In a secluded part of Chester, New York, security expert and reality-TV star Dave Vitalli has listed his impressive 8,200 square foot mansion for $2.695 million. Nestled on nearly 10 acres of private land in the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, this unique property is more than just a home—it’s a fortress designed for privacy, safety, and luxury. Built with steel-reinforced walls and 4-inch concrete floors, the home includes a variety of state-of-the-art features, such as secret exits and a private helipad, that make it a true “safe house.”
A Safe House Designed for the Ultimate in Privacy and Luxury
This magnificent estate was designed by the renowned architect Paul Rudolph in 1986 for the Bancroft family, known for owning Dow Jones & Co. throughout much of the 20th century. It boasts a Shangri-La-style design that incorporates 18th-century cedar salvaged from the original homestead on the property, paying homage to the history of the land while maintaining a modern aesthetic.
From the moment you pass through the private security gatehouse, you’re greeted by lush, park-like landscaping complete with cascading waterfalls. Inside, the home’s Feng Shui design emphasizes a flow of natural energy through expansive wood-beamed ceilings, bluestone floors, and reclaimed materials. The property features five bedrooms and five bathrooms, each designed to provide comfort, space, and a deep connection to the surrounding landscape.
Entertaining Spaces and Modern Amenities
This mansion was not only designed for safety but also for enjoyment. It offers over 20,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor entertaining space, including a ballroom with an Italian marble floor, a chef’s kitchen, a wine-tasting area, and a party room with disco-ball chandeliers that doubles as a luxury garage for high-end vehicles. Guests can take advantage of the home movie theater, library, and gym, while the saltwater pool and multiple cabanas create an outdoor paradise.
One of the home’s standout features is its geothermal design, which includes heated baseboards and radiant flooring to maintain a comfortable atmosphere year-round. The air filtration system—installed in almost every room—was designed by NASA to ensure a clean living environment with plenty of space to breathe. There are even built-in planters in the foyer for growing fresh vegetables and spices, and the 5-acre wooded area surrounding the home provides opportunities for further enhancing sustainability.
In addition to security features, such as emergency egresses for all second-floor bedrooms and panic rooms for the third-floor guest rooms, the property is designed to be entirely off-grid, ensuring self-sufficiency in any situation.
Resort-Like Living in Hudson Valley
Outdoor living is taken to a whole new level at this property, with a saltwater pool designed to oxygenate the water for healthier skin. The pool area is flanked by several cabanas, and a clay tennis court offers additional recreational options. The estate’s outdoor kitchen and dining area make it perfect for hosting summer parties, while the private helipad ensures easy access for weekend getaways or quick flights to nearby Manhattan, just a 15-minute helicopter ride away.
As Dave Vitalli himself said in an interview, the house “is perfect for all seasons.” Whether enjoying a quiet morning coffee in the cabana, throwing a beach party with friends on the white sand beach, or engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, skiing, or horseback riding, this home offers year-round enjoyment.
Nearby Attractions
The property is situated in a prime location close to major attractions like the LEGOLAND Theme Park & Resort, Warwick Winery & Distillery, Bear Mountain Ski Resort, and the luxurious Glenmere Mansion Resort. In addition to easy access to some of the Hudson Valley’s finest wineries and organic farms, the home is also just a short drive away from Woodbury Commons Premium Outlets, one of the largest luxury outlet malls in the region.
A Haven for High-Profile Buyers
Listing agents Richard Healy and Marie-Claire Gladstone of Corcoran Country Living emphasize that this home is ideal for someone looking for a “secluded sanctuary” that offers both luxury and safety. “It’s the ultimate indoor-outdoor entertainment center,” said Healy, “and it’s like having your own private resort.” Given the estate’s history of hosting high-profile guests, including Middle Eastern royals and African leaders, it stands as a symbol of discretion, privacy, and high-end living.
