Riding in The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a place for open space and sweeping vistas. What one values in a home varies. It could be an oceanfront estate or a secluded harbor hideaway. Perhaps something that backs up to acres of preserved land or has a farm or vineyard intact. A particular type of property that showcases one of the most luxury pastimes of the elite are the equestrian estates. With the Hampton Classic being one of the largest events on the East End drawing horses, riders, and spectators from around the globe, these are perhaps some of the most notable listings that speak to this imitable lifestyle.

“The East End has a deep-rooted equestrian culture stemming from its agrarian past and requisite open spaces,” shares Sotheby’s International Realty Associate Broker Dana Trotter. “We have the oldest working ranch in the country at Deep Hollow, which dates to 1658, and The Hampton Classic Horse Show, which started in the early 1900s and has evolved into one of the nation’s largest outdoor horse shows and a premier, global event. It’s a special place for horse lovers because there are world-class horse farms, extravagant equestrian estates, and picturesque trails set amongst all the action and amenities of the Hamptons.”

Trotter’s listing at 172 Cedar Street in East Hampton appeals to all types of buyers, but for equestrians, she says the vast and idyllic landscape with expansive riding fields, specimen trees, and beautiful vistas create a new world contained on 23 acres of land. Stables and paddocks are in place, as well as an 18,000 square foot home with 12 bedrooms, 12 full bathrooms, and four half-bathrooms. There is potential as well to add riding rings or a grand prix field.

“The property’s most popular amenity that has been featured in numerous publications is the main house’s lower level with a delightful sunken spa, sauna, steam room, massage room, fully equipped gym, and theatre,” Trotter says of the property on the market for $35 million. “The key here is that it’s already an exceptional property with stunning amenities but the remaining land affords a buyer with vision many possibilities for development, be it a horse farm, golf feature, or additional homes.”

Licensed Real Estate Salesperson with Brown Harris Stevens Savanna Hoge says equestrian properties are ideal in the Hamptons because they appeal to both competitive and leisurely riders. She grew up in the competitive show circuit herself and understands the value of community in this elite circle.

“An area with a great show circuit also comes with quality riders and horses, allowing yourself to set high competitive goals to take you into a more intense show circuit throughout the east coast,” Hoge shares. “For the leisurely rider, what is important is the scenery and community, which happens to be perfection out here. Being able to ride in a place where you have both rolling fields and a beach is unique, making trail riding a serene experience.”

Commenting on Brown Harris Stevens Licensed Associate Real Estate Broker Christopher Burnside’s listing for Two Trees Farm in Bridgehampton, Hoge explains the location, size, and quality of the farm are a major draw. The 65-acre property on the market for $17.995 million includes three large barns stalls, two indoor rings, three outdoor rings, and a four bedroom, 3.5 bathroom home, all surrounded by rolling fields.

“With horse farms tending to be more condensed out east, it’s rare to find a farm with this much space to roam and ride throughout,” Hoge says. “Having ridden at crowded farms before, I understand the importance of having space, especially having two indoor rings. No other horse farms on the East End have two separate indoor rings, and in those winter months that definitely comes in handy.”

Calling the Hamptons a playground for the elite equestrian set, Sotheby’s International Realty Associate Broker Christina Galesi shares it is the same demographic as those in Palm Beach and Wellington that participate in show circuits during the winter and have summer homes on the South Fork, where they can ride their horses here, too. She shares the listing for 60 Scuttlehole Road in Bridgehampton with Sotheby’s International Realty Licensed Salesperson Angela Boyer-Stump.

“The Hamptons is ideal for equestrian centers because of the wide-open agricultural spaces which have been preserved thanks to the foresight of land stewards who preceded us who put in place extensive land preservation initiatives, like the Peconic Land Trust combined with the hyper vigilance of our planning boards,” Galesi explains. “These initiatives are what has preserved thousands of acres over the years leaving us with more natural light, open spaces and the bucolic farmland essence which attracts people to the East End.”

Of the 20-acre property itself, Boyer-Stump says it is ideal for equestrian use primarily because of its location in the heart of Water Mill’s farm country. It is also in close proximity to The Hampton Classic Horse Show grounds and various other polo events.

“60 Scuttlehole Road offers the horse lover the chance to create perfection by delivering a unique combination of convenience and seclusion in a pastoral setting,” Boyer-Stump says of the property on the market for $2.885 million. “There are stellar sweeping views of the neighboring 49 acres agricultural reserve. The 50% lot clearing affords you the space one would need for riding barns, paddocks, training fields and grazing pastures. Rarely does an opportunity to own your own horse farm present itself.”