History
Gebhard lodge is a morsel of the valley’s rich and vivid history. More specifically, it is a story of love woven into each sunset, vineyard and walk around the property.
A Sanctuary in Guenoc Valley
“Words don’t express my complete satisfaction. Join me in Paradise.” – Lillie Langtry
1880
The Home
Lillie Langtry, Fred Gephard and their home in Guenoc Valley is as pure of a love story as it gets. She was a highly regarded, beautiful actress that took the world’s breath away. He was brave enough to pursue the lady that everyone wanted to be with. Together they built a place where their passion for horses and wine became part of their daily life. A home where the excited fans, journalists and theater industry felt far away.
1900's
The History
For years the lodge refuged the family of Lillie and Fred, welcomed friends and hosted horse breeding enthusiasts. Nestled delicately in Guenoc Valley, under wise, old trees the location was remote enough that it gave them privacy to create their dream life together while also granting them access to the best vineyards, horse stables, breeders and racers alike. After many fulfilling years breeding horses, producing fine wines and hunting Lillie and Fred continued on with their lives, separately. Their distance lead them to pursue hobbies and passions apart and after a few years Fred Gebhard sold his portion of the land and moved on with his life. In 1919 both portions of the land were sold, including Lillie’s. She had settled back Europe where she later passed away in 1929.
Today
The Present
The gift of a cozy paradise, placed gently in the vastness of Valley’s hills and sky is what remains of Lillie and Fred’s adventure out west. Today this property still houses many of the plants and wildlife that saw the lodge in it’s creation. Gebhard Lodge remains a beacon of serenity, tranquility and beauty.
