Patricia Kramer & Associates

Pacific Sothebys International Realty
858-764-2059
Licensed In: Ca
License #: 00825701

The creation of a world class horse ranch.

It started as a vision.

Enchanted with the remarkable estancias enjoyed during a trip to Argentina, this couple was inspired to create their own ranch reflecting the same passion and ambiance. Location was key. They knew they wanted to stay in Rancho Santa Fe, not just because it was where their 5 children attended school but because of its rural setting surrounded by a desirable metropolitan area. Located just a few minutes from the beach, Del Mar Racetrack, and several golf courses, this prestigious Southern California community has the perfect climate and easy access to multiple outdoor activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and horseback riding.

The first step was to find an available property with enough contiguous acreage to support their dream. Their search led them to Willow Creek Ranch which had been used as a training site for a young Olympic hopeful. The property consisted of the 27-stall barn on flat usable land acres of pastures, a sand arena, and a hay barn. Future development included all of the necessities that compliment a competitive horse program to encompass a variety of disciplines.

This provided them with a starting point and shortly after the couple met the highly acclaimed architect, Marc Appleton. After discovering their shared background – growing up on Ranches in the mid-west -they knew they had the right fit. Under Mr. Appleton’s direction, they began the transformation into a gracious family compound beginning with the main residence, designed in the timeless Santa Barbara style. Entered from a gated private drive, the understated elegance of the home is framed by mature trees, bougainvillea draped veranda, and lush plantings.

The estate has continued to grow and evolve over the years as surrounding parcels were purchased and enhanced. Additions include an 8-stall family barn adjacent to a tennis court and pavilion and a detached 2,000 sq. ft. recreation room complete with a 2-lane bowling alley, a variety of arcade games and gaming tables, a full caterer’s kitchen and bar, and a separate exercise room. There are also two beautiful guest suites where parents of the owners can visit and enjoy their family as well as their privacy.

Family and friends have gathered to experience Willow Creek and all it has to offer. There have been many birthdays celebrations, countless family holidays and their daughter’s wedding took place at the ranch. Fellow horse enthusiasts bring their motor homes and horses to camp at the 20-acre lake and go fishing or just for a canoe ride before setting out on a long trail ride along the San Dieguito River to the east. The owners are active in local charity efforts and have opened their home and the grounds to host wonderful events to assist in those efforts. While Willow Creek Ranch has been their pride and joy and home for many years, with the children grown, the couple have made their primary residence in Wyoming where they continue to pursue their ranching career.

Comprised of 7 parcels totaling more than 77 acres in a neighborhood known as the Covenant of Rancho Santa Fe, this property is one of the most significant ranches in the region, and an extraordinarily rare find.