This legendary 1920s Hollywood Hills estate is a Mediterranean-style paradise poised on nearly three acres above Lake Hollywood with unrivaled views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown Los Angeles, and even as far as Catalina Island. Designed by architect John DeLario circa 1926, the home – christened Castillo del Lago – is unequivocally one of the most significant estates ever built in Southern California. Once owned by iconic multi-hyphenate Madonna, the “Material Girl” singer bought the estate in 1993 for approximately $5 million and sold it just three years later in 1996. The exquisite home boasts a wine cellar, media room, gym, elevator, sumptuous master suite, rose gardens, exotic fountains, a terraced courtyard, pool, and so much more.
The house was built for oil explorer Patrick Longdon and was one of the first in what would become Hollywoodland. It is widely believed to have been home to mobster Bugsy Siegel who reportedly used the house as an illegal speakeasy and gambling parlor. In 1984, scenes from the film Beverly Hills Cop were filmed here on location.
A winding road leads to the private gates of the tucked-away three-acre ridgetop home, which houses 360-degree views of glistening Lake Hollywood and beyond.
The dramatic foyer showcases the spiral-staircase tower connecting the mansion’s multiple levels in addition to a vintage wood-paneled elevator.
Countless renovations and illustrious owners have walked the halls of this storied Hollywood Hills landmark. Architectural highlights include 25′ beamed and coffered ceilings, custom wrought iron features, terracotta flooring, vibrant period tile, hand painted artistry, grand fireplaces, exposed wood beamed ceilings, Spanish archways and the vintage wood paneled elevator.
The soaring two story formal living room enchants with ornate stenciled wood beams, a striking fireplace and rows of French doors that open to the expansive view terrace of the lake.
A massive formal dining room showcases a sensational architectural honeycomb designed ceiling for elaborate entertaining.
A loggia opens to a central courtyard.
The courtyard is lush with towering palms, fountains, and an outdoor fireplace.
Poolside views stretch to Downtown and far beyond and the peace and privacy on display at Castillo del Lago is unparalleled.
The breakfast room is a casual spot to enjoy an early morning with friends and family while the outdoor dining spaces are covered in romantic wisteria. The classic period-style chef’s kitchen offers top-of-the-line appliances, a center island, and additional prep areas.
A lovely wood-paneled library is appointed with custom cabinetry, a cozy fireplace, and picturesque views.
All of the nine bedrooms are wonderfully unique.
The sumptuous primary suite wing is enormous and has relaxing sitting areas, hardwood floors, and French doors and casement windows.
The primary suite has double baths with beautifully intricate tile designs.
There are three additional guest bedroom suites that all showcase stunning Los Angeles vistas.
The signature tower features lounge seating and breathtaking 360-degree views.
The sprawling lush grounds are an absolute oasis in the city with a classic lap pool, fountains, expansive surrounding lawns, rose gardens, sculpted hedges, citrus and mature specimen trees.
Additional luxurious amenities include a generous motor court, large 2-car garage, media room, office, refrigerated wine room, two staff rooms with a second kitchen, a separate gym with large terrace, and a charming guest suite.
Not only is Castillo del Lago one of the best trophy properties in the Hollywood Hills, it is one of the finest estates in all of Los Angeles.
Listing provided courtesy of Linda May and Brett Lawyer, Carolwood Estates.
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