THE POWER OF INTUITION
In our modern world of always-on technology, with its constant connection, ubiquitous screens and ever-increasing velocity of information, it’s no wonder that many of us dream of escape——from simple pauses to unplug, to making time for meditations, to finding actual sanctums of serenity to visit or live in.
It’s also no wonder that many of us find that escape in our relationships with horses.
The uncanny connection between humans and horses is a theme we often return to in the pages of this magazine. There is something undeniably magical and rare about the experience of communing with and bonding with the natural world, particularly when it takes the form of a majestic equine companion, and that certainly explains why many of us are drawn to equestrian pursuits. Apart from the thrilling physicality, the challenging athletics and the sheer beauty one encounters in the equestrian world, we also find something peaceful and a sense of wholeness.
Our feature story on Guadalupe Laiz, the Argentinian photographer behind the stunning book Horses of Iceland (Page 6), touches on this almost mystical mindset. Explaining the unseen forces that drew her to visit the otherworldly environs of the island nation where the North Atlantic meets the Arctic, Laiz cites the Icelandic concept of ‘Innsæi,’ which can be translated as ‘the power of intuition.’
As she writes in the forward of her book, “Innsæi encapsulates what the Horses of Iceland book is all about, it’s my way of reflecting my inner world to the outer world.”
Tapping into that power of intuition is something that resonates with many equestrians, particularly those of us who have ridden dressage, like Robin Compagno, the subject of Pursuing Passions (Page 44). The Las Vegas-based agent and equestrian property specialist is a lifelong equestrian who took lessons as a child from a dressage rider and even accompanied her to watch the dressage competition at the Olympics in the 1980s, an experience that left her “forever changed.” Now a breeder of dressage horses and an essential guide to clients looking for equestrian properties, Compagno says, “The barn is my sanctuary.”
I’m sure many of you can relate. If you find yourself in search of some short-term sanctuary, our round-up of equestrian escapes (Page 10) offers a curated selection of luxury getaways around the globe. And if you’re looking for a sanctuary to call your home, please enjoy perusing our portfolio of equestrian properties and don’t hesitate to contact any of our esteemed Douglas Elliman agents for help on your real estate journey.
The Next Move Is Yours.
MAJESTIC BEAUTY
By Gavin Manley | Photographs by Guadalupe Laiz
“ I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that the Icelandic horse changed the course of my life. It changed the way that I see the world in so many different ways.
— Guadalupe Laiz
For artist, photographer and explorer Guadalupe Laiz, discovering the magical allure of the horses of Iceland was a life-affirming experience that has shaped her personal philosophy and world view——as much as her career. In her sumptuous photography book Horses of Iceland, Laiz has created a stunning visual narrative documenting five years spent in the company of these incredible creatures in the most unforgiving of landscapes. And yet, beyond the imagery’s breathtaking appeal, her work reveals a much deeper truth: we——humans, animals, and planet——are all connected in ways we are still only beginning to understand.
“I remember it like it was yesterday…the first time I encountered the Icelandic horse,” Laiz said. “It was a small foal spending his first winter in the harsh Icelandic weather. I fell in love immediately. For right in that moment, something extremely special had entered my life.”
Something special indeed. But just how did this Argentinianborn, Aspen-based photographer, who started out in fashion, come to find herself wading through Iceland’s glacial meltwaters in search of the perfect shot? “Pure luck,” Laiz laughed. “More than anything, music is my muse. There were a couple of Irish musician friends of mine who were going there to record, and the idea of visiting this mystical country called ‘Iceland’ intrigued me, so I went. It wasn’t planned, but the moment I landed, I knew this was for me. That’s why I sometimes
say the animals chose me. I was so drawn to them, so happy and at peace. I thought, I want more of this,” she said.
Following what she calls her “internal compass” has been a consistent theme in Laiz’s life. In Iceland, she discovered the concept of ‘Innsæi,’ an ancient word meaning——among other things——the ‘power of intuition’ and this resonated with her on a deeply emotional level. “Innsæi encapsulates what the Horses of Iceland book is all about, it’s my way of reflecting my inner world to the outer world,” she said in the forward of her book.
