For Sale by Christina Libuda | 4th March, 2022 | Prime Properties
Amid the great outdoors and mountains of southwest Montana’s Bitterroot Valley, this Western Farmhouse is nothing short of magnificent. Part of the exclusive Stock Farm Club, luxurious comforts abound, in the tranquil calm of the American wilderness.
Montana captures the original spirit of the American West like hardly any other state in the US. Between the mighty peaks of the Rocky Mountains and the dramatic formations of the Badlands, a richly laden treasure trove of natural wonders awaits here. Crystal-clear lakes, colorful mountain meadows and encounters with rare breeds of animal all make this fertile land a uniquely joyful experience in the summer months.
Snow is guaranteed come winter here, with temperatures averaging well below freezing. The region’s rich mineral resources have earned it the nickname “Treasure State”. Well before European settlers arrived in this mountainous terrain, Native Americans were hunting buffalo up on the prairie. These days, visitors flock here to pursue all kinds of outdooractivities, from fly fishing and horseback riding to river rafting. There are also countless hiking routes, including the historic Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, to name just one. It traverses the northern states, commemorating the first US overland expedition.
Surrounded by all this beauty, in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley in the southwest corner of Montana, lies this ultimate Western Farmhouse nestled on a stunning 17-acre estate. Within the exclusive community known as the Stock Farm Club, the breathtaking property presents a luxury retreat like no other. The private club, born from the vision of entrepreneur Charles Schwab and his passion for nature and golf, lies secluded in the hills above the town of Hamilton. The centerpiece of the farm is the championship golf course designed by the renowned golf course architect Tom Fazio.
A path leads from the grounds of the Stock Farm Club itself along past beautifully tended trees and shrubs towards the magnificent estate. In the center of the circular drive, a dramatic water feature welcomes guests on arrival. The exterior, with its fine craftsmanship and timelessly elegant design, gives further clues as to the special calibre of the property. The 25,000-square-foot main house is set in private grounds that boast a large pond, as well as an artisanal stream, and a four-stall horse barn. The dream of life as a modern-day cowboy or cowgirl, with your own horses in the stable building, comes alive here.
Custom stained glass doors lead the way into the formal entry and inviting living area of this magnificent home. A one-of-a-kind Frontier Ironworks chandelier, massive floorto- ceiling river stone fireplace and cathedral ceilings with complex open beams all evoke the rustic ambience of the historic great lodges of America’s national parks. This elegant room is complemented by the adjoining formal dining room, which opens onto a wraparound blue stone patio ideal for entertaining. The commercial grade kitchen forms a harmonious complement to the interior layout. The opulent owner’s suite is privately tucked away on the main level and features a large bedroom with a striking fireplace, a bay window and fabric walls that create luxurious atmosphere. The en suite bathroom boasts a Jacuzzi, exquisite marble countertops, and beautiful natural sunlight. A private library with built-in floor to-ceiling shelving and comfortable seating adds an extra sense of coziness. The multiple private guest quarters are complemented by unique features throughout the house, including a grotto-style pool and an underground shooting range. Four main bedroom suites await up-stairs, each with their own en suite bathroom and walk-in dressing closet. In the study area, window frontages along both elevations make the most of the far-reaching views. A breezeway leads to the second private guest quarters, which include a beautiful kitchen, living room and dining area. The guest wing on the top floor with further bedrooms, as well as a kitchen, living room and dining room, can be reached barrier-free thanks to a 10-person elevator.
For wine enthusiasts and collectors, a real highlight awaits on the lower level: the temperature and humidity-controlled wine cellar with ample storage capacities. This floor also boasts a games room with a separate billiards room and a wet bar, in addition to a pool, hot tub, steam room and exercise room. Including the main house and all outbuildings, this estate has a total of twelve bedrooms, four kitchens and 23 bathrooms. There is also a large garage with underfloor heating on hand, offering space for up to six vehicles.