Catskills Estate with Historic Stone Maze Lists for $10 Million

A 280-acre estate in New York’s Catskill Mountains, distinguished by a one-of-a-kind outdoor stone maze, has been listed for $10 million. The property, a generational legacy for the Erpf family, represents a rare blend of art, architecture, and natural landscape. The sale could potentially set a record for Delaware County, underscoring the uniqueness of this offering. This article provides a detailed overview of the estate's features, history, and what makes it a significant listing in the 2026 real estate market.

What is the history behind this unique Catskills property? The estate has been owned by the Erpf family since the late 1800s. The current sellers, siblings Tolomy and Cornelia Erpf, are offering the property as they embark on new chapters in their lives. The main house, which spans approximately 5,300 square feet, underwent a significant renovation in 2016 and includes eight bedrooms and a cupola, which is a small dome-like structure atop a roof. The property has served as a weekend and holiday retreat for the family for generations, evolving over time into its current state. The decision to sell is described as a "passing of the torch," acknowledging the property's legacy while making it available for new ownership.

What makes the stone maze so significant? The centerpiece of the estate is a labyrinth constructed in the 1960s with stone walls up to 10 feet high. It was commissioned by the late Armand Erpf, a Wall Street investor and art collector, after he read "The Maze Maker," a novel by the English artist Michael Ayrton. Armand subsequently hired Ayrton to design and build the maze on the property. It features 1,680 feet of passageways and contains bronze statues depicting figures from Greek mythology, including Daedalus, Icarus, and the Minotaur. Based on historical accounts from the creator, it is believed to be the only stone maze built since the 4th or 5th century, adding immense historical and artistic value.

What other amenities are included in the estate? Beyond the maze, the grounds are an extensive recreational compound. The property features more than 20 outdoor sculptures, some of which are included in the sale. Additional structures and amenities enhance its appeal for a lavish retreat lifestyle. These include a brick guesthouse, a tennis court, a swimming pool with a separate poolhouse, and equestrian facilities such as a horse barn and a polo field. This diverse set of amenities makes the property self-contained, suitable for everything from private family gatherings to large-scale entertaining.

Why is this property considered a notable listing? The combination of scale, history, and unique artistic elements makes this listing exceptional. At 280 acres, the land parcel itself is substantial for the region. The integration of a historically significant art installation, coupled with high-end residential amenities, positions it far outside the scope of a typical residential sale. The asking price of $10 million reflects this rarity. In the context of the 2026 market, such properties are seldom available, often attracting buyers seeking a legacy asset rather than just a primary residence.

For potential buyers or those interested in unique real estate, this Catskills estate demonstrates how art and nature can be seamlessly integrated. The key takeaway is the value of a property with a storied history and one-of-a-kind features. When considering such a significant investment, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence on the maintenance of specialized structures like the maze and the long-term property tax implications of a large, improved land parcel. The estate is not just a home but a curated experience, offering a unique chapter for its next owner.