In the Naples market Bill Earls, broker and director of John R. Wood Realtors for more than 26 years, knows what sets the luxury home market apart. “Naples is all about quiet elegance, quiet power,” Earls says. “The Waterfront Estate on Gordon Drive is synonymous with true, ultra high-end luxury homes. We have evolved to a truly different level in dealing with the ultra high-end in Naples for the last two decades.”The Italian Renaissance era setting begins as you pull through the gates to this regal estate, winding down the brick-paved driveway lined with remarkable gardens and grass comparable to a putting green and onto the motor court with elaborate, custom fountains. Stepping inside the marble foyer of this six-bedroom, eight-bath estate, an exquisite, two-story rotunda with a hand-painted domed ceiling and crystal chandelier looks out to breathtaking views of the water. 

 When driving down Gordon Drive in Naples, Florida, it is hard to find one home more impressive than the next. That is, until you come across La Capanna, the Crown Jewel of Naples. “This is one of the grand, Gordon Drive beachfront estates,” Earls says. “This one stands out.”Sixteen thousand square feet of luxury and quality sits on over an acre and a half of lavish landscaping along the Gulf of Mexico shore. “Even for those unfamiliar, you still know it’s something special,” says Larry Lappin, associate realtor at John R. Woods. “It is a wonderful presentation that many homes don’t offer.”

 The estate features a home theater, fitness center, gourmet-styled kitchen, “his” and “her” studies, 500-bottle wine room, and 5-bay collector’s garage. The finishing touches include custom molding and cabinetry, marble baseboards, and hand-stenciled walls, as well as Waterford sconces, silk wall coverings, and elaborate architectural detailing.The world-class amenities do not end indoors but overflow onto an open, outdoor area perfect for entertaining. On the marble deck beyond, is a pool containing a mosaic-tile turtle, a beachside game room with a mahogany bar, and a poolside cabana and trellis-covered spa. Naples’ most exclusive private beach club, the Port Royal Club, which is just minutes from downtown shopping, fine dining, and cultural events, is only a short stroll down the beach from this $28-million property, Lappin says.“You will find nothing wanting in this beachfront estate,” Earls says. “It is one of Naples’ true crown jewels.” Offered at $28,000,000

- Reynolds Fuller