ownership of the land, using it for a cattle-farming operation. In 1976, Warner married Elizabeth Taylor, and two years later, he made his first run at the Senate. In order to assist in financing his campaign, Sen. Warner sold a part of his land holdings to Ballenger, who notes, “Sen. Warner and Elizabeth [Taylor’s] signatures appear on my deed as the prior owners.”

When Ballenger took ownership more than 30 years ago, he used the land primarily for his Black-Angus cattle operation, but he also built a home designed to reflect 15^th-century European gatehouses. In 1991, the Stone Institute of America Magazine recognized Ballenger’s home as the best-designed country stone house in America.

Though Brigadoon Farm is fully equipped to use for any farming operation, Ballenger notes that the property is adaptable. “It would make an ideal location for a horse farm or equestrian facility, while another part of the land would be perfect for growing a vineyard,” Ballenger says. “I built and designed the home so that is could be used as a weekend escape, but also as a full-time residence, depending on what one wanted.”

With the home overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains, Ballenger says there’s something about Brigadoon that makes people realize the bigger picture. “It is a spot for someone who thinks he or she has everything, until they taste and feel the quietness and elegant beckoning privacy of the Brigadoon ‘call’ – that’s when one senses that, without Brigadoon, life really is not complete.”

The Spear Realty Group
Kim Spear
(703) 618-6892
kim@kimspear.com
www.thespearrealtygroup.com

La Pumada, 1929 Reginald Johnson
Montecito, California
Rebecca Riskin & Associates with Village Properties

La Pumada is a rare  confluence of architectural significance and modern luxury, set against a truly incomparable landscape.

Sited on nearly five private acres in the heart of the Golden Quadrangle in Montecito, California, La Pumada  is surrounded by breathtaking panoramas of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains. Built circa 1929 and designed in the spirit of classical Florentine villas, this palatial residence was created by renowned architect Reginald D. Johnson, whose work includes such impressive Montecito landmarks as the Biltmore Hotel and the Clark Estate.

A long, sweeping driveway leads through orchards and rose gardens toward the grand motor court. Imbued with an elegant ambience, the main residence is adorned with such original design elements as tile pavers, gleaming oak floors, and hand-stenciled beamed ceilings. The ground floor includes an entry foyer and a main gallery that connect the living and dining rooms, a sunroom, and a handsome library— all with impressive vistas of Montecito’s coastline and the Channel Islands.

Upstairs, four bedrooms and separate staff quarters provide generous accommodations. The lavish master suite, situated in a private wing, is replete with a sitting room, a coffee bar, his and her baths and dressing rooms, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, and a dramatic terrace.

Yet to be built, the estate’s newest elements will include a state-of the- art kitchen with an adjoining ocean-view family room, and a two-bedroom apartment above the three-car garage. A new, elevator-accessible lower level will offer a theater with stadium seating, recording studio, billiards room, and wine cellar.

Connecting interior and exterior spaces is a south-facing loggia that reveals classically inspired grounds bordered by oaks and punctuated by sublime ocean vistas. Originally designed by acclaimed landscape architect Lockwood De Forest III, the gardens are highlighted by an elevated lawn that steps down to a walled pond with a fountain. The grounds also feature two guesthouses, a detached office, garage space for eight cars and, to be completed, tennis court, pool, and party pavilion.

Not to be replicated, this property offers the rare combination of a highly coveted and private Montecito location, graced with the quintessential villa and sweeping ocean and mountain views.

Offered at $29,500,000

109 Flyway Drive
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
By Jaime Hyneman

“There are very few double ocean-front lots with such stunning views,” says Candace Dyal, owner of the spectacular 109 Flyway Drive estate. “The pool overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the fairytale castle-like bathroom in the separate guesthouse makes this home a one-of-a-kind gem.”

