Ventura County is famous for its great weather, its offerings for the active lifestyle and for luxury living. One fabulous enclave in the county that is notorious for its affluent appointments can be found by traveling a short way off of Highway 101 to the city of Ojai.

Here, hidden away in the hillside, are homes admixed with natural beauty and some of the most amazing views around. Among them is the property at 129 Layton Ave. Surrounded by the tranquil and serene valley, the home is located on more than a half acre and is bright, airy and features mountain views from every room.

Approaching the property, there is a scenic drive up the softly winding Bristol Road, and it gently lands you in a quiet cul-de-sac in front of a quaint, ranch-style family home. The front of the home is beautifully landscaped with short palms and boulders that keep with the natural feel of the area.

Entering the home offers a surprising blend of a large yet cozy living space. To the left of the foyer is a long living room with hardwood floors. The room has two large windows that are nearly floor-to-ceiling which let in copious amounts of sunlight. Between the windows is an old-fashioned brick fireplace with a long hearth large enough to be used for seating on chilly nights.

Beyond the living room is a cozy dining room which is open to the kitchen. A simple bar separates the two rooms, making the space open and airy. Off of the dining area, there is a sliding door which leads to an outdoor seating area in the backyard as well.

The kitchen has been recently upgraded with white granite countertops flecked with black veins that set off the solid wood cabinetry in the room. Though they are the original cabinets, they are in pristine condition and allow plenty of storage space for any homeowner's needs. There is even a large drawer beneath the oven for storing those cookie sheets and small appliances that never seem to have a home.

Through the kitchen is a large den done in bright colors and the same tile as found in the kitchen. This room has another sliding glass door leading to the patio in the backyard, allowing for the light that is characteristic of the home and a gorgeous view of the hills behind the property.

Beyond the den is a short hallway that leads to the four bedrooms and the two and one-half bathrooms that comprise the private living space. Two of the bedrooms are of standard size and face the front of the house.

The third standard bedroom is located facing the back of the house and has a private entry from the backyard. The closet in this room has been converted into a private kitchen with a sink, a two-burner stove and cabinets for storing dishes and sundries. Just outside the door to this room is a full bathroom with dual sinks, making the room convenient for use as guest quarters or an in-law suite.

Across the hall is the master bedroom. Bright like the rest of the home, it features a tapered ceiling and hardwood floors that match the kitchen.

Situated on a nearly 20,000 square-foot lot, the backyard is expansive with plenty of room for a built-in kitchen or perhaps even a spa. Toward the back of the yard is a hill with a path leading to the top that allows for views of the entire valley and the mountains that surround.

Located in the top-rated Ojai Unified School District, the property is walking distance from Matilija Junior High School. It is also a short drive from several parks and the Ojai Valley Inn Golf Course.

It is listed at $1,049,000. Call listing agent Ana Gil at 794-6892 for a private viewing.

FOR SALE

129 Layton Ave.

Ojai

$1,049,000

Ana Gil

ERA Cusick Realty

794-6892