See architectural gem in Placerville on 41 acres above river in Sierra foothills

From the dazzling Mediterranean-style estate perched above, the powerful but calming roar of Cosumnes River east of Sacramento can be heard.

Listed for $3.2 million, the compound's two homes - a Tuscan-inspired main residence and a European farmhouse-style second house -offer more than 5, 000 square feet of combined living space.

Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the interior with natural light and bring a strong connection to the surrounding landscape. Spanning three parcels on 41 acres, the property-dubbed Horizon Canyon Estate-is tucked among vineyards, olive orchards and lush gardens in Placerville, California.

"There's so much to love-it's truly an architectural gem," listing agent Kristina Agustin of Vista Sotheby's International Realty said in an email to The Sacramento Bee. "The contrast of the rich wood accents against the clean, modern lines gives it this striking, yet welcoming feel. The way the home is positioned on the land was intentional-every window, every angle was designed to take in the surrounding views."

Listed for $3.2 million, a Placerville, California, compound's two homes - a Tuscan-inspired main residence and a European farmhouse-style second house -offer more than 5, 000 square feet of combined living space and riverfront views and access.

Swim, fish in river below

The property includes riparian rights to a 1,000-foot stretch of the North Fork of Cosumnes River, which flows year-round, Agustin said, giving residents and their guests the opportunity to fish and swim in the water below.

Also, hiking trails meander across the property.

"The main home was thoughtfully designed with a deck that overlooks the river, and you can catch views from the guest house as well," she said. "It's one of those features that brings nature right to your doorstep-it's peaceful, grounding, and truly sets this property apart."

The Cosumnes River flows from the Sierra Nevada mountains to California's Central Valley with its headwaters located at an elevation of 7,600 feet.

The design of both homes at 6700 Horizon Drive in Placerville - about an hour's drive east of Sacramento - is nearly as impressive as the outdoor surroundings. Combined, there are six bedrooms and five full bathrooms.

Spanning across three parcels on 41 acres, the property-dubbed Horizon Canyon Estate-is tucked among vineyards, olive orchards and lush gardens.

"(The owners) had a fantastic architect who really nailed it," Agustin said. "The contemporary Mediterranean style isn't something you see often in this area, and that's what makes it so special. The large windows, the natural materials, the way the light fills the space - it all just works. And then there's the staircase - it's truly a centerpiece of the home. The overall design feels elevated, but still very livable."

Inside, the original Tuscan-style home includes high wood-beamed ceilings, a central fireplace and several French doors leading to private patios. The primary suite offers its own patio space and a bathroom with a spacious shower, river views, and a steam room.

Some of the standout features include imported Italian tile, copper sinks and custom finishes throughout, according to listing agent Kristina Agustin.

Imported Italian tile, copper sinks

"Some of the standout features include imported Italian tile, copper sinks and custom finishes throughout," Agustin said. "Every space feels carefully curated. There's a sense of thoughtfulness in the design that you really feel as you move through the home. It's elegant but not overdone-just incredibly well executed."

In the newly finished European-style farmhouse, modern features blend with artisan touches such as a floating staircase, open-concept kitchen with a built-in dining table, a fireplace and a large upstairs game room.

"It has incredible character," Agustin said. "Inside, you'll find towering wood-beamed ceilings, large windows that bring in tons of natural light, and several balconies that let you take in the views and sounds of the river. The arches throughout the home-especially the one that frames the stove in the kitchen-give it a romantic, old-world charm.

"Even the staircase makes a statement, with its craftsmanship and clean lines. It's full of custom details and feels like its own private retreat-definitely not your typical guest house."

The property, which last sold in 2020 for $1.485 million, according to public records, is listed as a multi-family residence, opening up a lot of possibilities for potential buyers.

"It's really a lifestyle property," Agustin said. "Whether someone's looking for a private full-time residence, a second home, or even a luxury vacation rental or retreat space, it offers a lot of versatility. It could also be great for multi-generational living or buyers who want space for guests while still having privacy. There's nothing cookie-cutter about it-it's for someone who wants something truly special."

The original Tuscan-style home on the property includes high wood-beamed ceilings, a central fireplace and several French doors leading to private patios.