About this property
Welcome to “Windover” of Tryon, the awe-inspiring writer’s retreat for NY Times Best Selling Author, Mary Alice Monroe. Originally constructed in 1933, this unique, vintage house was built using the finest quality materials and impeccable eye for detail. Beautifully appointed on 4.78 acres with frontage along the Pacolet River and vista views of Melrose and Warrior Mountains.
Set close to the vibrant town of Tryon and off the incredibly scenic Highway 176 to Saluda, Windover’s gates welcome you the historical estate. There have only been five owners to date. Each family a steward. The newly reconditioned drive winds up the knoll to a masterpiece from a bygone era. The main residence was constructed in English Revival style architecture using a hard stucco and stone exterior and Ludiwici tile roof.
A stroll past the revitalized courtyard and through the Moroccan door, one can not help but appreciate the level of craftsmanship that the home exudes. The paneling in the living was imported from a 19th century estate in England and assembled using craftsmen who worked on the construction of the Biltmore House. The mantle above the warm stone fireplace, was painstakingly hand carved by another Biltmore craftsman, now famously dubbed, the Tryon Toymaker. The living room opens to glass sunroom with beautiful exposures of the mountain vistas. A guest bedroom with en suite bath adjoins the living room to the south.
The nicely equipped, bright kitchen is open to a breakfast room, which Mary Alice believes would make a fabulous bar area with club chairs for entertaining and relaxing. The adjoining dining room shows off more wood paneling and handcrafted built ins. The kitchen/breakfast area opens to a covered flagstone terrace adorned with a stone fireplace for enjoying those cool Carolina summer evenings. Outdoor entertaining space extends throughout backside of the home with beautiful views of the Pacolet River and mountains.
Back across the foyer into the west wing, lies a remarkable den/study with fireplace and private bath. Beyond lies the grand master suite with an 18 foot ceiling, fireplace and original wrought iron french doors that lead back out to the back terrace… perfect for a pergola or hot tub.
The versatile lower level offers a large private office or guest bedroom, additional bed room suite and a nice workshop.
The pool and pool terrace between main house and guest cottage has undergone a total overhaul. Both pool and terrace have been resurfaced. Pool has been fitted with a state of the art salt water filtration system. A changing room and bathroom lead off the back side of the pool terrace, with a rare architectural 10 foot fencing, custom trellis and custom gates underway by local artisan.
The carriage house was previously used as an art studio and could be transformed into a fabulous guest house. New HVAC system is already in place. Could also be easily used as a garage. An adjacent studio apartment with full bathroom and wood beams currently provides refuge for guests.
Harmon Field is a stone’s throw away and offers the opportunity to take a stroll along the river on paved walking paths, take in a horse show or let the dogs play in the dog park. Nearby Roger’s Park Amphitheater is the place to be on Friday evenings for open air concerts! The charming town of Tryon with shops and restaurants are minutes away. Yet high on the mountain top of Windover, one feels miles away. Ideally located within 45 minutes to Greenville and Asheville with airports and top rated hospitals. Only 25 minutes up Highway 176 to downtown Hendersonville to Fresh Market, Publix and the wonderful shops and restaurants.
Windover is the epitome of charm and comfort. A rare respite built when quality mattered. Nestled in the isothermal belt, enjoy warmer temperatures, longer growing season and a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle in the comfort of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