The origins of the ‘original Viking horse,’ as it’s affectionately known are more than 1,000 years old. It was then that Norse settlers first selected the finest, most resilient amongst their herd for the arduous journey on longships to Iceland. Having been isolated on this island nation for centuries, without any genetic manipulation, the Icelandic horse of today is one of the purest breeds in the world. Prized for their strength and versatility, Icelandic horses excel at endurance racing, and some are fine jumpers, even competing in dressage.
As a ‘gaited breed,’ Icelandic horses have two additional gaits to other breeds, making them a joy to ride. As well as walk, trot and gallop, the Icelandic horse has what is called the ‘tölt,’ a smooth, four-beat gait where the animal glides effortlessly, with one or two legs on the ground at the same time. The other distinguishing gait, ‘flying pace’ allows——as the name
suggests——the horse to move very fast over short distances. This two-beat lateral gait allows these horses to reach speeds of almost 30 miles per hour, making them proficient racehorses as well.
Perhaps one of the most enchanting qualities of the Icelandic horse is the wonderful variation in coloring across the breed. With more than 40 shades and nearly 100 variations, the appearance of each horse is as distinctive as its personality. In fact, the official breeding goal of these horses includes a commitment to actively preserve this rich color palette for future generations.
However, beyond the obvious allure of the Icelandic horse as a physical specimen, for Laiz, these animals’ sturdy resilience belies a softness in character and gentle curiosity that’s particularly endearing. “I grew up around horses in Argentina, but the Icelandic horse is very different,” she said. “They’re literally like dogs——they greet you and just want to be close to you. If you lay on the ground, these horses will stay with you. They won’t leave to feed. They’re just so fond of humans.”
A rugged terrain of towering glaciers, frozen waterfalls and even active volcanoes means these horses are instinctively attuned to their environment. And, in the remote silence of the Icelandic wilderness, Laiz laid with the horses——sometimes for hours at a time——even sleeping with them under the perpetual luminosity of the night sky. This experience not only forged powerful bonds between the observer and the observed——it taught Laiz invaluable life lessons about “calmness, patience and allowing things to simply unfold in their own time.”
This closeness——call it an affinity as much as physical proximity——culminated in some of the most intimate, the most touching portraits of wild animals ever captured on film. “The
imagery is, for me, a bonus,” according to Laiz. “Obviously, I am looking for great shots, but the Icelandic horses taught me that it’s way bigger than the image,” she said.
To understand the artist behind the art is to appreciate that we are all one. For Laiz, seeing wild animals as separate, as ‘other,’ is to do ourselves a disservice. “It’s discouraging,” she said, “to see the lack of empathy we have for animals sometimes—— creatures who deserve the same rights and privileges that we humans take for granted.”
“Loss of habitat is huge. You go to Nairobi in Kenya, and there are more houses every year. Animals don’t understand boundaries; they just come and go, and too often they get hit by cars. It’s a real challenge,” she said. “We must continue raising awareness and educating people——especially younger generations——about the issues that impact the lives of the animals on our planet.”
Inspired by the belief that “art and beauty transform how people think about conservation and nature,” Laiz continues to partner with environmental nonprofits such as The Dian Fossey Foundation and Save Giraffes, as well as doing humanitarian work for 4Africa in Sudan and Uganda. Her ultimate aspiration is that together we can educate people, so they make conscious lifestyle decisions to protect what makes our planet so wonderfully unique.
Or as Laiz says, “I wouldn’t be able to do what I do as a photographer if the world wasn’t as beautiful as it is. It’s important that we cherish that. It may sound poetic, but it’s true.”
The revised edition of Horses of Iceland by Guadalupe Laiz is published by teNeues and will be out early next year.
Equestrian Escapes THE BEST GETAWAYS AROUND THE GLOBE
SALAMANDER RESORT & SPA
MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA
This breathtaking estate nestled in the verdant hills of Virginia is the perfect countryside respite for equestrians of all levels. With over 340 acres of rolling hills and trails, this luxurious escape blends countryside glamour and historic charm to deliver an unforgettable getaway.
From riding lessons to countryside trail rides, guests can partake in an array of elite equestrian activities. They can also opt to bring their personal horses and stable them overnight in Salamander Resort’s stunning 14,000-square-foot, 22-stall stable. In addition to equestrian pursuits, the resort also boasts unparalleled dining experiences, easy access to outstanding wineries and a relaxing spa on the premises.
