Rio Lago, ''from the river to the lake,'' a Hudson River estate that is rarely available - custom, impossibly private, and both modern and romantic. As you approach, a waterfall then gated entrance, after which the 10-acre compound begins to unfold up the long winding drive - first past a shimmering private lake; the path ahead winds through lush gardens and specimen trees toward a secret sanctuary atop a hillcrest, cloistered and secluded, yet expansive and inviting. Beyond, the Hudson River commands the horizon, its broad expanse a constant companion to this creative oasis where every detail is designed to evoke inspiration, comfort, and effortless luxury.
At the heart of Rio Lago stands a beautifully realized contemporary home where every room has views of the lake or river. On the main floor, the airy, open entertaining area centers around a stone fireplace and expansive wall of windows - both a soaring, two-story spectacle - framing uninterrupted views of the Hudson River. While the adjoining glass living room with radiant heat stone floors captures views of the gardens and sunsets over the lake.
The chef's kitchen is refined and functional, equipped with top of the line appliances such
as side-by-side Subzero refrigerators, drawer freezers, a wine refrigerator, and a two-oven
commercial-style range and walk-in pantry - gives access to dining areas both inside and out.
The main house has 5 bedrooms all of which are en suite. With two bedrooms on the first floor, the primary features a sitting room opening to a private screened porch, and balcony; the primary bath opens directly outdoors to its own secluded garden patio and outdoor shower. The second main floor bedroom also opens directly to the back patio. Upstairs, three bedrooms, a home office, and a second laundry room. Balconies in the office and back bedroom overlook the river.
The lower level reveals a modern entertaining space. Centered around a second fireplace - the lounge, bar and gallery create the perfect gathering space which balances sophistication with a casual ease. Also on this level a considerable home gym, full bath with steam shower and wine storage.
Perched high above the banks of the iconic Hudson River, the property is designed to take full advantage of living outdoors. This extraordinary outdoor retreat is more than just an amenity—it's a destination in itself. At the heart of the hardscape, a stunning stone-copped 35' x 21' heated in-ground pool overlooking the river. Hidden a few steps below the pool, a one-of-a-kind 20' x 6' in-ground hot tub. A focal point that's as striking as it is inviting. Surrounding the pool area are massive trees framing the view and mature perennial gardens that unfold throughout the seasons. A few steps away are a custom-crafted stone dining table sits 12, a massive 20' stone fireplace and stone-paved outdoor living area. Just at the house edge, a full bathroom with a second outdoor shower. Hidden behind a hedge, is a bright and airy guest house. A well appointed studio style living space equipped with a full kitchen, bath with a walk-in shower and large deck which overlooks the kitchen garden and has seasonal river views. Below, a two-bay workshop discreetly houses the tools and equipment essential to maintaining this lush, abundant estate. Above the lake, another outdoor dining area with a stone picnic table - nestled in perennial gardens, overlooks the stone jetty, dock and boathouse - equipped with canoes, kayaks, and gear to enjoy a tranquil day on the water. Designed with the reverence of an old-world estate, the grounds at Rio Lago are truly extraordinary. The almost 10 acres of carefully conceived and planted parkland is a luxuriant perennial tapestry of rose beds, peony gardens and hedges of hydrangea. Large hand-placed stones form winding paths and stairways throughout - much of the curation is irrigated and lighted at night.
This is a property hard to describe, but impossible to forget.