You may have passed by this Ojai home dozens of times and never noticed …

What do you get when you combine Spanish architecture, five secluded acres, a pool and a tennis court? You’d think it was a five star resort, but this sprawling piece of land cradles a pretty awesome private residence.

Venturing through the swinging wood gates at the entrance the most notable feature may be the open space. With natural landscaping and large oaks shading the grounds on either side, the driveway crawls past a 700 square-foot guest house, which itself features vaulted ceilings, fireplace and detached garage.

Just beyond sits the main house — a 4,421 square foot Spanish Revival masterpiece that sprawls across the property. Entering through the large, double front doors reveals a spiral staircase leading to a loft and balcony. Beyond the staircase is the living room-turned-dining room, featuring a stone fireplace and large wood doors leading out to the backyard and pool.

With large, open living areas, five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, the house has enough space for a family, office, hobby room, gym, library … you decide.

The backyard differs in feel and appearance from the front. Tall palms drift lazily in the breeze while roses, birds of paradise and other flowers pepper the landscape with patches of vibrant colors. Pathways weave through gardens, and sitting areas lead to a tennis court that doubles as a full basketball court.

Out back, the pool serves as a centerpiece bordered by thoughtfully chosen landscaping. Palm trees and a lush array of plants are suggestive of a desert oasis. Adjacent to the tennis court/full basketball court sits a cabana with dining area, large grill, hammock and full bar look out over the pool, while a separate pool house has a shower and fitness room available. Behind the hedge lies a huge utility building, ideal for vehicles or storage.

Inside, vaulted ceilings — in almost every room except the rock-walled sauna — complement the open floor plan. Large windows and glass-paned doors take advantage of ample natural light in each room. Turn a corner and you are likely to find a room with a stone fireplace (the home has 4) while separate air conditioning systems in different sections of the interior offer temperature regulation in this discerning custom estate.

For more information contact Dennis Guernsey, Coldwell Banker Property Shoppe – 805.798.1998