Tonight’s the night! The official start of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games is underway, with countries from all around the world convening for an opening ceremony that provides common grounds for celebration, regardless of competing teams. In honor of the upcoming Games, here’s a roundup of gold-worthy properties for sale in countries that hold some of the top gold medal counts in Summer Olympics history.
Rio De Janeiro, Brazil—The Belvedere House
It only seems fair to start off our list with the host of the 2016 Summer Olympics—none other than Rio De Janeiro, Brazil! With spectacular views of the sea, islands and mountains, this masterfully built, modern home flawlessly depicts the vast beauty of the country. A combination of sophistication, comfort, warmth and outstanding amenities including a home theater, interior bar and barbecue, wine cellar and fitness room offer an utterly luxurious living experience. Outside, residents can enjoy a captivating terrace complete with 180-degree views, an in-ground pool and spa.
Modern Luxury in Moscow City, Russia
A contemporary-style house with a distinct design and a black shale façade rests in the Moscow region of Russia, an area rich in culture and artistic history. The six-bedroom residence has retreat-like features including a wood-fired sauna, indoor swimming pool with access to a spacious terrace, and shower room, to name a few. The first floor additionally contains a kitchen, dining room and guest bedroom with bath. Two more bedrooms and a master suite can be found upstairs, while the home’s third level provides roof access for the utmost relaxation. A guest house featuring a kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom as well as a two-car garage complete the property.
Extraordinary Castle in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany
Built between 1775 and 1784, this magnificent castle estate resides in the village of Lashorst, located just south of the Mittelland Canal in Germany’s Alsweder flatlands. The historic structure encompasses a main building, as well as east and west wings, three floors and a basement. Its grounds feature a bridge and moat with direct access to the adjacent castle park. This pristine area, which is under the constant care of a gardener, offers unique panoramic views as far as the Wiehen Hills, a hill range in the North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony parts of the country. Calling all equestrian Olympic athletes! The property also includes an outbuilding consisting of a riding arena and stables with accommodations for 12 horses, as well as a centrally located administration building.
Harbor-Side Estate in Sydney, Australia
Imagine having panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House from the comfort of your own home! At this state-of-the-art modern residence in one of Sydney’s most prestigious harbor-side locations, residents can look out at this picture-perfect seen every day. Built to the highest standards of modern living, the five-bedroom, six-bath home maximizes its use of natural light, containing an overall sustainable design. Other features include soaring ceilings, natural timber, glass and stone throughout, as well as duel kitchens, a spa, pool, outdoor pavilion, garage for eight cars, home theatre, gym and sauna.
Authentic Greek Village—Back to Where it all Began
What better way to celebrate the Olympic Games than by venturing back to the very place where it all began? The chance to own an entire Greek village on Santorini, a picturesque island just a 40-minute flight from Athens on the Aegean Sea, is available for anyone seeking an authentic escape and unique investment. Consisting of nine villas and two restaurants, the private community for sale takes individuals back in time to a glorious haven on one of the most famous, sought-after islands in the world.
Of course, we can’t forget about the Olympic champions right here at home in the good old U.S.A.! If you haven’t already, be sure to cast your vote on Zillow for 1093 Prospect Ave., a majestic West Harford, Connecticut estate built in the 1920s that’s “going for gold” in Zillow’s own real estate Olympics. Click here to vote now.
Let the 2016 Rio Olympic Games begin!