With one of Frank Sinatra’s most beloved songs titled “New York, New York,” some may be surprised to learn that the iconic singer built himself a hilltop retreat far away from the Big Apple in Palm Desert, California. However, history and pop culture buffs know that the Palm Springs area was a favorite spot for high-profile figures in the mid-20th century, from Bing Crosby (Sinatra’s rival) to President John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe.

Sinatra’s groovy getaway was and still is dubbed ‘Villa Maggio,’ paying homage to his character Private Angelo Maggio in the film From Here to Eternity—for which he won an Oscar. The crooner built it from scratch in 1970 and cherished spending time here with friends and family until his death in 1998. Naomi Ritz, the widow of comedian Harry Ritz (of the Ritz Brothers), then purchased the property and has only sought to sell it in recent years. Next month, it will list again, but it is also set to open to the public for the first time ever in February as part of Palm Springs Modernism Week.

Ritz renovated and restored the property, but maintained Sinatra’s original vision. As well as preserving the “man cave” vibe, many of the tiles and wallpapers you see are original. The 7.5-acre compound stars three structures together totaling over 6,400 square feet. The rustic main house includes five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms, and two full kitchens with commercial-grade appliances. The guest house boasts two additional guest suites, each with its own bathroom. Finally, the pool house includes an additional bedroom, two saunas, a fireplace, and an outdoor fire pit. An entertainer’s dream, what else would you expect when it was created by Sinatra?

Villa Maggio also has resort-like grounds. Everything sits 4,300 feet above the desert, providing panoramic views of the inspiring mountains and valleys. A large swimming pool and tennis court offer plenty of time for leisure. And, a helipad makes it easy to quickly get from L.A. or Palm Springs International Airport just 26 miles away.

The famous Palm Desert oasis was most recently listed for $4.25 million in 2021, and will be back on the market in February for the same asking price. Markus Canter of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties brings the special listing.

January 28, 2023
by Jacquelyn Shannon

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