Ojai

A LEGENDARY OJAI RANCH

This magical 43+/- acre property is one of the most distinguished in the Ojai Valley. The main house, a romantic Craftsman Bungalow, was built in 1901 by noted architect, John C Austin, and perfectly sited on a south- facing slope to capture the light and truly magnificent, mountain views. Over the years, this historic home has been sensitively updated for the way we live today, while maintaining all of its vintage character and charm.

Around the house, a deep veranda and series of terraces fulfill the California dream of indoor-outdoor living, all year long. Stone paths meander through Rose, Azalea and Lavender gardens and lead to the original carriage house, now converted into a spacious 2 bed / 2 bath  guesthouse, and to the secluded pool and spa area.  Geraniums spill out of pots and over terraces. The air is filled with the scent of Jasmine, orange blossom and tropical flowering trees. It is all simply idyllic!

There is a family orchard offering every imaginable variety of fruit tree and a small plot of Syrah grapes. But this is a working ranch, in agricultural use for over 100 years and under the Williamson Act contract; Avocado and several varieties of citrus fruit are grown commercially here.

Heaven on earth for equestrians, the horse facilities include a corral, meadow, hay barn / tack room and 200' arena. The property has direct access to miles and miles of trails.
 
The Hermitage is a private Shangri-La , as far away from the real world as you can get,  yet just 5 minutes from the heart of Ojai.