Fantasy Farm: Aiken’s Hidden Shangri La
Hey, Aiken lovers. This one’s for you! Shangri La is a 13-acre slice of heaven with a stable setup that’ll make your barn manager weep tears of joy.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a life where every detail was designed with horses—and your own luxury—in mind, welcome to Shangri La (literally). Tucked away in prime horse country in Aiken, South Carolina, this 13-acre estate feels like a private resort with an equestrian heartbeat.
From the moment you turn onto the magnolia-lined driveway, you know you’re in for something special. Crepe myrtles frame the approach to the main residence, a 3,953-square-foot Tuscan-style home built in 2009 that balances warmth and elegance.
Inside, a solid wood arched door with horsehead hardware opens to a foyer featuring a stunning inlay of 11 wood species and aqua marble, lit by an artisan stone chandelier. That attention to detail continues throughout the home—6” European white oak planks underfoot, river stone fireplaces, Schonbek crystal chandeliers, and custom stained-glass windows handcrafted by Savannah River Art Glass.
The primary suite is a sanctuary in itself, with a gas fireplace, ambient lighting, and a spa-worthy ensuite bath that includes heated floors, a freestanding clawfoot air jet tub, steam shower, towel warmers, and dual walk-in closets. Even the garage was built with intention, featuring 11’6” ceilings ready for car lifts or extra storage.
But it’s not just the main home that makes this estate exceptional. The 2,500-square-foot Koi House, built in 2016, is both serene retreat and architectural marvel. Enclosed with copper screen and birnam wood beams, it features a fully automated 52,000-gallon koi pond with imported Japanese koi, plus a gourmet kitchen with Wolf and Bosch appliances, hand-forged lighting, and a cozy fire pit sitting area—ideal for quiet mornings or entertaining guests (like the EN team, which will certainly be knocking on the door after we referred you to this amazing property).
Of course, no dream farm is complete without the perfect equestrian amenities – that’s what we’re here for, right?
The 3,500-square-foot climate-controlled stable is built to impress. It includes four stalls with Nelson automatic waterers and fans, a hot/cold wash stall with heat lamps, a spacious tack room, storage, laundry with a raised dog-washing station, and even an adjoining kitchenette and half bath.
Also included: kennels for five dogs open to a fenced yard, and the two pastures and two paddocks are complemented by three matted, fan-cooled run-ins with automatic waterers and lights. The entire property is irrigated and enclosed with no-climb wire, ready to keep horses safe and comfortable year-round.
Security, comfort, and longevity were key considerations across the property. Each structure includes built-in generators, lightning rods, copper flashing and gutters, and 50-year architectural shingles. HVAC systems are equipped with purification and humidifiers to maintain ideal conditions no matter the season.
Residents enjoy access to over 30 miles of riding trails, private carriage roads, two professionally designed equestrian complexes with GGT footing, and two clubhouses. Whether you’re a competitive rider, a dedicated horse owner, or simply someone who craves privacy and natural beauty, Shangri La offers an unmatched blend of equestrian functionality and luxurious living.
Can we go ahead and start a Kickstarter campaign to make this EN headquarters? Asking for a friend.
Click here to view the full listing!
For more information:
📍 1029 Shell Bluff Drive, Aiken, SC 29803 [View listing]
💲 Listed at $4,500,000 | MLS #216062
📞 Contact:
Deirdre Stoker Vaillancourt – 803-640-4591
Alexa Bottomley – 843-540-6831
Presented by Meybohm Real Estate
