East of Florida’s white sand beaches and the glamour of the gulf coast lies a peaceful land where there is a rainbow after every rainfall, and a breeze breathes life into a canopy of oaks. Settled between the winding Myakka River and whispering trees, Florida’s rugged beauty meets refined elegance at TerraNova. Beyond the stone gates lies the ideal place to craft a dream life atop a canvas of luxury and leisure in a community poised to transform inspiration to reality. 

TerraNova Equestrian Center stands as a beacon for those who cherish equestrian pursuits. Its state-of-the-art facilities and scenic setting provide an unparalleled environment for horse enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike.  

Founded by the Herrig and Ketelboeter families, TerraNova blends purity of sport, harmony with nature, and commitment to excellence to serve visitors who hold their passion for horses close to their hearts. “Our vision for TerraNova originated as a place for riders of all levels to enjoy a world-class horse show experience in a relaxed atmosphere,” said Hannah Herrig-Ketelboeter, co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer. “The vision has evolved and expanded over time to create a place to live the ultimate equestrian lifestyle.” 

Over time, the equestrian venue has added more layers to achieve this vision. Adjacent to the sprawling venue is a unique equestrian community, The Estates at TerraNova, an exclusive enclave of sophisticated homes, blending comfort with opulence to create a tranquil sanctuary.  

Complementing this serene outdoor lifestyle is Miakka Golf Club, a golfer’s retreat that promises both relaxation and challenge to its members with two miles of frontage along the Myakka River and hundreds of mature oak hammocks. This passion project for Chief Executive Officer, Steve Herrig, marries the ultimate golf experience with the breathtaking beauty of the local landscape. 

Together, these properties offer a harmonious blend of peace and pleasure, an exceptional backdrop for a lifestyle rich in experiences and natural tranquility. And, located just three hours from both Wellington and Ocala, TerraNova is perfectly situated within Florida’s equestrian trifecta, poised as an ideal “home base” for competitors both seasonally and year-round. 

Horses at the Heart 

Opened in 2021, TerraNova Equestrian Center is a premier destination serving equestrians and equestrian enthusiasts from around the world. Home to an ever-growing calendar of competitions spanning dressage, three-day eventing, combined driving, hunters, jumpers, and equitation, the venue is bringing a boutique experience to international level events. Boasting state-of-the-art permanent stabling, six all-weather arenas with impeccable footing, footed horse paths, and an expanding cross-country course, the facility believes in putting the horse first. 

“The experience is as important as the quality of what has been built,” said Molly Oakman, President at TerraNova Equestrian Center. “In the highly competitive Florida equestrian market, TerraNova is unique in providing a world class facility with high level competition and the beauty of nature and peacefulness of the area.” 

With its park-like views and serene setting, TerraNova Equestrian Center has become a draw for riders to enjoy competition in a relaxed environment. “Green space and natural harmony have a significant impact on both horses and riders in a competitive environment,” said Director of Sport, Mike Belise. “The presence of these elements creates a peaceful and calming atmosphere, reducing stress levels for both horses and riders. This harmony fosters a positive mindset and enhances the overall experience, leading to improved performance and well-being.” 

For international dressage competitor, Karen Lipp, the natural environment and horse-friendly atmosphere proved to be a winning combination for her and her horse, Infinity. In April 2024, the pair won their Grand Prix Freestyle in their CDI3* debut. “This is the prettiest place I’ve ever been,” Karen said after finishing her victory lap. “The thing I really love about it is it feels peaceful, and wildlife and horses like it instead of feeling like you’re encased in a stadium.” 

A Community of Life and Love 

For those who seek to plant their roots and nourish their passions at TerraNova, The Estates at TerraNova offers the opportunity to build dreams from the ground up. “The extension of The Estates is an opportunity for residents to take the TerraNova vision to a new level. It’s not just a great weekend at a horse show anymore, it’s a lifestyle,” Hannah explained. “The Estates at TerraNova project was inspired by the desire to build a like-minded community of equestrians, as well as expand on the concept of our three pillars to create a generational project that will highlight and preserve the area in a unique way.” 

On its premium land, each lot in The Estates is configured to offer the utmost functionality whilst maintaining natural green spaces that put horses and humans at ease. Over 300 acres will be available for residents and boarders to enjoy a hike or horseback ride on manicured trails or more challenging riverside terrain. 

Fronting properties on one side of the road are bridle paths that connect each lot, perfect for hacking. “Each property owner is required to plant oak trees every fifty feet along the road frontage,” Hannah said. “A single-rail fence made of sustainable Equisafe fencing will buffer the roadside, with the property owner fence behind the required oak trees.”  

Carefully hand-selected, The Estates at TerraNova features custom builders who reinforce this vision through their prime craftsmanship. “It was important to us to offer a curated list of high-quality custom builders because we want the community to reflect the commitment to excellence that we have shown on the project to date,” Hannah said. “We also want each estate to be unique and reflect your personal style while complementing the community. We don’t want to be like other cookie-cutter neighborhoods going up all around us. You should be able to drive- or ride- through and enjoy the experience of appreciating different styles of architecture and well-maintained equestrian properties.” 

In addition to its proximity to TerraNova Equestrian Center, The Estates at TerraNova offers top-tier benefits at the amenity center, including sport courts for tennis and pickleball, a gym with cutting-edge exercise equipment, and a resort-style pool, suited for those seeking a rejuvenating retreat to boost their health and wellbeing. 

Farm ownership is made easy through community services such as manure removal, pasture management, and convenient deliveries by TerraNova Feed and Fence, a one-stop source for quality nutrition, shavings, and supplies. 

Away From It All and Close to Everything 

Due west of TerraNova Equestrian Center, Sarasota is situated on the “cultural coast,” boasting a rich history tied to circus arts, theater, and music. With Spanish and Italian influence, the architecture combines European inspiration with coastal beauty, highlighting top-rated beaches and the white, quartz sand of Siesta Key and Lido Beach. 

Nearby is Lakewood Ranch, a census-designated community rated the top master-planned community for all-ages. This thriving village offers daily conveniences, social events, and a growing array of culinary cuisine. The Sarasota Polo Club, just fifteen minutes from TerraNova, pays homage to the decades of horse heritage in the area, combining equestrian enthusiasm with social entertainment. 

“These days, we are constantly bombarded with the need and expectation to do everything all at once and have it done yesterday, but horses don’t work that way and no matter how much the world changes, they will never work that way,” Hannah said. “I think that’s why I am personally attracted to preserving the equestrian lifestyle. It forces you to live in the present moment and appreciate the journey of reaching a goal, not just the end result. I also believe the best way to experience nature is through the ears of a horse, and there is so much nature to explore on horseback at TerraNova.” 

If you are interested in The Estates at TerraNova, please contact a representative from the Laughlin Tanner Group at Premier Sotheby’s International Realty at theestatesatterranova.com or call 941-213-0014. 

*The Chronicle of the Horse had no connection in the production of this content*