The beautiful Nantucket shingle-style home is located on the picturesque barrier island of Kiawah Island in South Carolina, less than 40 minutes from Charleston. In 2009, Candace and the team at Christopher Rose Architects embarked on a major renovation that transformed the estate, while preserving the best of its original old Georgia-style features. “We kept the footprint of the first two floors, including the wide-plank wood floors,” says Candace. ”We opened up the back of the home so multiple views and light can be dispersed around the home. We saved and preserved the cherry paneling in the library and  insulated the home to preserve energy.”  The result is an award-winning home offering both privacy and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.  Its water views, beach access, and quality design and construction earned it a “Top 25 Oceanfront Home” designation by Ocean Home magazine in 2011.  The home also boasts the distinction of being the first home on Kiawah Island to receive a Silver LEED (Leadership Energy and Environmental Design) certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. 

This magnificent estate has 3,263 feet of outdoor living spaces – including a piazza, covered porches, a summer kitchen and a saline pool – that provide the perfect, relaxing setting for enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of the ocean.  The dazzling ocean views that are the heart and soul of this estate are focal points throughout, from the spacious great room, with its French doors opening up to an outdoor living area, to the luxurious guest and master suites.  “This is such an unforgettable place,” remarks Candace.  “The story, the love behind the home, the honoring of nature, the private ocean-front setting, and a first-class building team all make 109 Flyway Drive a home that’s impossible to replicate.”

Contact Information:
Kiawah Island Real Estate
1 Kiawah Island Parkway | Kiawah Island, SC 29455
Toll Free: 800-277-7008
www.kiawahisland.com

Suisun Valley, Near Napa, California

California living has never been so ideal until Villa De Madre, located near Napa Valley and only one hour from San Francisco. Enjoy views of vineyards from every window of the beautiful 22,882-square-foot Georgian mansion. Entertain guests in one of the three auto barns. Or shoot a round of skeet. These are just a few of the plentiful opportunities for enjoying life at this crown jewel of Suisun Valley.

“My wife and I built this dream home in 2002,” says Willis Johnson, current owner of Villa De Madre. “We wanted my mother to live with us, but also wanted her to have her independence. With a 1,896 square foot guesthouse—including a living room, kitchen, dining room, laundry room and two bedrooms—connected to the main house, it was perfect for her privacy.”

The property encompasses 70-acres of gated vineyards, equipped with surveillance cameras for top of the line security. Producing approximately 150,000 bottles of Cabernet wine yearly, the property could be a “full-blown” winery business, Willis notes, especially with his and hers offices off the master suite.

In addition to the private offices, the mansion features a double-winding staircase; six bedrooms; eight full bathrooms and three half baths; six fireplaces; a chef’s kitchen featuring Viking appliances; an exercise room overlooking an in-house swimming pool, spa, built-in barbeque and enclosed patio/play area; a game room with adjoining bar; a climate-controlled wine cave; and a two-stop hydraulic elevator. Incredible hand-painted ceilings and murals are featured throughout.

Also found on the property are three auto barns, and a combined 44,195 square feet of secured storage space. The showcase barn includes a main garage, a storage area for parts and maintenance equipment, and three restrooms. In the second auto barn, you’ll find three complete maintenance bays with two twin post rotary car lifts, a retro gas station, an office, two storage rooms, and a mechanical room. The third auto barn was modeled after “Main Street USA,” with detailed storefronts and a fully equipped diner. You need only step outside to practice your aim at the skeet shooting range.

Villa De Madre is offered at $19,998,000

For additional photos, please visit www.VillaDeMadreEstate.com

Inspired by an employee of duPont Registry's recent Holiday trip to Arizona, our Homes Blog is featuring this elegant Mediterranian-inspired estate, enjoy!

Built in 2007, this one of a kind property sits on nearly an acre.Beyond the stone archway entrance, the courtyard and fountains are a fitting introduction to this home.

The gourmet kitchen is accompanied by top of the line appliances and large walk-in pantry, adjoined by a formal dining room and breakfast patio. 

