The heat is on at Flushing Meadows, but the games are all cool due north of U.S. Open, where a good volley can await right in your backyard. Here are some of our best current listings for holding court without ever leaving home:
RED HOOK | 89 Martins Lane
Delano, Astor and Livingston are just three of the great American names tied to Atalanta, among the most significant grand estates in the Hudson Valley. Occupying but a small fraction of the 290-acre property, its tennis facilities, situated behind a handsome Greek Revival pool house, welcome sweeping river vistas we hope won't throw off someone's backhand...
COLD SPRING | 377 Lane Gate
There's an almost ethereal quality to this Hudson Highlands home, which soars above the river with cool, collected elegance and colorful style. The tennis court is no exception: it blends beautifully into lush surroundings of groomed gardens and native woodlands. We think that stone viewing patio is far superior to bleachers, don't you?
LARCHMONT | 220 Hommocks Road
We're not sure how you could possibly go wrong with a waterfront grass tennis court. It's regulation size, and elegantly complements an incredible home that also features a deep water dock, carriage house, gazebo and more on its four manicured acres. The main house and magnificent pool area all share those sought-after shore views.
HUDSON | 223 Old Route 82
It's only right this magazine-worthy Columbia County retreat, designed by modernist starchitect (and former Richard Meier partner) Thomas Pfifer, would have a tennis court to round out its laundry list of amenities that also includes indoor and outdoor pools, a bocce court and cubist guest house. Don't let the sweeping views of the Catskills throw off your backhand.
NORTH SALEM | 58 Cat Ridge Road
Designed by Mott Schmidt for Richard W. Woolworth, the eponymous heir to the famed five-and-dime chain, this cloistered 26-acre estate epitomizes North Salem equestrian-chic style. The 9,000+ square foot brick Georgian underwent a masterful five-year remodel, retrofitting its exquisite spaces for thoroughly modern luxury living. Additional amenities include indoor and outdoor pools, and a gate house configured as guest quarters.