All five of the structures encircle a massive lily pond — it’s more like a small lake, really — complete with a rowboat and stocked with fish. There’s also an infinity-edged swimming pool that overlooks the pond, and meandering pathways that criss-cross the compound, making the whole place feel far more like an exotic resort that just another Southern California mansion.

Altogether, there are well over 16,000 square feet of living space, plus off-street parking for dozens of cars. Since the estate was never on the market, photos and details are mostly scarce, but it’s known that the authentic South African Cape Dutch-style house is loaded with custom amenities that include checkerboard-style grey-and-white marble floors, numerous indoor and outdoor fireplaces, covered patios, and manicured grounds that include an organic vegetable garden, grassy hillsides, and numerous mature trees.

Ellen Degeneres

Famous owners