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Dolce Vita Ranch
ON THE COVER
Dolce Vita Ranch
The Dolce Vita, or the “Good Life,” Ranch is one of the finest properties in this part of the state. It is a unique and one-of-akind property that any landowner, rancher, or architecture aficionado would truly appreciate. Located just 30 minutes from downtown Fort Worth, in Weatherford, Texas (“Cutting Horse Capitol of the World”), it is an ideal property for the weekend retreat or the full-time residence.
Location
The property is located approximately one hour and 30 minutes from Dallas and 30 minutes from Fort Worth in the heart of Parker County in Weatherford, Texas.
Land
Dolce Vita Ranch is considered to be in the Cross Timbers Eco Region of Texas. It is not uncommon in this part of the state, and specifically in this Eco Region, to find a combination of rangeland, pastureland, and farmland with dense cover in many areas including tree species such as blackjack oak, post oak, and live oak trees, as well as eastern red cedar and mesquite in some parts. This property has been very well manicured to create an ideal setting for both wildlife and livestock. Approximately 40 to 45 percent of the property is open pastureland, and approximately 55 to 65 percent of the property is heavily wooded or has good amounts of cover. There is both level land near the creek bottom and rolling hills looking off into the distance, making the diversity of terrain on the property truly unique.
Water
The subject property has three water wells that supply water to all of the improvements. Inside the main residence, an industrial water storage tank ensures that water pressure stays excellent at the home. There are two stock tanks, a seasonal draw on the west side of the ranch, and a small portion of frontage on both sides of Sanchez Creek.
Terrain & Topography
Elevation on the property ranges from 995± feet above sea level near the location of the main residence to 940± feet above sea level near the banks of Sanchez Creek. The majority of the soil located on the ranch is Windthorst fine sandy loam, as well as some Venus sandy loam and Bosque loam.
Improvements
Situated near the highest point of the property, the main residence of Dolce Vita Ranch is a spectacular masterpiece representing elegant sophistication and the finest examples of true craftsmanship.
The exterior of the home is a combination of stucco and stone creating what many consider to be an authentic Italian style detailed with arches and pediments throughout. The tile roof and vine-covered wood pergolas create an ideal ambiance both inside and outside the home. All of the grounds surrounding the home are perfectly designed to create an efficient flow around the house to the various porches, sitting areas, and covered areas well-suited for dining or entertaining. Multiple fountains surround the saltwater pool that sits between the main home and the two-story guest house that adds to the welcoming Italian feeling. Each of the patios features stone flooring and flagstone walkways going into the courtyards. On the east side of the home, a total of three ponds are situated in the magnificent garden area. One of the ponds was built with stones dating back to the turn of the century that were found on the property.
Upon walking through the main door to the residence, you will first see a 10-foot-wide custom marble chip terrazzo in the entryway welcoming guests as they begin their journey into the home. Earth-tone marble floors flow throughout the entire home on multiple levels beginning with the exquisite entryway. Immediately after admiring the immaculate floors, it is impossible not to quickly notice the pristine Venetian plaster walls throughout the entire home. Some of the walls were polished and finished to shine in a similar way to the floors, while others were left rougher to create an aged appearance. Several ceilings in the home have hand-painted murals that must be seen to be truly appreciated. The doors and casements throughout the residence are all from La Puerta Originals of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Many of the doors have origins starting in India, Argentina, and Brazil. The front exterior door, specifically, was from a church in Argentina.
The 11,080± square-foot home features a total of six bedrooms, six full baths, and three half baths. Each of the bedrooms features an excellent view of the surrounding countryside, and most of the rooms have their own balcony or covered area outside adjoining the room. The main bedroom features two separate closets, a multi-head shower, standalone bathtub, workout area, and a private sauna. Each bedroom has its own special appointments and features making each one unique in its own way. The main living areas of the home feature large windows to help bring the outside in and create a warm environment ideal for entertaining. The kitchen features built-in refrigerator/freezers, a six-burner range with griddle, double ovens, steam/ convection oven, warming drawer, microwave, and a pot filler over the range. Next to the living area and kitchen lies a state-of-the-art theater room with tiered seating ready to showcase the next blockbuster! Below the kitchen and living area lies one of the most extraordinary features of the home, a custom-designed wine cellar capable of storing 3,700 bottles.
In addition to the main residence, there is a twostory guest home overlooking the swimming pool and featuring a living area, full kitchen, and dining area, as well as a bedroom and full bath.
All of the grounds around the main residence and guesthouse have been manicured to create the most incredibly peaceful setting incorporating a variety of native and non-native plant and tree species to landscape the grounds.
The property also features a four-stall horse barn with two storage bays inside, and shop with an exposed covered area on one side, ideal for storing tractors and equipment. There is another storage barn used for keeping equipment out of the elements.
Recreation & Hunting
Recreational opportunities are abundant throughout the property. Enjoy horseback riding or driving ATVs on the trails. Hunting on the ranch includes whitetail deer, feral hogs, dove, and duck. Great fishing can be had in either of the stock tanks on the property. °