In the world of luxury real estate, few properties capture the imagination like Casa Encantada, the sprawling 60-room Bel-Air estate that has been home to some of the wealthiest and most influential figures in American history. Originally listed for an eye-popping $250 million shortly after the passing of its owner, billionaire telecom pioneer Gary Winnick, the estate has now seen its price drop to $165 million—a dramatic $85 million reduction in just over a year.
This neoclassical mansion, perched atop an 8.4-acre peninsula within the prestigious Bel-Air Country Club, is one of the most significant properties in the United States. With its timeless elegance, storied history, and unmatched views of Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains, Casa Encantada remains a testament to the heights of luxury living.
A Mansion Built on Grandeur and Legacy
Casa Encantada’s origins trace back to the 1930s when it was commissioned by Hilda Boldt Weber, a New York City hospital nurse turned socialite after marrying millionaire glass manufacturer Charles Boldt. Designed by Russian-born architect James E. Dolena, the mansion was constructed for $2 million—a staggering amount for its time. Weber’s vision came to life in collaboration with interior designer T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, resulting in a home that seamlessly blended neoclassical architecture with cutting-edge Art Deco interiors.
After Weber’s tenure, the estate was purchased in 1950 by hotel magnate Conrad Hilton for just $225,000. Hilton’s ownership solidified Casa Encantada’s reputation as a place of unparalleled prestige, with the mansion hosting high-profile gatherings and visits from Hollywood’s elite.
Following Hilton’s passing in 1979, the property changed hands several times, with retired Dole Food Products chairman David Murdock purchasing it in 1980 for $12.4 million. In 2000, it was acquired by Gary Winnick and his wife Karen for $94 million—a record-setting deal at the time that included cash and two additional parcels of land. The couple spent two years and tens of millions of dollars restoring the property with architect Peter Marino, preserving its historic grandeur while modernizing it for contemporary living.
A Home of Unmatched Scale and Elegance
Hidden behind high walls and gates, Casa Encantada’s grand entrance reveals a motor court centered around a bubbling fountain. The 40,000-square-foot mansion unfolds from this entrance, with its H-shaped design offering an array of opulent spaces and amenities.
Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a double-height foyer and sweeping staircase that set the tone for the rest of the home. The residence includes seven bedrooms and an astonishing 20 bathrooms. The main reception areas boast soaring 14-foot ceilings and feature both formal and casual living and dining spaces. The walnut-paneled study is lined with floor-to-ceiling bookcases, offering a quiet retreat, while the den features an Art Deco-inspired Lucite wet bar that exudes vintage charm.
The primary suite, spanning an impressive 3,500 square feet, includes dual sitting rooms, bathrooms, and expansive closets. This private sanctuary overlooks the estate’s manicured grounds and offers sweeping views of the city below. The property’s layout allows for seamless entertaining while maintaining intimate spaces for relaxation.
A Private Outdoor Oasis
The estate’s grounds, landscaped by Benjamin Purdy, are as awe-inspiring as the mansion itself. A 60-foot tiled swimming pool anchors the outdoor space, while the north/south tennis court and additional sports court provide ample recreational opportunities. Rose gardens, herb beds, and tropical plantings add layers of natural beauty, creating an atmosphere of serene luxury.
Beyond its immediate grounds, Casa Encantada’s location atop a peninsula ensures unrivaled privacy. The property overlooks a subterranean tunnel that connects two holes of the exclusive Bel-Air Country Club golf course, adding a unique touch of intrigue to its setting.
A Changing Luxury Real Estate Market
Despite its grandeur, Casa Encantada has struggled to find a buyer. Realtor Josh Flagg of Compass, who shares the listing with Kurt Rappaport of Westside Estate Agency and Drew Fenton of Carolwood Estates, acknowledges the challenge of selling a property in this price range. “If this was 2017, the house would be sold by now,” Flagg says. “But given the state of the market, there aren’t buyers lining up for any house over $100 million.”
Still, Flagg remains optimistic about finding the right owner for a property of this caliber. “There are people out there who can afford a house like this—it just takes that one person,” he notes.
A Glimpse Into the Winnick Legacy
While Casa Encantada awaits its next chapter, the Winnick family continues to make their mark on luxury real estate. Gary Winnick’s widow Karen also owns a Charles Gwathmey-designed apartment in New York City’s Sherry Netherland Hotel, currently listed for just under $3.5 million. This smaller property offers a contrast to the grand scale of Casa Encantada but reflects the same commitment to refined living.
A Rare Opportunity
With its unmatched combination of history, design, and location, Casa Encantada remains one of the most remarkable estates in the world. The recent price reduction to $165 million may open the door for a discerning buyer to claim a piece of Los Angeles history—a home that has hosted decades of glamour, intrigue, and unparalleled luxury.