Big Tree Farm is a unique parcel of real estate, tucked away in the rolling countryside of Southern Indiana. The rural retreat sits on a plot of 550 acres just outside the Christmas-themed town of Santa Claus and took over three decades to complete.
Perfect for those seeking a private and peaceful piece of the American dream, Big Tree Farm comprises a majestic log house, deluxe guest quarters, and entertainment and recreational facilities.
Ideally positioned next to Lincoln Boyhood National Park and close to Huntingburg airport, the sizable estate is also within a 50-mile radius of A-list celebrity hometowns: Johnny Depp hails from Owensboro and owns a horse farm on the outskirts of Lexington, while Larry Bird was raised in French Lick and counted a Tudor-style mansion in Sycamore Springs as his home until 2019.
Resort-like retreat in Indiana
Drive through Big Tree Farm’s gated entrance and prepare to be wowed by eight lakes, mature forest canopy, and 3.5 miles of paved walking routes that wind around the water and the botanical gardens. Enchanting waterfalls and eye-catching bronze sculptures also dot the scenic grounds.
The three-floor main house is modeled on the classic lodges found in Yosemite National Park; architectural details include timbered ceilings and enormous picture windows.
There’s character aplenty across the whopping 8,786 square feet of space, with features ranging from wood paneling and stonework to a magnificent three-story-high fireplace.
Wander around the spacious yet welcoming great room with soaring floor-to-ceiling windows, before checking out the master suites, complete with walk-in closets, stone fireplaces, and luxurious en-suites. In total, there are 7 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms.
Additional noteworthy amenities include a chef’s kitchen with marble countertops and custom Heartland appliances, an attached extra-large three-car garage, and wrap-around porches to admire the glorious scenery.
The grounds are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, boasting tennis and basketball courts, a 2,042-square-foot pool, ATV trails, and a shooting range. Meanwhile, those who prefer to relax should take in the covered bar, the lakeside pavilion, and the fire pit surrounded by seating.
Children will be in their element too, with a mini log cabin and a playground just beyond the primary residence.
Close to the pool are the guest quarters – aka “The Stables” – where each of the six bedrooms is named after Kentucky Derby winners and decorated in the style of the Four Seasons Hotel in New York. Spanning a capacious 8,350 square feet, the property has an array of top-class features like marble bathrooms with soaking tubs and oversized showers, a fully-equipped fitness center, vaulted ceilings, and decking overlooking the gardens.
The estate also boasts a 9,124-square-foot entertainment facility that accommodates 600 guests and is home to a saloon-style bar, a dance floor, and an outdoor amphitheater. On top of that, there’s a 1950s diner that seats 150, with a never-driven Harley Davidson as its centerpiece. Completing the picture is a classic car museum spanning 26,413 square feet, with vintage Texaco gas pumps at the doors. All in all, the numerous buildings across the complex total 65,000 square feet. And the price? This masterpiece is on the market for $47,900,000.
Big Tree Farm: private and tranquil
When the current owner – self-made business magnate Ed Ewing – was asked what he loves most about the property, his answer was “peace”.
Having said that, the estate is close to several places of interest: Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial is ideal for history buffs, and Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari amusement park is perfect for a family day out.
Wine lovers should check out the tasting room at Monkey Hollow, while adventurers will enjoy exploring the beauty of Southern Indiana: towering cliffs, deep valleys, and the meandering Ohio River. Indeed, in addition to its year-round festive theme, nearby Santa Claus is known for its picturesque rolling hills and idyllic countryside.
To learn more about this country hideaway and all it has to offer, contact Key Associates Realty.