Learn more at salamanderresort.com
CASTLE LESLIE
GLASLOUGH, IRELAND
Nestled among the historic hills of Ireland is Castle Leslie Estate. This iconic Irish castle estate has been painstakingly restored to return it to its original glory, with opulent details at every turn. This idyllic setting is an amazing escape for avid equestrians, offering adventures for both intermediate and advanced riders.
With a world-class equestrian center, Castle Leslie affords guests the opportunity to explore the lush Irish countryside on one of their 17 Irish sport horses, draught horses or thoroughbreds and ponies. For a more leisurely experience, opt instead for a charming horse-drawn carriage ride throughout the expansive estate grounds.
Learn more at castleleslie.com
Photography courtesy of Castle Leslie Estate
Photography courtesy of Salamander Hotels & Resorts
WHEN MANY ENVISION THEIR IDEAL GETAWAY, THEY DREAM OF DAYS SPENT LOUNGING ON PRISTINE BEACHES OR EXPLORING THE HISTORIC ATTRACTIONS OF OPULENT EUROPEAN CITIES. BUT FOR THOSE WITH A PASSION FOR HORSES, THE ARCHETYPE OF A PERFECT TRIP MAY LOOK A BIT DIFFERENT.
WHEN PLANNING YOUR NEXT HOLIDAY, PRIORITIZE THESE LUXURIOUS ESTATES, SECLUDED RESPITES OR COASTAL RETREATS THAT OFFER EQUESTRIANS THE CHANCE TO INDULGE IN THEIR FAVORITE PASTIME, EVEN WHILE AWAY. READ ON TO DISCOVER OUR FAVORITE EQUESTRIAN ESCAPES AROUND THE GLOBE.
ESTANCIA VIK
JOSÉ IGNACIO, URUGUAY
This striking hotel sits on 4,000 acres of Uruguay’s beautifully lush countryside. With just 12 suites available on the property, the intimate setting is a relaxing respite for those looking to indulge in the bucolic landscape and pursue their equestrian passions.
The striking, Spanish-inspired property is not only home to a private polo field where guests can take lessons, but it also offers horseback riding excursions across the open plains with an exclusive herd of Criollo and Quarter horses.
SÃO LOURENÇO DO BARROCAL
MONSARAZ, PORTUGAL
Nestled in the agricultural Alentejo region of southern Portugal, São Lourenço do Barrocal’s sprawling estate exudes understated luxury. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards, ancient olive trees and lush farmland, it is a secluded countryside oasis designed for optimal relaxation.
Equestrians can explore the entire estate by horseback, viewing the grounds atop one of the property’s stunning Lusitano horses. Or, if they prefer, guests can stable their own horses in São Lourenço do Barrocal’s state-of-the-art facilities where they will be cared for by an elite team of experienced professionals.
Learn more at estanciavik.com
Learn more at barrocal.pt
@Jorge Vieira
@Ash James
@Jorge Vieira
Photography courtesy of Estancia Vik
Photography courtesy of São Lourenço do Barrocal
Photograph by Guadalupe Laiz
171 OAKVIEW HIGHWAY
EAST HAMPTON
This 14.8-acre equine farm is equipped and running with 50 stalls, 2 outdoor rings, an indoor rig and a 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom converted barn house overlooking it all, just one long block to East Hampton’s Newtown Lane. With nearly all amenities under one solar-paneled roof—including stalls, tack room, 100-foot x 200-foot indoor ring, viewing lounge—this equestrian center offers an open and easy flow that’s protected from the elements all year long.
Price: $9,999,000 I Listing ID: H370386
Pantelis (Telly) Karoussos Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 631.267.7338 | m 516.637.3980 telly.karoussos@elliman.com
8095 ALVAHS LANE
CUTCHOGUE
This newly built, pristine, spacious home on 2.62 acres is set far back from the road, surrounded by preserved farmland vistas. Relax near the pool and let the beautiful scenery rejuvenate you. Take in the farm views on the roof deck as the sun rises or sets; stargaze by the fire pit in the evenings; enjoy golf on your putting green. Perfectly situated for your private
Price: $1,975,000 I Listing ID: 3531028
2230 SOUNDVIEW AVENUE
MATTITUCK
A long, winding driveway rises to this spectacular 56-acre property and beautifully built 5-bedroom, 3 full- and 2-half-bathroo m home. The pristine home has approx. 5,000sf of living area featuring a grand foyer and a spacious living room that is perfect for entertaining. Co mmanding unsurpassed views of preserved land and Long Island Sound beyond, this huge property can also serve as your dream equestrian setting. 48 ac res have been preserved and 8 acres have development rights intact.