The outdoor living area over looks the 11th fairway. With breathtaking views, one can enjoy the pool, water features, spa and and outdoor entertaining areas expected in a true Arizona Retreat.

Throughout the inside of the home, the attention to detail is second to none with natural stone, reclaimed wood flooring and venetian plaster throughout.

Lastly, this beautiful desert home has five bedroom-in-suites all with private patios providing exceptional views of mountains, golf course or city lights.

For additional information on this secluded masterpiece of a home, please visit any of the links below:

http://www.dupontregistry.com/homes/Search/Details.aspx?itemid=1020947

http://www.dupontregistry.com/homes/Search/Agent-Profile.aspx?c=28607

http://www.lisawadey.com/

Located in Ocala, Florida - a town rich with history and tradition - is Padua Stables: an exceptional euine property in a serene rural setting that's minutes from big-city amenities.

"Padua Stables is truly one of the most picturesque and unique equine properties available," says Satish Sanan, the owner of Padua Stables. "The breathtaking views of the rolling acres dotted with live oaks and punctuated by a beautiful, large lake at the heart of the farm make it such an idyllic setting to breed, break and train horses."

The property consists of approximately 763 acres, with an 8,000-square-foot main residence overlooking the largest lake on the property. Between the main estate, lakeside guest house, management houses and employee dormitory, Padua Stables is a great place to entertain and conduct business. "The housing located on the farm for management and staff guarantees 24-hour care to your horses and grounds," Mr. Sanan says.

With both a three-quarter-mile dirt track and one-milk turf gallop, modeled after the turf gallops in Europe, the tracks allow for many different ways to train horses. This property is for someone who truly lives the equestrian lifestyle. A fully serviceable breeding shed and stallion barn, as well as foaling and quarantine facilities, allow every aspect of an equine business to occur under one roof.

"Padua Stables is one of the few horse frams in the country that provides the ability to offer all areas of equine care and training at one farm, rather than having to ship your horses to several different locations," Mr. Sanan says.

Padua Stables is located within a 90-minute drive of major attractions, including Disney World, Universal Studios and Cape Canaveral. "Ocala allows you to have the perfect rural setting one would want for your equine establishment, while also providing the amenities one looks for to enjoy life with family and friends outside the farm," Mr. Sanan explains. "The city is truly a hidden gem."

For more information on Padua Stables, click here.

A star jewel amidst Utah's spectacular wilderness, Riverbend Ranch stands testimony to the passion of a heart determined to celebrate family, life and nature. Situated just 25 minutes from Park City, Utah, and only 10 minutes from shops and restaurants, Riverbend Ranch encompasses  world of its own. More than 212 acres flow from one side of the gorgeous Weber River to the other, stretching across mountain pastures to its peak, with spectacular views of famous Mr. Timpanogos in the distance.

"The opportunity to acquire a property here as exceptional as this is very rare. Zoning requirements provide for homes to be built a minimum of 100 yards from river's edge; this home was permitted just feet from water's edge due to a grandfathering provision," says Paul Benson, listing broker from Summit Sotheby's International Realty in Park City.

Five years in the making, this more than 16,000-square-foot western modern lodge-style home was completed in 2010 and designed to be a family legacy. "No detail was overlooked. The room design and placement takes advantage of multiple experiences - breathtaking river, ponds, mountains, pastures and more - you have a unique view and experience from every room," says Benson.

Riverbend Ranch encompasses property on both sides of nearly half mile of the Weber River allowing control over who fishes and passes across the water. Fences and gates add to the natural security. The home features eight wondros enquite bedrooms including luxurious private master, nine baths, custom woodwork and ironwork throughout, large great room with 27-foot high beamed ceiling, gourmet kitchen, custom bar, wine cellar with custom cedar humidors, large home theater, a billiards loft with elevated deck and wood-burning fireplace directly overlooking the river.

