Durango, CO 81303(La Plata County)

The Durango estate, known as Ute Junction Ranch is a magnificent property including 197 acres (5 separately deeded parcels) located at the base of the majestic La Plata mountains, a beautiful 10-minute drive west of historic downtown Durango. Positioned at 8,200 feet elevation, just south of Highway 160 the gated entry leads through tall pines to the stunning French chateau. There are several improvements on this property including the main residence completed in 2007 and designed by acclaimed architect, Phillip Liederbach, of Chicagos Liederbach & Graham Architects. The main residence and attached large 3 car garage consists of over 16,000 SF including 7 bedrooms and 7.5 baths. There is a2700 SF guest home and 1700 SF guest cottage. Two heated barn/shops provide for ample storage for cars, toys, and equipment. In addition, there is a horse barn with fenced pasture. Unlike many mountain ranches, Ute Junction Ranch enjoys paved access & is easily accessible to countless recreation opportunities & city conveniences alike. Skiing can be found within minutes from the ranch at the quaint Hesperus Ski Area& fine dining at the Kennebec Caf. Purgatory Ski Area is less than an hour away, Telluride and Wolf Creek less than two! The ranch has multiple ponds, and mixed terrain including lush meadows, tall pines and scrub oak. Extensive landscaping surrounds the improvements and includes water features, hardscaping and introduced foliage that perfectly compliment the natural environment. The ranch borders over 1500acres of Ute Mountain Tribe lands protecting the quiet and private setting. There is a plethora of wildlife including elk, deer, ducks, geese and wild turkeys. Views of the dramatic La Plata mountain range to the gentle southern vistas can be enjoyed from nearly every vantage of this stunning property. The property is fenced and cross-fenced, suitable for horses, cattle, goats or other livestock. The Main Residence. The Main residence measures an impressive 16,000 SF and comprises five bedrooms suites plus two additional bedrooms, six fireplaces, and is truly a piece of art. The exterior constructed with Minnesota limestone on poured and reinforced concrete with insulated concrete forms, Pella windows and imported French tiles embedded into concrete with copper seams, roof ice melt system and wood rafters and sheathing. Upon arrival, the cobbled courtyard reclaimed from Chicagos State and McKinzie Streets welcome guests and lead to the grand entry with French doors that open out onto the expansive backyard terrace. Inside, you will find Venetian plaster walls, exquisite tile and marble flooring and custom milled baseboards and crown molding, hardwood, and stonework details throughout. Many rooms boast exposed wood beams that lend to the charm of the space. The formal living and dining rooms flank the grand entry. The spacious master suite is located on the north wing of the home and includes a fireplace; access to the hot tub; his & her private dressing rooms with Luxe wardrobe carousels, separate bathrooms with steam shower and large soaking tub; and a kitchenette with laundry. There is a private Steptoe Canadian metal spiral staircase that leads to the dual offices with bath, refreshment area, and clay throwing tub. On the south wing of the main level, you will find the kitchen equipped with the finest appliance package, cabinetry and counters. The kitchen is supported by a butlers pantry for additional storage and workspace. A quaint breakfast nook is between the kitchen and outside veranda. The family room features exposed timber frame with fireplace; with multiple sitting areas; bar with refrigerator, separate ice maker and dishwasher. The bright conservatory showcases a copper roof and offers a wonderful indoor green space with a lovely library located just off of this space.