This Epic Oceanfront Manse on Big Sur’s Dramatic Cliffs Could Be Yours for $22 Million
Arguably, California’s most beautiful stretch of coastline can be found in Big Sur, a rugged mountainous area in central California between Carmel and San Simeon. Known for its otherworldly cliffs, striking beaches, redwood forests, and Pacific Ocean views, Big Sur has also served as inspiration for some of the most prolific writers of the 20th century.
The coastal enclave is one of the state’s most exclusive real estate markets, with sales incredibly rare and highly sought after due to development restrictions. Now, two of Big Sur’s most prized parcels, located just off Highway 1, have hit the market. The large estate was once a singular 55-acre parcel but has now been split into two separate listings. Bien Sur, the larger of the two, was recently listed for $21.5 million, while a 10-acre parcel called Dragon House is on offer for $4 million.
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Bien Sur sprawls over 44 acres, 19 of which are waterfront acres. The estate includes four combined parcels, which were purchased over several years, and has a main residence, several guest houses, a caretaker’s unit, and a funicular. The main residence was built in 1971 and retains its original midcentury-modern architecture but with a chic, bohemian design. The 2,536-square-foot home has three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and one powder room, as well as sunny terraces and a breezy light-filled living room with an original floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace. The home also features cedar walls, built-in wood shelving, and exposed wood-beamed ceilings.
This abode, which is built on the sloping hillside, is the lowest elevation along the Big Sur coastline and has 180-degree Pacific Ocean views, plus a staircase that leads you down the cliffside from the house to a private cobblestone beach. The interiors exude rustic flair but with modern updates and sleek furniture. While every room is exceptional, the double-height primary suite is the crown jewel. It has vaulted wood-beamed ceilings, a massive stone fireplace, a day bed, and doors that open to a private ocean-facing terrace. The additional bedrooms also have private terraces. Outside, it feels like you’re in a private park. There are Koi ponds, zen gardens, native plantings, ample lawn space, plus a bocce ball court, hot tub, and fire pits. There’s even a standalone Pilates studio that overlooks the ocean.
The seven guest houses each have a different design, including one Victorian-inspired cottage that is painted black. Art sculptures are also found throughout the property. The funicular, the only one in the region, takes you from the top of the cliff and brings you down to the main residence, though there is also a driveway. Not only is this home a veritable sanctuary for those seeking peace and privacy, but its location also can’t be replicated. Today’s building codes no longer allow buildings so close to the water. The neighboring Dragon House is a 1,257-square-foot, one-bedroom cottage with lovely terraces and equally enticing views. Both properties are listed with Nicole Truszkowski and Zak Freedman.
Click here for more photos of Bien Sur.
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