Henry Kravis’ $46 million Colorado ranchHall and Hall
Private equity king Henry Kravis’ White River Valley Colorado ranch, “Westlands,” is up for sale for a cool $46 million. Kravis who ranks No. 107 on the Forbes 400 and No. 365 on Forbes’ Billionaire list has owned the 4,600-plus-acre ranch since 1991. Located a few hours from Aspen and Vail in Meeker, Colorado, Kravis, according to the listing agent Brian Smith of Hall and Hall, paid $5.5 million for the land, which at the time consisted of 4,500 acres and a few buildings in 1991.
“Mr. Kravis has made major improvements over time and invested a significant amount into the land, the White River and the infrastructure. This includes building roads, a large luxury lodge, guest facilities and recreational and leisure upgrades to hiking and riding trails,” said Smith.
There’s five miles of private fly fishing on both forks of the White River, recognized as some of the best fishing in the country. Kravis has developed a “complete private fishery.” The marketing presentation goes onto describe the potential of “landing multiple 10-15 pound, 24 to 30 plus inch rainbows and cutbows in a single session.”
In addition, Greg Norman designed the four-hole golf course located on the property along the White River. Turns out the famed pro golfer, Norman, is both a neighbor, owning a similar ranch nearby, and a friend of Kravis. In fact, Norman purchased the land for his ranch from Kravis.
Greg Norman designed golf course by the White RiverHall and Hall
To reach Westlands, you can fly your Gulfstream 500 into Meeker, which boasts a 6,500-foot paved runway for private jets, and then take the chopper to Westlands where there is a helipad and hanger.
The main lodge with stone and log construction rests on a secluded hillside. It’s a spacious 19,000 square feet is punctuated by soaring open log ceilings and rafters and oversized fireplaces throughout. An upper level hosts the master suite and five additional bedrooms plus library, great room and dining room. Head down to the wine cellar on the lower level and then enjoy the theater, game room, hot tub, sauna, massage area and steam rooms.
Over-the-top details include fireplaces with mantels imported from European castles. Most of the home’s furniture is included in the purchase price. Not a bad deal when you consider some of these custom pieces were crafted on site by French craftsmen.
Kravis entertained many “distinguished guests at the ranch,” according to Smith, probably even other members of the Forbes 400. They certainly were hosted in style in two large luxury guest log cabins divided into four private suites. The grounds also include a swimming pool, carriage house and ranch outbuildings for staff and horses.
The potential buyer? All cash and one who would probably use the ranch as a retreat to escape the pressures of that billionaire lifestyle. “If a buyer needed to finance this, I would say they are not the right buyer,” said Smith.