One of the secrets of the Ronald Reagan Freeway — also known as Highway 118 — is that it leads directly through the charming city of Moorpark and into a scenic area of ranchland on the cusp of rural Somis.

Up a gentle road and through another, a swath of unspoiled views and hidden estates comprise the area in which you will find Wind Walker Ranch, a sparkling gem in this treasure chest of prime Ventura County property.

Situated on 20 acres, the fine estate home looks out onto a private domain that includes an expansive 10 acres of lemon groves and 2 acres of blood orange trees. But after entering the security gates and before crossing the steel and concrete bridge that leads to the curved driveway, there's a large lower portion of land dedicated to equine activities.

With a 21-stall block-and-steel horse barn, 15 pipe corral stalls, a 110-foot x 270-foot riding arena, dressage arena, longeing area, hot walker and various turnouts, Wind Walker Ranch is an equestrian's dream home.

At the top of the property is the 6,750 square foot, two-story house, built by the current owners in 1991. It's a manse of elegance and refinement, with the stamped concrete walkway flowing through the neatly manicured front lawn and mature foliage.

The front doors feature antique-style leaded glass, opening in to the spacious entryway. Inside, the formal step-down living room has a plethora of huge picture windows that form a half-circle, offering a continual display of real-life cinema to those who sit within, enjoying the spectacular views of the citrus trees and equestrian exploits below.

"I'm told that on a clear day you can see the ocean," said listing agent Tony DeFranco of Sotheby's International Realty.

The living room segues into a sitting area with marble-tiled fireplace and unusual shadowbox wall niches that appear in different sizes throughout the house, perfect for displaying collectibles, pottery or artifacts.

In the deftly-angled kitchen, the mocha walls complement the granite counter tops and backsplash, white wood cabinets, and center island, which has its own sink. There's also an eat-in area that includes an opening for a desk or china cabinet. An arched doorway leads to the comfortable family room, with built-in cabinetry and a large wet bar. The family room has windows that look out on to the serene backyard, full of plants and trees that lend a parklike feeling to the enclosed area, which also boasts an artistically-designed waterfall.

A powder room in the hallway is near the elegant formal dining room, which also has immediate access via glass door to a covered patio with flagstone accents.

Down the hall, a bonus room has creatively-angled windows and recessed lighting. Currently used as an exercise room, it would also be suitable as a music room or playroom, or, with the addition of a closet, a bedroom.

There's an indoor laundry room, and a guest bedroom, nanny's quarters or mother-in-law suite with a full bathroom that has newer fixtures and a vanity with a granite countertop.

Upstairs, the enormous master suite is an airy haven with extra-high ceilings and large windows to allow for maximum natural light. There's a sliding door leading to a balcony patio, soothing sage green walls, luxurious Berber carpet, and a marble-tiled fireplace. Another fireplace is in the attached sitting area, which is the perfect place to relax, read a book, or take in the views below.

The master bathroom features marble tile, plenty of cabinet space, two sinks and an enormous walk-in closet. A large, separate room houses the glass-enclosed shower, marble-tiled tub, commode and bidet.

Down the wide hallway are the glass doors leading to the spacious home office. Beyond that is another large bathroom and a bedroom with a view of a beautiful pepper tree outside its window. Next is yet another surprise of this seemingly never-ending home—a second upstairs master suite with full bathroom and walk-in closet.

Other amenities include two separate guest or caretaker bedroom and bathroom suites above the four-car garage, a fire sprinkler system, and security system.

For more information, including location and price, or for a private tour, call DeFranco at 376-2953. Or, for an online slideshow, go to http://www.WindWalkerEquestrianEstate.com.

FOR SALE

Windwalker Ranch,

Moorpark

Tony DeFranco

Sotheby's International Realty

376-2953

http://www.WindWalkerEquestrianEstate.com

6,750 square foot home,

20-acre equestrian estate

6 Bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms

2 Caretaker/guest Suites