Additional property features include full environmentally friendly and energy efficient geothermal radiant heating system, eight custom wood-bburning fireplaces, reclaimed hardwood floors, heated eight-car garage, four laundry centers, three ponds including large trout pond, two barns, multiple outdoor living spaces with fire pits, hot tub, covered decks and porches, miles of private all-season trails for hiking, horseback riding, ATVs, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, organic garden beds and natural water springs.

For more information on this property, visit www.RiverBendRanch.com.

South Florida calls to mind luxury, beautiful beaches and the finest dining and shopping. In close proximity to all of the hustle and bustle of gorgeous Boca Raton and Palm Beach resides a secluded 47-acre gated equestrian estate.

"You just don't find this rare combination of luxury and acreage in this growing affluent area. It's one of Palm Beach County's best kept secrets," says Darren Weiner, Managing Member/Broker of Antigen Realty, which specializes in representing high-profile professional athletes and celebrities across the United States, as well as internationally.

This private estate's professionally manicured grounds surround an architecturally designed 8,500-square-foot ranch pod-style home, which blends perfectly with its natural environment.

The exclusive property boasts six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms, a 4-car garage, a gym with hot tub, sauna and steam room, a 300-bottle wine cooler, two north/south tennis courts, an extensive free-form pool and in-ground spa, 25 different types of fruit-bearing trees, a 1,000-square-foot lanai, a meditation garden and a stocked lake. It also features a 12-stall barn, a half-mile track and vast pastures, which offer shelter and exercise to its equine residents.

"This presents an incredibly attractive and rare opportunity for horse lovers and polo players, as well as celebrities, athletes, executives, and others who desire privacy, yet want to be close to all of the action," Weiner added. "Corporations would find it desirous as a retreat, as well."

Conveniently located near all major highways and airports, this estate, which neighbors Boca Raton, has easy access to Palm Beach, Wellington (world renowned for its equestrian community), Fort Lauderdale, and Miami, and everything they have to offer. Gourmet dining, the performing arts, pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, fine shopping, premier arenas, stadiums, state-of-the-art equestrian training centers and thoroughbred horse racing are just minutes away.

This unique property is offered at $15.9 million.

For more information on this property, visit www.CelebrityHomesHQ.com.

Rarely does such an exceptional property become available. We invite you to experience the beauty of Carlisle Hill located at 1025 Carlisle Lane.

Less than two miles from the heart of Franklin, Tennessee, this premier 20,000-square-foot estate features 6 bedrooms, and 7-full and 5-half bathrooms, a 6,000 square foot barn, a guesthouse with full kitchen, and a 10-car garage, all sitting atop 10-rolling acres of gated land with an extensive security system that allows you to monitor the property.

This fully-equipped smart house also has an in-floor heating system under the heart of pine floors. The large master suite boasts an adjoining study, his and hers closets, and a master bath. The kitchen is a dream for any chef, complete with stainless-steel appliances, granite countertops, and custom cabinetry. Take the elevator to access the different amenities on all floors - guest bedrooms and bathrooms, a home office, recreation room, game room with wet bar, and breakfast room. Enjoy a roaring fire in any of the five fireplaces of the home. Open French doors to step on the back balconies to see breathtaking views of the Greater Nashville area.

Originially $8.49 million, but now only $6.35 million. Contact Laura Putty Stroud of Fridrich & Clark Realty, LLC at 877-604-6082 or email lstroud@bigalpha.com.

Nestled in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana is the Rocking DK Ranch encompassing seven ponds and 1.5 miles of Bitterroot Valley, a well-known fishery.

Constructed with an exterior of rustic logs, a finer finish meets the eye inside. Massive structural logs from the Salish National Forest, blessed by the tribal chief, are contrasted to the finished walls to allow the easy display of artwork.

The finished walls aren't the only unique feature to the ranch - the property is set on a mile of the Bitterroot River so one can enjoy nature and wildlife. "I personally feel that this is the best amenity," Jane says. "The views of the Bitterroot River, the Totem Peaks and the Bitterroot National Forest from the ranch are absolutely astounding."

