
Santa Ynez, CA 93460
Now available as a stand-alone offering, the Front Ranch at Circle K spans 204 acres of rich architectural history and large-scale infrastructure in the exclusive Happy Canyon AVA. Known originally as the Double Arch Ranch, this was the centerpiece of Ray and Joan Kroc's corporate retreat where innovation (including the famed Egg McMuffin) was born. At its heart stands a 17,000-sq ft Main Lodge with 25 private en-suite rooms, a commercial-grade kitchen, grand dining hall, and hand-carved architectural detailing throughout. Adjacent lies the 5,200-sq ft conference center designed for 62-person seated events, lectures, or screenings along with a separate library, theater, and ranch offices. Prominently standing over it all, the iconic 5,200-sq ft Round House, offers 360-degree views, a resort-style pool, circular driveway, and unique architectural flair. Recreational offerings include a resort-style pool, two tennis courts, hiking trails, barbecue areas, and a private helipad. The grounds include additional residential housing, manicured oaks, and internal roads that connect structures across the property's natural topography. Qualifies under the Ag Enterprise Ordinance (AEO), allowing for future hospitality, farmstay, and food-service uses. Backed by an extraordinary provenance and lifestyle potential, the Front Ranch is a rare architectural and operational asset. Also available: the full 554-acre Circle K Ranch (7351 Happy Canyon Rd, Santa Ynez) at 24,750,000, and the Back Ranch (1959 Rambling Oaks, Santa Ynez CA - 349 acres) at 9,950,000.
Property is moderate renovation needed.
Built in 1971, this expansive property is aged but appears well-maintained. The commercial-grade kitchen, while functional, features dated cabinetry, tile flooring, and lighting. Interiors throughout the Main Lodge and Round House showcase a distinct 70s/80s aesthetic with extensive wood paneling, older light fixtures, and a mix of wood and carpeted floors. While major systems are presumed functional, the property requires substantial aesthetic updates and modernization to meet contemporary standards, as noted in the property analysis, rather than just minor repairs.
The property boasts a 17,000 sq ft Main Lodge with 25 en-suite rooms, a commercial kitchen, a 5,200 sq ft conference center, and an iconic 5,200 sq ft Round House, providing unparalleled capacity for various uses.
Spanning 204 acres in the exclusive Happy Canyon AVA, it offers privacy, natural beauty, and a prestigious address within a renowned wine region.
Formerly Ray and Joan Kroc's corporate retreat (Double Arch Ranch), the property carries a unique legacy, adding significant prestige and storytelling value.
Lot size discrepancy between mls listing and other public or private record. mls listing lot size in square feet =8891031, other record lot size in square feet = 6432940.
The nearly $15 million list price targets a highly specialized and affluent buyer pool, potentially extending market time due to its unique scale and purpose.
The vast scale and specialized infrastructure (e.g., commercial kitchen, numerous rooms, conference facilities) imply significant ongoing operational and maintenance costs and require a buyer with specific management capabilities.
No exterior & parking available.
No sensitive facilities data found.
| Feature | Subject | Average Home |
|---|---|---|
| Beds | 45.0 | 3.0 |
| Baths | 46.0 | 3.0 |
| Square foot | - | 2,310.5 |
| Lot Size | 8,891,031 | 352,618 |
| Price | $12.50M | $1.64M |
| Price per sq ft | $0 | $727 |
| Built year | 1971 | 1971 |
| HOA | $0 | $300 |
| Days on market | 380 | 148 |
Sep 26, 2026
$12,500,000
$14,950,000
-16% Price Drop
Initial Listing
Oct 9, 2025
$14,950,000
Initial Listing
Nov 16, 1990
$5,100,000
Public Record