THE HOMESTEAD AT ROARING FORK. It's no surprise that one of the Roaring Fork Valley's first settlers chose this particular piece of paradise to call ''home''. Nestled in the heart of the valley, this ideal family or private fishing retreat sits on 4 acres with an historic home, guest house, ponds, flowing water and extensive water rights, all surrounded by 300+ acres of pristine open space extending all the way to the Roaring Fork River. Originally built in 1882, the main house has evolved through improvements and additions from just a handful of subsequent owners. Knotty pine walls, high ceilings, hardwood floors, the original river rock fireplace, a vintage claw bathtub, and rosette window casings emanate character and charm.The spacious master bedroom, (formerly the parlor) features a bay window with a window seat and a roomy, updated bath. Upstairs, two delightful guest bedrooms and a bath suit adults and kids alike, as they nod off to the soothing sounds of the creek. An office with a private bath has its own separate entrance and walls of windows showcase views of the adjacent open space and the summit of Mt. Sopris. The private guesthouse with a fireplace in the living room and a full kitchen is perfect for extended family or your fishing buddies. The house and guest house have expansive views of mature, park-like irrigated grounds with plenty of grassy area and large trees. Start the day in the sunny breakfast room with views of water fowl and trout rising. Head outside for the early hatch! Enjoy lunch on the covered back patio, then take the "mini anglers" out to the pond for a casting lesson. Maybe stop along the way to pick a plum, apricot or apple from one of the fruit trees. Later, everyone can gather 'round the table in the formal dining room or in front of the seasoned fireplace to tell tales about the day's adventures. Many of those stories may not differ from those told 100 years ago at this endearing homestead. While your private enclave may feel like it's a world away from today's conveniences, Willits Town Center is a 6-minute drive and the charming Town of Carbondale is 6 minutes away in the other direction. You will find grocery stores, restaurants, shops, galleries and entertainment venues in either direction. Aspen, with its airport, world-class skiing, renowned cultural activities, fine dining and more, is just 26 miles away. The spacious master bedroom, (formerly the parlor) features a bay window with a window seat and a roomy, updated bath. Upstairs, two delightful guest bedrooms and a bath suit adults and kids alike, as they nod off to the soothing sounds of the creek. An office with a private bath has its own separate entrance and walls of windows showcase views of the adjacent open space and the summit of Mt. Sopris. The private guesthouse with a fireplace in the living room and a full kitchen is perfect for extended family or your fishing buddies. The house and guest house have expansive views of mature, park-like irrigated grounds with plenty of grassy area and large trees. Start the day in the sunny breakfast room with views of water fowl and trout rising. Head outside for the early hatch! Enjoy lunch on the covered back patio, then take the "mini anglers" out to the pond for a casting lesson. Maybe stop along the way to pick a plum, apricot or apple from one of the fruit trees. Later, everyone can gather 'round the table in the formal dining room or in front of the seasoned fireplace to tell tales about the day's adventures. Many of those stories may not differ from those told 100 years ago at this endearing homestead. While your private enclave may feel like it's a world away from today's conveniences, Willits Town Center is a 6-minute drive and the charming Town of Carbondale is 6 minutes away in the other direction. You will find grocery stores, restaurants, shops, galleries and entertainment venues in either direction. Aspen, with its airport, world-class skiing, renowned cultural activities, fine dining and more, is just 26 miles away.