The Rocking RK Ranch, a property of 181 acres, was designed by its current owner, Kelley Floyd. Kelley designed the rustic and elegant ranch with over 11,000 square feet of living space that includes five bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a wine cellar and a home theater. The house is surrounded by 3,200 square feet of decking and includes a magnificent outdoor entertainment area with pizza oven. A gate house, a river cottage and a barn with a guest house on top are all on the property, giving a total of 11 bedrooms and 13 bathrooms.

Perhaps the most notable feature inside the property is the 400-ton fireplace in the middle of the house that reaches higher than the second story and has a tree wrapped around it. Two mantels face opposite sides - one warms the dining room that features a serving buffet and bar, while the other side faces a great room and entertainment area.

Interested buyers can see more photos, courtesy of Bryant Studios in Missoula, Montana, and read more details of the Rocking DK Ranch by visiting www.itencompany.com.

Unrivaled. No other home in Miami has achieved this level of artful contemplation, broadness of thought nor can it command a price in this stellar range. Few have possessed the passion to create a home resort oasis that elevates nature to a special starring role with a design that flows with ease, grace and simple beauty. Fueled by the world-cultural interests of the owners, 3 Indian Creek Island Drive on exclusive Indian Creek Island in Miami is a testament to the highest of standards in the luxury market today.

This 30,000 square foot new construction "Resort Home Oasis" is presented by Jill Eber and Jill Hertzberg of The Jills® of Coldwell Banker in Miami.

"This home is on two magnificent acres with about 200 feet of water frontage. There's room to dock a 75-foot yacht and nearby marinas for larger vessels. The security on this island is impeccable - Indian Creek Village has its own police force who monitor the waterways and the island. No one is admitted to the island unless they have a resident's permission," Eber says.

Indian Creek Village is the most prestigious island in Miami - there are only 32 waterfront homes on the 300-acre island. In the middle of the island is an 18-hole championship golf course with a private country club. "This is a really beautfiul island," Eber says.

3 Island Creek Drive is designed as a series of pavilions inter-connected by stone and waterways. Light flows into the house from louvered walls. It embodies the ambiance of a private spa resort set in a secure, island sanctuary. The home features 10-bedroom suites, a master suite with boutique-like walk-in closet, 10-full and 4-half baths, five kitchens including a full catering one, six wet-bars, rooftop sky bar and jacuzzi, panic room, wine cellar, staff room, dramatic library, elevator, 100-foot resort pool and cabana, full spa pavilion, state-of-the-art glass encased waterfront gym with steam and massage rooms, and a garage that accommodates 7-plus limo-size vehicles with room for additional outdoor parking. The latest Smart House technology ensures convenience and security.

"This house is a contemporary work of art - you can open up the whole home to the outdoors, you truly feel as if you are in a luxury resort that belongs just to you. It's very intimate and serene," Eber says.

Interested buyers can call The Jills® of Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate at 305-341-7447, email at info@thejills.com, or visit their websites at www.thejllls.com.

Every now and then, a listing comes along that is more than just a home, estate or property. There are few properties that combine classic and modern styles and are perfect for those who appreciate true craftsmanships, ornate details throughout their home, and cutting-edge technology. But one listing is now available for the sophisticated buyer - the French Masterpiece at 12 Warewoods Road in Saddle River, New Jersey.

"This uniquely-crafted French chateau masterpiece is a dream home come true in a very serene-yet-affluent area," says George Kevo, the owner and developer of Kevo Development who represents the property. Saddle River's serene country setting is home to corporate CEOs, foreign dignitaries and a multitude of celebrities while being less than 20 minutes from the heart of New York City.