Price: $7,500,000 I Listing ID: 3513901
Suzette Reiss Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 631.298.6147 | m 516.815.5657 suzette.reiss@elliman.com
2 BLUEGRASS COURT
AQUEBOGUE
Welcome to your dream home on the North Fork of Long Island, conveniently located next to farmstands, wineries, breweries, restaurants, public and private golf courses, Peconic Bay and Long Island Sound beaches. This picturesque property, just shy of an acre, also offers a unique haven for horse lovers. The yard hosts a well-maintained, 12-foot x 34-foot horse barn with two 12-foot x 12-foot stalls and a 10-foot x 12-foot tack room. Equestrian enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtfully designed spaces.
Price: $859,000 I Listing ID: 3517323
307 DEEP HOLE ROAD
BAITING HOLLOW A lovely equestrian property on 5.1 acres. Beautiful land and horse property with scenic views surrounded by multimillion-dollar equestrian properties and farmland. The property is located in a scenic and tranquil area of the North Fork, minutes away from the Baiting Hollow Country Club, Long Island Sound and a multitude of vineyards, farmstands, horse farms, restaurants and shops. Price: $995,000 I Listing ID: 3423411
Copper Beech Hill Estate is situated on approximately 24+ perfectly manicured acres. This exquisite property offers a majestic, Tuscan-style mansion boasting 5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms and 1 half bathroom. The exterior patio features a heated, in-ground pool and a state- of-the-art limestone heated cabana. The property also includes a carriage/guest house fully equipped with 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and 7 wal nut horse stalls on the lower level, making it equestrian-ready. The land has access to the Essex Trail Association, extending all the way to Cape Ann.
Price: $3,999,000 I Listing ID: 73155167 59 WALNUT ROAD
618 QUAKER HILL ROAD
PAWLING
25.5-acre equestrian estate with a 43-room Elizabethan-style manor house, 2 caretaker homes, a carriage house with groom’s quarters, a yoga studio, a 12,000-square-foot stable, greenhouse and more. Situated on the crest of Quaker Hill, Elmwood Farm has stunnin g views and endless possibilities. The 3-story, 17-bedroom, 9-bathroom (plus 4 half bathrooms) mansion with 10 fireplaces sits at the end of a long gated drive, where a porte cochere provides gracious access to the sunset-facing veranda. The home features a wea lth of exquisite details, including hand-carved pilasters, hand-painted plaster ceiling motifs and moldings, leaded glass windows a nd variegated gables with carved vignette timber fascia and Gothic spires. The figured-oak grand staircase is enhanced by 30 newel posts with hand-carved whimsical animals. A separate wing on the second floor features hand-painted storybook murals.
Price: $5,500,000 I Listing ID: H6273515
16 STATE SCHOOL ROAD
Nestled on approximately 11+ acres of picturesque landscape sits a meticulously renovated grand colonial farmhouse that harmoni ously blends historic charm and sophisticated modern luxury. Longhouse Farm, an equestrian estate, offers a main house, a carriage/guest house, a 9-stall horse barn equipped with heated tack and a laundry room with a wash bay. The newly built Hamptons-resort style heated swimming pool features a draped pergola while rolling hills lead to a fountained pond, run-in, trout-fed stream and fenced pastures.
Price: $3,875,000 I Listing ID: H6301352
Stacey Pinkas Lic. R.E. Salesperson o 914.723.6800 | m 646.734.7860
stacey.pinkas@elliman.com
John Oliveira Lic. Assoc. R.E. Broker o 914.723.6800 | m 914.447.2081 john.oliveira@elliman.com
260 NORTH STREET
RIDGEFIELD
Working horse farm on 15+ acres in the heart of Ridgefield, one of the most desirable towns in Fairfield County. 24 stalls, large indoor and outdoor riding rings with custom footing, 9 paddocks, grooms’/staff quarters and new fencing. Flat grass fields for riding, additional turn-out or potential house site. Minutes to top North Salem horse show venue and its extensive trail system and min utes to town. Includes everything a rider/trainer/owner would need for a high income-producing or private horse farm.
