Historic Circa 1925 Ballantrae Farm—Where Amelia Earhart Once Landed a Plane—Asks $30 Million

$29,950,000 | 1925 | 14,000 Sq. Ft. | 12 Beds | 17 Baths | 6.27 Acres

Welcome to the landscaped splendor of Ballantrae Farm, exquisitely set within bucolic McLean, Virginia, a grand 6.3-acre estate that masterfully blends rich historical essence with contemporary luxury. Originating before the Civil War, the estate preserves artifacts from its storied past and is celebrated for Amelia Earhart’s landing of her PCA-2 autogyro in the front yard during the 1930s. Acquired early in the 20th century by Frank Lyons, a distinguished Arlington developer known for his contributions to Lyon Village and Lyon Park, the property saw significant expansion in the 1920s. Lyons relocated the original farmhouse to its current site and constructed the illustrious Stone Manor House from local fieldstone sourced from nearby Pimmit Run. Once spanning a 300-acre area that included historic Hickory Hill, Ballantrae Farm remains one of the largest and most prestigious parcels in the DMV.

The estate, historically celebrated as one of the highest elevations in Fairfax County, offers sweeping views across the landscape, including vistas rumored to include the burning of the original White House in 1814-a scene Dolly Madison reportedly observed while staying at a neighboring farm. The Georgian Revival home has been thought fully expanded and refined by successive owners, maintaining its splendor just miles from the nation’s capital. It features a stately stone manor house with a six-car garage, a private pool, pool house, pool pavilion, and a spa that rivals the finest country retreats on the East Coast.

Ideal for entertaining, the estate encompasses over 14,000 square feet of living space, including a Stone Manor House and two beautifully appointed cottages. One is the original farmhouse known as Little Ballantrae, currently serving as a guest house and the other known as the Garden Cottage, currently serving as the estate manager’s residence. This historical gem totaling 12 bedrooms, 11 full baths, and 6 half baths offers supreme comfort and privacy, establishing itself as a truly enchanting and well-preserved piece of history, conveniently located just minutes from downtown McLean, CIA, Tysons Corner, Great Falls, and Washington, D.C. More than just a walk through history, Ballantrae Farm invites you on a meticulously curated journey through an estate adorned with 300-year-old trees and mature cherry trees that stand as guardians of the orchard with their sturdy trunks and expansive branches, a testament to years of growth and care.

Carefully expanded and renovated to preserve its historical essence while accommodating modern living, this exceptional section of the property offers resort-like amenities. It features an all-encompassing pool pavilion, pool house, spa, outdoor shower, and a state-of-the-art sound system, all enveloped by gas lanterns that create a serene atmosphere unmatched in private home settings. The patios surrounding the home feel like a hidden oasis. Relax and lose yourself in a comfortable hammock surrounded by a kaleidoscope of azaleas or sit by the parterre garden and listen to the gentle sounds of the fountain. Additionally, a paved driveway and circular drive lead to a parking pavilion in front of a six-car garage built from local stone. This architectural choice encircles the property, enhancing the sense of a secluded sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Step into the hallways of a home that has welcomed numerous world leaders and historic figures. Admire the hand-carved railings of the staircase in the gracious foyer that leads to the formal living room and dining room, which has hosted dinners and parties through the decades, which in turns flows into the recently expanded and remodeled state-of-the-art chef’s kitchen. Surrounded by bowls of freshly picked vegetables from the Ballantrae gardens, this space offers a truly one-of-a-kind owner experience. Withdraw into the study with intricate paneling, step out into the family room to enjoy the daylight and marvel at the views, or descend to your private wine cellar, stocked with the finest wines.

The West Wing is a true delight with a spectacular great room with two majestic stone walls creating a sense of timeless charm. Walk through the historic stone terrace- now enclosed- and open the doors wide to hear the echoes of fountains from yesteryear as you play a game of billiards. French doors open in all directions, revealing the breathtaking gardens that await you, accompanied by the refreshing breezes of a hilltop Virginia manor. The upper level is a host to five ensuite bedrooms, highlighted by the luxurious owner’s suite with his and her bathrooms and a custom walk-in closet . Additional features include an exercise room, sunroom, a well-appointed laundry room, and a cedar closet . This is a living experience that seamlessly blends inspiring history with modern luxury, creating an unparalleled estate ambiance.

A scenic birch-lined path winds through the estate, leading to a copper-roofed gazebo, a charming potting shed, and a serene koi pond fountain. The flourishing kitchen garden and fruit orchard provides fresh produce year-round. Stone paths, edged by immaculate gardens guide visitors past a professional-grade clay tennis court, a soccer field and a half basketball court, to Little Ballantrae, the Garden Cottage and a Swiss Family Robinson-inspired treehouse, all secured within a gated compound with front and back gated entrances. Steps away, a pathway flanked by large-leaf hydrangeas leads to the sunken clay tennis court, framed by a European hedge and a rustic slate stone wall with wide herbaceous border above crowned with a handcrafted iron fence designed by era-appropriate local blacksmiths.

Little Ballantrae, this remarkable piece of American history dates back to 1847 and was relocated in the 1920’s to its current spot on the estate. As you approach, you are immediately struck by the century-old wisteria climbing the vines of the historic screened sitting porch, enhancing the home’s historic charm. The views of the tennis court and soccer field add to its allure, inviting you to step back in time as you admire the tin roof and pine floors. The farmhouse includes 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, 1 half baths, and 2 fireplaces, blending traditional architecture with modern amenities in the expanded kitchen. This unique combination of historic detail and contemporary comfort creates the perfect retreat for those who appreciate the legacy of the past while enjoying the conveniences of today.

The Garden Cottage, nestled in the southwest corner of the estate, has been recently restored and renovated to include 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, and a fireplace. It boasts a private driveway that leads directly to the home from the west entrance, offering both privacy and ease of access. This charming cottage provides a tranquil retreat within the bustling estate, blending seamlessly into its elegant surroundings.

Check out the home’s website!

Piper Yerks • yerks@yerks.com
The Yerks Team | Washington Fine Properties
Photography Credit: The Yerks Team | Washington Fine Properties

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