The estate has over 19,000 square feet with 28 rooms, including seven bedroom suites, nine full baths and three half baths. Upon entering the French estate, you're greeted by a breathtaking two-story coffered ceiling entrance foyer, a bridal marble staircase, hand-forged wrought iron railing and unique polish stone flooring with elaborate borders and ornate medallions. Polished details run throughout the first floor, including into the adjacent ballroom and cherry library, which both feature custom fireplaces, as well as the gourmet kitchen and custome bar that come equipped with Wolf, Miele and Subzero appliances.

Climb the staircase and find yourself on the second floor, where four bedroom suites and master bedroom suite are located. Each bedroom suite has a private bathroom and walk-in closet, but the master bedroom suite is clearly the most luxurious of the bedrooms: You'll find a sitting room with a built-in car and walk-out balcony, a private bathroom featuring an oversized Whirlpool bath with built-in led televisions behind mirrors and a make-up vanity with marble counters, a fireplace, surround sound in the master suite, and oversized walk-in closets. To top it off, the master oversized closet continues on the third floor featuring an oversized closet and a changing room. The third floor also features a playroom with a full marble bathroom, as well as an office.

Though the majority of the estate gives way to a classical style of architecture and design, some features of the estate are on the brink of technology, like the elevator that reaches all four floors of the property. Take it down to the lower level, and you'll find other cutting-edge technology in rooms like the professional theater with 13 powered leather custom seating and top-of-the-line audio and video equipment, and the golf simulator room with top courses around the world. The lower level also features a large gym, a maid's room, a billiard room, a card room, a wine cellar with climate control, a study room, a powder room and four oversized garages floored with skid-free ceramic tiles.

In the backyard of the French estate, amenities are abundant as well. A grand water park includes a pool with a water slide, four waterfalls, and a grotto with a swim out, as well as a changing room and full bath to accommodate swimmers. But, if you just want to enjoy the outdoors, a state-of-the-art kitchen is featured with a large amount of seating to entertain guests.

The French Masterpiece is listed at $12.995 million. Interested buyers can visit www.frenchmasterpiece.com to see more photos and read the specs of this property.

Deer Valley, Utah is one of the most exclusive alpine ski resorts in the United States, consistently rated the number one ski resort by Ski magazine for the last four years. A venue of the 2002 Winter Olympics, Deer Valley offeres upscale amenities and caters to an affluent clientele. It continues to host competitions for the International Ski Federation and is one of the few remaining ski resorts to forbid snowboarding (snowboarding is available at adjacent resorts), and limit its daily ticket sales.

"Owning property in Deer Valley is very desirable for those looking for exceptional skiing and an exclusive community," says Paul Benson of Summit Sotheby's International Realty in Park City, Utah. "Typically, half acre ski-in/ski-out lots sell for $3 to $5 million in the exclusive neighborhoods such as Red Cloud."

The Huntsman Estate, represented by Benson and Shane Herbert, is one of the last remaining large parcels to come available in Deer Valley. With 63 acres and a 22,000 square foot estate lodge, the property offers a very rare opportunity to own an expensive estate in this area.

"It also offers the buyer the opportunity to parcel off up to 20 one-acre lots, which at the current market prices would allow one to quite literally pay for the entire estate," Benson says.

The size of the estate affords privacy, is gated and the property has hosted high-profile, high-security guests under the ownership of John and Karen Huntsman, Sr. It is ideal for getting away from it all whil maintaining a sophisticated luxury lifestyle in a beautiful mountain landscape.

Offered at $42.8 million by Paul Benson of Summit Sotheby's International Realty. For more information about this property, email Paul at paul.benson@sothebysrealty.com or visit www.huntsmanestate.com.

Every now and then, a listing comes along that is more than just a home, estate, or property. There are few properties that combine classic and modern styles and are perfect for those who appreciate true craftmanship, ornate details throughout their home, and cutting-edge technology. But one listing is now available for the sophisticated buyer - the French Masterpiece at 12 Warewoods Road in Saddle River, New Jersey.