Price: $3,400,000 I Listing ID: 170593601
13159 W 57TH PLACE
WELLINGTON
Equestrians’ dream farm on 10 acres (2 5-acre lots) with large all-weather arena and spacious Grand Prix field with bank and water jump. This scenic farm features 24 stalls, a new reverse-osmosis water system, a 6-horse MK walker and 14 paddocks. There are 4 bedrooms for staff located by the barn, as well as a separate home with 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms plus a larg e screened porch and pool.
Price: $7,250,000 I Listing ID: RX-10979061
Martha W. Jolicoeur PA Broker Associate o 561.653.6195 | m 561.797.8040 martha.jolicoeur@elliman.com
FLORIDA
Palm Beach International Equestrian Center
14883 EQUESTRIAN WAY WELLINGTON
This 3.8-acre, 4,700-square-foot smart-home equestrian estate with proximity to the Wellington International showgrounds is so desirable that it’s akin to having an oceanfront or front-row location. Main house features a large chef’s kitchen with gas and top-of-the-line appliances. Boasting a well-built barn with 15 stalls, a center-aisle design, wash stalls, 2 tack rooms and a generously sized staff apartment. Additionally, the estate features numerous paddocks and a sand ring.
Price: $7,250,000 I Listing ID: RX-10955713
15231 SUNNYLAND LANE
Luxury living meets world-class training facility. Thoughtfully designed on 6 acres, this property offers all the components needed to operate a world-class show jumping program. Ideally located within the gated Palm Beach Point community and within true hack ing distance to Wellington International. Look no further and welcome home to the ultimate equestrian lifestyle.
Price: $9,900,000 I Listing ID: RX-10893247
FLORIDA
WELLINGTON
This incredible estate is perfectly situated on almost 9 acres in Saddle Club. The exquisite 4-bedroom house was designed by MDV Design. The unique and beautiful property also features an airy 18-stall barn with plenty of room to exercise the horses between the sand ring, Grand Prix field and a lushly cool, covered arena.
Price: $16,450,000 I Listing ID: RX-10905310
14739 JUMPER ROAD
13285 SOUTHFIELDS ROAD WELLINGTON
Discover this equestrian paradise on 10 lushly landscaped acres in Southfields just waiting for your final touches. Convenientl y located within hacking distance of both horse shows, this property features 38 stalls with 2 barns, 2 sand rings and an 8-horse walker. Plans are in place for an upper-level owner’s apartment with 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms. The design includes floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows overlooking the nearby lake. The potential of this property is endless.
Price: $14,900,000 I Listing ID: RX-10990953
Maria Mendelsohn Sales
Associate
o 561.653.6195 | m 561.758.1605 maria.mendelsohn@elliman.com
FLORIDA
3280 HANOVER CIRCLE
LOXAHATCHEE
This incredible farm in White Fences was built in 2016 with no expenses spared. Sprawling over almost 11 beautifully manicured acres, this farm features 2 barns, a covered arena, a serenity garden, plenty of grooms’ housing and a large storage building. The serene landscaping creates a wonderful environment to train and care for your horses.
Price: $6,640,000 I Listing ID: RX-10948467
3585 OLDE HAMPTON DRIVE
This nature-dominant farm is one of the largest farms in Grand Prix Village. A total of 3 lots covers over 14 acres, with lush landscaping throughout to create a private oasis right around the corner from the horse show. All roofs were replaced with gorgeous black slate-looking tile in 2023. Plenty of room for all your horses with 2 barns totaling 28 stalls.
Price: $28,500,000 I Listing ID: RX-10950870
FLORIDA
Stunning equestrian property close to all venues. Equestrians will have a unique opportunity to stable, train and enjoy one of the most remarkable equestrian facilities in all of Wellington.
Price: $1,500,000/season I Listing ID: RX-10935041
12095 PIERSON ROAD WELLINGTON
2401 W FITZHUGH RD
DRIPPING SPRINGS
A picturesque haven nestled in the Texas Hill Country, Dragonfly Ranch boasts 22.594 acres of breathtaking views, verdant pastures and the sought-after hill country lifestyle. Amenities include a 2-bedroom guest house, a pool and spa, horse and equipment barns, a geothermal heating and cooling system, a 30,000-gallon rainwater collection system, a water well, full fencing, a generator and more.
