Welcome to the iconic Circle K Ranch, a stunning estate nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley - an area renowned for its world-class vineyards and equestrian culture. Spread across 554 breathtaking acres, this remarkable property is a fusion of history, luxury, and nature; making it ideal for a legacy ranch, corporate retreat or hospitality center. Originally known as the J & R Double Arch Ranch, this storied property was once home to McDonald's founders Ray and Joan Kroc, who transformed it into a think tank for the McDonald's Corporation. It was here, the Egg McMuffin was born, a testament to the innovative spirit that flourished within its gates. In 1990, the property was acquired by Gerald Kessler of Nature's Plus Vitamins, who renamed it Circle K Ranch and preserved its original charm and purpose.The property's heritage is captured in its masterfully designed structures. The 17,000-square-foot main lodge, designed by renowned architect Glenn Marchbanks Jr., stands as the centerpiece of the property, featuring 25 en-suite double occupancy lodging rooms, a grand 3,000-square-foot gathering room, commercial-grade kitchen and a dining room that accommodates 100 guests. The lodge's soaring ceilings, hand-carved woodwork and expansive views create an atmosphere of elegance and warmth. The adjacent 5,200-square-foot conference hall serves as an auditorium or theater, seating 62, perfect for corporate events, lectures, or film screenings. Situated atop a scenic hill, the Round House serves as the property's main home and commands stunning 360-degree views of Happy Canyon. Built in 1971 by Ray and Joan Kroc, the residence preserves its original period décor and unique architectural style. The 5,200 square-foot home provides an intimate, one-of-a-kind living experience. Additional structures include four single-family residences, a duplex, manager's house, two bunkhouses equipped with 9 en-suite bedrooms, a gymnasium and more. In total, the ranch can accommodate up to 100 overnight guests. Water is abundant on the ranch, with numerous wells, two lakes and cisterns capable of storing over 100,000 gallons.
The estate offers an abundance of amenities to cater to any lifestyle. The Founders Building serves as a library, conference hall and boasts 5 bedroom suites and ranch offices. For those seeking recreation, the estate includes a helicopter pad, two tennis courts, a resort-style pool, hiking trails and barbecue-picnic facilities. The barns, paddocks, trails and fenced corrals offer endless possibilities for equestrian pursuits and agricultural endeavors. The property is a working cattle ranch, but is also home to exotic animals including Watusis, zebras, llamas and swans.
Although exceptionally private, the property is conveniently located just 30 minutes from Santa Barbara and 10 minutes from the Santa Ynez Airport. Happy Canyon Road is a premium location, referred to by many as the "Montecito or Beverly Hills of the Santa Ynez Valley." Whether envisioned as a working ranch, corporate retreat, or personal estate, Circle K Ranch offers endless possibilities for its next chapter.
Property consists of 7 APNs: 141-090-026, 141-020-012, 141-020-024, 141-020-025, 141-020-040, 141-090-025, 141-090-017.
For sale
$25,000,000
7351 Happy Canyon Rd, Santa Ynez, CA 93460
52beds
--sqft
Est.:
Single Family Residence
Built in ----
554 Acres Lot
$-- Zestimate®
$--/sqft
$-- HOA
What's special
Barbecue-picnic facilitiesHand-carved woodworkExpansive viewsCommercial-grade kitchenSoaring ceilingsHiking trails
- 283 days
- on Zillow |
- 1,401 |
- 87 |
Zillow last checked: 7 hours ago
Listing updated: May 16, 2025 at 07:58am
Listed by:
Joe Ramos DRE#: 02040488 805-680-6849,
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties,
Kerry Mormann DRE#: 00598625 805-689-3242,
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties
Source: North Santa Barbara County MLS,MLS#: 24002176

Travel times
Tour with a buyer's agent
Tour with a buyer's agent
Facts & features
Interior
Bedrooms & bathrooms
- Bedrooms: 52
- Bathrooms: 58
- Full bathrooms: 50
- 1/2 bathrooms: 8
Heating
- Forced Air
Cooling
- Other
Interior area
- Total structure area: 0
Video & virtual tour
Property
Features
- Has view: Yes
- View description: Valley, Panoramic, Hill/Peak/Mnt
Lot
- Size: 554 Acres
Details
- Additional structures: Tool Shed, Guest House, Workshop, Other, Barn(s)
- Parcel number: 141090025
- Zoning description: Residential,Agricultural
- Special conditions: Standard
Construction
Type & style
- Home type: SingleFamily
- Property subtype: Single Family Residence
Materials
- Foundation: Slab
- Roof: Other
Utilities & green energy
- Sewer: Septic Tank
- Water: Well, Private
Green energy
- Green verification: Unknown
- Energy efficient items: Unknown
- Energy generation: Unknown
Community & HOA
HOA
- Has HOA: No
Location
- Region: Santa Ynez
Financial & listing details
- Tax assessed value: $2,652,281
- Annual tax amount: $28,222
- Date on market: 11/8/2024
- Listing terms: Cash
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