29 Tims Rd, Ancram, NY 12502

Shale Hill, a not-to-be missed hilltop estate. First time on the market since custom-built in 1990, this outstanding modern farmhouse on 43 acres with Gunite pool, tennis court and soul-stirring views of the Berkshires, is the quintessential weekend oasis with coveted proximity to sceney'' Hudson. Approached via a long, gravel driveway, the 4300 SF family retreat is thoughtfully integrated with its wooded environment -- from the beveled cedar siding and high gabled roof to the extensive glass-walled rooms offering mountain panoramas. Your journey to Shale Hill's perennial, pleasure-filled grounds begin with a stroll under an enchanting apple tree arbor that leads to tennis courts and pool. After a brisk set or two, change into your suits in the pagoda-style pool house and take a dip in the gorgeous 50 ft long heated pool. In cooler months, it's picking apples from your orchard, or hiking or ATV-ing the many trails. Once inside, a soaring open plan design runs the length of the house with oversized windows framing the verdant view. The double-height living room connects the sky lit dining room and cathedral-ceiling-ed kitchen wing on one side and the cozy library and palatial primary suite on the other. The sunlit, sleek interiors and expansive wall space were designed to accommodate large scale art, fitting with the style of the contemporary architecture. Everything was conceived with an eye toward materials that would wear well over time, including gleaming maple floors, handsome stucco-ed kitchen fireplace and sturdy sliding doors with electric shades that open to the lovely grounds. The centerpiece of the second floor is a stunning white, curved office/balcony - think Guggenheim Museum - that juts out over the living room. Three ensuite bedrooms offer privacy and pastoral views. Three seasons a year, grab your clubs and head to the century-old Copake Country Cub with its legendary 18-hole public golf course. Screaming for ice cream? Head to nearby Pine Plains to Ronnybrook Farm Dairy, whose products have been called the Dom Perignon of dairy''. And 25 minutes away visit Hudson with it's the art galleries, antique shops, fabulous eateries, not to mention its epic Farmers Market every Saturday. A 2 hr drive to Manhattan, Shale Hill is what your weekends have been waiting for!