Price: $2,725,000 I Listing ID: 8735067
Stephanie Nick Sales Associate o 512.866.3795 | m 512.426.9183 stephanie.nick@elliman.com
WESTCOAT DRIVE COLLEYVILLE Welcome to Greystone Manor, a sprawling English estate laid out over 6 manicured acres. A true estate, the tranquil grounds are lush with gardens, pathways and multiple outdoor living spaces. The home was meticulously updated in 2017 to include a redesigned c hef’s kitchen, ELAN Home Automation and a newly designed pool house c omplete with a kitchen, 2 bathrooms and
glass accordion doors. Additional acreage is also available to purchase.
$8,750,000 I Listing ID: 20595073
6 W RIVERCREST
BRIAR FOREST
A luxurious villa on 3.7 acres is a dream retreat for equestrian enthusiasts. This stately home features a gated pool, cabana a nd a chef’s kitchen with a gas-fired pizza oven for resort-style entertaining. A custom horse stable with living quarters adds versatility. The Palladian architectural design, symmetrical facades and ornate interiors with grand staircases, stone columns, and handcrafted details create breathtaking ambi ance. With a seamless blend of classical beauty and modern design, this villa offers a captivating experience. Conveniently located near ups cale amenities.
Price: $12,500,000 I Listing ID: 2723362
NEVADA
14525 HEYER WAY
LAS VEGAS
Introducing Quail Hollow Ranch, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity where location, acreage and natural beauty come together in welcoming grandeur. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Red Rock Canyons, this 2.65-acre equestrian-zoned property is nestled in the coveted Calico Basin. Priced as a land sale, Quail Hollow Ranch offers a private sanctuary lifestyle and direct access to some of the Las Vegas Valley’s most-coveted recreational activities such as world-famous mountain climbing, bouldering, cycling, hiking and horseback riding, direct from your doorstep.
Price: $2,750,000 I Listing ID: 2583375
3448 WOODY CREEK ROAD
WOODY CREEK
COLORADO
One of the largest, most historic ranches remaining near Aspen, this Rocky Mountain paradise is set on approx. 245 secluded acr es with 7 custom residences—all with their own jaw-dropping, artistic aesthetic. Surrounded by National Forest Land and featuring open pastures, creeks, ponds and wildlife, the ranch is a sanctuary centered around its 2 miles of private access along Woody Creek with excellent hiking, biking, and world-class fly fishing nearby.
Price: $68,000,000 I Listing ID: 180758
Raifie Bass Broker Associate o 970.925.8810 | m 970.948.7424 raifie.bass@elliman.com
COLORADO
4959 FRYING PAN ROAD
Your western ranch build awaits at this extremely rare piece of land with over 22 acres set amongst the red rocks of Seven Castles within the iconic Frying Pan River valley. Take advantage of nearby access to world-class fly fishing, relax beside the pond, or head to downtown Basalt approx. just 5 miles away! An outdoor enthusiast’s dream, the property is surrounded by trails for horses and/or hiking, and the beloved Ruedi Reservoir is approx. just 8 miles away for boating recreation.
Price: $6,400,000 I Listing ID: 183651
Latousek
2342 MESA DRIVE
A legacy equestrian estate, 6 decades in the making. Available for the very first time and set on an approximately 2.7-acre gated lot, this grand home offers privacy unparalleled by any other offering in the area. A manmade lake teeming with wildlife is the foca l point of the sizable grounds. The serene setting invites exploration, with pathways that meander over the vastness of the property. Adjacent to Newport Beach’s Back Bay, this property offers access to over 10 miles of scenic riding trails.
Price: $32,000,000 I Listing ID: LG23145801
John Stanaland Broker Associate
o 949.689.9047
john.stanaland@elliman.com
NEWPORT BEACH
5547
HIDDEN HILLS
Great opportunity to expand on or develop an extremely rare, approx. 2.33-acre flat lot at the very end of a quiet cul de sac. Existing small home on the property sold as-is. This super prime lot is suitable for a large estate home with a guest house, separate gy m, equestrian facilities, sports court, huge yard, fruit orchard and much more. Very rarely does a lot with this much flat land become available. Seller has a preliminary floor plan and elevations for a new custom home on the property done by architect Richard L andry.
