San Luis Obispo legacy above the clouds! Discover a rare opportunity to own a 36-acre estate steeped in history and unmatched natural beauty. Perched 1,600 feet above sea level—just 100 feet higher than the iconic Hearst Castle—this extraordinary property offers sweeping views of Hollister Peak, Bishop’s Peak, Laetitia Winery, Morro Rock and Smokestacks, and the San Luis Obispo Valley floor. A 1.4-mile private driveway, secured by an automatic swing gate, winds its way from Highway 101 to this secluded retreat, which boasts a unique connection to San Luis Obispo's storied past. Originally built by Alex Madonna, the visionary behind the famed Madonna Inn, the estate features a 2,012 sq. ft. main home, a detached 4-car garage, and a separate 1,000 sq. ft. guest house. While the structures are in need of restoration, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to create a dream estate that honors its history and fully embraces its awe-inspiring surroundings. The property is sustained by natural springs, providing a pristine water source, while electricity is supplied by PG&E and gas is powered by an on-site propane system. With a coveted VRBO permit, this estate also presents a unique investment opportunity for short-term rental income or the perfect space to host visitors. Whether you choose to renovate, rebuild, or simply enjoy the stunning surroundings, 3455 Vista Del Ciudad is a chance to reimagine a legacy estate that celebrates the beauty and history of San Luis Obispo.
Off market
Price Unknown
3455 Vista Del Ciudad, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
3beds
3,012sqft
Single Family Residence
Built in 1951
36 Acres Lot
$-- Zestimate®
$--/sqft
$6,304 Estimated rent
Owner options
What's special
Zillow last checked: 8 hours ago
Listing updated: October 15, 2025 at 12:08am
Source: CRMLS,MLS#: SC24217806
Originating MLS: California Regional MLS
Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 3
- Bathrooms: 4
- Full bathrooms: 4
- Main level bathrooms: 4
- Main level bedrooms: 3
Heating
- Propane
Cooling
- None
Appliances
- Included: Dishwasher, Propane Oven, Propane Range, Propane Water Heater, Refrigerator
- Laundry: Washer Hookup, Propane Dryer Hookup
Features
- Tile Counters
- Flooring: Vinyl
- Has basement: Yes
- Has fireplace: Yes
- Fireplace features: Living Room, Primary Bedroom
- Common walls with other units/homes: No Common Walls
Interior area
- Total interior livable area: 3,012 sqft
Property
Parking
- Total spaces: 3
- Parking features: Door-Multi, Driveway, Garage
- Garage spaces: 3
Accessibility
- Accessibility features: None
Features
- Levels: One
- Stories: 1
- Entry location: Front Door
- Patio & porch: Rear Porch, Brick, Front Porch, Glass Enclosed, Open, Patio, Porch
- Pool features: None
- Spa features: None
- Has view: Yes
- View description: Hills, Mountain(s), Panoramic
Lot
- Size: 36 Acres
- Features: 36-40 Units/Acre, Agricultural, Ranch, Secluded
Details
- Additional structures: Guest House Detached
- Parcel number: 070271010
- Special conditions: Standard
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Property subtype: Single Family Residence
Materials
- Brick
- Foundation: Raised
- Roof: Shingle
Condition
- New construction: No
- Year built: 1951
Details
- Builder name: Alex Madonna
Utilities & green energy
- Sewer: Septic Tank
- Water: See Remarks
- Utilities for property: Electricity Connected, Propane, Sewer Connected
Community & neighborhood
Security
- Security features: Security Gate, Key Card Entry
Community
- Community features: Hunting, Near National Forest, Rural
Location
- Region: San Luis Obispo
- Subdivision: San Luis Obispo(380)
Other
Other facts
- Listing terms: Cash,Cash to New Loan
- Road surface type: Paved