The Best in Real Estate, From Merv Griffin’s Estate to a Wyoming Ranch

Just east of Montecito, Carpinteria’s Padaro Lane snakes along the coastline and has been home to some of Hollywood’s biggest players, including Kevin Costner and Ellen DeGeneres. At the western end of the coveted street, one of the largest beachfront holdings spans more than 12 idyllic bluff-top acres on Loon Point with horizon views over the Pacific Ocean. Sold earlier this year, the 11,000-square-foot Mediterranean villa makes an elegant statement amid a landscape of formal gardens and coastal woodlands. Further elevating its appeal: The property comprises three parcels, presenting a rare opportunity to create a legacy compound along some of the most exclusive land in California. Sold for $65 million 

At just over 70 acres, Wyoming’s Five Ponds Ranch isn’t among the Equality State’s largest spreads, but it does offer some prime fly-fishing in the Jackson Hole area thanks to a series of stocked ponds scattered among manicured landscaping and dense stands of cottonwood, spruce, and aspen. The trophy compound’s 8,300-square-foot log-cabin-style luxury lodge is complemented by three nearly identical 1,000-square-foot guest cottages, a 1,200-square-foot heated garage, a two-story entertainment barn, and complete equestrian facilities. Far from roughing it, residents will enjoy high-tech amenities including a home- automation system, a keyless entry, and fiber-optic internet with a Starlink backup. $34.75 million 

Sitting atop the Boiler House in London’s Battersea Power Station, this duplex penthouse is as much a masterpiece as the landmark itself. Encompassing two units that have been combined, the 6,158-square-foot aerie was designed by New York’s Joe Serrins Studio. Expect Venetian plaster ceilings, a suede-lined media room, custom steel-and-glass detailing, and secure underground parking for four cars. The showstopper? Three private terraces, including one perched beneath the station’s towering smokestacks, offer unbeatable 360-degree views of the River Thames. About $40 million 

Manhattan has no shortage of extraordinary townhouses, but only one has an 83-foot rock-climbing wall that rises from a subterranean courtyard all the way to the roof terrace six floors above. Other standout elements of this West Village home include a glass elevator, a glass-walled meditation room that spills onto a grass-covered balcony, and, for stargazing, a retractable glass roof over the bed in the top-floor primary bedroom. Among additional amenities are a mini-kitchen on the roof deck, an outdoor shower in the walled and gated entrance courtyard, and, in the cellar, a speakeasy-style lounge along with a spa area complete with steam room. $20.1 million 

A hidden modernist gem in Connecticut’s Litchfield Hills, the Falls is a striking architectural sanctuary by Charles Gwathmey, the visionary behind the Guggenheim Museum renovation and addition. Set on over 40 acres of rolling meadows and featuring elegant stonework and a cascading waterfall, the estate is a seamless blend of nature and design. Inside, curved glass walls showcase stunning views, while a sleek addition by Michael Arad and interiors by Stephen Sills bring a touch of sophistication. A tennis court, a pool, and a Deborah Nevins– designed landscape complete the picture. $8 million 

Once the secluded desert retreat of the legendary talk-show host, the Merv Griffin Estate is one of the largest private compounds in the Coachella Valley. Sprawling over 40 acres with a total of 13 bedrooms and reimagined by interior designer Waldo Fernandez, it comprises seven main structures that blend Moroccan influences with a relaxed SoCal vibe. Overlooking a huge pond and set against a dramatic mountain backdrop, the La Quinta property also has a lakeside swimming pool, vast terraces, great swaths of lawn, world-class equestrian facilities, and four circular guest pavilions. $29.95 million 

Steeped in over 500 years of history, Wytham Abbey, presumed to have been built in the late 15th or early 16th century, is a Grade I–listed estate that has reportedly hosted England’s most famous royals, from Queen Elizabeth I to Queen Victoria. Today, it still features original Tudor details, such as a grand arched doorway, oriel windows, stained-glass panels, turrets, and battlements. Renovated in the 19th century by architect Thomas Cundy, it includes spacious living areas, a music room, a library, and a cinema. The 27,000-square-foot manor sits on about 23 acres with manicured gardens, woodlands, and parklands, perfect for privacy or lavish alfresco parties. About $20 million