"This uniquely-crafted French chateau masterpiece is a dream home come true in a very serene-yet-affluent area," says George Kevo, the owner and developer of Kevo Development who represents the property. Saddle Rover's serene country setting is home to corporate CEOs, foreign dignitaries and a multitude of celebrities while being less than twenty minutes from the heart of New York City.

The estate has over 19,000 square feet with 28 rooms, including seven bedroom suites, nine full baths and three half baths. Upon entering the French estate, you're greeted by a breathtaking two-story coffered ceiling entrance foyer, a bridal marble staircase, hand-forged wrought iron railing and unique polish stone flooring with elaborate borders and ornate medallions. Polished details run throughout the first floor, including into the adjacent ballroom and cherry library, which both feature custom fireplaces, as well as the gourmet kitchen and custom bar that come equipped with Wolf, Miele and Subzero appliances.

Climb the staircase and find yourself on the second floor, where four bedroom suites and a master bedroom suite are located. Each bedroom suite has a private bathroom and walk-in closet, but the master bedroom suite is clearly the most luxurious of bedrooms: You'll find a sitting room with a built-in bar and walk-out balcony, a private bathroom featuring an oversized Whirlpool bath with built-in led televisions behind mirrors and a make-up vanity with marble counters, a fireplace, surround soung in the master suite, and oversized walk-in closets. To top it off, the master suite continues on the third floor featuring an oversized closet and changing room. The third floor also features a playroom with a full marble bathroom, as well as an office.

Though the majority of the estate gives way to a classicl style of architecture and design, some features of the estate are on the brink of technology, like the elevator that reaches all four floors of the property. Take it down to the lower level, and you'll find other cutting-edge technology in rooms like the professional theater with 13 powered leather custom seating and top-of-the-line audio and video equipment, and the golf simulator roiom with top courses around the world. The lowel level also features a large gym, a maid's room, a billiard room, a card room, a wine cellar with climate contorol, a study room, a powder room and four oversized garages floored with skid-free ceramic tiles.

In the backyard of the French estate, amenities are abundant as well. A grand water park includes a pool with a water slide, four waterfalls, and a grotto with a swim out, as well as a changing room and full bath to accommodate swimers. But if you just want to enjoy the outdoors, a state-of-the-art kitchen is featured with a large amount of seating to entertain guests.

The French Masterpiece is listed at $12.995 million. Interested buyers can visit www.frenchmasterpiece.com to see more photos and read the specs of the property.

The name Cape Cod flashes images of historic seaside homes in one's mind and evokes a longing for a simpler time. Its charm continues today, as a retreat from the hectic and stressful modern world.

"Chatham, located on the elbow of Cape Cof, has its own unique charm and as a result has fared well through the real estate downturn," says Chris Rhinesmith, broker/owner of Pine Acres Realty, Inc. "People come from all over Cape Cod to stroll the quaint village with its charming boutiques and popular restaurants."

Located just 90 minutes from Boston, Chatam does not require a ferry or plane trip. It is easily accessed by car.

Our featured property, on appropriately name Seaview Street, commands dramatic views of Chatham Harbor and prestigious Shore Road, with its world-class resort, Chatham Bars Inn. Built in the early 1900s, the home epitomizes Cape Cod architecture and distinctive character.

With seven bedrooms, seven full bathrooms and one half bathroom, the ample home sits on a 1.5-acre plot. A grand circular driveway leads up to the home, and walking paths and mature landscaping decorate the ground. A large living room and open-floor dining area fitted with two central fireplaces and stunning antique tile work make for a perfect entertaining space. An eat-in, country kitchen provides a more intimate gathering place.

Private quarters are plentiful as well. In-laws or visitors will enjoy a suite above the garage. Secluded guest quarters in the main house include three bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms and a cozy studio.

Oversized windows in the sunroom take advantage of the harbor views. Interior details throughout the house, such as coffered ceilings and wood-paneled walls, call to mind the maritime surroundings.

The beautiful 3,421-square-foot home has an asking price of $5.7 million.

For more information on this property, click here.