Price: $9,295,000 I Listing ID: SR24061065
PARADISE VALLEY ROAD
1807 LADERA ROAD
OJAI
CALIFORNIA
5373 JED SMITH ROAD
HIDDEN HILLS
Located in the guard-gated City of Hidden Hills, this gorgeous, brand new equestrian compound has just been completed in 2024. Sited on approx. 1.49 verdant acres, the estate is comprised of a main residence and guest house that encompasses approx. 14,900 square feet of elegant living space. Customized for the equine enthusiast, the estate features a 2-stall barn that is adjacent to 24 miles of riding trails located within the city, as well as 3 spacious riding arenas for the area residents to use.
Price: $19,995,000 I Listing ID: SR24104557
COTO DE CAZA
Embrace the essence of luxurious living in Coto de Caza, where residents are centrally located to the highly desired Coto Eques trian Preserve, home to 150 horses and 6 riding arenas that include a Grand Prix Arena and Dressage Arena. Complemented by excellent schools, a premier golf course, a vibrant tennis club and a refreshing swimming club—all within reach of your new home.
Price: $7,500,000 I Listing ID: PF24063887
CASA GRANDE
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO
Perched atop a ridgeline promontory and heralding over 42 acres, Casa Grande’s highland grants 360-degree views of Orange County’s mountains, sea and cityscapes. The compound currently exists as both a residential estate and a working agribusiness with permitted plans to build an approx. 38,000sf Mission-style main home.
Pursuing Passions
BLENDING REAL ESTATE & THE EQUESTRIAN LIFESTYLE
By Hannah Warne
For as long as she can remember, Robin Compagno has been an equestrian at heart. After getting a taste of the equestrian lifestyle in early childhood when her family purchased a horse at a local yard sale, she devoted every spare moment to riding.
“I’ve been a lifelong equestrian, and I’ve loved horses since the day I was born,” she explained. “The barn is my sanctuary; it’s where I go to just let the cares of the world fall behind. It’s something that I’ve had in my life and in my heart since I was three years old.”
As her interest in the equestrian lifestyle continued to grow, Compagno began studying dressage, show jumping and Western-style riding by checking books out from her local library to learn new techniques. When she was a bit older, she began working at a local barn in exchange for riding lessons.
“The trainer I was working for and taking my lessons from was a dressage rider,” she said. “She recognized how hard I worked every day. She had an extra ticket to the Olympics in the 1980s, and of all the kids in the barn, she chose me to go with her as a reward for my incredible hard work. I think she had a soft spot for the sacrifices I was making.”
Photography courtesy of Robin Compagno
Attending the Olympic Games was a pivotal moment in Compagno’s life. “It was the first time I had ever seen dressage at that level, and it was just the most riveting, unbelievable experience of my life,” she said. “I still remember it, and I felt forever changed by that experience.”
But as Compagno grew older, her priorities shifted to her education and her career. She had to put her equestrian pursuits on the backburner——but that didn’t mean she wasn’t always longing to be back in the saddle.
After getting married, having a family and building a thriving career working in sales for a luxury home developer and then as a real estate agent, Compagno realized she could blend her two favorite things——the equestrian lifestyle and real estate.
“When looking at an equestrian property, you have to have a very fundamental knowledge of horses,” she said. “All of those things greatly influence how a property functions for a buyer. If you’re not an equestrian, there’s just no way you can connect with this audience at the level that you would need to counsel them on this large purchase.”
While Compagno can better advise her clients because of her equestrian background, working with equestrian properties
also helps her feel most like herself. “When buying or selling equestrian properties, I really get to be the most authentic version of myself,” she explained. “I love dressing up in dresses and heels, but if I’m being honest, the most authentic version of myself is being among the horses and among horse people. I feel so at ease and at home.”
While dressage riding was her first love, the time commitment of an elite sport didn’t always work with her busy schedule as a real estate agent and mother. But she has found new, creative ways to incorporate horses into her life. In addition to working in equestrian real estate, Compagno now breeds world-class dressage horses.
“Breeding these phenomenal animals is a way for me to stay involved at a high level and still find time to work and raise my children,” she explained. “There is day-to-day, hands-on work, but it isn’t the same demanding schedule as if you were training and competing. “
No matter where her life has taken her, Compagno feels lucky to have always been able to pursue the two things she loves most. “It’s a natural fit and the blending of my greatest passions: luxury real estate and the beauty of horses. It’s the perfect combination of everything that I enjoy.”
Photograph by Guadalupe Laiz